Omi and Winant's Racial Formation Theory

Omi and Winant’s Racial Formation Theory explains how race is shaped by social, economic, and political forces over time. It suggests that race isn’t just a biological fact but a social construct that is continuously created and transformed through policies, cultural meanings, and institutional practices. These processes influence how groups are viewed and treated, affecting individuals’ identities and opportunities. In essence, race is a dynamic, ongoing process rooted in societal power dynamics, rather than a fixed characteristic, highlighting how racial meanings are produced and change within history and social contexts.