Recognising and Reporting Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination, or the treatment of one or more races in an unfair and inferior manner, sadly still exists across the United Kingdom today. Though there are laws that make racism and racial discrimination illegal in some situations, some individuals and organisations insist on treating individuals of certain races as inferior. Recognising racial discrimination, reporting racial discrimination, and confronting racial discrimination are all things that anyone can do to help end racism and racial discrimination in the UK.

Racial Discrimination and the Law

The Race Relations Act 1976 and all of its amendments and extensions protect 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.

Recognising Racial Discrimination

Four main types of discrimination are described in relation to employment. Direct discrimination is deliberate and obvious, for example if a promotion is being held only for members of one race. Indirect discrimination occurs when practices of policies disadvantage one or more racial groups, such as requiring members of one race to complete more tasks than another but expecting them to get their work done just as quickly. Harassment occurs when the workplace is allowed to become a hostile environment for members of a certain race, whether through direct threats, methods of intimidation or "jokes" about that race. Finally, victimisation occurs when someone has complained about racism and is then treated less fairly than others, such as being denied overtime or their preferred shifts. These actions are all in breach of the Race Relations Act 1976 and its amendments and extensions, and should be reported if they are observed or experienced.

Reporting Racial Discrimination

Racial discrimination and racism can and should be reported as it occurs. Keeping instances of such discrimination private helps no one, but reporting them to the proper authorities can help end the particular discrimination and help to end all racial discrimination. If it is believed that racial discrimination has taken place in breach of the Race Relations Act 1976 and its amendments and extensions then going to court is one way of reporting racist practices in employment. Reporting racial discrimination to local authorities is another method of calling attention to inappropriate practices, particularly if racism is experienced while receiving health or social care. Finally, reporting racial discrimination to organisations working for equal rights may also help to eradicate such behaviours. The Equality and Human Rights Commission, One Workplace, Rewind and the Race Equality Foundation all work for racial equality and fight against racial discrimination in the United Kingdom.

Confronting Racial Discrimination

Confronting racial discrimination when it occurs is something that anyone can do, though it should only be done if the environment is safe for such a confrontation. If it is not, it is better to walk away and report the incident to higher authorities. However if it is, there are a variety of ways that individuals can confront racism and racial discrimination. Every time an individual reconsiders a stereotype, speaks out against discrimination, ceases to make sexist jokes and references, tells others that such jokes and references are unacceptable, and does all that (s)he can to learn from the talents of each individual, regardless of race or skin colour, then racism and racial discrimination are being fought. Reporting the incident afterwards, if need be, is also a smart idea. If everyone joins in, the fight against racial discrimination will become easier and the end closer, so do your part and encourage others to do the same.