Will Merriam-Webster's Coming Redefinition of "Racism" Revolutionize Discrimination Law?

Until recently, allegations of "racism" in the public sphere have operated like first degree murder charges do in courts of law--in order to establish such a charge, mainstream media often demanded proof of the alleged racist's intent. Dictionary definitions have long tracked this blinkered view of'racism.' For decades, Merriam-Webster's entry described racism as a "belief" of racial supremacy, or a program designed to put that belief into action. Because many people--and some judges--treat dictionary definitions as if they were legal prescriptions, accusations of racism have required proof of intent--a purposeful, race-based disparity in conduct or consequence. Thus, the legal framework for considering racial discrimination has largely echoed the dictionary's narrow take on racism.