Racism is the New Normal, and These Real-Life Examples Prove It

From viral moments to “whites-only” homesteads, racism is rapidly becoming a trend in 2025 — and Black folks are paying attention now more than ever.

Racism used to be something to hide — a shameful impulse tucked behind coded language and polite denials. However, there’s been an obvious shift in the political and social climate, one that’s resulted in unabashed, unapologetically racist behavior, right out in the open for the world to see. From viral moments to “whites-only” homesteads in rural towns, racism has officially gone from taboo to being uplifted under the guise of religion, heritage, or “free speech.”

Video will return here when scrolled back into view
Tyler Perry Deals ‘Mind Crack’, According to Judge Joe Brown

Unfortunately, racially charged incidents are now playing out on a daily basis. Let’s unpack the many ways this ugly truth has shown itself, and all the moments racism stopped hiding and stepped into the spotlight.

Wesley Todd Owns His “Professional Racist” Job Title

“If professional racist was a job title, I think I’m getting pretty close to it,” Wesley Todd, co-host of Christian Nationalist podcast Right Response Ministries boldly declared. “It’s not something you find on LinkedIn, it’s not an Indeed listing… but I get paid to say, ‘Hey young men, you need to join ICE, and you need to deport 50 million people.’” 

Brian Sauvé, Stone Black Youth

During a shocking tirade, a Christian Nationalist pastor out of Utah, Brian Sauvé, stated that Black culture looked like “Satan,” citing Old Testament scripture to back his argument for why Black youth deserved to be stoned to death.

Charlie Kirk’s Bold Offensive Rhetoric

While the late Charlie Kirk was known for his outspoken conservative opinions on campuses across America, he was also known for his less than favorable commentary regarding Black folks. The right-wing political activist has a history of offensive takes to many, especially when it comes to Black people he assumed were unqualified

Joel Webbon Says “Slavery Was a Blessing”

Texas-based pastor Joel Webbon took to his “Right Response Ministries” podcast to deliver a jaw-dropping rant saying if slavery never happened, we’d live in huts. Webbon detailed that the only reparations for Black folks is “getting to live in America,” adding that while they were “building cathedrals” we were “worshipping demons.” Yep! This was actually live.

Gorillas Impersonating Black Women

Racism has been running rampant through artificial intelligence apps. One of the most offensive trends is AI-powered gorillas impersonating Black women, acting in stereotypical and offensive ways. Mind you, these videos got tons of views.

Racist SNAP EBT Benefits Videos

@memebruv

Ebt squad that’s the governments money 💰 #lol #fyp #viral #meme #a #aivideo #ebt

♬ original sound – Memebruv

Black folks were floored when Black women were targeted in viral videos, labeled as “EBT Gang,” amid the government shutdown. And while folks across the country plan how they will feed their family ahead of the holidays, it seems others have the time to unleash offensive content during trying times.

White “Karen” Owns Her “No N-Words” Sign

You may think this video simply depicts an elderly woman walking her pup. But if you listen and look a bit harder, you’ll see a white “Karen” being confronted about a “No N-words” sign on her property. Not a drop of shame in sight. In fact she doubles down: “Yep! You’re not allowed back there.”

Karen” Owns Calling Black Folks Slurs on the News

When the news anchor of WRAL-TV dug further into why the woman called Black folks the N-word, this “Karen” doubled down, and she wasn’t playing. “Do you see how that’s incredibly offensive?” the anchor asked. “Yes, I do! That’s why I said it,” she replied with a warm smile.

 Whites-Only Communities

As we previously reported, Return to the Land is a growing movement among white folks who seek to establish a private membership for families and individuals with traditional views and European ancestry. And according to the strict application process, it’s clear no Black, Jewish, LGBTQIA+ or mixed race people are allowed.

Playground “Karen” Rakes in $750K After Viral Moment

@advicefromlouisreloaded

She now raised $700,000 for calling a 5-year old something she shouldn’t have. Watch until the end and it’ll make sense pt. 2 #fyp #advicefromlouis #satire #meme #Education Our generations have the chance to do something great and create a better and safer future for everyone regardless of background. Every person should be treated with equality and as a person and nothing less.

