In light of the recent events that transpired in Louisiana and Minnesota, I can't help but hear the constant ringing of the word 'privilege' in my head. Privilege—what power does this nine-letter word hold? This word rings differently for every kind of person; this is usually dependent on factors such as race and socio-economic status.
Then I thought, how does this apply to me in my own life? I am a 19-year-old, white and Hispanic woman from a middle-class household who goes to college. In just that statement alone it's clear that I am very privileged person. When analyzing the degree of my privilege I feel sort of bad. It took a while, but I started to understand that this feeling was not necessarily that I feel bad about what I have; rather, I feel irate and saddened that others do not have these same privileges because of the color of their skin or how much money they have among a variety of factors. I feel helpless because I and many other's have this blessed life that every person doesn't have, but deserves.
Well, I'm over feeling bad and having this feeling just sitting around in my house as CNN blares the next tragedy of police brutality or anything else. I am sick of just settling into my stereotype as a white person who watches idly by, I'm ready to use my privilege for something much greater: justice and peace.
For those who feel similarly—who feel a need to help with no way to go, here is what we do with our privilege.
First off, we need to take action immediately. This action can occur in many ways—but the one restriction is no more just talking about it. Use social media as a useful platform; not just a place to complain about how bad the world is. Use social media to shed light on what has happened. Make other's aware of what is going on and how they can help. Use that powerful voice that you were born with to reach out to a world wide web of those who can help.
An easy way to help is by donating. Whether it's to the families of the lives that were lost or in other various efforts. While this method is better than nothing, all it shows is limitation.
Another way this occurs is by going to rallies and partaking is protests. Only one group of people should not be fighting for their rights, we all should be fighting for humankind to be treated with justice and equality. Provide actual, physical support—restore all the faith that has been tragically lost in humanity.
Do not tolerate ignorance and bigotry. Hate all begins with the small backhanded comments that seem meaningless. Stand up and be the voice that stops hate in its tracks. Do not be a bystander to racism, speak up for people who have just as many rights as you do.
Educate yourself. I cannot stress this importance of this one. This isn't just for your wild (and sometimes unnecessary) Facebook comment wars, but to fully understand all sides. This way you stop yourself in your own tracks from unintentionally spreading lies and one-sided arguments. There is no room to ruin a life and reputation because of lack of knowledge. Sensitivity is futile when openly discussing these recent events in respect to those who's lives were lost and for their families.
Finally, all I can say is be the change. Exemplify intolerance in the way you carry yourself, the words you say, and in the impact you make. Make an impact in the way you know best—whether it's through your expression of words or the service you offer.
It's time that we get comfortable with the uncomfortable differences between us all to come together and realize that what we have in common is that we are human beings. Living breathing people with families, hopes, dreams, hearts and souls who deserve to be supported by one another.
Spread love, not hate.
