Understanding the Roots of Programmed Racism and the Journey to Change

Growing up, I carried a heavy burden of programmed racism. I want to be clear from the start: I do not condone racism in any form. The views I held as a teenager are not the views I hold today. This post is a personal reflection to help you understand why I was racist as a young person and where those harmful beliefs came from. It is a story about how family influence shaped my early mindset and how I eventually changed for the better.

The Family Influence That Shaped My Early Views

My father played a central role in programming my early views on race. Despite his service in the Royal Navy, he held very narrow-minded and harmful opinions. His language was often filled with racial slurs like "Paki," "Chink," "Nigger," and "Coon." These words were not just spoken in private; they were part of everyday conversation. He also told racist jokes, such as one about pigeons being racist because they sound like they say, "Lookatthecoon."

Growing up in this environment, these attitudes were imprinted on me, my siblings, and even my mother. It was a household where racism was normalised, and I absorbed those views without questioning them. This programming was powerful and shaped how I saw the world.

School Life and Reinforcement of Racist Beliefs

At the age of 12, I attended a school in Queensbury, a place where many students came from diverse backgrounds. However, I entered that environment already carrying the racist views my father had instilled in me. This made my experience difficult and complicated. I was programmed to see others through a lens of prejudice, which affected my interactions and relationships.

School corridor symbolizing the environment where early beliefs were challenged

The Turning Point: Questioning and Changing My Views

My shift in perspective wasn't influenced by school or family, but rather by an unexpected friendship that formed due to a shared passion for animals and Kentish Town City Farm, paths that would never have intersected otherwise.

This will be the subject of my next blog post.

Moving Forward with Awareness and Responsibility

Understanding where programmed racism comes from is the first step toward change. For me, it meant recognising the influence of my upbringing and choosing to reject those harmful beliefs. It also means actively working to be more inclusive and respectful in my daily life.

If you find yourself struggling with similar issues, here are some practical steps that helped me:

• Listen and learn: Seek out stories and experiences different from your own.

• Challenge stereotypes: Question assumptions and avoid generalizations.

• Speak up: When you hear racist language or jokes, say something.

• Reflect on your past: Understand how your background might have shaped your views.

• Build empathy: Try to see the world through others’ eyes.

  
  

Open book and notes representing learning and personal growth

The journey away from programmed racism is ongoing. It requires effort, honesty, and a willingness to change. But it is possible, and it leads to a richer, more compassionate life.