Trump's 'Black jobs' rhetoric trades on racial stereotypes and fear of immigrants

It’s clearer now than ever before. Former President Donald Trump is a malignant narcissist, a racist and a liar, but more than anything he is a tyrant.

On Thursday, during his debate with President Joe Biden, Trump made this outlandish statement about Black Americans, migrants and jobs: “They're taking Black jobs now, and it could be 18, it could be 19 and even 20 million people. They're taking Black jobs, and they're taking Hispanic jobs, and you haven't seen it yet, but you're gonna see something that's going to be the worst in our history.”

#BlackJobs started trending on social media within minutes of Trump’s outrageous declaration. Watch this hilarious take on #BlackJobs by Instagram influencer RaeShanda Lias-Lockhart; some of the jobs mentioned in her video are stove light supervisor, cast iron trainer and Kool-Aid coordinator.

Let’s be real, Trump is not concerned about Black Americans nor the state of Black equity in our country.  

From the days of slavery through the Jim Crow era to the systemic inequalities that exist today, negative stereotypes and discriminatory practices have persisted in the United States. These beliefs have been perpetuated through laws, social norms and cultural depictions that dehumanize Black individuals and portray them as inferior. 

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Stereotypes and bias fuel inequality

The belief that some races are better than others keeps harmful stereotypes alive. For Black Americans, being seen as less than others takes a psychological toll, leading to internalized racism, mental health challenges and lower self-esteem. These biases fuel inequality in education, health care, housing and employment, creating barriers to success while keeping the cycle of poverty and disenfranchisement alive.

Despite these challenges, Black professionals have made substantial contributions across various fields, demonstrating resilience and excellence. 

For example, Dr. Charles Drew developed improved techniques for blood storage and transfusion, and Dr. Patricia Bath, an ophthalmologist and laser scientist, conducted research on eye health, surgery and blindness that led to groundbreaking treatments and cures.

Modern figures like Robert F. Smith, a prominent investor and philanthropist, are competent and successful professionals whose jobs and wealth aren't jeopardized by immigrants who entered the country illegally. 

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Trump tried to pit two marginalized groups against each other

Instead of trying to foster an inclusive society, Trump attempted to exploit a rift between two marginalized groups who are seeking equity in America. 

For the record, there’s no such thing as a Black job. There is no racial qualification for any job, and to say that there are Black jobs is ignorant at best.  

We need to ensure equality of opportunity for all citizens and for those seeking to become citizens. Only then can we move toward a more just and equitable future for everyone. 

Marla Bautista is a military fellow columnist for USA TODAY Opinion.