A man of privilege!

[Jerry101]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

[anothersteve]

Thank you! Love your perspective.
It's not who you are....it's what you are
Steve

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

[anothersteve]

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.


Man did you miss the boat with OP's post.

Nice broard paint brush also,
Steve

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I got his point completely. He found a way to dismiss and minimize the fact that he, and most white people (including myself) live with a privilege that we don't even realize we have, until someone points it out.

[NECHFalcon68]

I got his point completely. He found a way to dismiss and minimize the fact that he, and most white people (including myself) live with a privilege that we don't even realize we have, until someone points it out.

And why do we have such privilege?

[Stu from NYC]

And why do we have such privilege?

Something to do with black crime so much higher than other groups?

[anothersteve]

I got his point completely.


No you didn't!
A loving Mom and Dad.. is that privilege?
Ending every night in a prayer....is that privilege?
Prayer of thanks at every meal.... is that privilege?
Sunday School and worshiping as a family...is that privilege?
"They" as a Family know that Jesus is Lord...PRIVILEGE?
That is life, don't spew more about the "oppressed" ...life believe it or not is your life...what "you" make of it, not what "someone" thinks it should be. EVERYONE is what THEY make of THEIR life.
Yes YOU missed the boat with the OP's post
Steve

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

If the OP hadn't begun his thread with a reference to being privileged "as a white man" I wouldn't have responded, because it'd be a lovely sentiment of a person who is privileged to have wonderful things in his life.

However, he pointed out that the reference was to being privileged "as a white man." NONE of the things he is talking about, are things that are exclusive to being white. Unless he really thinks that black people don't have loving families with moms and dads? And he thinks black people don't pray? And so on and so forth.

Get the "as a white man" out of the thread, and you have a point, Steve. But as long as that distinction remains, it is just ignorance rearing its ugly head.

[anothersteve]

it is just ignorance rearing its ugly head.

Obviously you didn't see he followed with " a person of privilege", People see what they want to see.
Steve

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Obviously you didn't see he followed with " a person of privilege", People see what they want to see.
Steve

I saw what he posted. Here it is again:

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege.

Bold/underlined for emphasis. This is plain English. But translating the grammar for ya:

He hears from people that he is privileged BECAUSE he is white. That his privilege - is a direct result of the color of his skin.

And then he goes on to explain how he's privileged.

So HE is missing the point. Or obfuscating it. Or minimizing it. Or possibly not understanding it - however, since he then says he bristles from it, I'm sensing that he totally understands it.

[anothersteve]

I saw what he posted. Here it is again:



Bold/underlined for emphasis. This is plain English. But translating the grammar for ya:

He hears from people that he is privileged BECAUSE he is white. That his privilege - is a direct result of the color of his skin.

And then he goes on to explain how he's privileged.

So HE is missing the point. Or obfuscating it. Or minimizing it. Or possibly not understanding it - however, since he then says he bristles from it, I'm sensing that he totally understands it.

Like I said, "people" see and read what they want. You don't get the message and can't "see the forrest through the trees"
Tunnel vision is a terrible thing.
Steve

[Velvet]

Not sure I understand, what’s wrong with being born white, or born a man? Or for that matter a human?

I don’t think he really had a choice in the matter.

[ColdNoMore]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

Nailed it!

Being born a white male in this country, is the single biggest head-start...a person could have.

One thing you don't hear, are all those white men talking about how they wished they had been born...with black skin.

That speaks for itself. :boom:

[ColdNoMore]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4yrg7vV4a5o

[anothersteve]

Nailed it!

Being born a white male in this country, is the single biggest head-start...a person could have.

One thing you don't hear, are all those white men talking about how they wished they had been born...with black skin.

That speaks for itself. :boom:

Bull ****! Of course....I'm proud of who I am and who I became, not because of color or "privlege" . With my **** of a life when I was younger, I could've gone either way, nobody knows what it was like when or where I grew up. Without going into details...I was a **** of a kid, thank God I had people that cared and helped me take hold of my life.....privileged...without a doubt!
What was your childhood like?
Steve

[manaboutown]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

I did not get into Harvard or any other college through affirmative action and get coached on tests and given the answers ahead of time so I could pass.

I did not get into medical school only because I was black (Matory, Jr.) but unqualified and take the place of a white man who went to medical school in the Caribbean and went on to save many lives and do a lot of charity work (Bakke) only to go on and kill my patients and lose my license to practice medicine. Plastic Surgeon Discusses Patient'''s Death - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-jul-04-me-9785-story.html)

I did not get hired at higher wages than my white counterparts and only have to show up at work to pick up my paycheck but never have to do any work at all because I was black.

It must be nice to enjoy black privilege.

[Velvet]

This white male privilege is a strange thing, why do they not seem to enjoy it much? Why do they have the highest rates of suicide?


Wiki:
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention reported that in 2016 suicide was the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S., imposing a cost of $69 billion to the US annually.[9][18] Other statistics reported are:[9]

The annual age-adjusted suicide rate is 13.42 per 100,000 individuals.
Men die by suicide 3.53x more often than women.
On average, there are 123 suicides per day.
White males accounted for 7 of 10 suicides in 2016.
A firearm is used in almost 50% of all suicides.
The rate of suicide is highest in middle age—white men in particular.

[thomp679]

I did not get into Harvard or any other college through affirmative action and get coached on tests and given the answers ahead of time so I could pass.

I did not get into medical school only because I was black (Matory, Jr.) but unqualified and take the place of a white man who went to medical school in the Caribbean and went on to save many lives and do a lot of charity work (Bakke) only to go on and kill my patients and lose my license to practice medicine. Plastic Surgeon Discusses Patient'''s Death - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-jul-04-me-9785-story.html)

I did not get hired at higher wages than my white counterparts and only have to show up at work to pick up my paycheck but never have to do any work at all because I was black.

It must be nice to enjoy black privilege.

I would argue with your view, but your signature tagline says it all.

“To argue with a person who has renounced the use of reason is like administering medicine to the dead.” Thomas Paine

You might want to find a more applicable signature tag.

[Utrix53]

I did not get into Harvard or any other college through affirmative action and get coached on tests and given the answers ahead of time so I could pass.

I did not get into medical school only because I was black (Matory, Jr.) but unqualified and take the place of a white man who went to medical school in the Caribbean and went on to save many lives and do a lot of charity work (Bakke) only to go on and kill my patients and lose my license to practice medicine. Plastic Surgeon Discusses Patient'''s Death - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1997-jul-04-me-9785-story.html)

I did not get hired at higher wages than my white counterparts and only have to show up at work to pick up my paycheck but never have to do any work at all because I was black.

It must be nice to enjoy black privilege.
Having a pity party? And your mother didn't have to give you the young man talk about how not to walk with your hands in your pockets, don't look "that way" at a white girl and don't argue with a police officer even if they're wrong and several other behaviors that could prevent you from getting home safely. Every black mother has to give this talk, so stop complaining.

[Slapnut]

We will never be able to get over these racial barriers because of people ( both black and white) not being able to get over the past. Forget the skin color and look at that person as an individual. There are certain people that make it rough on their race by doing terrible things that reflect on them as a race whether they are black or white. We can't base our opinions on these few but we do. We need to look at the big picture and look at one race (the human race). Until we can get skin color and just the few people who set the bad examples out of our head then maybe we can get over this problem. I seriously doubt that it will ever happen because of living in the past

[Slapnut]

Quit living in the past. Move on

[coalminer]

Ok, you are religious. What is your point?

[dewilson58]

One thing you don't hear, are all those white men talking about how they wished they had been born...with black skin.
:boom:


Very degrading.............black men do not wish they were born white.

[Dahabs]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

That is exactly the point. Most white people don't get that (including me for a long time).

