Final answer:
Racism in American society has historically adapted and evolved, maintaining white privilege while changing its rules and rhetoric. It is deeply embedded in complex social, economic, educational, criminal, and political systems. Institutional racism persists through policies and structures upheld by governments, politicians, and influential institutions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Racism and racial hierarchy in American society have evolved and adapted over time. Legal efforts to promote racial equality have led to changes in the legal framework, but often produce similar outcomes. This process, known as 'preservation through transformation,' helps maintain white privilege by changing the rules and rhetoric while sustaining racial inequalities.
Various factors, such as social, economic, educational, criminal, and political systems, contribute to the persistence of racism in society. Racism is not just an individual belief, but a social fact embedded in these complex systems. To challenge racism, everyone can actively choose to be antiracist by making conscious choices in their daily lives.
Institutional racism, also known as systemic racism, can be perpetuated by governments, politicians, and institutions like companies, corporations, churches, and the educational system. These entities maintain racist practices through their policies, structures, and representation. The new form of racism is not limited to overt physical acts of hatred, but includes covert racism perpetuated by powerful entities with money and influence.