Poll shows decline in belief that Blacks and Asians face racial discrimination
NBC4 days
Poll: Decline in Americans' Perception of Racial Discrimination
Above: Headstones in the "Say Their Names" cemetery near George Floyd Square, Minneapolis on May 25, 2025. Image copyright: KEREM YUCEL/AFP/Getty Images
The Spin
Conservative narrative
The recent decline in perceived racial discrimination signals a shift toward a more merit-based society, rejecting policies like DEI that prioritize race over ability. DEI, which promotes quotas and identity over talent, undermines the core values of equality and opportunity that America was founded on. It distorts history and erodes the meritocracy that has made the country great.
Progressive narrative
The sharp drop in perceived discrimination reflects a dangerous shift led by figures like Trump, who frame DEI as a threat to fairness. While discrimination persists, attempts to dismantle DEI ignore its deep roots in America’s history — shaped by civil rights, labor and gender movements. Without recognizing ongoing bias, the nation risks reversing progress toward equality and justice for all.
Cynical narrative
The recent drop in perceived racial discrimination reflects growing frustration with DEI programs, which often backfire. Instead of fostering real change, such as improving hiring practices or empowering marginalized groups, DEI efforts focus on quotas and sensitivity training. This creates division, fosters skepticism about minority achievements and raises questions about whether these programs truly promote equality or just deepen societal divides.