[DanBrew]

OK folks. I've had enough. Yes, I did quite well for myself as I worked my butt off to get where I am. Along the way, I witnessed people of color in the college book store getting free albums, junk food, etc. from their government entitlement check while I paid for my books with the money that I EARNED from the two jobs I had. I worked my way through a thirty five year career by acquiring knowledge and then giving that back to others. I wish I could tell you how many times I was passed over for promotions and positions that would have paid me lots more only because I was a white male. Don't give me this white male priviledge crap. Until you have been discriminated against for what you are, just shut the hell up.

[Raywatkins]

We are Brits and have a second home in TV. So largely we cannot comment on US affairs. But I share a story.
One night we were driving in from MCO.
As we entered Wildwood we were surrounded by 3 cop cars. We didn’t realise our main beams weren’t on. I guess our accents helped. It was a scary incident. They were on the lookout for drugs people. We didn’t fit the profile. Were we privileged? Coming from the UK I don’t know. I would like to think that 99.9% of cops would have treated everybody equally. Just as in the US we in the UK have a few rotten apples who have their own agenda. Whatever your views it would be hard to find any justification in this recent incident or any that are like it.

[Slapnut]

Let me know when you have your pity party so I can make sure not to show up.

[biker1]

Chris Rock, the black comic, also gives the talk. Like most comedy, it is funny because it is true.

Chris Rock - How not to get your ass kicked by the police! - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uj0mtxXEGE8)


Having a pity party? And your mother didn't have to give you the young man talk about how not to walk with your hands in your pockets, don't look "that way" at a white girl and don't argue with a police officer even if they're wrong and several other behaviors that could prevent you from getting home safely. Every black mother has to give this talk, so stop complaining.

[kenoc7]

Man did you miss the boat with OP's post.

Nice broard paint brush also,
Steve

OrangeBlossomBaby got it 1000 percent right. Listen to the stories of people of color whose life was identical to that of the original post but then had the experiences described by OrangeBlossomBaby. That is privilege.

[kenoc7]

Not sure I understand, what’s wrong with being born white, or born a man? Or for that matter a human?

I don’t think he really had a choice in the matter.

There is nothing wrong with being born white. What i s wrong is not recognizing that as a white person in America you are a privileged person.

[George Page]

Is a black man born in the United States a man of privilege compared to one born in a third world country?
Is a member of the Kennedy clan a man of privilege compared to a white retired union worker living in The Villages?
Is the son of a successful black man privileged compared to an unemployed redneck living in a trailer park?
You play the hand you are dealt, cease opportunities, work hard, and celebrate your successes. Otherwise, you dwell on your disadvantages, feel victimized, and resent those who are moving forward.
The color that matters is GREEN.

[Stu from NYC]

Nailed it!

Being born a white male in this country, is the single biggest head-start...a person could have.

One thing you don't hear, are all those white men talking about how they wished they had been born...with black skin.

That speaks for itself. :boom:

Funny how all those Asians come here with nothing and not speaking the language and somehow manage to be very successful.

[J1ceasar]

Being a white Protestant man is being of the privileged. All you people seem to forget how mr. President Kennedy I start not to have a chance as he was a Catholic. Being black are Muslim or Jewish or not being a prize than white man is taking the chance how being hurt everyday give me a nickel for every time someone came up to me and said gee I had a Jewish boss I was fine working with them. Even when I travel the country as a salesperson I would drive up do Wisconsin weather Chicago license plate I have dumb young man stop me and call me a flatlander. Being a woman or being black or an Asian or Muslim or a Jew means you're a second-class citizen to every white Protestant mail out there that may give you a job or has a position that serves people . it's really nice that you believe in your religion and it gives you much hope and joy, but unconsciously I bet you do things that are prejudiced against most of the world remember Christianity is the smallest numbered of the major religious organizations.

[J1ceasar]

By the way in an interesting historical fact in the sixties and 70s during the marches for the blacks to be treated the same as everyone else there was a large block a liberal Jews I would come to Washington DC to march with the blacks. I'm not saying the word Christians but what I am saying do Jews as a group very liberal and still are.

What I'd like everyone to consider instead of being hateful or afraid , what are you going to do to change everyone's perceptions and prejudices? 50 plus years since the March's

[thevillager1988]

We do not choose our race.

I feel so helpless. I am a white woman, by no fault of my own. I am saddened and incensed about the senseless killing of Floyd George, a black man, by no fault of his own. I am as saddened and incensed by this killing as anyone, black or white, by no fault of their own.

What makes a person kill so senselessly? And what makes groups of people react so violently? This is by fault of their own. And that fault has no color, nor race. But fault has intent and it has consequences.

Sadly, today the consequences are for people who are equally saddened and incensed by the tragic, triggering event. Who suffer, by no fault of their own.

I feel so helpless. I want to do something. To participate in the solution in some great or small way. And I am afraid of the consequences of the situation we face today for people of all race, who are going to continue to suffer, because of the fault and intent of others.

If anyone has ideas for how I can contribute to solutions to the tragic situation we are facing, please share.

[Girlcopper]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.
Oh please! If you act and dress like the right way, you will have no issues. I dont care what color you are. This attitude is whats perpetuating all the riots. You are treated by the way you act. Act like an animal and thats how youll be perceived regardless of your color

[Pedrocarrasco01@yahoo.com]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.
I am sorry, but I have to disagree with that post totally, I am a Hispanic male, came over from Cuba In 1962, landed in Miami, did not speak English, had to work since there was no welfare back then, worked as many as 3 jobs to be able to eat, bought a car on payments and moved to Virginia. I saw and felt discrimination, I saw the signs saying “Cubans not allowed” I was called every bad name in the book, I got over it and are now retired with no debt, no pension, but very stable and I buy what I want when I want. It’s what you make of yourself what counts. If you live with a chip on your shoulder it will be there FOREVER. GET OVER IT, work hard, worship hard live a clean life, EVERYONE CAN MAKE IT. AMERICA IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES, IF YOU ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO EARN IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

[MandoMan]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

That’s what happened at my house, too, and I’m grateful for that privilege. It has colored my whole life, as it was meant to.

I’ve had privileges in my life, too. Not because of my ethnicity, but because I worked hard, obeyed the laws, lived frugally, chose a great wife and carefully raised wonderful, very intelligent children. This was available to nearly everyone in America willing to make similar educational choices and defer gratification. Now I own a house in The Villages. Hey, if you live here, you are privileged, right? It’s a privilege to live in this beautiful, neatly kept, very safe place where there is so much to do.

I’d like to mention that during the civil rights period from 1960-1967, my grandfather was a preacher and also the circulation manager for two national popular religious monthly magazines, “These Times,” “for the white folk,” and “Message,” “for the colored,” as they would say. The first had an all white editorial staff. The second had an all black editorial staff. They were published by the same publisher and printed on the same presses in Nashville. My grandfather (born in North Dakota of Danish and Norwegian parents) worked equally for both. Half his preaching was done in “white” churches, mostly in the South, and half of his preaching was done in “black” churches. Usually, he would first preach in a “white” church, then race across town to preach in the “black” church, as they would just be warming up about the time the “white” church members were going home. I got to travel to these churches with him. He was loved in both types of church, and he loved the food served after the second service. I did, too. Under the seat of his Rambler he kept a shotgun with a twelve inch barrel and a pistol grip. For safety in the “black” part of town? No, for safety in case a few angry “whites” tried to stop him as he was leaving town. They did try to stop him a few times, and he had to wave that one-handed little shotgun (never loaded or fired). It definitely changed some minds! The people in the “black” churches loved their families at least as much as the people in the “white” churches. There were differences in privileges and educational opportunities and choices, but in all those churches, people were learning the message and trying to live it. That privilege was available to all, and you are right to point it out.

[tenorgirl]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

As a poor white person growing up, coming from the wrong side of the tracks, I had all the same “privileges” as the black person. Enter a store, the security followed you pretending to check the goods. Walk on the wrong side of town, police followed you as if you were about to rob the local establishment. Boys/men thought you and your mother were “easy”. Getting stopped and questioned by local cops “just because”. Called names because you wore hand-me-downs. Yep, sure enjoyed my “white privilege”.
But as Steve said, I had the privilege of loving parents who instilled in me the right and wrong of life including being kind to those different than me.

