What is Reverse Racism?
by CAPP-USA
Reverse racism, sometimes referred to as reverse discrimination, is “prejudice, discrimination, or antagonism directed against a person or people on the basis of their membership in a dominant or privileged racial or ethnic group.” (Oxford Languages)
It often entails racist attitudes and behaviors of a minority group toward a majority group that historically was racist toward the minority.
Reverse racism is not the way to handle the injustice of racism.
The Catholic Church and Racism
“Racism is a sin that constitutes a serious offence against God.” (Pope St. John Paul II)
“The Church’s doctrine affirms…all racist theories are contrary to Christian faith and love…Racism and racist acts must be condemned.” (The Church and Racism, 33)
No matter who the racism is directed at, “It is therefore inconceivable for those who accept the Gospel message…to deny fundamental human equality in the name of the alleged superiority of a race or ethnic group”. (Pope St. Paul VI)
“Whoever exalts race…distorts and perverts an order of the world planned and created by God”. (Pope Pius XI, 8)
“We cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form”. (Pope Francis)
Racism is Racism!
The Church cautions all victims of racism to avoid “falling into a racism similar to that which they are rejecting.” (The Church and Racism, 27)
Reverse Discrimination is Not an Answer
“The Church reproves, as foreign to the mind of Christ, any discrimination.” (Pope St. Paul VI, 5)
“All forms of discrimination must be firmly opposed.” (The Church and Racism, 33)
Lifting one race above the other in any private or public place, institution, opportunity, or any part of society is to be condemned.
What Can We Do About Racism?
“The victims of racism, wherever they may be, must be defended.” (The Church and Racism, 26) We must recognize the human dignity of all people.
“[I]t is important to educate to a positive appreciation of the complementary diversity of peoples” (The Church and Racism, 33)
“Respect for every person and every race is respect for basic rights, dignity and fundamental equality”. (The Church and Racism, 33)
The Bottom Line
In every decision, who to enroll, who to hire, where to buy, who to vote for, who to invite, etc., “Truth calls for the elimination of every trace of racial discrimination“. (Pope St. John XXIII, 86)
