Racism

Racism, conceptualised as unfair and avoidable disparities in power, resources, capacities or opportunities across ethnic, racial, religious or cultural differences, can manifest in cognitive beliefs, feelings or behaviours. There is evidence that minority groups experiencing internalised, interpersonal or systemic racism are at greater risk of negative mental health outcomes. In Australia, asylum seekers who are often portrayed by politicians and media as a threat to Australia’s resources and security have faced increasing racism over the decades. This chapter provides definitions and statistics to contextualise racism within contemporary Australia and then critically examines racism and mental health, and the purported threats posed by asylum seekers to the Australian community. Experiences of racism are brought to life through the lived experiences of five individuals, living or working with racism in their daily lives. Experiential activities that encourage the learner to test and challenge societal stereotypes and their own perceptions and gain a greater understanding of environmental, social and institutional barriers imposed by racism conclude this chapter.