Racism in Scotland
Racism can be defined in different ways, but for the purposes of this website we have used the following definition:
Conduct, words or practices which disadvantage or advantage people because of their colour, culture or ethnic origin. It can be subtle or overt, intentional or unwitting.
Racism can therefore manifest itself in many different ways, not just through people's language or physical actions.
Racism and discrimination can take different forms, including direct, indirect and institutional.
Racism has tended to be related to particular economic and social circumstances when migrants have been perceived by the resident population to represent some form of economic or social threat.
Racism today is experienced by many communities, both visible and non-visible minorities. During the 18th and 19th centuries, and even still in the 20th century, hostility and prejudice was expressed towards migrants from Ireland, Italy and even the Highlands of Scotland.