Race & Ethnicity Identity
How does the U.S. collect data on racial and ethnic identity?
Through the U.S. Census and surveys
What is racism?
The belief in the superiority of one race over another, leading to discrimination and prejudice.
What is systemic racism?
Racism embedded in institutions and systems, leading to disparities in opportunities and outcomes for racial groups.
Give an example of code-switching.
Changing from casual speech with friends to formal speech in a job interview.
Name one agent of social change.
Activism, government policy, or media.
What’s the difference between race and ethnicity?
Race refers to physical characteristics, while ethnicity refers to cultural factors like language, ancestry, and traditions
What’s the difference between prejudice, discrimination, and bias?
Prejudice is an attitude, discrimination is an action, and bias is an inclination or preference.
How is systemic racism different from individual racism?
Systemic racism exists within societal structures, while individual racism involves personal prejudices and actions.
How does code-switching benefit individuals?
It can help them navigate different social or professional environments successfully.
What major social change occurred in 1955 regarding race in America?
The Montgomery Bus Boycott, marking a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
How have racial classifications in the U.S. changed over time?
Classifications have expanded and evolved, adding categories such as “Hispanic or Latino” and “multiracial.”
What is code-switching, and why do people use it?
Code-switching is adjusting language or behavior depending on the social or cultural context. People use it to fit in or gain acceptance.
Name one example of racial disparities in education or healthcare.
Disparities in graduation rates or access to quality healthcare between racial groups.
What are the disadvantages of code-switching?
It can cause stress, loss of authenticity, or feelings of exclusion.
Why is 2020 considered a significant year for social change?
Protests and movements like Black Lives Matter reignited conversations about racial justice and systemic inequality.
How can someone belong to multiple racial or ethnic groups?
By having a multiracial or multiethnic background or identifying with more than one cultural heritage.
What happens when people don’t code-switch?
They may face judgment, exclusion, or lack of opportunities in certain social or professional settings.
How have past laws contributed to current racial disparities?
Laws like redlining, segregation, and unequal access to resources created generational disadvantages for minority groups.
What power does non-verbal communication hold in code-switching?
Non-verbal cues like body language or gestures can signal cultural understanding or adherence to social norms.
What are the immediate and lasting effects of the social changes in 1955?
Immediate: Desegregation of buses. Lasting: Inspiration for the Civil Rights Movement.
What is the current racial and ethnic breakdown of the U.S. population?
Answers will vary; students should discuss major groups like White, Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and multiracial populations.
How does verbal and non-verbal language affect racial interactions?
Language can reinforce stereotypes or challenge them and influence perceptions of cultural competence or respect.
How does institutional racism create advantages for some groups?
It provides systemic privileges such as better education, financial stability, and housing opportunities for dominant racial groups.
What are different viewpoints on code-switching?
Some see it as a survival strategy, while others see it as a loss of cultural identity or authenticity.
Give an example of multiple agents working together to create social change.
tivism, legislative reforms, and media coverage during the Civil Rights Movement or modern racial justice protests.