Glossary of Terms that Qualify as 'Racist'

Discussions of race, colour, ethnicity, culture and discrimination can become confusing due to the variety of technical terms, jargon and acronyms that can pepper such conversations. If individuals do not understand what is meant by each term, then the chances of effectively communicating on the subject is greatly reduced. To avoid any communication problems in discussions of racism, use this glossary to help you define some unfamiliar terms.

Colour

In discussions of race, "colour" usually refers to skin colour. Most often "white" and "black" are used to describe skin colours, though "yellow," "brown" and "red" may also be employed. Referring to an individual as "coloured" or by a skin colour is derogatory and inappropriate.

Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Racial Discrimination

A United Nations Convention that was adopted in 1965 and came into force in 1969. This Convention particularly addresses racial discrimination in employment and education. Though it is not necessarily strictly enforceable in individual nations, those nations who did sign and ratify the Convention have agreed to meet the standards set forth in it.

Culture

A way of living that is built by a particular group (based on gender, religion, ethnicity, geography and/or more) across generations. Cultures are often described as having mores, or rules, by which members live. Cultures are also often described as having customs, roles and rituals that members follow.

Direct Discrimination

Deliberate and obvious discrimination against members of a certain group (gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc.).

Ethnicity

The identity of a group based on shared or common characteristics. Language, customs, roles, rituals, beliefs, and history are all parts of ethnicity.

Harassment

Harassment occurs when an environment is allowed to become hostile for members of a certain group (gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc), whether through direct threats, methods of intimidation or "jokes" about that group.

Indirect Discrimination

Indirect discrimination occurs when an individual or organisation's practices and/or policies disadvantage one or more groups (based on gender, sexual orientation, race, religion, etc.).

Race

A term that was created to describe the man-made belief ("social construct") that groups people according to alleged physical and cultural similarities. In modern discussions, "race" is also commonly used to describe skin colour.

Race Relations

A term used to describe the way in which members of different races interact with each other.

Race Relations Act 1976

This Act (and all of its amendments and extensions) protects individuals from being discriminated against in employment on the grounds of colour, race, nationality, religious beliefs or ethnicity. This Act does not distinguish between whether racist practices were done on purpose or not, it is concerned only with the fact that racial discrimination occurred.

Racism

Discrimination motivated by race. Racism can be direct, indirect or based on harassment and/or victimisation.

Racist

An individual who believes that one race is superior to all others. These individuals may practise these beliefs by discriminating against members of other races. Such individuals may also be called "racialists".

Racialist

An individual who believes that one race is superior to all others. These individuals may practise these beliefs by discriminating against members of other races. Such individuals may also be called "racists".

RRA - Race Relations Act 1976

. This Act (and all of its amendments and extensions) protects individuals from being discriminated against in employment on the grounds of colour, race, nationality, religious beliefs or ethnicity. This Act does not distinguish between whether racist practises were done on purpose or not, it is concerned only with the fact that racial discrimination occurred.

Victimisation

Victimisation occurs when someone has complained about racism and is then treated less fairly than others. In employment terms, this may mean losing out on overtime, for example, or being asked to perform tasks not normally associated with a given position. Victimisation can also occur in educational and other settings.