Thread by @shrutinha

I’ve been thinking a bit about the Meghan and Kate relationship, how they were treated differently, and reflecting on my own past experiences. This thread is really a message for white women who are close to women of colour... 1/

You may be my best friend at work, we may confide in each other, and I may draw your attention to how I’m being treated differently. But I need you to do more than just empathise. I need you to do more than just leave it up to me. 2/

I need to have your active support, not do whatever’s easiest for you. I need to feel that I’m not just dealing with this on my own. I need you to challenge what’s happening. 3/

I know it’s hard and scary, but just what do you think it’s like for me? Whatever you’re experiencing, it’s a 100 times worse for me. Stop doing what’s easy for you. 4/

If all you do is empathise, you’re complicit. It’s as simple as that. You’re benefitting from my different treatment. No matter how good a friend you think you are, quite frankly you’re not. 5/

Sorry if that’s harsh. No actually, I’m not sorry. Why do I have to centre and prioritise your feelings over my discrimination? 6/

The press is full of sharply contrasting stories which show clearly different treatment of Meghan and Kate. Did Kate call this out ? Or did she remain silent, knowing that Meghan’s vilification was benefiting her ? /end