White Racism

This title probes white racism in contemporary society. Central to the book's analysis is a careful documentation of key events which demonstrate the process of racial victimization. The authors focus on "notorious cases", including the Rodney King beating in Los Angeles and its aftermath; the use of Willie Horton and Sistah Souljah as racial icons in presidential elections; and the Charles Stuart murders in Boston. The analysis of lesser known anti-black activities - on a liberal college campus, in a heartland city, and in chain restaurants - reveal the everyday character of white racism. The authors' accounts give special attention to the role of stereotyping and rumour, black reaction to white racism, and the mass media's role in ritualized enactment of racialized events.