Critical Analysis of “I’m Not Racist But…” By Neil Bissoondath

In the piece “I’m Not Racist But…” Bissoondath uses his own voice to show how ignorance and stereotypes are a form of racism. Bissoondath addresses his Canadian audience as a man of colour. This piece is also relevant not only to Canadians but also to Americans, Chinese, French. This is shown when he says that racism is “as American as apple pie, as French as croissants.”

Bissoondath opening statement is really effective. “Racism is as Canadian as maple syrup.” I find that Canadians often take pride in being such a multicultural country but Bissoondath states that “multiculturalism as we know it indulges in stereotype.” The purpose of him writing this piece is to try to show people that, ignorance, and stereotypes is just as harmful and damaging as racism is. “True racism is based, more often than not, on willful ignorance and an acceptance of – and comfort with – stereotype.” Bissoondath is challenging his reads to battle against stereotype and ignorance. He is asking people to think critically about statements and remarks made about different cultures and their own.

Bissoondath states that racism is “vulnerable to manipulation.” He wants to show people that racism can easily be twisted and misunderstood. Whether it be ignorant people or people who create the problem by claiming to be victims of racism. People who also do not understand racist connotations can add to the problem. Although they are unaware and “naïve” Bissoondath is challenging them to become more informed as racism is such a big problem. He also warns people to make sure that what they are saying about their own race or culture is not a stereotype as this just feeds the problem.  I think that a good example of this is when Africans call themselves the ‘N’ word in movies or music. Africans aren’t the only people watching those movies, or listening to the music, in some ways they are teaching people that saying that word is ok.

The writer claims that most naïve, ignorant people will use the phrase “I’m not racist but…” This paints an effective picture for readers as many Canadians, I’m sure, have either said this themselves or have heard someone else say this. He then goes on to say how two friendly, kind men he knew where being racist out of their own ignorance. He also states that having a “Miss Black Canada Beauty Contest” is also racist to other cultures. He asks his readers to ask themselves if they would “be comfortable having such awards only for the white.” If this is so then, “let us be frank, racism is for one as racism is for others.”

I think that Bissondath gets his message across effectively. He really got me to think about my ignorance and stereotypes in my life which is what I think he wants all of his audience to do. The writer also uses some very good examples to portray his ideas. I was able to easily relate and understand his message.