Race issues are so fundamental in our society that they seem almost an integral component. A few Americans believe that race is the only determinant of human abilities and capacities. A few even behave as if racial differences brought about inherent superiority in European Americans. In fact, these individuals respond to European and African Americans differently merely because of race. Institutions, like individuals, can act in racist ways.
Institutions can behave in ways that are inherently or overtly racist.
As a result, institutions can respond differently to African or European Americans. Socially constructed notions of 'race' are promoted and used in various ways to support current inequitable relationships among groups. Racism and prejudice expressions have changed over recent decades from overt to more subtle forms, but research reveals that they are still prevalent in many countries. Targets are chosen by society as a way of eliminating their frustration. The media often reinforce negative stereotypes of minority groups.