White Privilege
The unfair advantages that White people experience as a result of their race.
“As a white person, I had been taught about racism that puts others at a disadvantage, but had been taught not to see one of its corollary aspects, white privilege, which puts me at an advantage [. . .] White privilege is an invisible package of unearned assets which I can count on cashing in every day, but about which I was meant to remain oblivious."
- Peggy McIntosh
Where does white privilege come from?
White privilege accumulated through political, social, and cultural dominance. As a result, power and wealth were concentrated in White communities, which lead to further social and cultural advantages.
Types of White Privilege
Influence
White people are more likely to be in positions of influence because of their access to certain communities or jobs.
Social Advantages
White people are more likely to live in low crime neighbourhoods with strong infrastructure because of inheritance.
Sense of Security
White people are less likely to feel threatened when speaking with people of authority. They have a sense of protection in ways that people of colour don't.
Normalization of Whiteness
White people's experiences are more likely to be considered normal because they are represented in the media as such.