Why Reverse Racism is a Myth

Reverse racism. Ok, here goes…

Long story short, it’s a problematic concept. Assumptions and stereotypes about white people are examples of “racial prejudice” ...not “racism.” There is a key difference.

“Racial prejudice” refers to discriminatory attitudes based on assumptions deriving from perceptions about race and/or skin color. Thus, racial prejudice can indeed be directed at white people (ex. white people can’t dance). But it is NOT the same as “racism” because of the systemic relationship of power. When backed with POWER, prejudice results in and perpetuates systems of oppression against certain groups of individuals (BIPOCs). And THAT, by definition, is “racism.”

While expression of “racial prejudice” directed at white people may hurt feelings, (and should not be condoned), it does NOT have the power or authority to affect their social/economic/political location and privileges.

“Reverse racism” is a myth because it ignores a fundamental question— who holds more power/privilege between the individuals/groups involved? The myth of reverse racism assumes that racism occurs on a so-called “level playing field.” It excludes the very real issue of systemic oppression and white supremacy that is prevalent in our society today.