Apathy

• The perpetuation of anti-Black racism within Arab societies finds its roots in what Bahraini cultural critic Nader Kadhem identifies as the dehumanization of Black people.
• This includes characterizations that caricature them with mental weakness, moral impotence, excessive sexual energy, foolishness and a tendency to laziness.
• While racist portrayals have faced increasing criticism in recent years, anti-Black racism endures, sustained in part by a form of white fragility.

White fragility in the Arab world

• The term white fragility refers to the defensive reactions and discomfort exhibited by white people when discussing race and racism.
• Not all facets of white fragility seamlessly translate into the modern Arab cultural landscape, but echoes of its influence resonate and shed light on the multifaceted nature of anti-Black racism in the Arab world.

Examples of white fragility

• When confronted with discussions on anti-Black racism, those with light-skinned privilege in Arab societies often display manifestations of white fragility.
• These can include expressions of anger, refusal, avoidance, debate, withdrawal or denial.
• These defensive responses illustrate the common reactions among lighter-skinned Arabs when their racial privilege or involvement in systemic racism is called into question.
• This defensive stance contributes to the persistence of racial inequity by obstructing constructive discourse and sabotaging attempts to confront systemic racism.

Unraveling white Arab fragility

• Acknowledging the prevalence of racism against Black people within Arab societies could challenge this belief, leading to discomfort and uncertainty among “white” Arabs.
• Claiming to have a Black or other racialized family member represents yet another manifestation of white fragility within DiAngelo’s American framework.
• Marriages between Black and white Arabs are less prevelant in the Arab world, and even when there is a Black family member, there is a reluctance to acknowledge it.
• White fragility is a potent mechanism that maintains privilege.

Amir Al-Azraki does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

• In partnership with GO Topeka , the economic development group for Kansas' capital city, Tiffany will perform at West Ridge Mall in Topeka, Kan., in April, to raise awareness for a catalytic mall redevelopment project, blending 1980s mall culture with contemporary urban development trends.
• "Many malls have fallen victim to the mismanagement and apathy that leads to blight, and communities often feel their absence.
• We are excited to show one new way malls can thrive, inviting corporate activity alongside commercial and community engagement," said Molly Howey, president, GO Topeka.
• West Ridge Mall opened in 1988, and today, it remains the third-largest enclosed mall in the state of Kansas, with nearly 1 million square feet of commercial space.

• The name of the Aboriginal man in this article was how he was referred to, and his relative has requested we honour this name.
• Truth-telling is at the heart of a new research project we are currently leading that re-examines the legacy of the Hann Expedition, which travelled Queensland’s Cape York Peninsula in 1872.
• Our project seeks to rewrite this period of history – and others – to honour the voices and experiences of Aboriginal people whose contributions to colonial-era expeditions have long been overlooked.
• Jerry was derogatorily referred to as “the blackboy”, and his important role in the expedition has never been fully acknowledged.

Descendants leading research

• Our research team includes descendants of the 1872 expedition, such as the project lead and co-author, Peter Taylor (a descendant of Norman Taylor’s), and co-researcher and co-author Cameo Dalley (a great-granddaughter of Tate’s).
• As descendants, each of us has inherited different family narratives about what took place on the expedition, and whose contributions were central.
• Further funding will support our research and the involvement of Traditional Owners along the expedition route, including Olkala, Kuku Yalanji, Lama Lama and Guugu Yimithirr people.
• The united commitment of the descendants and their detailed knowledge of this expedition will be incredibly valuable in working with Elders across the cape who still grieve about their own history.

Why truth-telling is needed in Australia

• Truth-telling was a vital component of the Uluru Statement from the Heart signed by over 200 Indigenous delegates from around Australia.
• However, the failed referendum on a Voice to Parliament last year arguably demonstrated an apathy towards such processes at a national level.

Nicole Huxley is affiliated with North QLD Land Council, Jumbun Limited, Ngrragoonda RNTBC Aboriginal Corporation, Joint Coordinating Committee Member Qld - DSDSATSIP. Cameo Dalley and Peter Taylor do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

• “We have curated a world-class lineup of speakers who are not just thought leaders but also “action leaders,’”says Sara Gutterman, CEO of Green Builder Media.
• “These acclaimed individuals are in the field taking action and inspiring others to do the same.
• Day 1, April 17, will focus on innovative solutions that will enable us meet our climate goals and compelling, replicable case studies highlighting climate solutions that are working today.
• “Join us as we explore real-world case studies and transformative ideas that are not just theoretical but are already shaping our world for the better.”