EFFECTS OF RACISM AND XENOPHOBIC ATTITUDES

Effects of racism are felt in all spheres of life coupled with xenophobic attitudes. Living in multicultural settings and the consequences of racism and xenophobic attitudes are quite certain although we know that multicultural life is widespread today.

The many wars and tribal conflicts throughout the 20^th century, religious and political intolerance, labour diversification, seasonal migration and others cause this problem to grow immensely and all of these do not bring about healthy living. When one experiences war, insecurity, tribal conflicts of any kind, it certainly depreciates standard of living.

Whenever there is an open, flexible and understanding attitude, results may be optimal, however, when the outlook is purely selfish, the outcome is racism and xenophobia.

Amnesty International says refugees and migrants are still facing daily discrimination and living in constant fear of physical attacks.

The international human rights watchdog says ongoing xenophobia in South Africa is compounded by the failed criminal justice system, with many cases remaining unresolved, which allows perpetrators to attack refugees and migrants with impunity.

In May 2008, a Mozambican national Ernesto Alfabeto Nhamuave was beaten, stabbed and set alight in a brutal killing which set off a chain of violent attacks against migrants and refugees in South Africa.

Amnesty International South Africa director Shenilla Mohamed says authorities have failed to root out hatred against refugees and migrants.

They’ve also failed to bring those responsible for the 2008 attacks and other recent attacks to justice, emboldening future attackers…EYEWITNESS NEWS

Hundreds of Nigerians and other migrants and refugees in South Africa have been under violent attacks recent years.

Racism and xenophobic never solve the difference between individuals of contrasting cultural backgrounds. They produce feelings and emotions of great danger to physical and mental health. Examples:

• Dogmatism: This is the rigid drive to impose one’s own ideas. When this is not achieved, dogmatic persons experience frustration and anger.
• Intolerance: This is the disapproval of what others think. It causes discomfort and impedes any opportunity to learn from others.
• Hatred: This is a very adverse xenophobic reaction – the antithesis of love. It produces unhappiness
• Violence: This is physical or verbal aggression, which can be classified as a crime, and one in which a xenophobic may find him/herself involved.

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Effects of Racism to Mental Health

Some adverse mental issues such as chronic stress, depression, racial trauma and anxiety can be triggered by racial discrimination. These are mental health issues and a direct pointer to mental illness which needs serious attention.

When one is treated unfairly or differently because of his/her skin colour or ethnicity, it will have negative impacts to their mental health. Therefore, physical health issues may arise due to the constant stress of racism. The following are the effects:-

• There will be a decrease in immune function
• Heart rate will increase
• Higher cortisol levels
• Inflammation

People with racial trauma may experience:-

• Chronic stress
• The need to avoid people
• Insomnia
• Hyper-vigilance or anxiety
• Headaches or stomachaches

Promoting interracial and intercultural life to Fighting Racism:

Good legislation that protects minorities from discrimination is very important. Also providing certain privileges or subsidies to those who are more susceptible of becoming marginalised is fundamental. Authentic multicultural promotion happens when traditional institutions provide a thorough education of respects and acceptance of all races and cultures. These institutions are:

• School
• Family
• Mass media
• State

And the application of Christian ideals at all levels is a sure solution to promote multiculturalism. Although Christians don’t live up to the standard of their belief, Christianity can offer the most reliable guide to live in community, provided that it is not applied by force.

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To follow Jesus teachings is a guarantee of success not only among races and cultures, but for all types of human relationships, as well. Some basic Christian ideals include, love, peace and understanding of all tiers of class, race, culture, religion, age, gender and lifestyle.

Remember,

“When an alien lives with you in your land, do not mistreat him. The alien living with you must be treated as one of your native-born. Love him as yourself, for you were aliens in Egypt. I am the LORD your God” (Leviticus 19:33, 34)

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28)

Peace be still!

KEEP READING: 

Affective Loneliness And How To Overcome It

Shyness and How to Overcome It 

Dealing with Anger and Aggression

Insecurity and Self-Esteem 

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