7 very normalized forms of Discrimination

Throughout our lives and day to day, we surround ourselves with people from different backgrounds and who come from diverse contexts. As time progresses, adopting a coexistence in which all people are comfortable becomes a necessity. This can only be met through the establishment of real ties and the collapse of all the stigmas and false beliefs that surround people belonging to social minorities.

Sadly, discrimination continues to be a deep-rooted reality in our contemporary society, manifesting itself in various forms.. Often, these forms of discrimination have become normalized to the point of going unnoticed in our daily lives. It is important to identify all types of behaviors and actions that represent and generate discrimination towards any person or group.

In this article, we aim to identify seven forms of discrimination that are so normalized in our society that we may not realize their presence and influence.

What is discrimination?

Before commenting on specific examples of normalized discrimination in our society, we must understand this concept more accurately. Discrimination, in essence, represents differential and unequal treatment towards individuals or groups of people. based primarily on characteristics such as gender, race, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, or class social.

Discrimination goes beyond simple interpersonal differences or conflicts, and translates into denial of rights, opportunities or resources to certain groups, perpetuating profound inequalities rooted.

Discrimination can occur in manifest ways, such as in the extreme case of segregation. explicit and sought, or in more subtle ways, manifesting through stereotypes, prejudices and practices institutional. It is essential to understand that discrimination is not only manifested in individual acts, but is also embedded in social, economic and political structures.

The central theme of this article is normalized discrimination, which is made up of all those behaviors that are particularly insidious because it has become so common in our daily lives that it often goes unnoticed. Identifying and understanding these normalized forms is essential to dismantling systems of oppression that perpetuate discrimination. In this context, we will examine seven examples that illustrate how discrimination has taken root. roots in our society in ways that, unfortunately, often surround us without us paying attention to them. attention.

7 normalized forms of discrimination

We will now discuss 7 more specific examples of normalized discrimination in our society that we can experience in our daily lives.

1. Difficulty of access to positions of power for women

In the workplace and politics, the difficulty of accessing positions of power for women is a persistent form of normalized discrimination. Despite progress in gender equality, barriers to women reaching leadership positions remain significant. They manifest themselves in entrenched patterns of gender discrimination, such as the wage gap, lack of representation in executive roles and the stereotypical perception of the leadership capabilities of women.

Women often face systematic obstacles, from unconscious biases to organizational structures that favor men. These obstacles not only limit women's career opportunities, but also perpetuate harmful stereotypes that associate leadership with traditionally masculine. Recognizing and addressing this normalized discrimination is not only essential for gender equality, but also for social progress as a whole.

• Related article: "Sexual Diversity: sexual orientations and gender identities"

2. Gender stereotypes in advertising

Gender stereotypes perpetuated in advertising are an insidious form of normalized discrimination that influences social perceptions and expectations.. Advertisements often reinforce traditional roles, assigning men and women rigid and limiting roles. Women are frequently presented in domestic and caring roles, while men are predominantly associated with strength and professional success.

These stereotypes not only confine individuals to predefined roles, but also contribute to gender inequality by perpetuating restrictive norms and expectations. The objectification of women and limited representation of gender diversity in advertising reinforce outdated notions of beauty and value.

This phenomenon not only affects the people directly represented in advertising, but also It influences society's general perception of the capabilities and roles appropriate for each gender.

• You may be interested: "Gender perspective: what is it and in what fields can it be applied?"

3. Greater police controls on racialized people

Racial discrimination is manifested in a particularly worrying way through increased police controls directed at racialized people. Despite advances in social awareness, racialized communities continue to be targets of disproportionate surveillance.

Practices such as racial profiling and selective enforcement contribute to a cycle of systematic discrimination.

The predisposition to consider certain ethnic groups as more prone to crime reinforces harmful stereotypes. Police brutality and lack of accountability in cases of racial discrimination increase the distrust in institutions, deepening the division between the community and law enforcement. The normalization of these controls intensifies systemic inequalities, perpetuating a cycle that affects the perception and opportunities of racialized people.

4. Implant heterosexuality in childhood as “normal”

Discrimination based on sexual orientation begins early, often through the imposition of heterosexuality as the norm in childhood. Social and cultural expectations, sometimes unnoticed, reinforce the notion that heterosexuality is the only valid expression of sexual identity. This normalization affects children from an early age, perpetuating stereotypes and limiting understanding of the diversity of sexual orientations..

Educational institutions and popular culture often present models that exclude other sexual identities, contributing to an environment where diversity is ignored or marginalized. The lack of representation and inclusive education can have significant consequences, from the alienation of LGBTQ+ individuals to the perpetuation of prejudice.

• Related article: "Sexual Diversity: sexual orientations and gender identities"

5. Lack of representation of minorities in the media

The lack of representation of minorities in the media is a form of discrimination that reflects and reinforces deep inequalities. Despite the diversity that characterizes our societies, the media has often failed to present an accurate and equitable image of reality. This omission contributes to invisibility and the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes.

When minorities are underrepresented or misrepresented, it fuels a cycle of ignorance and prejudice. The audience, by not seeing themselves reflected in their diversity, can internalize misconceptions and develop distorted perceptions about other groups. The lack of role models also limits the aspirations of minorities, affecting their self-image and opportunities.

Addressing this discrimination implies a significant change in the media industry. Active commitment required to include and highlight diverse voices and experiences. Authentic representation in films, television shows, and other media is not only an act of justice, but also a powerful means of challenging and transforming long-held perceptions.

6. Stigma towards homeless people

Discrimination against homeless people is a bitter and often overlooked reality in our communities. Homelessness not only translates into the deprivation of physical shelter, but also into social marginalization and systematic discrimination.

Stigmatizing homeless people as "lazy" or "problematic" perpetuates a simplistic view that ignores the complex causes of homelessness, such as job loss, mental health issues, or family situations difficult.

This discrimination manifests itself in policies and practices that criminalize homelessness rather than addressing its structural roots. Social stigma can result in exclusion from essential services, such as healthcare or employment, making reintegration even more difficult. of homeless people in society.

7. Institutional discrimination against migrants

Institutional discrimination against migrants is a deep-rooted problem that permeates government and social systems. Immigration policies often reflect and reinforce inequalities, creating significant barriers for those seeking to improve their lives in a new environment. Discrimination can manifest itself in lack of access to basic services, limited employment opportunities and vulnerability to exploitation.

Migrants face additional obstacles due to the stigmatized and stereotyped perception that is often projected onto them.. Policies that focus on detention and deportation rather than integration perpetuate marginalization and contribute to the creation of a marginalized social class. Overcoming this form of discrimination implies a comprehensive review of immigration policies and a commitment to equity. Creating accessible pathways for legal migration and implementing measures that foster social inclusion are crucial steps.

Conclusions

In exploring these forms of normalized discrimination, the urgency of profound cultural change is revealed. From gender inequality to lack of representation, each example illustrates the need to challenge long-held perceptions. Addressing these issues requires a collective commitment to equity, understanding and empathy. Only through conscious action and cultural transformation can we build a future where diversity is genuinely celebrated and discrimination challenged.