Racism is a disease that begins at home. Often, when parents hold prejudiced views about other races, they unintentionally (although sometimes intentionally) pass these negative attitudes to their children. Since children absorb influences from their environment, they often carry these learned behaviors and may treat people from different ethnic backgrounds unfairly.

Those who genuinely respect other cultures and hold positions of influence—such as teachers, parents, or pastors—can teach children how to interact respectfully with others. This guidance can make the difference between a child who adopts racist attitudes learned from their parents and one who develops respect and consideration for cultures different from their own.