Myths and misconceptions about racism
Understand racialisation, systemic racism and bias in this 2024 guide that explains key concepts shaping race and society in Australia today.
Summary
This guide aims to support people to think critically about race and racism in Australia.
It will:
- equip you with the tools to break down common falsehoods
- help you understand more about race and racism
- support you to have conversations about combatting racism.
Common myths and misconceptions about racism
A self-reflection guide to support your understanding of racism.
We developed the guide to address structural and systemic racism, including intersectional forms of discrimination, which are deeply rooted in myths and misconceptions about racism in Australia.
The guide explores 5 myths and misconceptions:
- that racism is about individual actions and beliefs.
- about meritocracy, the belief that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed based on their abilities
- that people don't "see" race.
- that “racism is a thing of the past”.
- that anti-racism is about more than "not being racist".
The guide was developed with advice and input from IndigenousX.
What do we mean when say 'myth' and 'misconception'?
- A ‘myth’ is a widely held but false belief or idea.
- A ‘misconception’ is a belief or idea that is based on incorrect thinking or an inaccurate understanding.
Downloadable resources
National Anti-Racism Framework
A roadmap to address racism in Australia
An Anti-Racism Framework: Experiences and perspectives of multicultural Australia
Findings and recommendations following consultations with more than 1200 people with lived experience of racism from across Australia.
Race reporting handbook
Guidelines on anti-racist journalistic and editorial practices, diversity in media and inclusive storytelling.
An Anti-Racism Framework: Voices of First Nations Peoples
Understanding and addressing systemic and structural racism experienced by First Nations peoples.
