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Erasing Racism: The Survival of the American Nation

Danny Simmons

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Racism is a deep-rooted evil that has plagued our nation since its inception. It has led to centuries of discrimination, violence, and inequality. If we are to ensure the survival of our nation, we must confront racism head-on and work to eradicate it from our society.

The History of Racism in America

The roots of racism in America can be traced back to the transatlantic slave trade. European colonists brought enslaved Africans to the New World in the 17th century, and they quickly established a system of racial hierarchy that placed whites at the top and blacks at the bottom. This system was reinforced by laws and customs that denied blacks basic rights and opportunities.

Erasing Racism: The Survival of the American Nation

by Molefi Kete Asante

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Print length	:	370 pages

After the Civil War, slavery was abolished, but racism persisted. Jim Crow laws in the South segregated blacks from whites in all aspects of life. Even in the North, blacks faced discrimination in housing, employment, and education.

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s made significant progress in dismantling Jim Crow laws. However, racism did not disappear. It simply took new forms, such as mass incarceration, voter suppression, and police brutality.

The Cost of Racism

Racism has a devastating impact on our nation. It undermines our economy, weakens our democracy, and harms the health and well-being of our people.

A study by the Brookings Institution found that racism costs the U.S. economy trillions of dollars each year. This is due to lost productivity, lower wages for black workers, and the high cost of crime and incarceration.

Racism also erodes our democracy. When people of color are denied equal rights and opportunities, they lose faith in the system. This can lead to apathy, cynicism, and even violence.

Finally, racism harms the health and well-being of our people. Studies have shown that black Americans are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. They are also more likely to be poor and uninsured.

The Path Forward

We must take action to erase racism from our nation. This will not be easy, but it is essential for our survival.

Here are some steps we can take:

Educate ourselves about racism. Learn about the history of racism in America and its impact on our nation today.
Speak out against racism. Don't tolerate racist language or behavior. Challenge racist stereotypes and prejudices.
Support organizations that are working to fight racism. There are many groups working to promote racial justice. Donate your time or money to support their efforts.
Be an ally to people of color. Stand up for the rights of people of color. Amplify their voices and support their causes.

Erasing racism is a daunting task, but it is one that we must undertake if we want to ensure the survival of our nation. We must educate ourselves about racism, speak out against it, and support the efforts of those who are working to fight it. Together, we can create a just and equitable society for all Americans.

Erasing Racism: The Survival of the American Nation

by Molefi Kete Asante

4 out of 5