Compulsory racial segregation

1954
united states

Compulsory racial segregation refers to a system or policy that requires the separation of different racial or ethnic groups in public spaces, institutions, or residential areas. This form of segregation is typically enforced by laws or government regulations, mandating separate facilities, services, or accommodations for different racial groups.

Historically, compulsory racial segregation has been most prominently practiced in countries like the United States with its policy of Jim Crow laws, South Africa with its apartheid system, and Nazi Germany with its persecution of Jews. These policies aimed to maintain social, economic, and political dominance of a particular racial or ethnic group over others.

Compulsory racial segregation has often resulted in significant social and economic inequalities, as certain racial or ethnic groups have faced systematic discrimination, limited access to educational opportunities, healthcare, job opportunities, and public resources. It has also led to the marginalization, oppression, and violence against certain racial or ethnic groups.

Since the mid-20th century, many countries have taken steps to dismantle compulsory racial segregation through civil rights movements, legal reforms, and anti-discrimination laws. The efforts to promote equality, inclusivity, and integration have been significant in challenging and eradicating this form of segregation.

Further reading

Johnson G.B. (1954) "A sociologist looks at racial desegregation in the south", Social Forces, 33(1), pp. 1-10. . DOI: 10.2307/2573137