1. What are the historical roots of racism in the Dominican Republic?

1. The historical roots of racism in the Dominican Republic can be traced back to the period of Spanish colonization and the establishment of the transatlantic slave trade. The arrival of the Spanish in the late 15th century marked the beginning of a system of exploitation and oppression that was based on race. The Spanish colonial society in the Dominican Republic was structured around hierarchies of race, with Europeans at the top, followed by mixed-race individuals, indigenous peoples, and enslaved Africans at the bottom.

2. The institution of slavery played a crucial role in shaping race relations in the Dominican Republic. Enslaved Africans were brought to the island to work on sugar plantations and in other industries, enduring brutal conditions and exploitation. The legacy of slavery continued even after the abolition of slavery in the 19th century, as racial hierarchies persisted and influenced social, economic, and political structures in the country.

3. Additionally, the Dominican Republic has a complex history of racial identity, with a significant portion of the population identifying as mixed-race or Afro-Descendant. However, colorism and discrimination based on skin color persist in the country, impacting individuals’ opportunities and experiences. The historical roots of racism in the Dominican Republic have deep and lasting effects on society today, highlighting the importance of addressing systemic racism and promoting racial equity and justice.

2. How does skin color impact social status and opportunities in Dominican society?

In Dominican society, skin color plays a significant role in determining social status and opportunities for individuals. This phenomenon can be traced back to the colonial era and the historical stratification of society based on racial hierarchies. Lighter-skinned individuals, often of European descent, have traditionally held positions of power and privilege, while darker-skinned individuals, of African or indigenous descent, have faced discrimination and marginalization.

1. Lighter-skinned Dominicans are more likely to have access to education, employment opportunities, and social mobility due to the social preference for Eurocentric features.
2. Darker-skinned individuals often face barriers in accessing quality education, job opportunities, and healthcare, leading to a cycle of poverty and inequality.

The perpetuation of colorism in Dominican society has deep-rooted effects, impacting everything from interpersonal relationships to systemic structures of power. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, awareness campaigns, and policies aimed at promoting equality and combating discrimination based on skin color.

3. What are the main forms of discrimination faced by Afro-Dominicans?

Afro-Dominicans face various forms of discrimination based on their race and ethnicity. Some of the main forms include:

1. Systemic Racism: Afro-Dominicans often experience systemic racism, where societal structures and institutions perpetuate discriminatory practices against them based on their race. This can manifest in areas such as employment, education, healthcare, and housing, where Afro-Dominicans may face barriers and inequalities compared to the non-Afro-Dominican population.

2. Colorism: Colorism is a form of discrimination based on skin tone, where individuals with darker skin are often treated less favorably than those with lighter skin. In the Dominican Republic, there is a long history of colorism, with lighter-skinned individuals typically being favored over their darker-skinned counterparts. Afro-Dominicans, who often have darker skin tones, may face discrimination and prejudice due to this societal bias.

3. Stereotyping and Stigmatization: Afro-Dominicans are also subjected to negative stereotypes and stigmatization based on their race and ethnicity. They may be unfairly stereotyped as being inferior, uneducated, or dangerous, perpetuating harmful attitudes and beliefs about their community. These stereotypes can lead to discrimination in various aspects of life, including social interactions, employment opportunities, and access to resources.

Overall, the main forms of discrimination faced by Afro-Dominicans stem from deeply ingrained societal prejudices and biases based on race and ethnicity. Addressing these forms of discrimination requires challenging and dismantling systemic inequalities, promoting diversity and inclusion, and advocating for the rights and dignity of all individuals regardless of their race or ethnicity.

4. How do stereotypes and prejudices shape racial dynamics in the country?

Stereotypes and prejudices play a significant role in shaping racial dynamics within a country. They reinforce negative perceptions and attitudes towards certain racial groups, perpetuating discrimination and inequality. Stereotypes are oversimplified beliefs about a particular group of people, often based on characteristics such as race, ethnicity, or nationality. These stereotypes can lead to biases and prejudices, which in turn influence how individuals are treated in society.

1. Stereotypes and prejudices can result in discriminatory practices within institutions such as education, employment, and housing. For example, the stereotype that certain racial groups are less intelligent or hardworking can lead to hiring discrimination or unequal access to educational opportunities.

