Use Your Difference to Make a Difference

7Don't Perpetuate Systems

Perpetuating contributes to systemic discrimination and inequalities for people and if you only learn and choose not to engage, you perpetuate.

—Tayo Rockson

In the previous section, we discussed bias from an individual level. This section discusses how bias can operate on a systemic level. We will be looking at institutions and how to create a culture of belonging as opposed to one of separation. The institutions we will be diving into are the media, workplaces, and education. I believe these institutions dictate human behavior and policies that ultimately define culture and, by extension, society. The isms, negative stereotypes, and phobias that plague our world today prevail and get perpetuated when systems aren't being checked. We will dive into why that is so and how to safeguard against dangerous behaviors.

Sometimes, this section is met with dread and despair because fighting against a system can sometimes feel like a lonely journey. But if people created the systems we live in today, people can break down those same systems. My hope is that as you go through this section, you approach it with an open mind and a willingness to learn. I hope you prepare yourself to be comfortable with the uncomfortable, to be challenged, and, most important, I hope you will come away from this chapter ready to take action, because ignoring systemic problems hurts people.

Okay, let's get started on the dangers of perpetuating stereotypes.

Experiencing Stereotypes ...