Discrimination is defined as the mistreatment of people based on their race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability, age, or any other protected characteristic. This mistreatment may manifest itself in the form of unequal treatment, unequal access to resources, violation of rights, and other forms of prejudice.

According to the U.S. Department of Education, racial and national origin harassment is “unwelcome conduct based on a student’s actual or perceived race or national origin.” This kind of discrimination can occur between people of different races or ethnicities, or between persons of the same race or ethnicity.

The Ontario Human Rights Commission defines discrimination as “a principle of human rights that persons should be judged on their individual attributes, skills and capabilities, rather than on stereotypes, prejudice, or assumptions based on group characteristics.”

At its core, discrimination is about power, prejudice, and unequal treatment. It can be used to maintain a status quo of privilege or to limit the opportunities of certain groups. Discrimination can take many forms and can happen in schools, workplaces, or in the broader community.

It is important to note that discrimination is illegal in most parts of the world and can be challenged under laws that protect civil and human rights. It is our responsibility to recognize and reject discrimination, and to take action to ensure that all people are treated with respect and dignity.