Final answer:
New age racism, as defined by Dr. Collins, is a form of racism that is systemic, subtle, and institutionally entrenched, differing from the overt racism of the past. It involves power disparities and is a major hindrance to social justice and equality, demanding proactive actions for change, including challenging societal norms like the 'Melting Pot' mentality.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Dr. Patricia Hill Collins, new age racism refers to the contemporary and often covert forms of racial discrimination that are perpetuated by institutions and societal structures. This form of racism is distinguished from the overt and violent acts of racism seen in the past. Instead, it operates through systemic inequalities, economic stratification, and subtle forms of exclusion that uphold the interests of the dominant group.
The concept challenges the traditional emphasis on individual acts of racism and looks at how power structures perpetuate racial inequality. This includes how certain racial narratives and ideologies are deeply embedded within the laws, policies, media, and the collective consciousness of society, leading to negative outcomes for people of color. Dr. Collins also addresses the need to overcome societal apathy and to take corrective actions against racism, emphasizing the role power plays in sustaining racial hierarchies.
For instance, she critiques the "Melting Pot" mentality for expecting individuals to assimilate and abandon their unique identities, which serves to reinforce a dominant culture at the expense of marginalized ones. Furthermore, she discusses the challenge posed by structural racism present in health care, wealth distribution, and criminal justice. Within this context, racism is seen as a powerful driving force throughout American history and a persistent obstacle to social justice and equality.