Prejudice, Bias, Discrimination

Although the terms prejudice, bias, and discrimination are often confused and used interchangeably, nevertheless they mean very different things independently. Used together, the impact of prejudice, bias, and discrimination on society has been overwhelmingly negative, providing a foundation for systems built on fear, power, and distrust. This impact creates a nearly impenetrable barrier to inclusion and intercultural competence. Historically, these words conjure images of burning crosses, swastikas, men in white sheets, and discriminatory legal actions. Today, these words and the actions that accompany them show up in seemingly innocuous yet insidious ways. To individuals who are compassionate and worldly, it would seem elementary to avoid these three phenomena personally and professionally. However, there is a natural instinct to separate the world into us and them, ...