White Privilege. Yes, it exists. No, you are not exempt from it, unless you aren't white of course.
For some odd reason, White people in this country just cannot seem to grasp the oh-so-controversial concept of White Privilege. Yet, there really is no debate; it is flourishing and well in the Land of the Free.
The facts are simple, but for those who are still trying to rack their brain for the definition of this glaringly obvious concept, let me help you out. People who identify or are perceived as White receive vast amounts of societal privileges that are then not given to those who do not fit under the "elite" umbrella of White.
Oh, and guess what? As a token of society's appreciation, you were gifted these special privileges at birth -- how lucky!
If you are STILL trying to wrap your head around the topic of White Privilege, let me ask you a few questions.
Have you ever wondered why the Black unemployment rate is almost double that of Whites, even when controlled for racial differences in education, age, sex, marital status, occupation, state of residence, etc.?
Have you ever wondered why you are given the privilege of having a carefree and non-hostile encounter with law enforcement or potentially no encounter at all?
Have you ever wondered why you are able to speak freely on any topic you like without the burden of representing your entire race?
Have you ever wondered why horrific acts of terrorism committed by Whites are not actually labeled terrorism?
The answer...White Privilege.
Before all my fellow White folks begin to act appalled and offended, let me just say that there is nothing wrong with being White. However, one must always be aware of their Whiteness.
White Privilege does not mean that White people do not endure hardships or that we are automatically born wealthy.However, White Privilege offers various perks or advantages that serve to assist us; these same benefits are not given to people of color.
We are taught that Whiteness equates to superiority, and these special perks help to perpetuate and sustain this social construct.Our often times oblivious acceptance of White Privilege also serves to uphold this systematic hierarchy. It is not only important, but vital, that White people consistently and vigilantly check their privilege.
We need to stop pretending like White Privilege does not exist. The United States of America was built upon the backs and blood of others in order to create a society where Whiteness was not only preserved but remained robust and healthy as well.
White Privilege is deeply woven into the social constructs of not only our nation but the world as well. It seems almost impossible to reverse this hierarchy that has become an innate part of everyday life. Although the advantages of White Privilege may not always appear obviously or blatantly, it is important to acknowledge the fact that they are always there and will always serve to benefit you at the detrimental cost of others.
It is, therefore, imperative that White people check their privilege and openly engage in conversation about this topic.
Seek answers to your questions. Don't shy away from discussions of race. Learn from others. Most importantly, be open.
