Reframing how we think about racism and discrimination can open our eyes to new solutions.
Where does one begin when “taking on” the issue of racism? The intersecting individual, environmental, and structural factors that contribute to racism and discrimination can make it feel overwhelming to determine which pieces of the issue we can affect. Our socialization and our training can make it challenging to navigate, with many who want to make a difference at a loss for where to start.
There is action that we can take immediately to help abolish racism and contribute to equity and inclusion in our own communities, and that is to challenge our thinking. Reframing how we think about racism and discrimination can promote greater understanding in ourselves and others and open our eyes to new solutions. Examples include:
- Changing the level of analysis. Many view racism as an interpersonal problem. While much work is needed to eliminate hate and discrimination among individuals and in communities, we cannot ignore the structural and institutional factors that arise from racism, which may have a much greater impact on people’s lives. By refocusing some of our research, practice, and training on these systemic and organizational issues, we can introduce more effective solutions that address the complexity of racism in all its manifestations.
- Using equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) as a lens. Because racism is so pervasive, we cannot afford to compartmentalize it as something that is separate and apart from the “main” work that we are doing. Initiatives to address these issues are relegated to a person or small group so that institutions can feel good that they are doing something. However, racism is deeply intertwined within the fabric of our society, often playing out in unrecognized ways. Our solutions, therefore, must examine its effects across all the work we do. If we can more routinely apply an EDI lens to our thinking and consider the EDI implications across all issues—even those seemingly unrelated to race and racism—we will have a much better shot at developing effective solutions.
- Shifting inherent biases in the field. Our field must understand our own inherent biases and how they affect the solutions we develop. This means overcoming the limitations of a singular focus on pathology; instead, we must promote science-based policies that offer a wider range of solutions, ultimately helping more people.
Psychology has much to offer society in helping to address racial justice issues. However, it requires our own willingness to approach the issues differently and to challenge long-held biases within the field. If we do that, psychology can have the impact that we are seeking.