2. These negative beliefs can also impact interpersonal relationships and interactions between individuals of different races. Prejudices can result in social exclusion, microaggressions, and even hate crimes based on someone’s race.

3. The media and popular culture also play a role in perpetuating stereotypes and prejudices, shaping public opinion and attitudes towards different racial groups. Portrayals of minorities as criminals, lazy, or unintelligent can further entrench negative stereotypes and biases in society.

4. Ultimately, stereotypes and prejudices contribute to the power dynamics and social hierarchies that exist within a country, reinforcing systemic racism and inequalities. Addressing and challenging these harmful beliefs is crucial in creating a more inclusive and equitable society where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of their race.

5. How has the media contributed to perpetuating racist attitudes in the Dominican Republic?

The media in the Dominican Republic has played a significant role in perpetuating racist attitudes in several ways:

1. Depiction of race: The media often portrays people with lighter skin as more favorable and attractive, while those with darker skin are marginalized or depicted in negative roles. This perpetuates colorism and reinforces the idea that lighter skin is superior.

2. Lack of representation: Minorities, particularly those of Haitian descent, are often underrepresented in the media. When they are portrayed, it is usually in a stereotypical or negative manner, further perpetuating discriminatory attitudes.

3. Language use: The language used in the media can also contribute to racist attitudes. Derogatory terms and slurs are sometimes used, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and prejudices.

4. News coverage: The media’s coverage of issues involving race can often be biased, leading to the stigmatization of certain racial groups. This can further deepen divisions and perpetuate discriminatory beliefs.

5. Historical narratives: The media plays a role in shaping historical narratives and collective memory. By downplaying or ignoring the country’s history of racism and discrimination, the media can contribute to the normalization of these attitudes in society.

Overall, the media in the Dominican Republic has a significant influence on shaping public opinion and attitudes towards race. By perpetuating stereotypes, biases, and discriminatory practices, the media can further entrench racist attitudes in society.

6. What role does the education system play in perpetuating or combating racism in the country?

The education system plays a crucial role in both perpetuating and combating racism in a country. Here are some key points to consider:

1. Curriculum and Textbooks: The content taught in schools can either reinforce stereotypes and biases or challenge them. A lack of diversity in curriculum and textbooks can perpetuate racism by presenting a limited or distorted view of history and society.

2. Representation: The lack of representation of diverse cultures and perspectives among teachers and school staff can contribute to a biased and discriminatory environment. On the other hand, increasing diversity among educators can help combat racism by providing role models and mentors from different backgrounds.

3. Discriminatory Practices: Discriminatory practices such as tracking, discipline policies, and resource allocation can disproportionately harm students of color and perpetuate inequalities within the education system.

4. Anti-Racism Education: Incorporating anti-racism education into the curriculum can help students understand the complexities of racism and its impact on individuals and society. This can empower students to challenge stereotypes, discrimination, and inequality.

5. Creating Inclusive Spaces: Schools can play a critical role in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for students of all backgrounds. This can involve implementing cultural competency training for teachers, promoting diversity in school activities, and fostering dialogue on issues of race and equity.

In conclusion, the education system has the potential to either perpetuate or combat racism through its policies, practices, and curriculum. By promoting diversity, equity, and anti-racism education, schools can contribute to a more inclusive and just society.

7. How do government policies and laws address issues of racism and discrimination?

Government policies and laws play a crucial role in addressing issues of racism and discrimination. Here are some ways in which they do so:

1. Anti-discrimination laws: Governments enact laws that prohibit discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or nationality in various areas such as employment, education, housing, and public accommodations. These laws provide a legal framework to hold individuals and institutions accountable for discriminatory practices.

2. Affirmative action programs: Some governments implement affirmative action policies to promote equal opportunities for marginalized groups, including racial minorities. These programs aim to counteract the effects of past discrimination and ensure more equitable outcomes in areas such as education and employment.

3. Hate crime legislation: Governments often have specific laws that enhance penalties for crimes motivated by racial bias or hatred. These laws send a strong message that racial violence and intolerance will not be tolerated in society.

4. Diversity and inclusion initiatives: Many governments have initiatives to promote diversity and inclusion in various sectors, such as public service, education, and corporate governance. By fostering diverse representation and creating inclusive environments, these initiatives help combat racism and discrimination.

