What is a key characteristic of interpersonal racism?

Interpersonal racism is characterized by direct, personal interactions between individuals that reflect negative attitudes or beliefs based on race. It encompasses actions, words, and behaviors that are discriminatory or prejudiced, expressing bias on a relational level. This type of racism is often visible in day-to-day interactions, such as derogatory comments, exclusionary behavior, or perceived slights directed at individuals because of their racial or ethnic identity. Understanding interpersonal racism is crucial for addressing and mitigating its impact on social relations and community dynamics, as it is deeply rooted in personal perceptions and attitudes.

Other options refer to systemic or structural aspects of racism. Legal statutes relate to institutionalized frameworks that may not capture the personal nuances of everyday interactions. Similarly, ingrained policies or community decisions reflect broader societal issues and do not directly pertain to individual experiences of racism during personal exchanges.