Racism, discrimination, and assimilation – some identity issues and effects of the tension between the majority and minority groups

This dissertation delves into the complex dynamics of racism, discrimination, and assimilation within majority-minority relations in a Northern California city. It amplifies the perspectives of two leaders from a small religious minority community, exploring how they view minorities as agents of social change through advocacy and technology. The study underscores the crucial role of diverse voices and inclusive narratives, leveraging my varied background in business and education. It critically evaluates the American "melting pot" concept, focusing on the interplay of racism, discrimination, and assimilation. It also assesses how demographic shifts influence racial attitudes and political outcomes, particularly in the context of safeguarding minority rights and representation. The research employs qualitative methods, including interviews with community leaders and demographic data analysis, to gain insights into the experiences of minority groups. The findings indicate that racism and discrimination significantly impede assimilation, resulting in social exclusion, economic disadvantages, and cultural identity loss. The study highlights the pivotal role of minority groups in driving social change through advocacy and technology. It concludes that fostering mutual respect and promoting intercultural dialogue is not just important but vital for protecting minority rights and ensuring social representation. This paper addresses an understudied but highly relevant group within society: the marginalized. It explores their narration and criticism of personal lived experiences of marginalization. These individuals, often perceived to lack traditional forms of power such as public influence, formal authority, education, money, and political positions, still possess the resources to impact their situations and the structures that determine their circumstances. By shedding light on the complex interplay of racism, discrimination, and assimilation, this research contributes to the broader discourse on social justice and equality, offering insights for policymakers, educators, and community leaders committed to creating inclusive environments.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ed.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Educ Policy, Orgzn & Leadrshp

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Guy, Amir

Contributors dc:contributor

• Ward Hood, Denice
• Pak, Yoon
• Huang, Wenhao David
• Lee, Sharon

• Racism
• discrimination
• assimilation
• majority-minority relations
• community
• social change
• private schools.

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Amir Guy

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129502

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F129502