[ColdNoMore]

By the way in an interesting historical fact in the sixties and 70s during the marches for the blacks to be treated the same as everyone else there was a large block a liberal Jews I would come to Washington DC to march with the blacks. I'm not saying the word Christians but what I am saying do Jews as a group very liberal and still are.

What I'd like everyone to consider instead of being hateful or afraid , what are you going to do to change everyone's perceptions and prejudices? 50 plus years since the March's

Thank you...exactly the point I've been making. :thumbup:

Anyone can see the usual suspects who try and divert from the real problem of institutional inequality/racism/bigotry, to concentrate on those minuscule amounts of criminals...who are breaking the law.

They are quick to paint with a broad rush, yet you never see them post in support of those who have continually been subjected to discrimination, because:

1. Since it's not them, they don't care.

2. They're too stupid/ignorant to understand it's even happening.

3. Or they actually like it...the way it is.

[thevillager1988]

I am sorry, but I have to disagree with that post totally, I am a Hispanic male, came over from Cuba In 1962, landed in Miami, did not speak English, had to work since there was no welfare back then, worked as many as 3 jobs to be able to eat, bought a car on payments and moved to Virginia. I saw and felt discrimination, I saw the signs saying “Cubans not allowed” I was called every bad name in the book, I got over it and are now retired with no debt, no pension, but very stable and I buy what I want when I want. It’s what you make of yourself what counts. If you live with a chip on your shoulder it will be there FOREVER. GET OVER IT, work hard, worship hard live a clean life, EVERYONE CAN MAKE IT. AMERICA IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES, IF YOU ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO EARN IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

And well done!

[ColdNoMore]

Snip>... The people in the “black” churches loved their families at least as much as the people in the “white” churches....<Snip

But that runs counter to those who are claiming that their head-start/privilege isn't because they were born with white skin...but because they had loving and caring parents.

Implying black families don't.

Never even dawning on them, that this is exactly the discrimination/stereotyping...that is at the root of our country's shame. :ohdear:

[jeffy]

Quote"..................You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color........end quote


EXACTLY.....people not realizing this is why we are having problems. Having the misguided belief that we all start out our life in the same place. With the same advantages/disadvantages.

[Fairtoall]

I am a 72 year old white man. Orange Blossom Baby is totally right and much more. The fact that people don't know that is most of the problem.

[DecaturFargo]

Thank you for your perspective. I don't think white people understand just how fortunate they are relatively to minorities. Protesting is necessary. Violence destroys community and that is destructive and senseless.

[fdpaq0580]

I am sorry, but I have to disagree with that post totally, I am a Hispanic male, came over from Cuba In 1962, landed in Miami, did not speak English, had to work since there was no welfare back then, worked as many as 3 jobs to be able to eat, bought a car on payments and moved to Virginia. I saw and felt discrimination, I saw the signs saying “Cubans not allowed” I was called every bad name in the book, I got over it and are now retired with no debt, no pension, but very stable and I buy what I want when I want. It’s what you make of yourself what counts. If you live with a chip on your shoulder it will be there FOREVER. GET OVER IT, work hard, worship hard live a clean life, EVERYONE CAN MAKE IT. AMERICA IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES, IF YOU ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO EARN IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

Thank you! Your mention of the "chip on the shoulder" attitude is one thing everyone has to get rid of or they spend their life fighting battles and making enemies instead of friends.

[bmit16]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.



Neither have most black people in reality, only in the media!

[MitchellRA01]

My opinion is that you are not privileged because you are white. You are fortunate, not privileged, because you had a loving mom and dad, as many people today (both black and white) do not. You have God in your life. That is a choice every man and women have to make. I have black friends who have elected to take the same path in life as you. God ?Bless them too. I only wish the family unit could once again be a vital part of our society. I also am fortunate, not privileged, as I also had a loving mom and dad and I have asked God to lead me in life.

[WindyCityzen]

You don’t know what you don’t know.

[Chatbrat]

The only real thing that has changed and promulgated the situation today is the breakup of the black family, you have single kids raising kids all over the black community--police know who the frequent flyers are, and they react to situations on a daily basis we can only dream of--maybe the only benefit of the current situation will be the demise of urban centers

These riots combined with coronavirus, high taxes will exorbate urban flight.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The only real thing that has changed and promulgated the situation today is the breakup of the black family, you have single kids raising kids all over the black community--police know who the frequent flyers are, and they react to situations on a daily basis we can only dream of--maybe the only benefit of the current situation will be the demise of urban centers

These riots combined with coronavirus, high taxes will exorbate urban flight.

I don't think that's the only thing. I see a lot more incidents of domestic abuse (wife-beating) in young white families. The kids grow up to see daddy beating mommy, and become numb to the violence. They grow up thinking just "it is what it is" and continue the pattern. Maybe if those families broke apart and didn't continue the cycle of violence our country wouldn't be so filled with violent angry white people so eager to blame someone for their ills.

The above was pure hyperbole. To demonstrate the hyperbole in Chatbrat's post, from the "other" side of the spectrum.

Black families breaking up is no more or less the "reason" for all this than white families refusing to break up in violent environments.

[diva1]

OrangeBlossomBaby You are so right. I know you are getting criticized because you didn't applaud the religious tone of the original post. Clap, clap. But you named only a few of the many examples of why white people do have an advantage. Not saying one asks for it, but it just is...you are born into it. You don't think about it day to day. Something else to thank God for.

[dennisgavin]

How about having in tact households. The 70% out of wedlock births with no father in the home, holding up rappers with disgusting lyrics as role models and even inviting them to the white house? Are Asians also privileged or do they revere education and work there butts off? There are some blacks that "get it" and raise themselves up and succeed but they get called out for not being black enough. What a bunch of crap. You reap what you sow. My mother always said when everyone else is wrong it's time to start looking at yourself! I judge people by their actions not the color of their skin. I don't vote for gender or skin color but for who I think will get the job done. I'd be happy to vote for Condoeeziza Rice. Not because she is black or a woman but because of her work ethic
and abilities. This whole riot BS has been orchestrated. Not the demonstration but the RIOTS. THe rioters have set those neighborhoods back another 20 years. I could go on but I'll stop here.

[Strongel]

Until we become solution focused it will continue. All sides need to stop rehearsing the problem.

[Reesie]

Maybe the word that we should be using is blessed.
Blessed that we have a loving home. Blessed that we have food in our bellies.
As whites, we are privileged. We have not even once had to be in fear of jogging down a road. Never once been in fear of going into a Starbucks and sitting.
We have never once been judged strictly by how much melanin is in our DNA.
All I am asking is to show grace. Don’t assume. Never assume.

[billethkid]

Statements being made with general application connotations being treated as if a majority issue.....when they are not.

Continued examples of society being driven by special interests and minority (not race) representations!

[Fairtoall]

I forgot to say. In an example where every single thing is the exact same such as attractiveness, IQ, money, upbringing values, religious values, mom and dad types, body type, abilities, etc.; you add the black skin and see what happens. No it doesn't hold you completely back where you will never have a chance but none of us here wants to share those equals and then add the black skin to us. That would scare the hell out of us. We would no longer have the totally equal chances even though we might be able to become the president of a company or whatever. As far as stereotypes. Not all country people are rednecks, not all Fl people are morons (our new national name this year), not all white men are bigots, not all women that cheat are whores, not all urban people are city slickers not to be trusted, on and on. Each one should be judged by his or her own behavior just like you would like done to you and that is just not happening at a fair rate.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

How about having in tact households. The 70% out of wedlock births with no father in the home, holding up rappers with disgusting lyrics as role models and even inviting them to the white house? Are Asians also privileged or do they revere education and work there butts off? There are some blacks that "get it" and raise themselves up and succeed but they get called out for not being black enough. What a bunch of crap. You reap what you sow. My mother always said when everyone else is wrong it's time to start looking at yourself! I judge people by their actions not the color of their skin. I don't vote for gender or skin color but for who I think will get the job done. I'd be happy to vote for Condoeeziza Rice. Not because she is black or a woman but because of her work ethic
and abilities. This whole riot BS has been orchestrated. Not the demonstration but the RIOTS. THe rioters have set those neighborhoods back another 20 years. I could go on but I'll stop here.

