The Socialized Racism Scale: Determining Your Level of Socialized Racism
The Socialized Racism Scale is a self-assessment tool designed to help you uncover and reflect on the unconscious biases and behaviors that contribute to systemic racism. While many of us strive to be allies, socialization in a society that upholds white supremacy can lead to ingrained, often unnoticed, racist behaviors.
This scale encourages honest introspection, helping you identify areas where you can grow and take actionable steps toward becoming a more effective and empathetic ally in the fight for racial equity.
1.When you hear someone make a racist joke, how do you typically respond?
A) Laugh along or stay silent. (1 point)
B) Feel uncomfortable but don’t say anything. (2 points)
C) Confront the person and explain why the joke is inappropriate. (3 points)
2.Do you believe that racism is a thing of the past and not a current issue?
A) Yes, I believe we live in a post-racial society. (1 point)
B) I’m not sure; I think it’s less of a problem now. (2 points)
C) No, I believe racism is still a significant issue today. (3 points)
3.How often do you consume media (books, movies, news) created by or focused on people of color?
A) Rarely or never. (1 point)
B) Occasionally. (2 points)
C) Frequently. (3 points)
4.Do you have meaningful and close relationships with people of different races?
A) No, all my friends are the same race as me. (1 point)
B) I have a few acquaintances of different races. (2 points)
C) Yes, I have close friends of different races. (3 points)
5.Have you ever felt defensive when someone points out something you did or said that was racially insensitive?
A) Yes, I usually get defensive. (1 point)
B) Sometimes, but I try to understand. (2 points)
C) No, I try to listen and learn. (3 points)
6.How do you react to discussions about white privilege?
A) I think it’s an exaggerated concept. (1 point)
B) I understand it somewhat but find it hard to relate to. (2 points)
C) I acknowledge it and strive to understand it better. (3 points)
7.Do you believe affirmative action is necessary to address historical and systemic inequalities?
A) No, I think it’s unfair to white people. (1 point)
B) I’m not sure; I have mixed feelings. (2 points)
C) Yes, I believe it’s necessary to level the playing field. (3 points)
8.How often do you engage in self-education about racism and anti-racism?
A) Rarely or never. (1 point)
B) Occasionally. (2 points)
C) Frequently. (3 points)
9.When a person of color shares their experience of racism, how do you typically respond?
A) I often question or doubt their experience. (1 point)
B) I listen but sometimes feel skeptical. (2 points)
C) I listen attentively and believe their experience. (3 points)
10. Do you recognize and challenge stereotypes about people of different races in your daily life?
A) No, I don’t think stereotypes are a big deal. (1 point)
B) Sometimes, but not always. (2 points)
C) Yes, I actively challenge stereotypes whenever I encounter them. (3 points)
11.Have you ever been involved in or supported movements that promote racial justice (e.g., Black Lives Matter)?
A) No, I think they are too extreme. (1 point)
B) I support them in theory but haven’t been actively involved. (2 points)
C) Yes, I have supported or participated in such movements. (3 points)
12. How willing are you to have uncomfortable conversations about race with family and friends?
A) I avoid such conversations. (1 point)
B) I find them difficult but am willing to try. (2 points)
C) I actively engage in these conversations to promote understanding. (3 points)
13. Have you ever questioned why certain spaces (e.g., neighborhoods, schools, workplaces) are predominantly white?
A) No, I’ve never thought about it. (1 point)
B) Yes, but I’m not sure why it’s that way. (2 points)
C) Yes, and I understand it’s due to historical and systemic racism. (3 points)
14. How do you react when you see protests or movements advocating for racial justice?
A) I feel uncomfortable or annoyed and think they are disruptive. (1 point)
B) I am neutral or unsure about their impact. (2 points)
C) I feel supportive and understand the need for these actions. (3 points)
15. Do you consider the impact of your actions and words on people of color before you speak or act?
A) Rarely or never. (1 point)
B) Sometimes, but not consistently. (2 points)
C) Often, and I strive to be mindful and considerate. (3 points)
Interpretation Guide:
Score 15-25: High Level of Socialized Racism
If you scored between 15 and 25, you likely have significant blind spots regarding racism. It's essential to start by educating yourself about the history and current state of racism and white privilege. Reading books, attending workshops, and listening to the experiences of people of color can be excellent first steps. Listening to the Espresso Talk Today podcast show and reading the Nommo Beat newsletter are excellent sources for you to consult.
Score 26-35: Moderate Level of Socialized Racism
If you scored between 26 and 35, you are aware of some aspects of racism but still have areas that need improvement. This is a crucial stage in your journey toward becoming a more effective ally. Continue to educate yourself by seeking out diverse perspectives and deepening your understanding of systemic racism.
Start engaging more actively in conversations and actions that promote racial equity, even when it feels uncomfortable. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, recognizing that true growth often occurs when we confront our biases and take meaningful steps toward change.
Score 36-45: Low Level of Socialized Racism
If you scored between 36 and 45, you are likely quite aware of the issues surrounding racism and are actively working to be an ally. This awareness is commendable, and your commitment to racial justice is essential in the fight against systemic oppression. Keep up the good work, but remember that this is an ongoing journey—there is always more to learn and more ways to grow.
Continue to educate yourself, seek out new perspectives, and take consistent, actionable steps to support racial justice. Additionally, consider mentoring others who are earlier in their allyship journey, helping to build a broader movement for equity and inclusion.
Here are five steps for everyone who took this test can do:
Diversify Your Learning:
Commit to reading books, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts created by people of color. This will deepen your understanding of different perspectives and experiences.
Engage in Difficult Conversations:
Start or participate in discussions about racism with your friends, family, and colleagues. Be willing to challenge racist remarks or assumptions and use these moments to educate others.
Support Black-Owned Businesses and Organizations:
Make a conscious effort to support Black-owned businesses, donate to racial justice organizations, and promote initiatives led by people of color.
Attend Workshops and Training:
Participate in workshops, webinars, or training sessions focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion. These can provide valuable tools and strategies for effective allyship.
Use Your Platform for Advocacy:
Whether it’s social media, your workplace, or community groups, use your influence to advocate for policies and practices that promote racial equity. Amplify the voices of people of color and push for systemic change.
By taking these steps, you can continue to grow as an ally and make a tangible impact in the fight against racism.
Remember, every action counts, and your ongoing commitment is crucial to creating a more just and equitable society.
