Understanding Privilege: Recognizing It Without Blind Assumption

In today’s world, the concept of privilege often surfaces in discussions about social inequality and justice. However, it’s crucial to recognize that privilege can be experienced without the person being aware of it. This article aims to guide readers on how to identify and understand privilege, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging these blessings rather than projecting resentment and misunderstandings.

The Myths and Realities of Privilege

It is common for individuals to overlook their own privileges, especially when they have not faced the same adversities that others have encountered. However, this self-deception can hinder societal progress and understanding. One should be careful not to project feelings of resentment, assumptions, and personal insecurities onto others, which is both rude and inappropriate.

Questioning Privilege: A Thoughtful Approach

When asking whether someone can be privileged without being aware of it, it’s important not to assume that you have the right to someone else’s life or possessions. Inequality exists, but focusing on coveting what others have, or making claims that they don’t deserve it, doesn’t help in creating a more equitable society. It is more productive to call for evidence rather than relying on speculative claims. For instance, if you are in a position to claim that “all whites have privilege,” it would be more effective to present concrete evidence supporting your assertion.

Signs of Privilege: Recognizing Them Within Yourself

While some individuals may not realize their privilege until a significant life event or “wakeup call,” there are clear indicators that can help one recognize it. For instance, having a stable home, adequate clothing, and a reliable source of nutrition are basic forms of privilege. However, it’s important not to view privilege as inherently negative. Instead, one should appreciate the blessings in life, recognizing that these comforts could indeed be taken away at any time.

The Personal Experience of Privilege

To provide a real-world example, consider the life of someone who had to face various forms of hardship early in their life:

A Childhood of Adversity

From an early age, individuals can experience profound resilience and the pursuit of basic necessities. For example, during their childhood, an individual may have lived in challenging conditions:

A single room shack with a dirt floor and no running water, A one-room converted store with only cold water and a fold-out couch to sleep on, Picking cotton during the summer and working a paper route to earn a little spending money.

This individual subsequently learned to endure and eventually improved their circumstances, earning a higher education and a successful career. Despite the hardships faced, the person did not have certain privileges, such as a steady supply of food or a comfortable place to live.

Advancing Through Adversity

By age 11, this person lived in a migrant labor camp, which is often associated with significant struggles. However, this experience also taught resilience and the importance of education. They eventually attended high school and college using educational assistance programs, earning both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.

This personal journey illustrates that one can lead a fulfilling life even when faced with considerable hardships, but it also shows that having these basic forms of security and education are privileges that not everyone experiences.

Fostering a Culture of Appreciation and Responsibility

Instead of envious or resentful attitudes toward others, it’s more constructive to be appreciative of what one has. Holding oneself and others to the standard of good behavior and responsibility is crucial. Everyone has a responsibility to behave well, regardless of their perceived victimhood or other circumstances.

Call to Action

Instead of focusing on what one lacks or feels entitled to, it would be more beneficial to engage in self-reflection and genuine gratitude. This mindset can lead to a more positive and inclusive society, where individuals appreciate their own privilges and work towards ensuring that others have the same opportunities.

By understanding the concept of privilege and recognizing it, we can move towards a society where everyone acknowledges and values the blessings in their lives, contributing to a more equitable and harmonious world.