Defining Privilege

I define privilege as “a specific advantage available to a certain individual or group that results in others experiencing an inequitable disadvantage.” This latter part of the definition is crucial, as it highlights that many people mistakenly label efforts to address inequities as forms of "privilege."

For instance, some argue that initiatives aimed at correcting racial disparities unfairly grant "privilege" to those affected by these disparities. I contend that such corrective measures do not create inequitable disadvantages for other groups. Instead, they aim to rectify the systemic inequities faced by marginalized communities.

In society, we see how advantages afforded to men often lead to disadvantages for women. Current corrective measures, including the long-pending Equal Rights Amendment, do not impose inequitable disadvantages on men.

Understanding Diversity

Diversity refers to the presence of differences within a specific context. It encompasses all the ways individuals differ from one another. It is vital to note that diversity is inherently about groups; it cannot exist in isolation.

An individual may bring diversity to a group but does not embody diversity themselves. They might be a woman, a person of color, or a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Despite their unique intersectional identities, one person alone does not constitute diversity.

This misinterpretation can lead to tokenism, where the presence of a single diverse individual is mistaken for genuine diversity within a group.

Examining Inclusion

Inclusion focuses on ensuring that individuals with varying identities feel valued, welcomed, and empowered to participate fully in group activities and decision-making processes. A helpful analogy is that while diversity can be achieved by simply inviting different people to an event, inclusion occurs when these diverse individuals are involved in planning future events.

The mere presence of diversity does not guarantee that everyone, especially those with marginalized identities, will feel included or have the opportunity to express their true selves. It is not enough to have strategies for increasing diversity; there must also be deliberate efforts to enhance inclusion.

Understanding Equity

Equity is about ensuring fair treatment, access, opportunities, and progress for all individuals while actively working to eliminate barriers that hinder full participation, particularly for marginalized groups.

Equity acknowledges that not everyone starts from the same position and that different opportunities may be needed to achieve similar outcomes. Pursuing equity involves recognizing these disparities and developing processes that facilitate equal outcomes, despite unequal starting points.

Addressing the Resistance to Racial Discourse

There has been notable opposition to critical race theory (CRT) in educational settings. However, CRT, which originated in law schools, is not commonly taught in K-12 public education. The opposition often reflects a reluctance to engage in discussions about race and racism, which are essential for combating these issues.

The Necessity of Discussing Race

Many individuals in America find it uncomfortable to discuss race and racial justice openly. As Robin DiAngelo points out, this discomfort often stems from what she terms "white fragility," which is the defensiveness white individuals experience when faced with discussions about racial inequities.

Two primary factors contribute to this discomfort: a lack of knowledge on how to engage in these discussions and the misguided belief in colorblindness, which ignores the social realities of race and racism.

Challenging Colorblindness

Claims of colorblindness often mask the reality of racial identities. For instance, if a Black individual were to commit a crime, witnesses would inevitably describe them as a "Black man" — no one would claim not to see their race.

Those who proclaim colorblindness conflate acknowledging racial identities with negative perceptions of those identities. This reflects deeply rooted biases, as many believe that avoiding acknowledgment of race will eliminate associated negative connotations.

Racism, Not Race, is the Core Issue

While acknowledging racial disparities in America is common, various justifications often arise to explain these inequalities. Echoing Ibram X. Kendi's insights, data clearly show that these disparities stem from racist practices and policies.

In discussions about racial disparities, attention often shifts to minority groups rather than the systemic racism that perpetuates these disparities. It is crucial to recognize that the victims of racism are not the source of the problem; racism itself is the issue.

Leveraging Privilege for Change

In discussions about racial diversity and equity, we seldom examine how our own actions contribute to these inequities. This concept is powerfully illustrated in a sculpture by Danish artist Jens Galschiot, titled “Survival of the Fattest,” which depicts the imbalance of privilege.

The sculpture features a figure of “Lady Justice” as a corpulent woman sitting atop a struggling African man. The accompanying inscription captures the essence of this dynamic: “I’m sitting on the back of a man; He is sinking under the burden; I would do anything to help him; Except stepping down from his back.”

This artwork starkly highlights that while many express a desire to aid in addressing oppression, they often resist critically examining and relinquishing the oppressive beliefs and practices that uphold their privilege.

To genuinely foster a better world, we must navigate the complexities of privilege with intention. Rather than merely preserving privilege, we should actively challenge it by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion.

While my writing remains accessible for free via social media links, numerous exceptional authors and stories await exclusively for Medium members. If you found value in this article and wish to explore more, consider becoming a Medium member through my referral link. Your membership supports independent writers.