Racism as a Cultural Factor

Abstract

So far, we have proposed that in order to understand the systematic devaluation of “otherness” along the lines of race, culture, and ethnicity, we need to critically examine the colonial legacy that continually undermines our democratic aspirations. However, to do so would require that we reconnect with our past so as to critically understand that beneath the aura of democracy lies a colonial historical will that has bequeathed us the rampant social inequality that exists today. Once we become cognizant of the colonial ideology that still informs our so-called democratic society, we can begin to create structures that will lead to a total decolonization so as to achieve a truly cultural democracy.

I will say, then, that I am not, nor ever have been In favor of bringing about in any way the social and political equality of white and black races.… as much as any other man am in favor of having the superior position assigned to the white race.

—Abraham Lincoln