White Privilege May Be Invisible, But It's Thriving | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics

White Privilege May Be Invisible, But It's Thriving

White Privilege exists, and it is time we start actively acknowledging and checking our entitlement.

50
White Privilege May Be Invisible, But It's Thriving
Pexels

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.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

17872
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

7613
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

5582
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

4848
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments