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Abstract
This dissertation shows that Charles W. Mills theory of the Racial Contract provides a conceptual foundation for resisting systemic racism. Several objections to the usefulness of Mills theory are considered and ultimately rejected. My arguments demonstrate how Mills theory elucidates connections between actions at the local/personal level and policies on the socio-structural level, as well as between cognitive and emotional norms and systemic social and institutional practices. Mills account of racism illustrates how resistance can be effectively directed against oppression within these connections. My project contributes to political philosophy and the philosophy of race and racism by showing how Mills notion of dissent can ground strategies aimed at structural change.