It’s Not Just Us: Why Racism Should Be Seen As A Global Issue

Recent viral footage of inhumane treatment of African women in Ukraine sparks a discussion about why racism should be addressed as a global issue.

We talk a lot about racism in the U.S., and rightfully so. But racism is not only an issue in America. It is a malignancy that exists worldwide and should be treated as such. Over the weekend, several videos of Africans being treated inhumanely in Ukraine have once again reminded us why racism must be addressed as a global issue of concern.

On Saturday, several videos went viral on social media of Black women and young girls in Ukraine being exposed to extreme racism. One video showed several African women stranded at a Ukrainian border in almost below freezing weather. Various celebrities and public figures quickly commented in response to the heartbreaking video. White House Correspondent and Political Analyst April Ryan said,

“They said women and children are allowed in, just not black women and children. Are there any orgs that we can work with to help to shelter these people?”

Contributing writer for THE ATLANTIC and podcast host, Jemele Hill tweeted,

“This is why racism must be seen as a global problem. Absolutely disgraceful.:

The specific video was of an African woman looking for shelter at a hostel while holding a two-month-old infant in frigidly cold weather conditions. The second video showed a Ukrainian police officer pushing a young Black girl off a train that was on its way to transport women and children to safety.

April Ryan commented on Instagram,

Once again, our Black brothers and sisters are being pushed to the sidelines and denied their own safety. Remember, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. This is why we must continue fighting for equality for people of color across the globe!!

But the treatment of African women and children in Ukraine should be no surprise. Global racism has been an ongoing issue. Ukraine specifically has continued to wrestle with constant racially motivated attacks against non-Ukrainian residents. Research examining…