The riots were led by, or manipulated by White Nationalists. That's been discovered and reported and confirmed. They've been doing tracing.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

I forgot to say. In an example where every single thing is the exact same such as attractiveness, IQ, money, upbringing values, religious values, mom and dad types, body type, abilities, etc.; you add the black skin and see what happens. No it doesn't hold you completely back where you will never have a chance but none of us here wants to share those equals and then add the black skin to us. That would scare the hell out of us. We would no longer have the totally equal chances even though we might be able to become the president of a company or whatever. As far as stereotypes. Not all country people are rednecks, not all Fl people are morons (our new national name this year), not all white men are bigots, not all women that cheat are whores, not all urban people are city slickers not to be trusted, on and on. Each one should be judged by his or her own behavior just like you would like done to you and that is just not happening at a fair rate.

Agreed. These are all things we *should* understand. But until those who DO live with that white privilege and deny it, stop denying it, it will continue. "All they have to do is..." doesn't mean a load of nothing. A black man in New Haven was stopped, questioned, detained, and searched for going to an abandoned building. The police though the guy was a drug dealer, or going to visit a drug dealer. They thought he stole the car he arrived in. He was humiliated, publicly.

Turns out - he was one of the big-wigs of City Hall. Not the Mayor but someone up there, it was awhile back and I can't remember exactly.

They stopped him because he is black. They didn't recognize him because he wasn't AT the town hall in his suit in his office surrounded by his mostly white staff to vouch for him.

So saying "all you have to do is take what you're given and propel yourself up from it" - is basically saying "I have no idea what it's like, and I believe what I believe and no amount of proof will make me believe otherwise."

[blueash]

Thank you! Your mention of the "chip on the shoulder" attitude is one thing everyone has to get rid of or they spend their life fighting battles and making enemies instead of friends.

If only those blacks weren't so uppity! Am I hearing you correctly?

[Annie66]

This whole issue is incredibly complex. There is no one root cause that if solved would correct the discrimination experienced by minorities. Until Americans can get past the issue that minorities, and particularly blacks, are sub-human, we'll never make sufficient progress towards "all men (and women) are created equal."

To close, I ran across an op-ed penned a few days ago by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the LA Times. It scratches the surface but provides a perspective worth considering.

George Floyd protests: People are pushed to the edge - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2020-05-30/dont-understand-the-protests-what-youre-seeing-is-people-pushed-to-the-edge)

[72lions]

Like I said, "people" see and read what they want. You don't get the message and can't "see the forrest through the trees"
Tunnel vision is a terrible thing.
Steve

Yes Steve, it is. You saw what you wanted to see. You saw Christian references and it caused you to feel supportive. You forgot that the OP posted this specifically in reference to white privilege and current news events. As yourself how you react when a young black man is behind you at night. Do you notice his skin color or simply that he is young and male?

My son in law’s family came from Barbados. He was born in Boston. His Johns Hopkins Masters degree is in Electrical Engineering. He is a triathlete. His first run from our home during Christmas resulted in the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office being called because a young black man was in the neighborhood.

You and I are privileged. He is not. None of us had anything to do with this.

[lorilorilori]

The next generation ... will NOT be "born white and priviledged."
Many/most government jobs going to minorities
Social security going to minorities and lots of whites being turned down. (yes, its true)
Scholorships available for minorities and less for white kids
Minorities are banding together against whites.
Ok for a black to be a racist - not ok for a white.
If you think your grandkids are going to have it EZ - U R asleep in the real world.

[ColdNoMore]

If only those blacks weren't so uppity! Am I hearing you correctly?

YEP...you nailed it. :thumbup:

[ColdNoMore]

This whole issue is incredibly complex. There is no one root cause that if solved would correct the discrimination experienced by minorities.

Until Americans can get past the issue that minorities, and particularly blacks, are sub-human, we'll never make sufficient progress towards "all men (and women) are created equal."

To close, I ran across an op-ed penned a few days ago by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar for the LA Times. It scratches the surface but provides a perspective worth considering.

George Floyd protests: People are pushed to the edge - Los Angeles Times (https://www.latimes.com/opinion/story/2020-05-30/dont-understand-the-protests-what-youre-seeing-is-people-pushed-to-the-edge)

You've nailed the root of the problem. :thumbup:

[Chi-Town]

I saw what he posted. Here it is again:



Bold/underlined for emphasis. This is plain English. But translating the grammar for ya:

He hears from people that he is privileged BECAUSE he is white. That his privilege - is a direct result of the color of his skin.

And then he goes on to explain how he's privileged.

So HE is missing the point. Or obfuscating it. Or minimizing it. Or possibly not understanding it - however, since he then says he bristles from it, I'm sensing that he totally understands it.

The white male reference tainted the rest of what could have been an uplifting message.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The next generation ... will NOT be "born white and priviledged."
Many/most government jobs going to minorities
Social security going to minorities and lots of whites being turned down. (yes, its true)
Scholorships available for minorities and less for white kids
Minorities are banding together against whites.
Ok for a black to be a racist - not ok for a white.
If you think your grandkids are going to have it EZ - U R asleep in the real world.

My thoughts on your post:

1. Social Security goes to people who pay into it. There are more white people employed in this country than there are black people. Unemployment is higher in blacks than in whites. People who don't pay into social security don't ever get social security checks. And people who have a lower income, will see a smaller social security check, than people with higher incomes. That's how social security works.

2. Maybe if you learned to spell, and learned to use actual words instead of chatroom shortcuts in an internet forum, you would've gotten a scholarship too.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

The white male reference tainted the rest of what could have been an uplifting message.

Exactly that. And the scary part is that there are a few people in this community who don't think it's a problem. Those are the people who need to learn facts more than anyone else, but they refuse to because it doesn't fit their narrative of "everything is fine, those people just don't work hard enough."

[manaboutown]

The only real thing that has changed and promulgated the situation today is the breakup of the black family, you have single kids raising kids all over the black community--police know who the frequent flyers are, and they react to situations on a daily basis we can only dream of--maybe the only benefit of the current situation will be the demise of urban centers

These riots combined with coronavirus, high taxes will exorbate urban flight.

The demise of the black family unit is a major cause of our current social problems. Children need fathers as well as mothers. IMHO our welfare system is a major cause of today's problems. 80% of the men in prison, black or white, were raised in fatherless homes.

[ColdNoMore]

I forgot to say. In an example where every single thing is the exact same such as attractiveness, IQ, money, upbringing values, religious values, mom and dad types, body type, abilities, etc.; you add the black skin and see what happens.

No it doesn't hold you completely back where you will never have a chance but none of us here wants to share those equals and then add the black skin to us. That would scare the hell out of us.

We would no longer have the totally equal chances even though we might be able to become the president of a company or whatever. As far as stereotypes. Not all country people are rednecks, not all Fl people are morons (our new national name this year), not all white men are bigots, not all women that cheat are whores, not all urban people are city slickers not to be trusted, on and on. Each one should be judged by his or her own behavior just like you would like done to you and that is just not happening at a fair rate.

Excellently stated! :thumbup:

And yet, we keep hearing from the usual suspects that it really doesn't make a difference...having black skin.

Funny (funny sad) thing is though, you don't hear a single one of those same people...saying that they wish they had been born black.

Why is that? :ohdear:

[Timothyimitchell]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

All about choices and decisions And yes we can and do make them. White privilege? What. A. Joke.