♬ original sound – AdviceFromLouisReloaded

Shiloh Hendrix, a white woman from Rochester, Minnesota, went viral in April after admitting she called a five-year-old Black child the N-word at a local park. While the video sparked outrage and widespread condemnation, Hendrix also raised over $750,000 on GiveSendGo, a crowdfunding site often used by far-right extremists.

White Man Threatens to Hang Black Man in Public

@todaysworld911

@UncleRicky i wanted to repost this to hopefully have this seen by many more people ,im so sorry this happened to you brother .#fyp #wrong #racism #fypage #fypシ゚viral #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #lasvegas

♬ original sound – Ralph

On a sunny day in Virginia City, Nevada, a group of white men boldly told a Black man, on camera — in broad daylight — that they’d hang him in his backyard. When the victim confronted the white men, who were all sporting MAGA hats, they laughed and dismissed him from the sidewalk. “Are y’all gonna kill me? Kill me!” the Black man exclaimed.

The Ku Klux Klan is Loud and Proud

Earlier this year, racist flyers telling immigrants to “leave now” appeared across several northern Kentucky cities, per the Washington Post. Authorities launched an investigation into the incidents, which were later claimed by a Maysville-based Ku Klux Klan (KKK) group.

Women of the KKK Do Casual Community Outreach

@lightlisha

It’s been 100 years and now they’re back in South Central Pennsylvania #halloween2025 #mechanicsburg #wkkk #news #history

♬ original sound – Rachael Keri Williams

In October 2025, the Women of the KKK handed out recruitment‑style business cards during the Halloween parade in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. While we as Black folks had good reason to speculate that this group never truly retreated, casually networking during a children’s event is proof that racists are owning their beliefs in 2025 and are still actively recruiting.

Straight From The Root

Sign up for our free daily newsletter.

Latest from The Root

The Most Exciting Tours From Black Artists in 2026!

The Most Exciting Tours From Black Artists in 2026!

From Jay-Z and Jill Scott—a lot our music faves are hitting the road for some amazing tours. Let’s check out who and when! …
These Black Leading Men Aren't Just Paving the Way, They're Building New Roads

These Black Leading Men Aren’t Just Paving the Way, They’re Building New Roads

After Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler’s Oscar wins last weekend, we’re looking at more Black men who are leading in their respective fields …
Black Women Are Being Forced Into C-Sections—With The Court's Backing

Black Women Are Being Forced Into C-Sections—With The Court’s Backing

For Cherise Doyley and Brianna Bennett, the battle for bodily autonomy played out at their hospital bedsides, where virtual court hearings allowed judges to prioritize the perceived health of their unborn children over their right to refuse C-sections …
New Clues To What Jay-Z is Up To

New Clues To What Jay-Z is Up To

After nearly a decade since Jay-Z’s last album, rumors about new music are circulating from fans gearing up for his first performance in years …
Devastating Update for Billion-Dollar Whiskey Brand 'Uncle Nearest' Amid $100 Million Lawsuit

Devastating Update for Billion-Dollar Whiskey Brand ‘Uncle Nearest’ Amid $100 Million Lawsuit

The Black-owned brand was cemented as the fastest growing whiskey company in the U.S. Now, the legacy is at risk …
Solange's Son Julez Clears Up Speculation About His Sexuality

Solange’s Son Julez Clears Up Speculation About His Sexuality

Solange’s only child Julez Smith is opening up about his sexuality and sparking some discourse online! …
As War in Iran Rages, How Much Higher Can Gas Prices Really Get?

As War in Iran Rages, How Much Higher Can Gas Prices Really Get?