5. Education and awareness campaigns: Governments may also implement educational programs and public awareness campaigns to raise awareness about the impacts of racism and promote cross-cultural understanding. By investing in education, governments can help address the root causes of racism and discrimination.

Overall, government policies and laws are essential tools in the fight against racism and discrimination. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines legal protections, affirmative action, hate crime legislation, diversity initiatives, and educational efforts, governments can create a more inclusive and equitable society for all.

8. What are some common microaggressions experienced by Afro-Dominicans in their daily lives?

Afro-Dominicans are often faced with a variety of microaggressions in their daily lives that can have a significant impact on their well-being and mental health. Some common microaggressions experienced by Afro-Dominicans include:

1. Comments about their physical appearance: Afro-Dominicans may be subjected to comments about their skin color, hair texture, or facial features, which can reinforce stereotypes and undermine their sense of self-worth.

2. Assumptions about their cultural background: People may make assumptions about an Afro-Dominican person’s cultural identity based on their race, leading to feelings of alienation or being misunderstood.

3. Exoticization or fetishization: Afro-Dominicans may be objectified or fetishized based on stereotypes about their race, which can make them feel dehumanized or reduced to a mere stereotype.

4. Invalidating their experiences of racism: Many Afro-Dominicans face skepticism or disbelief when they speak out about their experiences of racism, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.

5. Denial of their Afro-Latinx identity: Some individuals may challenge or deny an Afro-Dominican person’s identity as a Black or Afro-Latinx individual, perpetuating colorism and erasing their heritage.

6. Lack of representation in media and society: Afro-Dominicans often struggle with the lack of representation in mainstream media and society, which can contribute to feelings of marginalization and invisibility.

These microaggressions, while seemingly subtle or unintentional, can have a lasting impact on the psychological well-being and sense of belonging of Afro-Dominican individuals. It is important for individuals to be aware of these microaggressions and work towards creating a more inclusive and respectful society for all.

9. How has the influx of Haitian immigrants affected racial tensions in the Dominican Republic?

The influx of Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic has significantly impacted racial tensions in the country. The long history of strained relations between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, stemming from territorial disputes and cultural differences, has exacerbated racial prejudices and discrimination against Haitian immigrants.

1. Discrimination: Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic often face discrimination based on their race and nationality. They are frequently subjected to systemic racism, xenophobia, and marginalization in various aspects of life, including employment opportunities, education, and access to healthcare.

2. Anti-Haitian Sentiments: The presence of Haitian immigrants has fueled anti-Haitian sentiments among some sectors of the Dominican population. This has led to social tensions, hate speech, and even violent attacks against Haitian immigrants and their descendants.

3. Government Policies: The Dominican government has implemented strict immigration policies that target Haitian immigrants, including mass deportations and the denial of citizenship rights to individuals born to undocumented parents. These policies have further strained racial relations and exacerbated tensions between the two communities.

Overall, the influx of Haitian immigrants in the Dominican Republic has deepened racial tensions and highlighted the need for addressing underlying issues of racism, discrimination, and prejudice in the country.

10. What initiatives or organizations are working to combat racism in the country?

There are several initiatives and organizations working tirelessly to combat racism in the country. Here are some notable ones:

1. Black Lives Matter (BLM): This movement seeks to fight against systemic racism and violence towards Black communities.

2. Anti-Defamation League (ADL): The ADL works to combat all forms of hate, including racism, through education and advocacy.

3. NAACP: The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People has been at the forefront of the civil rights movement for over a century, fighting against racial discrimination and promoting equality for all.

4. Showing Up for Racial Justice (SURJ): This organization aims to mobilize white people to act as allies in the fight against racism and to dismantle white supremacy.

5. Campaign Zero: This organization focuses on policy solutions to end police violence and address systemic racism in law enforcement.

These initiatives and organizations play a crucial role in raising awareness, advocating for change, and addressing the deep-rooted issues of racism in our society.

11. How do Afro-Dominican cultural traditions and expressions intersect with issues of racism?

Afro-Dominican cultural traditions and expressions intersect with issues of racism in several ways.

