both and

Our brains look for simple explanations to complex issues and problems.  Part of the reason we are so polarized in our country is that we as humans have a difficult time living with complexity, tension, and both/and thinking.  We instead tend toward binary or dualistic thinking.  This OR that.   Us vs Them.  

Sometimes, we think that racism will only be defeated by dismantling and creating new structures/systems OR by people taking personal responsibility for their choices and actions.   As if it's an either/or option.  Of course this is not a binary choice but a BOTH/AND.  Systems and structures of injustice need to be emphasized because racism operates in a way that keeps white people from seeing the structural nature of racism and instead to only see in terms of rugged individualism and personal responsibility.  

MLK Jr.'s 2 minute interview on NBC in 1967 addresses this "pull yourself up by your bootstraps" mentality.  

https://www.facebook.com/NBCNews/videos/3057819507571392/