Racial Wealth Gap

Definition

The racial wealth gap refers to the economic disparity between different racial and ethnic groups, where certain groups have more accumulated wealth than others. This is often due to systemic issues such as discrimination and unequal access to resources.

Analogy

Think of it like a race where some runners start closer to the finish line because they've been given a head start. In this case, the 'head start' represents advantages like inherited wealth or better access to education and job opportunities.

Related terms

Wealth Accumulation: The process by which individuals increase their assets and financial savings over time.

Systemic Racism: A form of racism that is embedded in normal practice within society or an organization, leading to discrimination in housing, employment, education, etc.

Redlining: A discriminatory practice by which banks and insurance companies refuse or limit loans, mortgages, insurance within specific geographic areas, especially inner-city neighborhoods.