1. Historical roots: The Afro-Dominican culture is deeply rooted in the history of slavery and colonialism in the Dominican Republic. The legacy of these oppressive systems continues to impact the social, economic, and political status of Afro-Dominicans today, leading to racial discrimination and marginalization.

2. Cultural erasure: Despite the significant contributions of Afro-Dominicans to the cultural heritage of the country, their traditions and expressions are often marginalized or devalued in favor of more Eurocentric narratives. This erasure reinforces racist attitudes and perpetuates stereotypes about Afro-Dominicans as inferior.

3. Colorism: In the Dominican Republic, there is a deep-seated culture of colorism, where lighter skin tones are often associated with higher social status and beauty. This discrimination based on skin color intersects with racism, leading to the marginalization of Afro-Dominicans who have darker skin tones.

4. Structural barriers: Afro-Dominicans face systemic barriers in accessing education, employment, healthcare, and other essential services. These inequalities are often perpetuated by racist attitudes and practices that limit the opportunities for Afro-Dominicans to thrive and succeed in society.

Overall, the intersection of Afro-Dominican cultural traditions and expressions with issues of racism highlights the ongoing struggle for racial equality and social justice in the Dominican Republic. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to challenge racist attitudes, dismantle systemic barriers, and elevate the voices and experiences of Afro-Dominicans in the national narrative.

12. How has the global Black Lives Matter movement influenced conversations about racism in the Dominican Republic?

The global Black Lives Matter movement has had a significant impact on conversations about racism in the Dominican Republic. Here are several key ways in which it has influenced these discussions:

1. Increased awareness: The Black Lives Matter movement has brought issues of systemic racism and anti-Blackness to the forefront of global conversations. In the Dominican Republic, this increased awareness has sparked discussions about the prevalence of racism within the country and its historical roots.

2. Solidarity: The Black Lives Matter movement has inspired solidarity among Black communities worldwide. In the Dominican Republic, Afro-Dominican activists have found common cause with the movement, leading to greater unity and collaboration in challenging racist structures.

3. Calls for accountability: The Black Lives Matter movement has demanded accountability for acts of racism and violence against Black individuals. In the Dominican Republic, this has prompted calls for justice in cases of discrimination and police brutality targeting Afro-Dominican communities.

4. Policy reforms: The global momentum of the Black Lives Matter movement has put pressure on governments to address systemic racism. In the Dominican Republic, there have been calls for policy reforms to combat racial discrimination and promote equality for Afro-Dominican populations.

Overall, the global Black Lives Matter movement has sparked important conversations about racism in the Dominican Republic, leading to increased awareness, solidarity, demands for accountability, and calls for policy reforms to address longstanding issues of racism and discrimination in the country.

13. What is the relationship between colorism and racism in Dominican society?

In Dominican society, the relationship between colorism and racism is closely intertwined. Colorism is a form of discrimination based on skin color, where individuals with lighter skin tones are favored over those with darker skin tones within the same racial or ethnic group. This can be seen in many aspects of Dominican society, including media representation, job opportunities, and social status. Colorism often stems from historical influences such as colonialism and slavery, where lighter-skinned individuals were often privileged over darker-skinned individuals.

In the Dominican Republic, racism is also prevalent, with darker-skinned individuals facing discrimination and marginalization based on their race. The roots of racism in Dominican society can be traced back to the country’s history of colonization and the legacy of African slavery. This has resulted in a social hierarchy where those with lighter skin are often afforded more opportunities and privileges compared to those with darker skin.

The relationship between colorism and racism in Dominican society is complex and multifaceted. While colorism focuses on discrimination based on skin color within the same racial or ethnic group, racism encompasses broader systemic issues of discrimination and prejudice based on race. Both colorism and racism perpetuate inequality and social stratification within Dominican society, leading to disparities in education, employment, and healthcare based on skin color and race. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach that challenges and dismantles discriminatory beliefs and systems entrenched in Dominican society.

14. How are concepts of race and racial identity understood and discussed in the Dominican Republic?

In the Dominican Republic, concepts of race and racial identity are complex and deeply intertwined with historical, social, and cultural factors. The country has a long history of racial mixing due to colonization, slavery, and migration, leading to a diverse population with varying degrees of African, European, and indigenous ancestry. Despite this diversity, there is often a strong emphasis on notions of racial hierarchy and skin color in the Dominican society.

