Hey, kids! I'm here today to tell you that if you're part of the 77% of non-hispanic whites living in America , you DO have white privilege! Sorry grandma, it's real, and it's here. What should you do with it? Let's find out!
1. Realize you have privilege
How do you know if you have privilege? If you don't have to think about it, you have privilege. If you can turn a blind eye or tune out of politics as you please, because you know the issues won't greatly affect you, you have privilege. If you can walk down the street without fear, you have privilege. If you can hop on social media and scroll carefree and without hesitation, you have privilege.
2. Don't you dare close your eyes to what's happening in the world today
I know it's tough at times to just stop being in-tune with the world's happenings. But I urge you, for everyone's sakes, stay aware. Stay in the loop, and stand up for what you need to.
3. Stay woke — be aware
Take those few minutes a day to look at the news. Look around you. Make sure you know what's going on in your home, in your country, in your world.
4. Stand up, speak out
If and when you see something, be sure to not be that bystander that watches and does nothing. Don't be that silent ally. Your thoughts won't help solve the problem. Be attentive, and take action. Of course, be careful and don't put yourself or anyone else in danger, but if you see racism, sexism, xenophobia, or any other sort of action that is harmful to someone else, don't let it slide.
5. Protect your brothers and sisters
Everyone on this planet is your neighbor. We are all family. We share our homes with each other. Underneath this skin, black or white, lasered or wrinkled, scarred or smooth, we are all the same.
6. Be a friend to all
More importantly, make certain that no one is alone, especially when this loneliness is based upon something out of that person's control. When someone is excluded based on their race, ethnicity, sexuality, or anything at all, problems that should not exist, arise. This is sometimes how tragedies occur. When someone feels outcast, Columbine happens.
7. Push your message forward
Children are born without knowing racism, without knowing hate, without knowing the harsh realities of the world. If there is a child sitting alone, all kids know they should include him/her, but how many of them actually do it? Show your children, your friends, and your family how to do the right thing. They will follow in your footsteps.
8. Stay out of the echo chamber
Get other perspectives. This is crucial! When stuck in the echo chamber, you only hear and reflect the opinions that surround you. This is how white supremacists, hate groups, and mass misconduct occurs.
9. Don't get involved with hate groups
Using your race and ethnicity to push others down is a no from me. It's a no from everyone! Just... don't do it.
10. Foster conversation
When you speak up, it's easier for people to listen to you. Talk to others, but more importantly, listen to others, and make sure other people do, too.
Now, go out there and save the world.
