What best defines structural racism?

Structural racism refers to the ways in which society's systems and institutions, like education, healthcare, and law enforcement, create and maintain racial inequalities. It is not just about individual attitudes or actions; rather, it is about the policies and practices that are built into the structures of society, which often favor one racial group over others. For example, if a school district has funding rules that give more money to schools in wealthier areas, those schools, often in predominantly white neighborhoods, can provide better resources than those in poorer, racially diverse areas. This creates a cycle where opportunities are limited for certain racial groups, making it harder for them to succeed. Understanding structural racism helps us see that changing individual behaviors is not enough; we must also change the systems that uphold these inequalities.