The Decline in the Perception of Racial Discrimination in the USA

• 45% of Americans believe that dark-skinned people face discrimination
• Many people believe that DEI does not benefit anyone
• The perception of discrimination against Asians has decreased to 32%

Washington (AP) — According to a new survey, fewer adults in the USA believe that dark-skinned people face "significant" or "very significant" discrimination. This figure has dropped from 60% in early 2021, following the protests sparked by the killing of George Floyd.

A significant number of Americans believe that the push for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) does not benefit those it is intended for. The results of the survey, conducted by the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, indicate that Americans' views on racial discrimination have changed substantially since many companies began implementing DEI practices.

In recent years, many companies have moved away from their policies regarding diversity, especially under former President Donald Trump, who is attempting to stop funding for schools and companies that support DEI.

Changes in Views on Racial Discrimination

The survey showed that 45% of adults in the USA believe that dark-skinned people face high levels of discrimination, which is a significant decrease from 60% in 2021. A similar decline is observed regarding the discrimination against Asians, where this figure fell from 45% to 32%.

Research also shows that nearly 44% of Americans believe that Hispanics face "very significant" discrimination, while only 15% believe this applies to white people.

Thoughts on the Impact of DEI on Racial Groups

Fewer adults believe that DEI benefits people for whom it was developed. Nearly 40% of adults believe that DEI reduces discrimination against dark-skinned individuals, while a third believe this applies to Hispanics, women, and Asians. Approximately a quarter believe that DEI actually increases discrimination.

Dark-skinned individuals and Hispanics more often than whites believe that DEI increases the level of discrimination against them. Nearly 40% of dark-skinned adults and a third of Hispanics believe that DEI increases discrimination.

Perceptions of Discrimination Against White People

The survey indicated that Americans no longer believe that white people face discrimination. More adults believe that DEI has no impact on white people or men. In contrast, nearly 30% of adults believe that DEI increases discrimination against whites.

Researchers note that political views on DEI include thoughts on the fact that white people are more often left without opportunities due to their race. Thoughts on this vary depending on political views.

The AP-NORC survey among 1,437 adults was conducted from July 10 to 14 and has a margin of error of plus-minus 3.6%.

Tags: USA/Research