Progressivism, at its core, is rooted in the desire for a more just, inclusive, and equitable society. It seeks to challenge outdated norms, confront inequality, and elevate voices that have long been ignored or silenced. But like any powerful movement, progressivism can be misused. And when it is, it runs the risk of doing the very thing it set out to fight — reinforcing division, exclusion, and yes, even racism.

The question is uncomfortable but necessary: Is racism sometimes masquerading as progressivism?

In some cases, yes.

It happens when assumptions are made about individuals solely based on their race, even under the guise of “allyship.” It happens when people are grouped, judged, or tokenized — not by the content of their character or individuality, but by skin color, heritage, or identity. When progress becomes more about optics than outcome, it stops being progress.

For example, reducing someone to a symbol or statistic for the sake of appearing inclusive isn’t empowerment — it’s objectification. Speaking for marginalized groups instead of with them strips away agency. Expecting uniformity of thought from people of a particular race or background reinforces stereotypes rather than breaking them.

Progressivism becomes dangerous when it replaces genuine dialogue with performative outrage. When disagreement is met with silence or shame rather than conversation. When it prioritizes virtue signaling over actual structural change.

None of this means the goals of progressivism are flawed. The pursuit of equality, justice, and representation is not only right — it’s necessary. But when the methods used to achieve these goals begin to mirror the same biases, power plays, and exclusions that define racism, something has gone wrong.

Real progress is honest. It requires humility. It makes space for complexity and recognizes that people are not monoliths. It allows for disagreement without labeling dissent as ignorance or hate. It values action over appearance, and truth over trend.

We must continue to challenge racism in all its forms — including the subtle, well-dressed versions that hide behind movements meant for good.

Progress isn’t what you call it.
It’s what it creates.
And if what it creates is more division, more fear, and more silence — it’s time to ask who it’s really serving.