Race discrimination can also be classed as racism, the belief that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a certain race. Some racial groups may be denied rights or benefits, or receive preferential treatment. Race discrimination usually points out the differences between ethnic and cultural groups. The term race discrimination means ‘any distinction, exclusion, restriction or preference based on race, colour, descent, or national or ethnic origin which has the purpose or effect of nullifying or impairing the recognition, enjoyment or exercise, on an equal footing, of human rights and fundamental freedoms in the political, economic, social, cultural or any other field of public life.’
The Race Relations Act 1976 covers the law relating to race discrimination in employment and training, education, housing, the provision of goods, facilities and services, and advertising. It was amended in 2001. Currently there are four different types of race discrimination: direct, indirect, harassment and victimisation.