1. Skin color plays a significant role in the construction of racial identity in the Dominican Republic. Lighter-skinned individuals are often associated with higher social status and privilege, while darker-skinned individuals may face discrimination and marginalization.

2. The country’s history of anti-Haitian sentiment and xenophobia has also shaped discussions around race, with tensions existing between Dominicans of Haitian descent and those who identify as purely Dominican.

3. The legacy of Trujillo’s regime, which promoted a whitening ideology and sought to erase African heritage, continues to impact ideas of race and racial identity in the country.

4. Afro-Dominican communities have pushed for greater recognition and visibility, challenging the dominant narrative of race in the Dominican Republic and advocating for the celebration of African heritage.

Overall, discussions of race and racial identity in the Dominican Republic are multi-faceted, reflecting a complex interplay of historical, social, and cultural factors that continue to shape perceptions and experiences of race in the country.

15. How does the tourism industry in the country contribute to or challenge racist attitudes?

The tourism industry can both contribute to and challenge racist attitudes in a country through various mechanisms:

1. Contribution to Racist Attitudes:
– Tourism can perpetuate stereotypes and reinforce existing prejudices by promoting certain narratives or images that are biased or discriminatory against certain groups.
– The portrayal of certain cultures or communities as exotic or primitive can reinforce the idea of superiority of one group over another, leading to discrimination and bias.
– Discriminatory practices within the tourism industry, such as denying services based on race or ethnicity, can further perpetrate racist attitudes.

2. Challenging Racist Attitudes:
– Tourism can also challenge racist attitudes by fostering cross-cultural understanding and promoting diversity.
– Exposure to different cultures and ways of life through travel can help break down stereotypes and prejudices, leading to greater empathy and acceptance.
– The tourism industry can actively promote inclusivity and diversity through its marketing campaigns, policies, and practices, which can help combat racism within society.

Overall, the impact of the tourism industry on racist attitudes depends on how it is managed and promoted. By promoting diversity, inclusivity, and authentic cultural exchange, the tourism industry can play a significant role in challenging and combating racist attitudes within a country.

16. What disparities exist in access to healthcare, education, and employment based on race in the Dominican Republic?

In the Dominican Republic, disparities in access to healthcare, education, and employment based on race exist, reflecting a historical legacy of racism and discrimination. Some of the key disparities include:

1. Healthcare: Afro-Dominicans and individuals of Haitian descent often face barriers in accessing quality healthcare due to factors such as discrimination, language barriers, and socioeconomic inequalities. This can result in disparities in health outcomes, with marginalized communities experiencing higher rates of diseases and lower life expectancy compared to the white Dominican population.

2. Education: Students from racial minority groups, particularly those of Haitian descent, encounter challenges in accessing quality education. Discrimination and cultural biases can lead to disparities in educational attainment, with minority students having lower enrollment rates, higher dropout rates, and limited access to resources such as textbooks and qualified teachers.

3. Employment: Racism and prejudice in the labor market contribute to disparities in employment opportunities in the Dominican Republic. Afro-Dominicans and individuals of Haitian descent often face discrimination in hiring practices, wage disparities, and limited opportunities for career advancement. These systemic barriers perpetuate economic inequalities based on race.

Addressing these disparities requires comprehensive efforts to combat racism, promote social inclusion, and ensure equal access to healthcare, education, and employment for all individuals in the Dominican Republic. Implementing anti-discrimination policies, enhancing diversity training, and increasing representation of racial minority groups in decision-making positions are essential steps towards creating a more equitable society free from racial disparities.

17. How do Afro-Dominicans navigate and resist systemic racism in the country?

Afro-Dominicans navigate and resist systemic racism in the country through various means:

1. Embracing their heritage: Many Afro-Dominicans take pride in their African roots and cultural heritage, celebrating their identity and history despite facing discrimination. This serves as a form of resistance against attempts to devalue or erase their identity.

2. Organizing and activism: Afro-Dominican individuals and groups come together to organize protests, advocacy campaigns, and community events aimed at raising awareness about racism and pushing for systemic change. By making their voices heard collectively, they challenge discriminatory practices and policies.

