Here is a short list about what makes me privileged. In today’s society, I recognize that I am a marginalized identity in the United States as a woman of color, however, I want to own the fact that I am still privileged in many spaces. I hope this list will inspire you to think about your own privilege so we can all check our privilege this month as we honor Black History Month. Remember, privileges aren’t necessarily bad. It’s what you do with them. There are 28 reasons for each of the 28 days that make up this beautiful month of celebration. Enjoy!

1. I attend Lehigh University.

2. I have enough food to eat every day.

3. I have different clothes to wear every day.

4. I am leasing a house so I don’t have to sleep outside in the rain.

5. I am a citizen of the United States of America.

6. I know how to drive.

7. I own a car and have car insurance.

8. I have internet services.

9. I have a laptop and a smartphone.

10. I have a bank account, along with the financial services that go with using a bank.

11. I have access to clean drinking water.

12. I know how to read and write.

13. I am heterosexual.

14. My parents are still married.

15. My parents are both employed.

16. My close relatives are still alive.

17. I do not have any allergies.

18. I have health insurance.

19. I have access to sanitary hospitals.

20. I have studied abroad.

21. I have work experience.

22. I have freedom of speech.

23. I have freedom of religion.

24. I am informed by a free press.

25. I have the right to vote.

26. I am a cis-identifying woman.

27. I am a Christian.

28. Both of my parents attended college.