Anti-Racism
What Is Racism?
Racism is unfair treatment, judgment, or discrimination based on someone’s race, ethnicity, culture, language, or background. Racism can happen through words, actions, exclusion, stereotypes, online behavior, or unequal treatment. Even small comments or jokes can cause harm. Kindness, understanding, and respect help create a stronger and more united community.
Speak up against every biased remark—every time, in the moment, without exception. Think about what you’ll say ahead of time so you’re prepared to act instantly.
TRY SAYING
“I DON’T LIKE WORDS LIKE THAT.” OR “THAT PHRASE IS HURTFUL.”
Ask simple questions in response to hateful remarks to find out why the speaker made the offensive comment and how you can best address the situation.
TRY ASKING
“WHY DO YOU SAY THAT?” WHAT DO YOU MEAN?” OR “TELL ME MORE.”
Explain why a term or phrase is offensive. Encourage the person to choose a different expression. Hate isn’t behind all hateful speech. Sometimes ignorance is at work, or lack of exposure to a diverse population.
TRY SAYING
“DO YOU KNOW THE HISTORY OF THAT WORD?”
If someone else speaks up against hate, thank her and reiterate her anti-bias message. One person’s voice is a powerful start. Many voices together create change.
TRY SAYING
“THANKS FOR SPEAKING UP, ALLISON. I AGREE THAT WORD IS OFFENSIVE AND WE SHOULDN’T USE IT.”
-
Speak up against every biased remark—every time, in the moment, without exception. Think about what you’ll say ahead of time so you’re prepared to act instantly.
TRY SAYING
“I DON’T LIKE WORDS LIKE THAT.” OR “THAT PHRASE IS HURTFUL.”
-
Ask simple questions in response to hateful remarks to find out why the speaker made the offensive comment and how you can best address the situation.
TRY ASKING
“WHY DO YOU SAY THAT?” WHAT DO YOU MEAN?” OR “TELL ME MORE.”
-
Explain why a term or phrase is offensive. Encourage the person to choose a different expression. Hate isn’t behind all hateful speech. Sometimes ignorance is at work, or lack of exposure to a diverse population.
TRY SAYING
“DO YOU KNOW THE HISTORY OF THAT WORD?”
-
If someone else speaks up against hate, thank her and reiterate her anti-bias message. One person’s voice is a powerful start. Many voices together create change.
TRY SAYING
“THANKS FOR SPEAKING UP, ALLISON. I AGREE THAT WORD IS OFFENSIVE AND WE SHOULDN’T USE IT.”
Our Commitment
We are committed to building a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment where every student feels valued. Through education, awareness, and positive relationships, we work together to stop racism before it starts.
Additional Resources