Understanding Race and Skin Color

About this grant

The Africa Genome Education Institute was started by some of South Africa’s leading social scientists, geneticists, and ethicists to conduct research on issues of race, ethnicity, and genetics to challenge the notions of racial superiority and inferiority, which characterized the country during the apartheid period. Mott provided support to it for research, publication, public education, and dissemination. Through promoting a more scientific understanding of the question of race, the Africa Genome Education Institute is making a significant contribution toward debunking many of the myths and stereotypes about race and ethnicity that still exist within public opinion. Its work with schools, educators, and learners is particularly important in promoting tolerance and respect for diversity. This grant will continue to support the work of the Africa Genome Education Institute, especially as this relates to using objective scientific research to educate people and communities about racial prejudice, discrimination, and stereotyping.