Racism In Sports

            Webster's dictionary defines discrimination as a social, economical, political or legal distinction made between individuals or groups that makes one have the power to treat the others unfavorably. It can also be defined as the act or policy of treating someone differently, setting them apart or denying them rights because they are different from the majority. It may be based on the grounds of one or more of the differences of nationality, religion, politics, culture, class, sex, age and color. Discrimination of color is known as racism. Discrimination and racism are present in all societies worldwide. They both exists in different capabilities such as school, work, and in the home. Much of the hate is expressed through the media as well. In sports, discrimination against those of color, homosexuals, and women will always be an ever-lasting presence. Sports have always been an arena for criticism, hatred and discrimination of certain groups or individuals. .
             In actuality, racism and other forms of discrimination, within the microcosm of sport, will forever be a reality. The fight against racism goes back into the years past slavery. According to Sage, " despite pervasive and systematic discrimination against African Americans, they have played a continuing and significant role in every are of American history" (p.275). Today, in this multi-cultural society there are many minority groups feeling the squeeze of being born "non-white". Along with the racism come the stereotypes. For example, the notion that black athletes are the most talented at basketball, because they can all jump very high, or that males are better then females (in sports), and the assumption that females in sports are not feminine. It is wrong to make such generalizations. According to Sage, " those sports closely linked to upper-class patronage and with less spectator interest, and thus less economic impact, have been slow to provide access to African Americans" (p.