How is institutional racism best described?

Institutional racism is best described as discriminatory policies and treatment from institutions. This concept refers to the systemic nature of racial discrimination that is embedded within policies, practices, and procedures of organizations, such as schools, law enforcement agencies, and government entities. Unlike individual racism, which may manifest through personal attitudes or biases, institutional racism reflects how societal structures and institutions can perpetuate inequality and discrimination against certain racial groups.

For example, if a law enforcement agency has policies that disproportionately target a specific racial group for stops and searches, this would be an instance of institutional racism. It shows how the institution itself enforces practices that lead to unequal treatment based on race. This focus on the systemic aspect distinguishes it from other forms of racism, such as those based on personal biases or public manifestations of intolerance. Understanding institutional racism emphasizes the need for systemic change within these organizations to address and eliminate inequities.