Justifications of Anti-Indian Racism in Different Countries

Introduction:

Racism against Indians is a phenomenon that varies widely across different countries, with each region attempting to justify their prejudices through various narratives. This article explores how people in the UK, USA, and Canada typically rationalize anti-Indian discrimination, highlighting the complexities and nuances of such justifications.

UK: Settler vs. Recent Immigrants

Within the United Kingdom, there exists a stark divide between settled Indian communities and recent Indian immigrants. Those who have lived in the UK for longer periods often exhibit a form of xenophobia and discrimination towards newer arrivals. They perpetuate harmful stereotypes, accusing these immigrants of taking jobs away, making the environment difficult, and encouraging them to return to India. The rhetoric often includes direct and explicit statements like, "What are you doing here?" and "You've come from a difficult place, you should go back."

Furthermore, established Indian Britons often stereotype and mock their newer counterparts, using derogatory terms such as "stealing our jobs," "smelling," and even calling them dogs. They also invoke fear by labeling them as "extremist terrorists." This dichotomy paints a picture of an external Other, positioned in direct contrast to the domestic "us."

USA: Racial Categorization and Patriotism

In the United States, racism against Indians takes a different form, manifesting through explicit racial categorization. Unlike in the UK, where divisions exist between settled and newer Indians, in the US, all Indians, regardless of their descendants, are subject to racial profiling. One of the most notable features is the tendency to label all Indians as "Indian Americans" or "Pakistani Americans," to the point that people are not simply called Americans. This categorization is often rooted in the belief that only those with American-born families can truly be considered American.

Additionally, US citizens rationalize their discrimination against Indians through a flag-waving form of patriotism, frequently accusing Indians of overpopulation and attributing issues within the country to India. They use terms like "filthy" to underscore their disdain. This justifies their prejudice under the guise of protecting the nation from "outsiders."

Canada: 'Canadian Experience' Complexities

Canada offers a somewhat different landscape for anti-Indian racism. The requirement for "Canadian experience" in job applications is often cited as a means of discriminating against Indian professionals. The assumption is that all other countries do not provide the same level of training and degree understanding, which is not always the case. Furthermore, questions about "where you are from" are commonplace, with many white Canadians failing to consider their own immigrant backgrounds. This ignorance fuels the stereotype that Indians are less professional and not true Canadophiles.

Canada, despite its diverse immigrant population, also faces the challenge of classifying everyone through the lens of immigration status. While there is a significant percentage of Canadians who are genuinely welcoming, the system itself often encourages this form of discrimination. The demand for "Canadian experience" often creates a divide rather than fostering a sense of community.

Conclusion:

Anti-Indian racism is multi-faceted and deeply entrenched in various countries. Whether through xenophobia, racial categorization, or patriotic fervor, these justifications serve to maintain the power dynamics and perceived superiority of the native populations. However, it is important to recognize that not all individuals in any of these countries are racist. Education and awareness are crucial steps in combating these unjustified prejudices.

Let us hold our heads high and live our lives proudly, regardless of the justifications used by others. As we navigate through a world often painted with the brushstrokes of discrimination, let us strive to build a more inclusive and accepting society.