The video that resonated with me most in class was the one
in which Tim Wise gave his “White Privilege” speech. I appreciated and
respected the way he wasn’t afraid or embarrassed to say what so many other
whites are afraid and embarrassed to admit. It is an uncomfortable topic but
one that needs serious consideration and deserves to be addressed in a wide
rage of situations. The fact that only 6% of white Americans think that there
is a problem is extremely concerning. I can’t help but wonder if only 6%
believe there is a problem, or if only 6% are willing to actually admit that there
is a problem. The idea that a white college football player for example can get
into legal trouble and be judged only on a personal scale whereas a black
college athlete AND HIS ENTIRE RACE will take the heat for a similar scandal is
troublesome on countless levels. When are we going to stop succumbing to
society’s stereotypes? I bet many of us have been at fault at some point in our
lives for partaking in the discussion or even just the thought of racial
stereotypes. Will there be a day where racial stereotypes no longer exist?
Kirsten Makowiec
LT 24
Kin 577
I personally believe that racial stereotypes will always exist. I may not be as optimistic as others, but I believe there is a reason that only 6% of white Americans think there is a problem, because white Americans don’t really care about the issue, nor do they care to fix the issue. That is the true definition of white privilege. Not having to worry about the problems of today because they don’t concern you, better yet, because they don’t affect you.
ReplyDeleteAs I do believe it wont happen especially not any time soon, I do believe there are steps to be taken in the right direction. I think discussions on these issues need to happen often and anywhere. In classrooms, offices, locker rooms etc. I think we need to acknowledge our history, our past, instead of sweeping under the rug. It is a very important conversation to be had. The problem is, you can’t have that conversation without the presence of white people. Otherwise, you have a room full of colored people agreeing on how hard it is to be a colored person. Honestly, that gets us no where.
Jordan Baranco-Bibb
LT24
KIN 577