[DeanFL]

....seems like SO many decades ago. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.
.
.
.
>

[Mikenbats66]

This makes me sick . I was a policeman in a large city and never harassed any person black or white . It was always about who are the ones who commit the crimes . More often than not it was blacks who did it and often against whites . But you would never hear about that . Oh no !

[argos5usa]

If there is white privilege, then why does virtually every person with a smidgen of minority blood or affiliation identify as being minority or "of color," especially when applying for colleges, jobs, government programs, etc.?

[Fairtoall]

People that know nothing other than always having been in the "I love the USA" controlling majority get really really scared when the population via birthrates and the resulting voters growing up are leading them into being in the minority themselves. That is why they attack the lowest, part of the opposition which is the most erroneous but easiest to attack and they want it to be a stereotype. Example; some blacks that really hate white people in a fight might call a white person a KKK member even though they know it is a stretch beyond belief. Some white people in a fight might eventually consider stooping to the N word which is also as ridiculous as well. Then we all float around somewhere in the middle of those extremes. Just be mature, learn to be in the minority. The majority is supposed to get their way here. It might not be our "turn" anymore. W are just scared it won't include us anymore, kind of like losing all of your riches. In a really free society the majority rules by fair and ongoing voting. Try to respect that even though you are scared of being a minority. Once again; I am a 72 year old white male, veteran, ex CFO, not a minority yet.

[ColdNoMore]

This makes me sick . I was a policeman in a large city and never harassed any person black or white . It was always about who are the ones who commit the crimes . More often than not it was blacks who did it and often against whites . But you would never hear about that . Oh no !

Please excuse me, based on the entirety of your comment...if I don't believe your first post. :ho:

[Nipper]

Thank you. You are so right.

[Jayhawk]

Maybe the word that we should be using is blessed.
Blessed that we have a loving home. Blessed that we have food in our bellies.
As whites, we are privileged. We have not even once had to be in fear of jogging down a road. Never once been in fear of going into a Starbucks and sitting.
We have never once been judged strictly by how much melanin is in our DNA.
All I am asking is to show grace. Don’t assume. Never assume.

So you never went into an area and felt concerned for your safety? Whether real or perceived, anyone who says they haven't are not being honest.

And yes, all people have been judged by color at times. You, me, and everyone reading this. Not right or fair, but true.

Take your own advice.

Don’t assume. Never assume.

[aallbrand]

if you make a statement that black crime is higher then any one else and that's all you have to say you are a jive white racist chump and a idiot ( I am white )

[Jayhawk]

Each one should be judged by his or her own behavior just like you would like done to you and that is just not happening at a fair rate.

So how do you feel /judge about the rioting and looting behaviors?

[airstreamingypsy]

OrangeBlossomBaby, I don't know who you are, but I hope we are friends in real life.

[Joe C.]

A man of privilege??
NO!!!

I am the result of RESPONSIBLE PARENTS.

Don't feed me that BS that I'm living that special life.
I've had to work my butt off to get where I am. No affirmative action or special programs for me. I had a poor childhood...I know what it's like to go to bed hungry, go to school some days with no breakfast, have no heat some days in the winter, holes in the bottom of my shoes, and putting cardboard in the shoes to cover the hole.
The thing is, though, we were taught values....and they were enforced and reinforced.

What we are seeing today is the result of irresponsible parents and teachers.
There is a reason for the slogan "spare the rod and spoil the child".

[Fairtoall]

Perfect example of how things get right to the lowest so fast. The policemen and the guy calling the guy a racist. Oh and the white nationalist comment. You left out, exactly "who" was tracking, exactly who "they" are and exactly "how they are tracking, exactly where did you get this information" you are so excited about you want everyone to know about it. Sorry, just hard to follow with the real meat of your observation left out. Wait for it, wait for it, wait for it

[jebartle]

[QUOTE=Slapnut;1774719]We will never be able to get over these racial barriers because of people ( both black and white) not being able to get over the past. Forget the skin color and look at that person as an individual. There are certain people that make it rough on their race by doing terrible things that reflect on them as a race whether they are black or white. We can't base our opinions on these few but we do. We need to look at the big picture and look at one race (the human race). Until we can get skin color and just the few people who set the bad examples out of our head then maybe we can get over this problem. I seriously doubt that it will ever happen because of living in the past[/QUOTE

I see a glass half full, our grandkids are more inclusive than our generation will ever be, our prejudice is written in stone with some, sad, really sad.

[Jayhawk]

Excellently stated! :thumbup:

And yet, we keep hearing from the usual suspects that it really doesn't make a difference...having black skin.

Funny (funny sad) thing is though, you don't hear a single one of those same people...saying that they wish they had been born black.

Why is that? :ohdear:

Yes, but I also don't hear you or anyone else saying they wish they were born White Trash. Do you have a chance to see the online news source that can't be linked and see some of the trash that is busted on an almost daily basis? Way more white than any other. Did they miss the Privilege Train or was it just bad luck in the DNA Lottery?

[Jayhawk]

The next generation ... will NOT be "born white and priviledged."
Many/most government jobs going to minorities
Social security going to minorities and lots of whites being turned down. (yes, its true)
Scholorships available for minorities and less for white kids
Minorities are banding together against whites.
Ok for a black to be a racist - not ok for a white.
If you think your grandkids are going to have it EZ - U R asleep in the real world.

I think you may have single-handily proved your theory wrong.

[Stu from NYC]

The demise of the black family unit is a major cause of our current social problems. Children need fathers as well as mothers. IMHO our welfare system is a major cause of today's problems. 80% of the men in prison, black or white, were raised in fatherless homes.

If the black leadership in this country would pound away on kids needing two parents, children would grow up with values.

[Fairtoall]

jebartle totally agree with you. Some amazing young people out there.

I'm out. Leaving to enjoy the day even with my mask on. Need to respect the other people, not just stomp my feet, demand my rights or I will take my football home.

Everyone please enjoy yours too no matter who you are, where you are from, what you think, etc.

[manaboutown]

So you never went into an area and felt concerned for your safety? Whether real or perceived, anyone who says they haven't are not being honest.

And yes, all people have been judged by color at times. You, me, and everyone reading this. Not right or fair, but true.

Take your own advice.

Don’t assume. Never assume.

"As for interracial violence generally, blacks disproportionately commit it. Between 2012 and 2015, there were 631,830 violent interracial victimizations, excluding homicide, between blacks and whites, according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
Blacks, who make up 13 percent of the US population, committed 85.5 percent of those victimizations, or 540,360 felonious assaults on whites, while whites, 61 percent of the population, committed 14.4 percent, or 91,470 felonious assaults on blacks.
Regarding threats to blacks from the police: A police officer is 18.5 times more likely to be killed by a black male than an unarmed black male is to be killed by a police officer."

From: The Deadly Shootings That Black Lives Matter Ignores | Manhattan Institute (https://www.manhattan-institute.org/html/deadly-shootings-ignored)

Jesse Jackson: “There is nothing more painful to me at this stage in my life than to walk down the street and hear footsteps... then turn around and see somebody white and feel relieved.”

[Jayhawk]

The majority is supposed to get their way here. It might not be our "turn" anymore.

Where the hell did you come up with this???

[Joe C.]

BTW …..

That "white man living a life of privilege ..that was a phrase used by Jane Fonda during an interview with CNN.

What would you expect??

[youngerday]

Some black people do have loving moms and dads. But to many don't have one or the other. that is probably the biggest problem

[manaboutown]

BTW …..

That "white man living a life of privilege ..that was a phrase used by Jane Fonda during an interview with CNN.

What would you expect??

Hanoi Jane is the one who came up with that?

Well, it certainly applies to her life but not mine!

[rsibole]

If the OP hadn't begun his thread with a reference to being privileged "as a white man" I wouldn't have responded, because it'd be a lovely sentiment of a person who is privileged to have wonderful things in his life.

However, he pointed out that the reference was to being privileged "as a white man." NONE of the things he is talking about, are things that are exclusive to being white. Unless he really thinks that black people don't have loving families with moms and dads? And he thinks black people don't pray? And so on and so forth.

