Word: Colour Bar
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: The term "colour bar" refers to a social and legal barrier that prevents people of certain races, particularly Black people, from participating fully in society and its activities, especially in relation to White people. This can include restrictions in areas like employment, education, public services, and social events.
Usage Instructions: The term is often used in discussions about racial discrimination and segregation. It is important to use it in contexts that address issues of race and equality.
Example Sentence: "The colour bar in the past made it difficult for Black individuals to find jobs in many industries."
In more complex discussions, "colour bar" can also be explored in historical contexts, such as during the apartheid era in South Africa or in the United States during the Jim Crow laws. It might be used to analyze the effects of systemic racism and the fight against it.
While "colour bar" primarily refers to racial discrimination, it can also be used metaphorically to describe any kind of barrier that separates groups based on characteristics like age, gender, or socioeconomic status.
While "colour bar" itself is a specific term, you might encounter phrases like "crossing the colour bar," which could imply overcoming racial barriers.
Understanding the term "colour bar" is essential for discussions about race, equality, and social justice.