In short, it is the societal privilege that benefits white people over people who aren’t white. It is a racial bias, an advantage for those who have white skin. Although invisible, very present.
I mentioned I would dedicate a post to white privilege last month, when I wrote, microaggressions towards black people we are tired of hearing. Many people still question the term, white privilege. Does it really exist? Isn’t it the same as racism? Some may even feel uncomfortable when the topic is brought up in conversation. You shouldn’t. The more questions you ask, the easier it is to break through the feeling of discomfort. Knowing you have a better understanding of the topic. Ignorance is bliss, but knowledge is power. For equality to develop in society today, we all have to acknowledge the injustices. Try to understand them, and work on overcoming them.
So, what is there to take into consideration, when it comes to white privilege?
A lack of representation. From under-representing black and ethnic minorities in major film and TV roles. To schools not dedicating enough time teaching students about other multicultural backgrounds, that have impacted history and society today.
For me, growing up in the UK, the vast majority of movies and shows that were popular, had a white protagonist. Or even an all white cast. Popular children’s dolls and action figures only came in one skin colour, white. (Although I do remember having one black barbie doll, I begged my mum to get her.) So it was difficult for someone of colour to relate to the characters on screen. But as a child, you are unaware of the imbalance of diversity, because this is all you have known.
Thankfully, we are progressing into a more inclusive era. Pop culture is embracing black influence and more diverse roles are being filled in the media. Small steps that can massively impact the next generation are happening now!
Racial profiling and stereotypes. Regardless of your occupation or what you wear, black people, in particular black men, are a popular target of racial profiling. The negative stereotype that suggests our skin colour is the reason we are aggressive or intimidating, is an issue that needs to be addressed and abolished. In addition, the problem with how police handle alleged black suspects, using unnecessary excessive force still exists. Whilst on the other hand, a white alleged suspect will have a completely different experience. How do we improve this system?
Cultural appropriation. The under-appreciation of black and brown women. Of what comes naturally to us. Some want the features of a black women, but don’t care for black women. Creating a double standard. But here we recognise:
The lips. The fullness. Not so much praised on a woman of colour, but on a white woman, when surgically enhanced it’s revolutionary. (Thanks to the Kylie Jenner lip challenge of 2015, that was a driving force to this new era of lip injections).
The melanin. We take to the Sun so effortlessly while those with paler skin, unable to tan naturally, fake tan. As opposed to embracing your given complexion. This is how blackfishing* can become an issue. (Remember Rachel Dolezal… what a time that was.) Yes, a lot of people with white skin have the ability to tan naturally, but when you’re dramatically adding makeup or changing the texture of your hair to appear a different race, there is a problem.
*Blackfishing, when a white person uses tanning products and makeup to appear a different race.
The hair. In school or the workplace, the textures and styles that come naturally to black woman are so often deemed as “unprofessional”. Yet, they are the inspiration for a white celebrity to wear at an event. Or for a white owned brand to profit off of at a fashion show. Traditional hairstyles with historic and cultural meaning to black women are exploited for monetary gain. Without being credited for doing it first. How many times has this happened? It’s time to change the narrative.
The difference between white privilege and racism. White privilege exists because of racism. Due to the past years of systemic and historic racism, slavery included. Racism is a discrimination against someone, based off the colour of their skin. It has added fuel to the fire which we now call white privilege.
White privilege is a racial bias. Consciously or subconsciously it is a prejudice against people who are not white. Whatever the situation. Like not being offered the job because of your skin colour, as opposed to you not matching the job requirements. White privilege still exists. This racial bias being acted on, can negatively effect the person on the receiving end, just as much as racism can.
My final thoughts. I think a lot of the prejudice against people of colour is slowly changing for the better. A lot still needs to be done however! Society may favour those with white skin, but for how much longer?
What are your views and opinions on white privilege? Depending on your nationality and ethnic background, how does the term make you feel? Leave a comment or DM me on my socials below!
-Seraphina @seraphinaspeaks @seraphinaadebayo
Words By Seraphina 