What does individual racism refer to?

Individual racism refers to internalized, unexpressed biases and prejudices based on race. This can manifest as personal beliefs or attitudes that an individual holds about people of different racial backgrounds. Such biases may not be overtly expressed in behaviors but can influence a person's thoughts and feelings, leading to discriminatory practices or sentiments that may not be immediately visible.

Understanding individual racism is crucial because it highlights how deeply personal beliefs affect interactions and societal dynamics. Unlike organizational or institutional racism, which relates to systemic practices and policies adopted by groups or organizations, individual racism focuses on the personal level, illustrating how prejudices can exist within an individual regardless of whether they are actively acting upon them.

This distinction is important in addressing the broader spectrum of racism, helping to recognize the various forms it can take and the impact that personal biases can have on society as a whole.