Meaning: The quote by Edward Olmos, "We don't have as much prejudice as we did 40 years ago, but today it is more educated," touches on the evolving nature of prejudice and discrimination in society. This thought-provoking statement highlights the shift in the manifestation of prejudice over time, emphasizing that while overt and explicit forms of prejudice may have diminished, there is a more subtle and nuanced expression of bias that persists in contemporary society.

Forty years ago, the United States and many other parts of the world were grappling with deeply entrenched racial, gender, and ethnic prejudices. Institutionalized discrimination and overt acts of racism were widespread, and social attitudes were often openly biased. However, significant strides have been made in challenging and dismantling these overt forms of prejudice through civil rights movements, legislative changes, and increased awareness and education.

Despite this progress, Edward Olmos suggests that prejudice has not disappeared but has rather evolved into a more "educated" form. This implies that while society has become more cognizant of the need to address prejudice, bias and discrimination persist in subtler and less obvious ways. This "educated" prejudice may manifest in implicit biases, microaggressions, and systemic inequalities that operate beneath the surface of everyday interactions and societal structures.

One aspect of this "educated" prejudice is the persistence of implicit bias, which refers to the unconscious attitudes and stereotypes that influence our understanding, actions, and decisions. Research in social psychology has demonstrated that individuals may hold implicit biases even if they consciously reject prejudice. These biases can influence hiring practices, interactions with others, and perceptions of different social groups, contributing to ongoing disparities and inequalities.

Moreover, the concept of "educated" prejudice speaks to the subtler and more insidious nature of discrimination in contemporary society. Instead of overt and explicit acts of bias, individuals may engage in microaggressions—subtle verbal or behavioral slights that convey negative or derogatory messages to marginalized groups. These microaggressions can perpetuate stereotypes and contribute to a hostile and unwelcoming environment for those who are targets of such behavior.

In addition to individual attitudes and behaviors, "educated" prejudice also encompasses systemic and structural inequalities that perpetuate discrimination. Despite legal and social progress in addressing overt forms of prejudice, disparities in areas such as employment, education, healthcare, and criminal justice persist. These disparities are often rooted in historical injustices and structural biases that continue to disadvantage certain groups in society.

It is essential to recognize that the evolution of prejudice into a more educated form does not diminish its impact or significance. Rather, it underscores the need for continued efforts to address bias and discrimination at both the individual and systemic levels. This requires ongoing education, awareness, and advocacy to challenge implicit biases, dismantle systemic inequalities, and foster inclusive and equitable societies.

In conclusion, Edward Olmos' quote encapsulates the complex and evolving nature of prejudice in society. While overt forms of bias may have diminished over the past 40 years, prejudice persists in a more educated and nuanced form. Understanding and addressing this "educated" prejudice requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the influence of implicit biases, microaggressions, and systemic inequalities. By recognizing the ongoing presence of prejudice and discrimination, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and equitable society for all.