In a world where diversity is celebrated, it’s perplexing how racial discrimination continues to thrive, often camouflaged under the guise of ignorance or indifference. The words “I don’t see colour” have become a common refrain, yet they inadvertently perpetuate the very problem they seek to deny.
Consider this: White is a colour, yet it’s not acknowledged as such when referring to White people. Instead, they’re often exempt from the label “people of colour.” Conversely, individuals who are Black, Brown, or Mixed are frequently lumped together under the umbrella term BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic). Why is there this dichotomy in how we perceive and categorise people based on their skin colour?
Furthermore, when discussing minority groups, the focus tends to center on ethnic minorities such as Black and Brown communities, while overlooking other minority groups such as Americans or Australians. This selective categorisation perpetuates the notion of an “us” versus “them” mentality, where certain groups are deemed more deserving of inclusion and empathy than others.
For centuries, this pattern of othering ethnically diverse individuals has persisted, leading to systemic inequalities and injustices. Despite progress in addressing overt forms of racism, subtle forms of discrimination continue to marginalise ethnically diverse communities, relegating them to the fringes of society.
When we claim not to see colour, we fail to acknowledge the lived experiences and struggles of those who face racial prejudice on a daily basis. By denying the significance of race, we invalidate the very identities that shape individuals’ interactions with the world around them.
It’s crucial to recognise that seeing colour isn’t the issue; it’s how we interpret and respond to those differences that matter. Rather than dismissing or minimising the importance of race, we should strive to embrace diversity and cultivate a deeper understanding of the complexities of human identity.
To truly combat racism and othering, we must challenge our own biases and assumptions, actively listen to the experiences of marginalised communities, and work towards creating a more inclusive society where everyone feels seen and valued for who they are.
In the end, it’s not enough to simply acknowledge the existence of diversity; we must actively dismantle the systems of oppression that perpetuate inequality and division. Only then can we truly claim to see others for who they are, beyond the confines of race or ethnicity, and strive towards a more just and equitable future for all.