Racism is a way to gain economic advantage at the expense of others. Slavery and plantations may be gone, but racism still allows us to regard those who may keep us from financial gain as less than equals.
Interpretation
Racism enables individuals to profit financially by devaluing others based on race.
Alveda King's quote highlights the persistent economic motivations behind racism, suggesting that while overt practices like slavery may have ended, the underlying attitudes that dehumanize certain groups continue to exist. This devaluation allows some individuals to justify their actions that prioritize personal financial gain over equality and justice for all.
In practice
This quote can be used in discussions about the importance of diversity in economic opportunities during a seminar.
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