# Understanding Systemic Racism: Lessons from History and Society
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Chapter 1: The Pitfalls of Social Media Expertise
While I typically refrain from discussing personal health issues online or seeking medical advice from social media, it's not uncommon to see such posts. For instance, a friend recently asked her Facebook community for solutions to an infected ingrown hair on her neck. My immediate thought was, "Why not consult a doctor instead?" Relying on the opinions of a few out of 3,000 followers seems far from wise.
This tendency is even more pronounced when legal matters arise. Many individuals hastily express their views on constitutional rights or legal interpretations without having ever read any legal texts, including the lengthy Constitution itself. The phrase "that's unconstitutional" is often thrown around by those lacking legal training.
The most troubling aspect of social media expertise lies in discussions surrounding racism, which is intricately woven into the fabric of American institutions. Many people dismiss discussions on systemic racism without having engaged with critical race theory. A significant number only acknowledge racism when it manifests in overtly racist language or acts.
People often react strongly to the term "critical race theory," even though a large portion of the population remains unaware of its meaning.
Recently, while in Tulsa, Oklahoma, I spoke with an elderly Black Uber driver who shared his memories of growing up near the original Black Wall Street. This area, located in the Greenwood district of north Tulsa, was once a thriving, self-sufficient community established by Black residents in the early 20th century.
Chapter 2: The Rise and Fall of Black Wall Street
In Greenwood, residents established a prosperous neighborhood complete with theaters, law firms, and medical offices. They fostered a culture of mutual support, with numerous local businesses, including 30 grocery stores