06/06/2020
I am a white male and with that comes privilege and responsibility. I inherently have privilege because of the color of my skin and I also have a responsibility to use this privilege to advocate for others. I educate students, future counselors, and members of our society about injustice, discrimination, prejudice, bias, oppression, and privilege. I am far from perfect and far from an expert on the lived experiences of marginalized groups and I have a lot to continue to learn from each individual, each group, and each community that identifies differently than me, but I am trying to do what I can when I can.
Racism comes in many forms. It is overt in the practices of individuals, groups, policies, and practices that discriminate against and oppress individuals of races and ethnicities that are not of the majority status (white/ European American). It comes in the form of systemic racism that is structural and institutionalized (disparities, differential treatment, access to services, and social structures). It becomes internalized by individuals and communities through continued encounters and repeated trauma that reinforce these racist structures.
Many times necessity evokes change, without necessity the motivation to stay the same is greater than that to create change. As a society we are able to hide behind our privilege, distance ourselves from the pain, and criticize those who speak out against our own beliefs. We look on in horror at the circumstances that are played out on our screens, saying I wish things were different, but do nothing to change it. We attack each other, point the blame at one another, and negate the experiences of those willing to share.
Whether you are someone who has personally been affected by racism or someone who just sees the necessity for change to happen, don’t be silent. You may be someone who protests actively and loudly, someone who educates others about racism, or just someone who simply says something when a racist joke or slur is used, keep advocating. Every time someone isn’t silent it matters. Talk with someone who doesn’t look like you, question your own privilege, watch a documentary that educates you on others, or just show empathy for someone pain. Do something that helps you grow as a person, challenges your thoughts about others, and creates opportunity to enrich your life through understanding, grace, and compassion.
If you need resources, want documentary suggestions, or just want to talk about all of this don’t hesitate to let me know.
