Race and Racism By Hooks

By Christine Kelly

Lets start with a Prewrite..

Consider this quote by Hooks, along with your previous knowledge, I state my preference for using the word white supremacy to describe the system of race-based biases we live within because this term, more than racism, is inclusive of everyone (29). Take a moment to write down how you would define White Supremacy.

Do you think that White Supremacy still exists in our society today?

Main Argument

Hooks main argument throughout her article is that Racism is deeply embedded in all of our minds. She wants us, as the readers, to consider the idea that racism still exists in society today. Believes that white people need to move from denying that racism still exists in order to realize that it is part of white supremacist culture that encourages whites to deny race.

Another Perspective: Toni Morrison

This video is of Toni Morrison discussing racism after the media portrayal of the OJ Simpson trial. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvcJ1YyQCkA

Connecting Ideas

Morrison, similarly to Hooks, thinks that race still plays many roles in society Morrison believes that the media portrayal of the OJ Simpson trial and others like it leads to blackness and criminality being combined in the minds of most white Americans Portrayals connects to the Pre-made, Implanted judgments that both Hooks and Morrison mention

Racism in Hooks Classroom

In her article, Hooks uses examples from her classroom. (pgs. 25-26). When discussing racism, most of Hooks students first state during discussion that, we are all just people Next, she asks them if they were to die and could come back as either a black male or female, or a white male or female

Most of her students choose a white male

When asked why? Because white males are thought to have the most privilege in society.

In Our Classrooms

The disconnect between their conscious repudiation of race as a marker of privilege and their unconscious understanding is a gap we have to bridge, an illusion that must be shattered before a meaningful discussion of race and racism can take place. This exercise helps them to move past their denial of the existence of racism. It lets us begin to work together toward a more unbiased approach to knowledge (26).

Benefits of Discussing Racism with Students:

Could fit well into a unit on multi-ethnic literature Could bring student awareness that this issue could still exist not only in the classroom, but also in society Would allow for students to consciously think about race and how it effects their own lives Cause students to inwardly reflect on their own thoughts and actions, allowing them to make better choices.

Time to Consider..

Considering what you wrote in our pre-write activity, along with Hooks and Morrisons arguments, lets discuss your thoughts and opinions on the matter.

Do you still define White Supremacy the same way?

Can you think of any examples to show that it still exists or that it doesnt? Has your opinion changed at all after viewing these other perspectives?