Racial bias is a hugely complex subject and linked closely with issues of language, culture and faith, which will be looked at in more detail in future articles in this series. Racism damages all children, regardless of skin colour and ethnicity, although it does it in different ways. Some children and their families from black and other minority ethnic groups are greatly disadvantaged by discrimination. For them, racism is hurtful and sometimes even life-threatening. It may damage their self-identity and make them believe that they are seen as inferior outside their homes. This 'internalised oppression' (see Equality and Diversity, Part 1, 24 September 2009) can affect their behaviour, confidence and motivation and interfere with their ability to learn. It can affect their life chances and the choices they are able to make. It is important that they learn that racism is not their fault and that they didn't do anything to cause it.
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