KARACHI:
In the past few months, the US has witnessed protests against the inclusion of Critical Race Theory (CRT) in school curriculums. CRT suggests that race is a social construct. Racism is not a product of individual prejudice, instead it is embedded in the country’s legal system. There has been considerable debate about the theory within the US and many oppose it for different reasons. However, educationists in the US support CRT so that students of colour feel safe.
It is important to understand that racism means discrimination based on racial or ethnic identity, which is illogical as all humans are created equal. “White” is often analogous to racial superiority — it is not just a colour. It is a European idea constructed to gain influence over other civilisations such as Asians, Africans, and Latin Americans. White people have certain privilege and prerogatives, while on the other hand “black” or “brown” people are considered inferior.
Racism was constructed for social and material benefits during the period of Enlightenment, when European thinkers clamoured for freedom and liberty. To spread these values, the Europeans began enslaving African and Asian people. Whatever was considered inhumane in the West was thought of as a civilising mission in Africa and Asia. As a result, millions were lynched. The British Empire used racism and discrimination as a means to divide and rule the Asians and Africans in order to fulfill their own motives.
Throughout history, various movements have emerged that heavily critique decolonisation and racism. Racism, however, is still prevalent in many societies. It needs to be condemned and dismantled effectively. This can be achieved by abrogating its social roots. It should be stressed again and again that all humans are equal. The history of racism must be taught in schools and colleges to familiarise students with the concept and enable them to critique it.
Azfar Khan Niazi
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, July 31st, 2021.
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