In February 2021, the American Psychological Association (APA) issued a public apology to communities of color. They acknowledged their historical role in perpetuating racism and human hierarchy (APA, 2021). From the un-aliving of individuals like George Floyd and Breonna Taylor the conversation about police brutality and racial profiling has through Black Lives Matter (BLM) brought to the forefront. This was through the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement which they highlighted the urgent need for institutional reform.
Systemic racism manifests itself in numerous ways. This includes discriminatory housing practices like redlining. These practices have denied generations of Black families the opportunity to accumulate wealth. Economic inequality persists, with wage gaps and employment discrimination disproportionately affecting communities of color. Similarly, disparities in education reveal how long-standing biases continue to dictate access to opportunity. Predominantly Black and Brown schools often receive less funding than schools in predominantly white neighborhoods.
Acts of racism also manifest in healthcare, where racial minorities experience unequal access to services and face worse health outcomes. As one community member, John R., explained, “Living through decades of underfunded schools and limited healthcare access is like being set up to fail. Yet, we’re still expected to overcome as if the system isn’t rigged against us.” These personal accounts bring into focus the real, lasting impact of systemic racism.
The APA’s apology is a critical acknowledgment, but it’s only the beginning. Racism may not be entirely outlawed, but its manifestations can be addressed through legislation, anti-discrimination laws, equal opportunity policies, and reforming institutions that perpetuate bias. By raising awareness and promoting accountability, society can take steps toward dismantling these frameworks. National conversations about systemic racism are happening across media outlets, academic institutions, and grassroots movements. These conversations are sparking dialogue on how we can bring meaningful, lasting change.
To truly rectify these injustices, we need action. The FREE2 Movement is led by Ms. HiSmith with Pearls of Grace, Inc. It is dedicated to combating systemic racism. It is also focused on creating policy-driven solutions that promote equity in society. You can contribute to this movement in tangible ways—by becoming a member of Pearls of Grace, donating resources, or simply talking about FREE2’s message. All of these raise awareness in your community to sustain our efforts.
Together, we can work to break down these barriers. The FREE2 Movement offers a platform for those ready to see systemic racism dismantled and equity promoted. As we join forces, each contribution helps drive the progress we need. It could be a donation, a few hours of your time, or a simple act of sharing our mission. Learn how you can make a difference by visiting Pearls of Grace.
Reference: American Psychological Association (2021). “Apology to communities of color for contributing to systemic racism.” Retrieved from https://www.apa.org