Gasoline prices are up in every state since the Iran war begin and they’re expected to rise …
News of Chuck Norris' Death Has Black Americans Looking at Him Through a New Lens

News of Chuck Norris’ Death Has Black Americans Looking at Him Through a New Lens

‘Walker, Texas Ranger’ star Chuck Norris’ shocking death is sparking some interesting responses from Black folks online. We’ll tell you why! …
How Angela Davis Predicted The Modern Face Of Fascism in 1971

How Angela Davis Predicted The Modern Face Of Fascism in 1971

Fifty years prior to rumors of fascism circling President Trump, activist and philosopher Angela Davis made a spooky prediction about dictatorship in the U.S …
Black Woman Has a Multi-Million Dollar Victory in Discrimination Case Against City of Fresno

Black Woman Has a Multi-Million Dollar Victory in Discrimination Case Against City of Fresno

La-Kebbia “Kiki” Wilson sued the city of Fresno after she became the subject of horrific discrimination from her supervisor …
What We Know About Usher, Justin Bieber’s Confrontation at Beyonce’s Oscar Party

What We Know About Usher, Justin Bieber’s Confrontation at Beyonce’s Oscar Party

Usher was Justin Bieber’s mentor early on in his career, but now it seems like the two may not be in good-standing with each other. Let’s get into it! …
Why Postal Leaders Warn They Could Run Out of Money

Why Postal Leaders Warn They Could Run Out of Money

Millions of Americans depend on USPS to receive medicines, cast mail in ballots and even pay bills. Now, that’s all at risk …
New Development After Tuskegee University Coach Was Handcuffed, Escorted Out of Rival Morehouse Game

New Development After Tuskegee University Coach Was Handcuffed, Escorted Out of Rival Morehouse Game

Clips of a Tuskegee University coach handcuffed at Morehouse shocked the sports world; now, he’s making a move that could change everything …
5 Things You Didn't Know About Spike Lee & Denzel Washington's Films Over the Years

5 Things You Didn’t Know About Spike Lee & Denzel Washington’s Films Over the Years

In honor of Spike Lee’s birthday, let’s take a look at a few fun facts about him and frequent collaborator Denzel Washington that you may not have heard about! …
New Development in Miss Jamaica Health Status After Scary Fall at Miss Universe Pageant

New Development in Miss Jamaica Health Status After Scary Fall at Miss Universe Pageant

Gabrielle Henry, knowns as Miss Jamaica, suffered a frightening fall at the Miss Universe pageant in November 2025. And now we have major news on her condition …
Kamala Harris Claps Back at Nicki Minaj, and the Barbz Respond

Kamala Harris Claps Back at Nicki Minaj, and the Barbz Respond

Former Vice President Kamala Harris is letting it be known she’s not here for Nicki Minaj’s alleged spread of misinformation. Now, the Barbz are responding! …
Brandy Speaks Out After Ray J Goes Off on These Popular Rappers Over Dating Rumors

Brandy Speaks Out After Ray J Goes Off on These Popular Rappers Over Dating Rumors

After Shyne and Ma$e reminisce about 90s romance on the “It Is What It Is” podcast, Brandy shuts down the rumors and distances herself from her brother’s erratic behavior …
New Southwest Seating Policy Sparks Discrimination Concerns Among Black Women

New Southwest Seating Policy Sparks Discrimination Concerns Among Black Women

First, Southwest took away free checked bags and open seating. Now, Black women are speaking out on a new seating policy that allegedly causes more harm than good …
States Seeking Refund for 330,000 Businesses After Billions Lost to Trump's 'Illegal' Tariffs

States Seeking Refund for 330,000 Businesses After Billions Lost to Trump’s ‘Illegal’ Tariffs

Over 15 states penned a letter to Congress demanding they receive compensation following Trump’s “illegal” tariffs …
Former Magic City Dancer Enters the Conversation After NBA Cancels Collab With Atlanta Hawks

Former Magic City Dancer Enters the Conversation After NBA Cancels Collab With Atlanta Hawks

A former Magic City dancer just gave her two cents amid ongoing fallout from the Hawks’ collaboration with the popular strip club …