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Race and Labor in the South Asian Diaspora: A Complex and Evolving Landscape

Hugh Reed

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Published in Terrifying Muslims: Race And Labor In The South Asian Diaspora

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The South Asian diaspora is a global community of people with origins in the Indian subcontinent, including countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Nepal. This diaspora has a rich and complex history, shaped by colonialism, migration, and the interplay of race and labor.

Terrifying Muslims: Race and Labor in the South Asian Diaspora

by Albert R. Rice

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
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Historical Roots of Racialization and Labor Exploitation

The racialization of South Asians has its roots in the colonial era. During the British Raj in India, the British colonialists created a system of racial hierarchy that placed Europeans at the top and Indians at the bottom. This system was based on the belief that Europeans were inherently superior to Indians, and it justified the exploitation of Indian labor.

After the partition of India in 1947, South Asians began to migrate to other parts of the world, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. In these countries, they faced discrimination and exploitation in the labor market. They were often relegated to low-wage jobs in industries such as textiles, manufacturing, and transportation.

Contemporary Challenges and Opportunities

Today, South Asian workers continue to face challenges in the labor market. They are often underpaid and overworked, and they may experience discrimination and exploitation. However, there have also been some positive changes in recent years. The rise of global activism and the growing awareness of racial inequality have led to some improvements in the working conditions of South Asian workers.

One of the most significant challenges facing South Asian workers is the lack of job security. Many South Asian workers are employed in temporary or part-time jobs, and they may not have access to benefits such as health insurance or paid time off. This makes it difficult for them to plan for the future and to provide for their families.

Another challenge facing South Asian workers is discrimination. South Asian workers may be discriminated against because of their race, ethnicity, or religion. This discrimination can take many forms, including being passed over for promotions, being paid less than their white counterparts, or being subjected to verbal or physical abuse.

The South Asian diaspora is a diverse and vibrant community, but it is also a community that has faced a history of racialization and labor exploitation. Today, South Asian workers continue to face challenges in the labor market, but there have also been some positive changes in recent years. The rise of global activism and the growing awareness of racial inequality have led to some improvements in the working conditions of South Asian workers. However, there is still much work to be done to ensure that South Asian workers are treated fairly and have access to the same opportunities as other workers.

Terrifying Muslims: Race and Labor in the South Asian Diaspora

by Albert R. Rice

4.8 out of 5