Race and Ethnicity

Categories of Difference : Intersectionality Cultural Representation Individual Social Interaction Social Structure

Intersectionality: “Race” Cultural Representation The symbols, language, and images that convey “meanings” in the form of Stereotypes about “Racial” categories Individual Social Interaction The daily experiences of members of a “Racial” category are different due to the effect of other categories of difference (Gender. Sexuality. Class) Social Structure Laws, policies, and tradition applied to the members of “Racial” categories resulting in differential advantages and disadvantages.

Conceptualizing “Race” “Race”: The idea that members of a segment of the population share essential biological and psychological characteristics (attributes) that are distinct from, and exclude, members of other segments of the population. “Race” is a constructed socio-econo-political system.

Conceptualizing Ethnicity … Ethnicity: The idea that members of a segment of the population share common ancestry, distinctive linguistic, religious, and/or other cultural practices that are distinct from, and exclude, members of other segments of the population. Ethnicity is a constructed socio-econo-political system.

Racism… Discrimination against individuals and/or groups based on the socially constructed category of “Race.” This is done at both the individual and institutional levels. It is also done overtly and covertly. At the individual level, anyone, regardless of the group, can discriminate (i.e. be a racist). At the institutional level, however, the dominant group, regardless of individuals’ intentions, is the one that is capable of racism.