As a white man in western society, I have privilege. I didn't ask for this privilege. I did nothing to earn it. Yet there it is, merely because I'm a white man in western society. 1/6
That privilege accorded me for being a white man in western society allows me opportunities that others might not have. It offers me considerations that get me "off the hook" for minor transgressions. It treats me with less suspicion in many circumstances. 2/6
It does not mean that I get everything for free, or that I don't have to work to succeed. It's just a little thumb on the balance in everything I do. I become accustomed to that assistance, and things seem harder when it's briefly not there. 3/6
I did not choose my privilege. Having privilege is not something I did to take advantage of others. I don't feel guilty for having this privilege. I would like everyone to enjoy the privilege I have. 4/6
Awareness of my privilege places 3 burdens on me:
The burden of treating others better now I'm more aware of the effects of my actions.
The burden of sharing my privilege with others who have less.
The burden of influencing society so that privilege is more evenly spread. 5/6
The burden of treating others better now I'm more aware of the effects of my actions.
The burden of sharing my privilege with others who have less.
The burden of influencing society so that privilege is more evenly spread. 5/6
I sometimes feel guilt that I've failed to shoulder these burdens as well as I "should." I'm human. I try my best. I fail. I try again. Some forgive my failures because of my privilege. Some don't, for the same reason. Please, forgive me because I'm human. 6/6
