White Privilege

After watching Tim Wise, I think I came to realize how big of a thing privilege is. I have never really been aware of the circumstances, probably because, like Wise said, I am not a minority and have never had experiences dealing with privilege. I have never been discriminated against due to the color of my skin or my religion. The "white denial" Wise talks about kind of hit a spot because I saw that it was completely true. If you ask any white person if there is a racial problem in the United States, most would say no. Yes, there are many people out there who see these problems and are aware of them, but there are probably more who have absolutely no idea. I definitely think Wise was very outright with his argument, which could be sort of a turn off to people, sounding more like preaching, but I think he handled himself well, proving his point without bantering over and over with the same exact message. But I do feel slightly upset because he makes it seem like White people are evil and out to get the rest of the world. He essentially blames every problem dealing with race on White people, which I do not think is completely true. Granted, white people tend to have more privileges than other races, but it to make whites at fault for that is a completely different issue.

I think the media utilizes privilege by the stereotypes they carry within shows. For example, I know a lot of African American people who absolutely hate the Cosby Show because they say it is not even close to their lifestyles. I know more white people who watch that show than anybody, because it is what they think is the truth. Granted, I have no clue on what the differences between certain lifestyles according to race are. 

Here is my list of privileges I have come up with:

1. White people often have more opportunities for a better education.

2. Race is not a daily issue for White people.

3. Native Americans get free healthcare in Native American hospitals.

4. White get better jobs opportunities.

5. White people are not suspected for crimes as much as minorities.

6. White people get more positive recognition.

7. Black people are already assumed for being better athletes.

8. White people have an easier path to success.

I definitely still believe society uses the "one drop rule." The thing is, some people use it to their advantage. If they can prove they have African American blood in them, it qualifies them to be a minority, getting special privileges for scholarships, medical, and things of the like. For instance, when people go out to prove they are Native American. Most the time Native Americans have horrible stereotypes associated with them, but the second it gets someone free health care or a free college education, they are on that at the drop of a hat. For Obama, there was a HUGE deal made about him being black. He is only half black, but to the greater population that does not matter. The fact is that he is partly black, and that makes all the difference. There is no other questioning after that. 

I think people changing behaviors is a gradual thing. It has taken decades for people to become less racist, and I think it will take even longer for there to be 100% acceptance of other races. But I do believe it is the peoples' responsibilities to watch their actions and try to adapt to new ways of thinking. People need to step outside their boxes and experience the world every once in awhile.