What is “New Racism”?
Unlike the blatant racism of the past, new racism hides behind cultural language. It doesn’t rely on skin colour or biology; it focuses on perceived cultural differences and the belief that “they” don’t belong. It’s subtle. Often unconscious. And dangerously divisive. It’s when “fitting in” becomes code for “be like us.”
What’s the Impact?
- Segregation: People live “parallel lives”, without shared spaces, schools or dialogue.
- Institutional racism: Systems fail to treat all equally. The Macpherson Report (1999), after Stephen Lawrence’s murder, exposed how systemic and unintentional racism can persist.
- Backlash: Equality efforts can provoke claims of “reverse discrimination” – a common tactic of new racism.
The Trigger Point
Riots in Oldham and Bradford in 2001 revealed what happens when young people feel excluded and unheard. This led to the Community Cohesion agenda. Fast forward to 2024, and Britain again witnessed unrest. Riots across several UK cities were fuelled by frustration over inequality, injustice, and lack of trust in institutions. These events were a wake-up call: without inclusion, tension builds—and the cycle of division continues.
What is “Community Cohesion”?
Community Cohesion seeks to:
- Build a shared sense of belonging
- Value people’s diverse backgrounds
- Ensure equal life chances
- Encourage positive contact between communities—at work, in schools, and in neighbourhoods
It’s about diversity within unity—not assimilation, but shared identity and purpose.
The Power of Diverse Friendships
Socialising across difference is a powerful way to counter new racism. Diverse friendships help us:
- Develop cultural awareness and curiosity
- Understand intersecting identities
- Communicate inclusively and affirmingly
- Build trust with marginalised communities
- Deliver empathetic, effective, equitable services
These relationships sharpen our professional practice and make us better allies. They help us lead with compassion, listen without assumption, and challenge discrimination from a place of connection—not charity.
What’s the Solution?
The Common In-group Identity Model shows we’re less biased when we see others as part of “our group”, not “their group”. This means:
- Creating shared goals and values
- Encouraging meaningful inter-group contact
- Recognising dual identities: being both “British” and “Muslim”, “LGBTQ+” and “Christian”, “Black” and “English”
Britishness as Inclusive Identity: Britishness can be a shared identity if inclusive—not a tool to divide. No one should be forced to choose between their heritage and being British.
Reflective Questions
For Individuals
- Do I hold assumptions about other cultures I’ve never questioned?
- Have I avoided speaking up about racism out of fear?
- Do I gravitate toward people who share my background?
- Am I engaging with people different from me?
- Do I avoid difficult conversations even though I see myself as “not racist”?
For Organisations
- Does our workplace reflect the communities we serve?
- Is diversity visible in leadership?
- Do we create spaces for cross-cultural connection?
- Are our policies proactive or just reactive?
- Have we reviewed recruitment and culture through an anti-racist lens?
For Allyship
- Am I an ally when it’s hard or only when it’s safe?
- Do I centre the voices of those impacted by racism?
- How do I respond to new racism in daily practice?
- Do I call people in with care, and call out when necessary?
- Am I promoting unity without demanding sameness?
For Community Cohesion
- Are young people in my community seen, heard, and included?
- Do we have shared community spaces that encourage interaction?
- How do local services reflect the diversity of the population?
- Are schools promoting respect for all backgrounds and identities?
- Do we challenge narratives that position difference as danger?
For Individuals In and Out of Work
- Do I feel I belong in the spaces I work or live in?
- Have I faced or witnessed discrimination in the job market?
- Am I treated with respect regardless of my background or status?
- Do I feel empowered to challenge inequality?
- Have I accessed opportunities for learning about inclusion and anti-racism?
Final Thought
Racism has changed but it hasn’t gone away. To build truly inclusive communities, we need courageous conversations, shared values, and systems designed for equity not just intention.
Let’s not just live alongside each other. Let’s learn to accept, respect, and live with each other.