3. Educating others: Afro-Dominicans actively engage in educating others about the realities of racism in the country, as well as the importance of acknowledging and addressing systemic inequalities. By fostering conversations and promoting understanding, they work to combat ignorance and promote empathy and solidarity.

4. Demanding representation: Afro-Dominicans advocate for greater representation in politics, media, and other spheres of society, pushing for visibility and inclusion to combat marginalization and stereotypes. By demanding a seat at the table, they challenge power structures and work towards a more equitable society.

18. What are some examples of racial discrimination in the criminal justice system in the Dominican Republic?

In the Dominican Republic, racial discrimination in the criminal justice system can be observed through various instances:

1. Disproportionate Incarceration: There is a disproportionate number of individuals from marginalized communities, particularly those of Haitian descent, who are overrepresented in the prison population. This can be linked to biases in policing, sentencing, and access to legal representation.

2. Discriminatory Policing Practices: Law enforcement often targets individuals from marginalized racial and ethnic backgrounds, leading to higher rates of arrest and incarceration within these communities. Racial profiling is a significant issue that impacts the experiences of minority groups within the criminal justice system.

3. Limited Access to Legal Representation: Individuals from marginalized communities may face challenges in accessing competent legal representation due to financial constraints or systemic biases. This can result in unfair trials and harsher sentencing outcomes.

4. Language Barriers: Haitian immigrants and individuals of Haitian descent may face language barriers within the legal system, impacting their ability to understand their rights, communicate effectively with legal professionals, and navigate the complexities of the judicial process.

Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach that involves reforming policies, enhancing cultural competency within the criminal justice system, providing equitable access to legal resources, and actively combating racial biases at all levels of the legal process.

19. How does the country’s history with slavery and colonialism continue to impact racial dynamics today?

The country’s history with slavery and colonialism continues to have a profound impact on racial dynamics today in several ways:

1. Systemic Racism: The institutions and systems established during periods of slavery and colonialism laid the foundation for systemic racism that persists to this day. Economic disparities, social inequalities, and racial biases within institutions can all be traced back to these historical roots.

2. Intergenerational Trauma: The traumatic legacy of slavery and colonialism has been passed down through generations, impacting the mental health and well-being of communities of color. This trauma can manifest in various forms, including distrust of authorities, internalized racism, and struggles with identity.

3. Racial Hierarchies: The construction of racial hierarchies during periods of slavery and colonialism continues to influence perceptions of race and ethnicity in society today. These hierarchies have shaped power dynamics, social interactions, and opportunities for individuals based on their race.

4. Cultural Perceptions: The cultural narratives and stereotypes developed during slavery and colonialism have contributed to the perpetuation of racist attitudes and beliefs. These narratives continue to shape public discourse, media representations, and interpersonal interactions, reinforcing harmful stereotypes and prejudices.

Overall, the history of slavery and colonialism in a country can be seen as a foundational factor in understanding contemporary racial dynamics, as it has shaped the structures, attitudes, and relations that continue to impact individuals and communities today. Addressing these legacies is crucial in creating a more equitable and just society for all.

20. What can individuals do to be allies in the fight against racism in the Dominican Republic?

Individuals can take several specific actions to be allies in the fight against racism in the Dominican Republic:

1. Educate Themselves: Understanding the historical context of racism in the Dominican Republic, including its roots in colonialism and the impact of the Haitian-Dominican conflict, is crucial to becoming an effective ally in combating racism.

2. Listen to Marginalized Voices: It is essential to listen to and amplify the voices of marginalized communities, including Afro-Dominicans and Haitian migrants, who are often most impacted by racism in the country.

3. Support Anti-Racism Organizations: Individuals can support local organizations and initiatives that are actively working to combat racism and promote racial justice in the Dominican Republic.

4. Challenge Discriminatory Behaviors: Allies should speak up and challenge discriminatory attitudes and behaviors they witness, whether in their personal circles or in public spaces, and actively work to dismantle systemic racism.

5. Advocate for Policy Change: Supporting policies and legislation that promote equality, diversity, and inclusion can be a powerful way to address structural racism in the Dominican Republic.

By taking these actions, individuals can play a crucial role in being effective allies in the ongoing fight against racism in the Dominican Republic.