The belief, ideology, or social movement advocating for the moral, intellectual, and economic advancement of racial or ethnic minority groups, particularly African Americans, through education, self-improvement, and collective action, with the goal of combating racism, inequality, and social injustice, and promoting positive representations and achievements within the broader society. Racial uplift emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a response to racial discrimination and stereotypes, and emphasized the importance of self-help, community empowerment, and cultural pride in achieving racial progress and equality.