Get the "as a white man" out of the thread, and you have a point, Steve. But as long as that distinction remains, it is just ignorance rearing its ugly head.

‪In my opinion, a root cause of the problems in this Country is that everyone seems to separate Americans into "Communities" according to their skin color, morals or religious and political beliefs. Everyone who does is and promotes the real racism, bigotry and strife in this Country. As long as there is a "Black Community" racism will exist, which will be as far into the future as I can imagine. As long as there is a Gay Community, Jewish Community, Muslim Community or any divided group identifying as a “Community” setting themselves apart, there will be a natural and continuous bias from within and outside their Community. ‬

‪Unconditional love and acceptance is Devine but we are all human. As long as there are humans, as long as there is a we, there will be Communities and there will be racism, bigotry and strife. The fewer “Communities” the less problems of these types we’ll have. The way to that end is to expand our smaller communities into a larger one, giving up the identities that separate us. ‬

‪We live in a very large Community . . . . America. When our main identity is being an American the lesser attributes of skin color, religious beliefs or personal preference will matter less and not separate us as Americans. But to do this, these lesser attributes have to be abandoned, willingly and not by the force of law.‬

[bp243]

Wow, you nailed it with your response!

[mflasch]

Don't worry about it. The liberal left is always looking for ways to shame those individuals who have worked hard and done the right things throughout their lives. This White Privilege fallacy is just their current mantra and is already worn out. They ignore the real problems that have created the current atmosphere such as the removal of prayer from the schools, the lack of a father in the family unit in the community, the fact that since minorities commit a disproportionate share of the crimes there is justification for caution by the police and other individuals. You, like myself, worked hard all our lives to get to where we are and we should be proud of what we accomplished, not shamed by liberal lunatics.

[J1ceasar]

Funny how all those Asians come here with nothing and not speaking the language and somehow manage to be very successful.

SO did those Italians , Irish and Jews of the 1900's etc etc .. It starts with respect and ends with EDUCATION........ Something most blacks don't understand .

[georgea]

I got his point completely. He found a way to dismiss and minimize the fact that he, and most white people (including myself) live with a privilege that we don't even realize we have, until someone points it out.

Until we can honestly discuss why this dichotomy persists, i.e. lack of respect for people of color vs perceived privilege for white people nothing at all will change.
Let us discuss why there is such a large number of fatherless black families and how can we change this. We know that people from intact families have better outcomes in life generally.
Why is doing well in school considered "acting white" and how can we change this. Why were the sewers clogged in North Philadelphia the day after school books were handed out by same books? How can we change that?
Why did even Jesse Jackson admit he was frightened by being followed down the street by a group of young black youth? How can we change that?
Why are hundreds of black men killed in our cities each year by other black men? How can we change that?
Police in our major cities have to deal with major lawlessness in the majority black sections of our cities and how does this affect their feelings toward people of color. Let them be honest about this!
Why can there be no businesses in areas of our cities with a majority of people of color and how can we change that?
We all know there are many intact black families who are religious, respect the benefits of education and become teachers, doctors, lawyers and pursue other intellectual emplyment opportunities. However, they are outnumbered by those who do not act this way. If the proportions were reversed, would the lack of respect for people of color, in general, also change?
Sorry for such a long post but the problem and answer is not simplistic.

[joseppe]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

I would not call it privilege and I feel you would have to qualify What environment that white male was brought into. I would rather infer that the Black male is brought into a somewhat hostile environment, however a white male brought into a 'ghetto' area in this country is also facing a hostile environment. Now a black male born into a prominent black family in an upscale neighborhood may not experience the black oppression we find in this country. I think trying to classify ALL black males or ALL white males is not going to give a true picture.

Further, privilege is "a special right or advantage that is bestowed upon a person or group" . No indication that any white male ever receives privilege. On the other hand Black males (and females) gain privilege through affirmative action and preferential admissions to schools. Those 'privileges' are our country's way of trying to ease the oppression of minorities.

[ffresh]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.

OMG ... I think my head is going to explode barf

Fred

[ffresh]

Nailed it!

Being born a white male in this country, is the single biggest head-start...a person could have.

One thing you don't hear, are all those white men talking about how they wished they had been born...with black skin.

That speaks for itself. :boom:

Thank you for giving me a second chance to upchuck my breakfast barf

Fred

[Topspinmo]

A man with privilege ALWAYS has money and influence. And he alway will until his counterparts turn on him.

[Jayhawk]

A man with privilege ALWAYS has money and influence. And he alway will until his counterparts turn on him.

Yeah, I saw that movie.

Trading Places - Trailer - YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v9JcJgXATU8)

[Topspinmo]

I got his point completely. He found a way to dismiss and minimize the fact that he, and most white people (including myself) live with a privilege that we don't even realize we have, until someone points it out.

Wrong, majority of white people don’t live privileged life. You have no clue how poor while American’s live. You see all these rich privileged Ivy Leaguer’s and old money and mad cause you’re not one of them. There probably 100 times more Poor whites than any outer race in this country. Why? Majority of the population. And it get worse every year for all races.

[larbud]

Get real.

[Aloha1]

We will never end this segregation of people along racial lines until we accept one TRUE FACT: We are all "out of Africa".The ancestry of every human on this planet goes back to Africa. Skin color is a function of adaptation to climate. Some of us stayed in Africa. Most of us ventured out to what is now the Middle East and Africa then up to eastern Europe and then Western Europe. The higher the latitude, the paler the skin color became. We can't choose where our ancestors migrated to and this false concept of "privilege" is just socialist feel good talk. Get over it, quit classifying people on the basis of their skin color.

[coastalnh]

The OP is the one missing the boat. I am all for someone who is happy in life because of their faith. However, a good Christian needs to be empathetic to the plights of all people. By diminishing the importance of how people of color have a tougher life than white people, the OP is not practicing his faith. The praying and going to church every Sunday is the easy part. The application of the Christian faith in all aspects of your life is much harder. I pray the he rereads his post and realizes that there is such a thing as White Privilege and that using his thankfulness for loving parents and his faith, in this context, seemed racially insensitive.

[SouthJerseyGirl]

If you don’t believe that white privilege exists, take a look at this:

Life of Privilege Explained in a $100 Race - YouTube (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=kyl4EJhq47A)

[Scorpyo]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

You are privileged! And, be thankful!! You've heard the expression old money and new money. That applies to privilege as well. There's old privilege, that which is inherited because of a family's station in life. The parents may have had power or money for any number of reasons (both good and bad) and their children get to benefit from that and they become privileged. Then there's new privilege. Those that became privilege due to their own accomplishments (again good or bad). Me - I grew up poor, dropped out of school, got a GED, went into the Navy, got and undergrad degree through my VA benefits and saved everything I could. So, now I'm considered privileged. Yes I am and I'm proud of it. So, if you've elevated yourself to that level accept the title as a compliment. If others use it as a derogatory term, that's their problem not yours. They have no idea how you became privileged nor do they recognize how they might be preventing themselves from achieving that title as well.

[Japrile]

You have never had to leave your house to go to school or work, and worry that the police car driving up the road is going to stop and officers come out with their hands on the handles of their guns, questioning why you're walking on the sidewalk in your neighborhood.

You have never had to be followed by a store clerk who is worried that you're going to steal something.

You've never been in an elevator and when it opened on another floor, the young family about to get in, chose to wait for another elevator instead.

That is privilege. You enjoy things that black people don't get to enjoy, simply by virtue of your skin color.
Your comment is true except the reason behind it. Because you have never been mugged, harassed, rape or beaten by.blacks because your white. Fear comes with a reason

[golfing eagles]

We will never end this segregation of people along racial lines until we accept one TRUE FACT: We are all "out of Africa".The ancestry of every human on this planet goes back to Africa. Skin color is a function of adaptation to climate. Some of us stayed in Africa. Most of us ventured out to what is now the Middle East and Africa then up to eastern Europe and then Western Europe. The higher the latitude, the paler the skin color became. We can't choose where our ancestors migrated to and this false concept of "privilege" is just socialist feel good talk. Get over it, quit classifying people on the basis of their skin color.

