Intentional segregation

Date and country of first publication

2018
Norway

Definition

Intentional segregation refers to the deliberate separation of individuals or groups based on certain characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. This separation is often enacted through policies or practices that aim to isolate certain populations from the rest of society.

Historically, intentional segregation has been most commonly associated with racial segregation in the United States. During the period of Jim Crow laws in the late 19th and early 20th century, state and local governments implemented laws that mandated racial segregation in various public institutions, such as schools, transportation, and housing. These policies aimed to maintain white supremacy and deny African Americans equal rights and opportunities.

Other examples of intentional segregation include apartheid in South Africa, where a system of racial segregation was enforced by the government from 1948 to 1994, and the caste system in India, which has long perpetuated social and economic segregation based on birth status.

Although intentional segregation has been largely outlawed in many countries, it can still persist in more subtle forms, such as through housing discrimination, educational disparities, or exclusionary social practices. Efforts to combat intentional segregation focus on promoting diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities for all individuals, regardless of their characteristics.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Further reading

Finnvold J.E. (2018) "School segregation and social participation: the case of Norwegian children with physical disabilities", European Journal of Special Needs Education, 33(2), pp. 187-204. Routledge. DOI: 10.1080/08856257.2018.1424781

Donato R.; Hanson J. (2019) "Mexican American resistance to school segregation", Phi Delta Kappan, 100(5), pp. 39-42. SAGE Publications Inc.. DOI: 10.1177/0031721719827545