"When you are in a position of privilege, equality seems like oppression"
As most of you have gathered by now, I am obviously leaning towards the left side of the political spectrum (and by leaning towards I mean, being unchangeably, unapologetically a democrat).
I am a white woman, I recognise my privilege in society. I understand that although I still suffer from misogyny & biphobia, I am still white and that puts me in a position of power. Will I use my privilege to help people of colour? You bet your bottom dollar I will. But how come so many people (mainly white men) are uncomfortable with discussing this?
Whenever someone brings up an injustice, I can guarantee you that at least one person will say something to try invalidate that statement. For example, "Black Lives Matter!" will be said and some ignorant fool will say "No Mila, ALL lives matter!". Yes? I know? That is the issue. Although ALL lives do matter, BLACK lives are the ones in danger, BLACK lives are the ones suffering and to undervalue that oppression is an unspeakable insult. When you are busy trying to include all people into your argument, you fail to realise that this false inclusivity is actually hurting the group of people who were trying to overcome these challenges in the first place. You are not being liberal or fair, you are essentially saying, "your movement only matters if it helps me in some way or doesn't make me uncomfortable". You are using your voice to silence someone else's in the hopes that you won't have to step out of your comfort zone surrounded in privilege.
Now, I understand it may be difficult for some people. The common argument being, for example, "But I wasn't even alive during the Civil Rights Movement!". Yes, we know Aaron, you were born in the 90s. Unfortunately you still benefit from the system, set in place solely to oppress groups of people.
The rise of women doesn't mean the fall of men. Pro-Black doesn't mean Anti-White. And you know what, to be perfectly honest with you, I am tired of saying that. If you genuinely believe that someone having the same rights as you is a bad thing, then I suggest you find a time machine and go back to '50s because you'll fit right it.
And remember, to my fellow white allies, POC, WOC, members of the LGBTQI+ community, immigrants, Muslims etc, RISE UP! Speak out! Together we can change the world, one person at a time. I know it's challenging right now and in the current political climate, I can understand if you don't want to be vocal about these issues. Remember, you are valid and your experiences are valid. Rise up my brothers & sisters!
Xoxo
Mila
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