The Color They Notice Before the Person

Quiet Forms of Racism Immigrants Face Abroad

For many immigrants from Africa, India, and across Asia, life abroad involves more than new systems. It involves how they are perceived. Cultural racism is often quiet, polite, and subtle, yet deeply wounding. It appears in classrooms, workplaces, hospitals, and everyday conversations.

When Assumptions Become Wounds

Amara arrived from Kenya for her master’s degree. On her first day in class, a student asked, “How did you learn English so well?” English was her first language. No harm was intended but the assumption carried weight. It suggested she was expected to be less capable simply because she came from Africa.

Raj, from India, watched others receive promotions he trained them for. When he raised his concern, his manager said, “You’re doing well, be grateful to have a job.” It was the message many immigrants hear. You belong, but only if you stay in your place.

Silent Exclusion and Lowered Expectations

Kwesi, from Ghana, felt racism through avoidance. People shifted away from him in elevators. Cashiers spoke differently to him. Teachers lowered expectations. In counseling he said, “The world formed an opinion about me before I spoke.”

These stories are common across immigrant communities. The World Health Organization states that racial discrimination is a chronic stressor linked to depression, anxiety, and identity conflict. Dr. Carl Jung once said, “The most damaging thing in the human psyche is to be unseen.” Many immigrants live in that tension, present yet invisible.

Impact on Children and Identity

Children notice early. Accents get mocked. Hair becomes a topic of curiosity. Cultural foods become jokes. Some begin to shrink their identity to fit in. They learn silence as survival.

Yet immigrants rebuild confidence, form community, and rise beyond stereotypes. Their presence challenges systems that were never built with them in mind.

A Message to Every Immigrant

If you have ever felt judged before being known, remember your identity carries culture, wisdom, and strength. You do not need to erase yourself to belong. Healing begins when you acknowledge the pain, reclaim your voice, and stand firm in your worth.

If you need help processing these experiences or building emotional strength, support is available.
For counseling or guidance, contact Dr. David Rex Orgen at 614-753-3925.

Written by Dr. David Rex Orgen, Best-Selling Author & International Mental Health Expert