Examples of my White Privilege

Like many white Americans these past few weeks, I, too, have begun a deep exploration of what it means to be white in our current society. I overheard someone recently say, "I think about being a black man every day." The fact that I never think about being a white female takes me aback. It challenges me. It shows me that I have much to learn.

I am humbled. I am devastated. I am rocked at my core. 

However, I am a lifelong learner. And when we know better, there are usually resources at our disposal that help us do better. One next right step at a time.

A few weeks ago, I reflected in Me and White Supremacy on the work of Layla F. Saad. (Read this book, y'all. But ignore the timelines for the work. This is one to be read, re-read and re-assessed throughout your entire life.) I never understood the depth of my white privilege, or the advantages granted because of my whiteness. I didn't want to have white privilege, so I basically ignored it my entire life. I realize now that this was wrong. (And yes, I have been apologizing to my BIPOC friends all week.)

I don't like it, but I exhibit white privilege. Here's how:

I don't like it, but I exhibit white privilege. Here's how:
1. I can be in the company of my own race no matter where I travel.
2. When I am taught about my history, I am taught that white people made my country what it is.
3. In a book store, plenty of authors represent my race.
4. In a grocery store, I can easily find the traditional foods of my race.
5. The local hair salon has someone who understands my hair.
6. I always confidently check "white" in the box that asks me to mark my race. (To be honest, I never understood until today why someone wouldn't check the appropriate box.)
7. If I need legal or medical help, I never worry that my race may prohibit me from the care I may need.
8. When I watch t.v., most people in the shows I watch look like me.
9. My music is strongly influenced by white artists.
10. I can contemplate race without being perceived as self-interested.
11. I am never asked to speak on behalf of white people.
12. My makeup matches my skin tone.
13. Flesh-toned bandages match my skin.
14. I do not worry about being discredited by financial institutions because of my race.
15. I am not afraid of getting pulled over by the police.

I am going to do the difficult work because people in my life have hurt for too long and cried too many tears and the world - a world largely represented by people who look like me - has let them down. I may be just one heart in one school in one community, but one heart is still a pretty good place to start.

Linger a Little Longer:
1. How does the term "white privilege" make you feel?
2. Looking at the list above, what are some ways you have exhibited white privilege in your own life?
3. If you are BIPOC, how has white privilege most impacted you?