The Prospect of Antiracism

Abstract Racial reckoning in response to racial injustice has compelled individuals, organizations, and institutions acknowledge adopt policies that actively challenge injustice. A central tenet of this era is it no longer acceptable ignore racist behaviors expressions. To the extent active opposition prejudice an effective strategy for individuals pursue, we examine individual inclinations act on matters prejudice. We argue spite best intentions, motivation against racism, what call “antiracism action orientation,” can be disrupted by system-justifying beliefs raise questions about deservingness, legitimize status quo, therefore defend inaction. Survey data from 2020 Congressional Election Study show antiracism orientation strongest among African Americans, those with more positive affect toward racial-ethnic minorities, supporters change. Among Whites, resentment dominates motivations point typical political allies like Democrats, liberals, who White privilege reduce their lower levels than Republicans, conservatives, deniers privilege. conclude most but especially have a high bar change, making racism ongoing American dilemma because both attitudes costs