Hull Museum Education
What is Racism? KS2-4
Questions & Discussion
What is Racism?
o Racism is when a person is discriminated against because of their culture or background.
Can you think of any examples of racism that you have come across in your own
experience? Can you think of any examples from television / film?
Why does Racism happen?
o Racism happens in all different places, and people who are racist can come from many
different backgrounds and cultures.
o Sometimes people do not realise that their words or actions are racist.
o A lot of racism happens simply because a person doesn’t properly understand another
person’s way of life or traditions.
Can you think of any other reasons why racism happens?
When did Racism start?
o Racism has been around for a long time. There have been problems between people of
different backgrounds for thousands of years.
Why do you think this is? Can you think of any examples of racism in history?
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o To some extent, racism and prejudice towards people of African descent can be seen as
part of the legacy of the slave trade.
Do you agree? Why do you think that this has happened? Why do you think we still
have problems with racism today?
What can be done about Racism today?
o We can all help stop racism from happening today. Here are some examples:
We can make sure that we don’t have negative attitudes, don’t stereotype and
that we treat everyone with mutual respect.
We can speak out against people who are bullies and show support to people
who are victims of racism.
We can all try to learn about different cultures and religion that we don’t know
much about.
Can you think of any other ways that we can help stop Racism?
For more information on Racism see:
Youth against Racism in Europe
www.yre.org.uk/pack
Show Racism the Red Card
www.srtrc.org
Lets Beat Racism (Childline)
www.childline.org.uk/Racism
Love music – Hate Racism
www.lovemusichateracism.com
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