Standing Against Racism - Ways To Do Better

We Are Anti-Racism, And Hope You Are Too

Today's blog is about racism and the work we can do to move toward a safer and inclusive world for all. We will also share some support services for those who have experienced racism and may need support. We would also like to encourage people to do their own research on racism and how we can do better, and find ways we can fight against racism, such as donating to networks like AkiDwA and Doras, which support those who have experienced racial discrimination.

First, let's define racism. According to INAR (Irish Network Against racism) (2020), racism is defined as the following: 

INAR understands RACISM as: “Any action, practice, policy, law, speech, or incident which has the effect (whether intentional or not) of undermining anyone’s enjoyment of their human rights, based on their actual or perceived ethnic or national origin or background, where that background is that of a marginalised or historically subordinated group. Racism carries connotations of violence because the dehumanisation of ethnic groups has been historically enforced through violence.”

A report released by INAR (2023) reports an increase the reporting of racism in Ireland, with 600 reports made through iReport.ie in 2022, this is a significant rise from the 404 reports of racism in 2021. Whilst these numbers convey a major problem of racism in Ireland, the stats don't account for the number of people who experience racism daily and don't report it. Racism is a part of many people's lives and can have detrimental effects on people who experience it. 

Standing Against Racism:

As a brand, we believe it’s important to speak openly about racism and its presence here in Ireland. We also believe we can use our platform — and our clothing — as a way to take a stand against racism and help educate others on how we can all contribute to creating a more inclusive and respectful society.

Let’s talk about how we can combat racism, both personally and collectively. Below are several ways we can be more mindful, take meaningful action, and stand firmly against racism in our daily lives.

Check Your Biases:

You may have heard someone say, “I’m not racist, but…” — and then follow it with a biased or harmful comment.

The truth is: we all have biases. Many of us aren’t even aware of the negative assumptions we hold about certain groups. The first step is recognizing this and being open to growth.

Pay attention to what you say, why you say it, and how your words and actions impact others. Just as importantly, reflect on times when you’ve stayed silent instead of standing up against racism.

Use your voice and your actions to show that racism is never acceptable. Your example can influence those around you.

Use Your Voice:

Racism can happen anywhere, and it can be terrifying for those targeted. It can also be difficult for bystanders to know how to respond.

When it’s safe to do so, speak up. Let the person responsible know that their words or behavior are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

If the person who made the comment or acted in a racist way is someone you know, it can be helpful to have a private conversation. Help them understand why their actions or words are harmful and encourage them to reflect on their biases.

Be Open to Different Stories and Cultures:

The more we read, watch, listen to, and engage with people from diverse backgrounds, the more empathy and understanding we build.

Other cultures should not be seen as a threat to our own — they offer opportunities for growth and richer life experiences. Embrace learning from others.

Support Inclusive Businesses:

Be mindful of where you spend your money. Support businesses that actively promote diversity and equality.

In every community, there are businesses run by people of different ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, gender identities, and more. By supporting them, you help foster a more inclusive economy.

Teach Our Children:

Children aren’t born racist — they learn it from the world around them.

It’s our duty as parents, teachers, and role models to teach what’s right. We must instill values that promote respect, equality, and inclusivity, helping create a safer, more welcoming world for all.

Be Mindful of Language:

Language matters.

Sometimes racist ideas slip into conversation through sayings or words we learned as children, without questioning their meaning. As we grow, it’s important to examine our language and remove terms that are harmful or discriminatory.

Educate Yourself:

Learning is key to change.

Listen to the voices of those who’ve experienced racism. Read books, watch documentaries, and engage in conversations. The more we understand racism, the better equipped we are to challenge it and promote equality.

Vote for Inclusive Leadership:

Who we vote for matters.

Support leaders and policies that protect and uplift people of all backgrounds and identities. Voting is one of the most powerful tools we have to shape a more inclusive society.

Support Those Who Have Experienced Racism:

If you know someone who has experienced racism, reach out and check in with them. It’s important to let them know that what happened to them is wrong and unacceptable.

Offer whatever support they may need — this could be simply listening, helping them find mental health or medical support, or assisting them in reporting the incident to the local Gardaí (police).

Below are several support services that may be helpful if you — or someone you know — experiences racism and needs assistance or wishes to report it.

Humanity First:

Above all, remember this: we share a common humanity.

Seeing the humanity in others is a vital step toward treating everyone with dignity and respect. Every person deserves to feel seen, valued, and safe.

When we lead with empathy, speak up against injustice, and embrace diversity, we move closer to a world where humanity truly comes first.

Support Services: 

Here is a link to the directory of national & local anti-racism support services

• Reporting hate speech and racist crimes - click here for the form to report hate crime or call 999 or 122

• Call the Gardai Confidential Line - 1800 666 111

• Report racist incidents through ireport.ie - click here to access their reporting form

• Information on different forms of racism and links to INAR’s guide to responding to racism

• The Crime Victims Helpline - Freephone 116 006 - The Crime Victims Helpline is a national support service for victims of crime in Ireland that can answer questions about the criminal justice system, provide information about rights, and provide referrals to local or specialist victim support services

• AkiDwA (Network Of Migrant Women) Phone: 353 (0)1 8349851 or email: info@akidwa.ie

• Doras (Promoting & protecting the rights of people from a migrant background in Ireland) - Tel: 0830086391 (Migrant Victim Support 24-hour helpline)

• Jigsaw - Mental health support services

• Black Therapists Ireland -  Email: support@blacktherapistsireland.ie

• SpunOut - Support list for those who have experienced Hate Crimes