Nice anthropology lesson. Relevance?????

[Aloha1]

Nice anthropology lesson. Relevance?????

The relevance is the fact that we are all the same underneath our skin.

Our government has become obsessed with classifying everybody into a"race". I stopped playing that game long ago. Any time a form asks for "race", I answered Human. Even a Jury form where the Court Clerk actually called me to say I had to pick a "race". I said if the Judge can't accept "human", hold me in contempt. They never called me to serve.

And, yes, I am well aware that the term Human actually refers to species but it often gets interchanged with race.

[Rite2jamie]

So if all white people are privileged, what exactly are we supposed to do about that? Continue to run ourselves down because we are white and don’t understand?

[ColdNoMore]

So if all white people are privileged, what exactly are we supposed to do about that? Continue to run ourselves down because we are white and don’t understand?

Start with an acknowledgment of it and then make an effort...to equalize the playing field.

Be willing and internally strong enough to take criticism, whether it be here on TOTV or even by neighbors/relatives, while taking comfort in the knowledge...you are at least making an effort to be a decent human being.

My money and time goes toward many causes that does just that and taking the time to answer the obvious racism/bigotry on TOTV...is but a small % of my efforts.

But even speaking up here on TOTV against the usual suspects, would be a start...if a person is TRULY interested in equality.

[wine5465]

The comment about painting with a broad paint brush was clever.

No one race or ethnic is all privileged, individuals are privileged and yes a white person is more apt being white in alot of cases gives a heads up over other races. Are ALL blacks therefore not privileged and ALL whites privileged and ALL officers bad. No, there are bad people who are white, black, Hispanic and teachers, police officers.
Some people make these broad statements so therefore it is true. In Great Britain it took centuries to dilute the upper class privileged from poor. No matter how hard one tried, your job kept you from being an upper privileged class due to snobs.
We are going through it now. There is a lot white people can't say but blacks can. I hate the prejudice that is on both sides BUT I like the original post, it is a breathe of fresh air. The writer may have worked for minimum wage for all you know and could not afford to send kids to college as no grants or special concessions made for his family. He has no complaints

[nevjudbaker]

It is true. Not always and hopefully it is happening less. The death of George Floyd was totally wrong. All police officials are going to have to change. I will say people of all colors & nationality are judged by the way they dress. If you are dressed like a thug people will think you are a thug and will be very leary of you. If women are dressed like a slut they will be treated like one.
That is just human nature. When someone is walking down a sidewalk is no reason to stop them for anything unless they have done anything wrong. Police Demeaning you while speaking to you is wrong. Cops have to drop their cocky attitude.
I had an accident around Christmas time one year. It was raining, traffic was very slow so I took other roads. The guy in front of me was turning right, no one was in the left lane so I put my blinker on & moved in the left lane. I saw this car going in to their lane to turn left just before I entered the intersection & it kept creeping into the intersection. I continued forward as the light turned yellow. The car then turned left right in front of me. I slammed on my brakes and slid into her passenger car door. The cop came & had a huge additude. I was a government worker on my way home & she was going home. Since it was Christmas time the cop asked me about 5 times if I had been drinking. I was so mad. He cited me for not stopping at a yellow light. Witnesses told him the light had just turned yellow after I entered the intersection. The judge through it out of court. Since Government offices have Christmas parties during that time & I was cutting through his precious town of Vienna he immediately disliked me. So I do know how nasty Cops can treat people. Of course that was nothing like if I would have been black. My daughter's neighbor was a Cop & her knew that Cop. He said the Cop is known to be a real jerk. Yet he kept his job. It is wrong. I know they are out there putting their lives on the line to protect us & they deal with so much but a good attitude could make a real difference. I was taught to smile & always say hello when passing someone. Police in my day spoke to us. Not today they walk past you like you never existed. They need to change their attitudes.

[Velvet]

I am sorry, but I have to disagree with that post totally, I am a Hispanic male, came over from Cuba In 1962, landed in Miami, did not speak English, had to work since there was no welfare back then, worked as many as 3 jobs to be able to eat, bought a car on payments and moved to Virginia. I saw and felt discrimination, I saw the signs saying “Cubans not allowed” I was called every bad name in the book, I got over it and are now retired with no debt, no pension, but very stable and I buy what I want when I want. It’s what you make of yourself what counts. If you live with a chip on your shoulder it will be there FOREVER. GET OVER IT, work hard, worship hard live a clean life, EVERYONE CAN MAKE IT. AMERICA IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES, IF YOU ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO EARN IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

Totally agree with you. When people from my country came to North America fleeing Communism, as political refugees we were labeled as DPs. We were ridiculed on television and on radio programs.

[ffresh]

The white male reference tainted the rest of what could have been an uplifting message.

I don't think it tainted it at all; it's merely your perspective on life which, coincidentally, comes through loud & clear … just sayin' :icon_wink:

Fred

[ColdNoMore]

I don't think it tainted it at all; it's merely your perspective on life which, coincidentally, comes through loud & clear … just sayin' :icon_wink:

Fred

And a double ditto...regarding yourself. :ho:


Thanx for that. :thumbup:

[Bogie Shooter]

the next generation ... Will not be "born white and priviledged."
many/most government jobs going to minorities
social security going to minorities and lots of whites being turned down. (yes, its true)
scholorships available for minorities and less for white kids
minorities are banding together against whites.
Ok for a black to be a racist - not ok for a white.
If you think your grandkids are going to have it ez - u r asleep in the real world.

wow!

[Two Bills]

I don't think I have seen so much hypocritical, sanctimonious, bigoted, you name it, BS posted on this subject and in similar threads on TOTV since the old political section days!:ohdear:

[Bogie Shooter]

I don't think I have seen so much hypocritical, sanctimonious, bigoted, you name it, BS posted on this subject and in similar threads on TOTV since the old political section days!:ohdear:

:thumbup:

[Bellavita]

I think you really missed the point.
Black people have all the things you have as well, they pray they love they have Mothers and Fathers who love them, they are children and jobs.
What you fail to understand is what it feels like to be a black person, in our white world.

When you are stopped by the police you are white, so they don't assume you are a criminal

When you are birdwatching and you ask a woman to put her dog on a leash ..you are white, so you don't have someone call the police to say you were harassing her.

When you are out for a jog, you are white so people think your out for a jog, they don't hunt you down like an animal and shoot you in the street.

I hope these examples will help you because the racism in this country is real and making silly remarks don't help. Get in and be part of the solution.

You are either racist or you are against racists there is no middle ground. Not now.

Oh yeah I am white too.

[PugMom]

I keep hearing from others that because I am a white man ... I am a person of privilege. I always bristled at that suggestion. How can anyone who’s never walked a step in my shoes suggest that? ... and then I realized they were right after all! I had the privilege of having a loving mom and dad! They loved their four kids unconditionally! We ended every night with prayer! We said a prayer of thanks at every meal. We started every Sunday morning at Sunday school and then worshiped together in church. All four of us kids were there when we buried our parents. Today the four of us are nothing special ... but we know ... by faith... that Jesus is Lord! I’m sorry ... you are right... I am a person of privilege! Amen!

that remark was baiting you, imo. is prob best to leave it alone

[Bellbrookgal@gmail.com]

It sounds like a Racism 101 course is badly needed here.

[PugMom]

The riots were led by, or manipulated by White Nationalists. That's been discovered and reported and confirmed. They've been doing tracing.

