2016 Postmortem
In reply to the discussion: What the heck!? Why are people viewing systemic racism and economic inequality as separate issues? [View all]Adrahil
(13,340 posts)in socialist thinking about racism being a symptom of class inequality.
Those who believe that think that much racism is based on economic competition between the majority and minority working classes.
There is SOME truth in that, for sure. For example, much racism pointed at immigrants in based on economic fears (they're taking our jobs!), and some is based on the idea of the undeserving poor (my taxes are paying for those black welfare queens!).
But in the case of AA's the problem is MUCH deeper than that. The economic disadvantage of AA's is HEAVILY based on the concept of white supremacy, which is not simply economic in it's character.
Sanders has often emphasized economic symptoms like unemployment as being an important race issue, and it is. But a broad-based plan to address income inequality is unlikely to fix unemployment concentrations in minority communities, because racism WILL drive how such policies affect distribution of benefits and opportunity. Race needs to be addressed EXPLICITLY.
Yes, the issues are linked. But race deserves, and NEEDS special attention. I do not doubt Sanders understands that, at least at some level, but I think he is inexperienced to relating his message to an AA audience, and he hasn't quite figured out how to connect with them. He's never had to before.