White Girl Privilege

I consider myself to be sensitive and aware of others, their struggles and culture;  therefore, it is difficult and uncomfortable to look at and often admit there are definite advantages to being white. In spite of some of my own struggles and difficulties, I can only say that I am blessed and full of gratitude for the many opportunities and privileges in my life.

This past week I spent a day at the Early Childhood Intervention Lab.  It made me think about all I take for granted. I don't have a special needs child nor am I afflicted with any kind of  physical or learning disability.  My days have no struggles in comparison to the many who find something as simple as getting dressed a challenge.  And so it is with being a white female, I take a lot for granted.

• I can walk into any neighborhood, night or day, and nobody questions my motives for being there
• I have favor with the valet guy, the waiter, the bartender, the coffee shop attendant
• Moving to Austin, nobody questioned my ability to live where I was looking
• I can be in an upscale store and no one judges my ability to purchase any item
• I can be in relationships with only white men and women
• I can assume I will never have a person of another race as a supervisor
• My workplace is predominantly white
• My social circle allows me introductions to other privileged white people
• Strangers assume the best not the worst
• I can sit alone in a restaurant, bar or coffee shop and not be questioned about my motives
• Not having to learn a new language to communicate with my peers
• Policemen always assume I have auto insurance
• The majority of my friends have white girl privileges
• I am not accused of dressing to make a statement about my culture or ethnicity
• If I complain about how I am treated,  I don't get accused of playing the race card

These are just a few of the many advantages and there are so many that I overlook and forget.  I can only hope that I will treat others with respect and dignity regardless of race, culture, SES and skin color.