Each week, Dismantle Poverty’s Megan Matthews answers a question about the Poverty Reduction Work Group’s mission to reduce poverty and inequality in Washington State.
Here’s this week’s entry.
“Why the focus on race?”
The link between our national and state history of racism and oppression and the unequal experience of poverty faced by Washingtonians of color is unmistakable. This isn’t just history; it is baked into our very system. Our systems still create barriers for people today based on historical and structural racism. This is why we continue to see outcomes that are different based on race and ethnicity. Good intentions that don’t undo the structural underpinnings of racism won’t be enough. Focusing on race is important to eradicating inequality and poverty.
Racial discrimination also overlaps with other forms of discrimination — ageism, sexism, classism, heterosexism, homophobia, xenophobia, and ableism — to deepen the experience of poverty for many. Understanding the intersection of race with all forms of oppression and how they heighten the experience of inequality, is necessary to create a Washington that is just and equitable for all.
To submit questions, email Megan here or use the Contact page on this website.