Racism and Racial/Cultural Identity Development Model

Abstract

This paper examines the face of racism in the United States of America (USA) based on selfreflections. The dynamics of oppression and discrimination resulting from racism will be analyzed against the backdrop of empowerment theory. The paper also suggests the use of Racial/Cultural Identity Development model (or conceptual framework) developed by Sue and Sue (1990, 1999) in understanding the stages of development the oppressed people experience as they struggle to understand themselves and the dominant culture. The role social workers could play in improving relations between the racial minority culture and the dominant culture is also discussed.