A majority of Black Americans believe that racism is more likely to get worse in their lifetimes than it is to improve.
According to a Washington Post-Ipsos poll, 51 percent of Black Americans expect racism to get worse within their lifetimes, compared to 37 percent who expect it to stay the same, and only 11 percent who believe it will get better.
Beliefs seemed to align with age groups, as those between the ages of 50 and 64 were the most likely to believe racism will get worse in their lifetimes at 57 percent. Ages 30 to 39 were the least likely with 43 percent in agreement. No higher than 13 percent of any age group reported believing racism will get better.
The majority of respondents also said that racism has already gotten worse in their lifetimes, with 70 percent across age groups saying it's more dangerous to be a Black teenager now than it was when they were teenagers. Nearly 80 percent of those ages 50 to 64 and over 65 said so.
Almost 60 percent of all respondents said that they are very or somewhat worried that someone close to them will be attacked because of their race.
Another matter concerning to Black Americans is the current push across states to restrict Black history topics. Over 75 percent of respondents said they are very or somewhat concerned about public schools banning books that feature themes of racism, including around 50 percent who say they are “extremely concerned.” Less than half of White respondents said the same.
Despite increasing concerns around racism, Black Americans reported experiencing less poor treatment today than in 2006, with the poll noting a significant drop in instances where others treat them as if they are not smart, give them poorer service, or are afraid of them.
