Racism In Sport

Essay text:

Common culture develops. Minority Group: Members share common group characteristics, and suffer from discrimination. Lack power Institutional Racism: Common practices in society that systematically hurt one group more than another. Practices that perpetuate racism, even when individuals are not racist. History of African American Involvement in Sport Pre Civil War Were allowed to box, and ride horses Post Civil War Sport was still segregated. Inroads in boxing and horse racing that lasted until 20th century Early to Mid 20th century Barred from baseball, basketball and football Formed own leagues Mid 20th Century Jackie Robinson (1947) Began to be allowed to play in college and pros Often exploited by college and professional programs Watershed Years Current Times Minority players sign smaller contracts Many players signed, but few play in majors Leagues becoming stocked with foreign players Minority players must be better than Caucasian players to make teams African American Participation in Sport 78% of NBA player 67% of NFL 13% of MLB 2% in NHL Why is this occurring? Race/genetic differences? Cultural differences? Social differences? Explanations for Elevated Numbers of AAs in Sport Genetic Reasons: Race in US has been joined Only six genes are linked to color Can we really eliminate social and cultural differences? Kenyans are excellent distance runner, Nigerians are better sprinters Making success seem natural, takes away from effort Perpetuates social beliefs (e...