

Ibram X. Kendi on Being an Antiracist
Aug 29, 2020
Ibram X. Kendi, a prominent American author and scholar on race, dives deep into the nuances of antiracism in this engaging discussion. He shares insights from his book, explaining how to identify racist versus antiracist policies. The conversation also tackles the fluidity of racial identities and the societal impacts of discrimination. Kendi provides a critical examination of historical narratives and their connection to current inequalities, urging listeners to shift focus from individual blame to systemic change.
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Episode notes
Racist as a Descriptor
- Ibram X. Kendi defines racist and antiracist not as identities but as descriptive terms.
- One can be racist in one moment and antiracist in the next depending on their actions and ideas.
Power as the Root of Racism
- Racist policies arise from a desire for power, not ignorance or hate.
- Ideas are then created to justify these policies, influencing public perception.
Racist Policy vs. Systemic Racism
- Ibram X. Kendi prefers "racist policy" over "systemic racism" for clarity.
- He believes everyday people understand "racist policy" better, making it more effective.