:1rotfl::1rotfl: i don't think so

[Miguel 1952]

I am sorry, but I have to disagree with that post totally, I am a Hispanic male, came over from Cuba In 1962, landed in Miami, did not speak English, had to work since there was no welfare back then, worked as many as 3 jobs to be able to eat, bought a car on payments and moved to Virginia. I saw and felt discrimination, I saw the signs saying “Cubans not allowed” I was called every bad name in the book, I got over it and are now retired with no debt, no pension, but very stable and I buy what I want when I want. It’s what you make of yourself what counts. If you live with a chip on your shoulder it will be there FOREVER. GET OVER IT, work hard, worship hard live a clean life, EVERYONE CAN MAKE IT. AMERICA IS THE LAND OF OPPORTUNITIES, IF YOU ARE WILLING AND ABLE TO EARN IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

We didn't sit back and feel sorry for ourselves. In my family my parents worked and the kids to school. By the way all three kids went to medical school. Stop with the white guilt, I as a Hispanic don't ask for it or want it. Work hard for many years and you will succeed here in the US. Act like a thug and prison or death is your future.

[ColdNoMore]

I think you really missed the point.
Black people have all the things you have as well, they pray they love they have Mothers and Fathers who love them, they are children and jobs.
What you fail to understand is what it feels like to be a black person, in our white world.

When you are stopped by the police you are white, so they don't assume you are a criminal

When you are birdwatching and you ask a woman to put her dog on a leash ..you are white, so you don't have someone call the police to say you were harassing her.

When you are out for a jog, you are white so people think your out for a jog, they don't hunt you down like an animal and shoot you in the street.

I hope these examples will help you because the racism in this country is real and making silly remarks don't help. Get in and be part of the solution.

You are either racist or you are against racists there is no middle ground. Not now.

Oh yeah I am white too.


BRAVO!! :bigbow:

[B767drvr]

vir·tue sig·nal·ing(British virtue signalling)

noun

the action or practice of publicly expressing opinions or sentiments intended to demonstrate one's good character or the moral correctness of one's position on a particular issue: it's noticeable how often virtue signaling consists of saying you hate things | standing on the sidelines saying how awful the situation is does nothing except massage your ego by virtue signaling.

[jimhurtt@twc.com]

I hate to say this but historically black people, by their attitudes, culture, mannerisms, dress, and disdain for authority, historically have clashed with other races. Not all certainly. But enough to rub people the wrong way. I don't consider myself racist, but I am very uncomfortable in presence of any people, be they white, black or other, that "act out" with disregard.

[ColdNoMore]

Slowly, but surely, more & more keep oozing out of the woodwork proving me (and a few other decent people willing to speak out)...correct. :ohdear:

[sallybowron]

Very true Jerry. Additionally, you probably had a job which supported you to the level in life that you lived.

[ColdNoMore]

Yes, but I also don't hear you or anyone else saying they wish they were born White Trash. Do you have a chance to see the online news source that can't be linked and see some of the trash that is busted on an almost daily basis? Way more white than any other. Did they miss the Privilege Train or was it just bad luck in the DNA Lottery?

Yes, there are plenty of examples of white's squandering...that head-start they were given.

It doesn't change the fact though...that they had that head-start to begin with.

[Velvet]

I see racism as similar to sexism. Whenever there are arbitrary differences used to put down or hurt people, we all lose. I believe that people should be judged by their behavior which they choose, and not by physical attributes which they didn’t.

[Antique lady]

Just want to add that none of what we are seeing had to happen. Once the officers were fired they should have been detained by law enforcement to convey that this killing was being addressed.

Inaction fueled protest and protest served as cover for looters and as cover
for hate groups wanting to further incite violence. These killings by police
can not continue without accountability...…..This protest is now global
people in Germany, the UK and Canada have taken to the streets....

"The world is watching."

[DrBrutyle109]

The things describe are the people who are ignorant. Nothing is perfect and nothing is a 100% either way.

[mydavid]

We will never be able to get over these racial barriers because of people ( both black and white) not being able to get over the past. Forget the skin color and look at that person as an individual. There are certain people that make it rough on their race by doing terrible things that reflect on them as a race whether they are black or white. We can't base our opinions on these few but we do. We need to look at the big picture and look at one race (the human race). Until we can get skin color and just the few people who set the bad examples out of our head then maybe we can get over this problem. I seriously doubt that it will ever happen because of living in the past
"Well said"

[Sheldon5663]

I don’t listen to others generalizations.
I’m white and “VERY DARN PROUD” of it!!
I grew up in a very loving modest earning parent household in the ‘70,s and my sister and I lacked for NOTHING!!
White privilege. What a sweeping and INCORRECT over generalization!!!🧐🧐 essential [/QUOTE]

[Antique lady]

Thank you. I am a person of color and equally proud of that. Diversity of ethnic and racial groups is what makes this country work...

Hard work coupled with equal opportunity is the key....

[nututv]

Ever had bones broken because of your color? Ever been bloodied (too many times to count) because of your color? Ever been given an F on a project in High School because of your color when you knew it was A or B material? Ever been thrown against a locker (too many times to count) because of your color and the fact you were half their size? Ever been shipped to the black school because that's just where you happened to live when busing came about? Ever been looked over in a promotion because they needed more minorities before they hired any whites?
I was raised in an Air Force family my entire childhood and joined myself as soon as I could. If you wanted to get knocked down to size, mention a racial slur knocking any race. It simply wasn't said in our house by anyone. Even during my weekly beatings/bullying in school.
Ever been called a racist because you couldn't stand Obama (half black) when at the same time you were calling the offices of Allen West (both parents black) begging him to run for President?
Ever been schooled on white male privilege by a woman (black and white) lol It's like me describing what childbirth is like.
Man of privilege my arse!
PS. I won't mention the times my blond haired brother 10 years older than myself was ganged up on by the locals in High School when we were stationed in Hawaii. Yeah, we were Haole's and in the late 50's, early 60's, it wasn't something you wanted to be 'in paradise'. Isn't white privilege great!

[Stu from NYC]

Thank you. I am a person of color and equally proud of that. Diversity of ethnic and racial groups is what makes this country work...

Hard work coupled with equal opportunity is the key....

Your last sentence tell us what a wonderful lady you are.

[OlifOlif]

Yes, yes, and YES!!!

[JP]

All races have racism.

[nututv]

All races have racism.
Bingo! Every 'us', has a 'them'. And there are just too many people in every group trying to keep that unchanged.

[LG999]

I too dislike being classified as “privileged” just bcs I am white. I have had to work very hard for everything in my life. My family came to the US via Ellis Island with nothing but the clothes they had on & spoke only Italian. So they had to work even harder than me. Although I am white I have been mistaken for American Indian. I grew up in a time when women were not as equal as they are today. I could go on. My point is I am white but definitely not privileged. It is wrong to make generalizations about any race or any person you dont know. I resent it.

[fdpaq0580]

If only those blacks weren't so uppity! Am I hearing you correctly?

No, you are not. What I think you refer to in my post is the use of the previous poster use of the expression "chip on the shoulder". I will try to make this clear.
I was trying to point out, and I obviously failed, that anyone, regardless of ethnicity, faith, national origin, etc who approaches a situation with a"chip on the shoulder" attitude seems like they are looking for a fight rather than trying to find rational peaceful solutions to that situation in a way in which all parties benefit. It has been my experience that if I go looking for a fight there are always plenty of folks willing to oblige.
I recall an old movie where, I believe, a couple of Hispanics were talking about race relations. One said something to the effect if we all interbred we would all be multi-ethic and our excuses for racial battles would disappear.
So, everyone, put away the knives, guns and attitude, sit down at the table and be prepared to listen and understand as well as talk.
Does this make more sense to you, blueash?

[nututv]

if we all interbred we would all be multi-ethic and our excuses for racial battles would disappear.
Sounds like a lot of fun but then the Mulatto's would be at war with the half breeds... and versa visa.
Like the old Star Trek "Let That Be Your Last Battlefield" it was quite good and ahead of its time.
Let That Be Your Last Battlefield - Wikipedia (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Let_That_Be_Your_Last_Battlefield)

[Moderator]

The number of racist posts has caused this thread to be closed.
Moderator