In conversations about racism, it's crucial to distinguish between racism and prejudice to better understand the dynamics at play. Racism traditionally involves systemic power structures that enable one group to oppress another, which is why some argue that certain groups cannot be 'racist' but only 'prejudiced.' Prejudice refers to preconceived opinions not based on reason or experience and can occur on an individual level regardless of social power. The debate often intensifies around who holds power and how that impacts the definition and experience of racism. While systemic racism involves institutional or structural discrimination backed by power, interpersonal racism can manifest through individual actions and attitudes without broader systemic support. Acknowledging that prejudice exists across all races helps foster more inclusive dialogues. However, holding only one group accountable for racism overlooks the complexity of social interactions and the responsibilities individuals have regardless of race. Everyone has a part to play in reducing both prejudice and racism by promoting understanding, empathy, and equitable treatment. This nuanced approach helps reduce fatigue in discussions where one side is repeatedly blamed, and opens the door for shared accountability. Ultimately, combating racism requires recognizing both systemic issues and individual behaviors and addressing them in tandem to create meaningful change.