colour line
Definition
Noun: - A social and legal barrier that historically prevented Black people from participating fully in society with white people, especially in activities, institutions, and public spaces. This term refers specifically to the system of racial segregation and discrimination.
Usage
The term "colour line" is used to describe the enforced separation between racial groups, particularly in historical contexts of segregation. - It functions primarily as a noun. - It is often used with verbs like "draw," "cross," "break," or "challenge."
Examples
- The new law was designed to reinforce the colour line in public education.
- Activists dedicated their lives to breaking down the colour line in all aspects of society.
- In his famous writing, he identified the problem of the twentieth century as the problem of the colour line.
Advanced Usage
- "to draw the colour line": To establish or enforce a policy of racial segregation.
- The club's policy effectively drew the colour line, excluding non-white members.
- "to cross the colour line": To engage in social interaction or activities that defy racial segregation.
- Their marriage was controversial because it crossed the colour line.
Variants and Related Words
- Color line: The American English spelling variant.
- Colour bar: A synonymous term, more commonly used in British English.
- Segregation (n): The general practice of separating people by race.
- Jim Crow (n, often capitalized): The system of laws enforcing racial segregation in the United States, especially in the Southern states.
Synonyms
- Racial barrier
- Segregation line
- Divide
Related Phrases
- "on the wrong side of the colour line": Being part of the group that is discriminated against and excluded.
- For decades, they were forced to live on the wrong side of the colour line.
Noun
-
barrier preventing blacks from participating in various activities with whites
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