Speaking Up and Interrupting Racism
What should you do when experiencing or witnessing a racist incident?
It is common to feel afraid, unsure, or upset when witnessing a racist incident. It can also be a reminder of other times when racist incidents occurred in the past and were not addressed or confronted. There may be times when fear arises around possible consequences of speaking up.
Speaking up for someone experiencing racism is not the same as tattling. Staying silent during a racist incident, sends a message that the behaviour is acceptable. The silence can cause harm to the person experiencing racism.
Duty bearers (Module 3) have roles and responsibilities to protect human rights. Duty bearers in the education system have an added responsibility to protect people from racism and discrimination. This includes speaking up in appropriate and non-harmful ways when a racist incident occurs.
If you are taking this course, you are likely a duty bearer in the education system. There are appropriate ways to respond to a racist incident. Learn how to be an active witness.
Responding to a Racist Incident
Every person will respond differently to a racist incident. Responses depend on how the person feels and what consequences they may encounter when they speak up.
Here are a few questions to reflect on before responding to a racist incident:
- Have I asked the person who was harmed what they would like me to do to support them?
- What are the different ways I could respond and show support?
- If I approach the person who committed the racist act, could my physical safety be put in danger?
- If I approach the person who committed the racist act, will they become defensive? Will this lead to an argument or other consequences?
- If I approach the person who committed the racist act, how will this affect my relationship with them (e.g., supervisor, teacher, co-worker, etc.)?
- If I don’t respond, will I regret not saying something?
- If I don't respond, does that mean I accept the behavior or statement?
- Is there someone who can support me as I respond to or report the incident?
It may be helpful to talk with a supervisor or colleague when considering how to respond to a racist incident, comment, or microaggression. Because everyone in B.C.’s education system has a responsibility to create racially-just spaces, asking for support about how best to respond is often a good first step.
Check the Resources page for some suggested responses.
