Fresh Start

that there is no single (or cvolectile) point of view across white communities, that was not intended to minimize the fact that the majority of my white cohorts have done little (historically or presently) to bring about realized equality in the educational, economic, legal, social, spheres, etc. for people of color. I was referring to the fact that whites (as a group) cannot even agree on the nature, the root problems, or the proper questions to ask on racism, inequality, or colonialism. This goes for whites in Europe as well. (It might helpful to ask those on receiving end, wouldn’t it?) When I read searing honesty laid out in the fashion that you have given it…man…I honestly wish that I could sit across a table from you face to face, have beer or coffee, and just listen to you more. I am pretty much in agreement with you and your assessment of privilege and race. About me: My wife is a woman of color. I am a 34 year old white male who has been married nearly 13 years. We have three children who are learning (at a young age) to navigate these areas of race, culture, and identity. So I am not removed from the things you are revealing. (Sometime maybe I can fill you in on an interesting contrast – how my wife is treated when she is by herself vs. when she is out in public with me.) As you well know, there too many well-rehearsed defenses floating around the white communities about the social realities of racism and privilege (e.g. my immigrant Irish grandfather faced discrimination and made it or what privilege? I worked two jobs and raised family while in college and I still graduated with debt. I started at the bottom like everyone else -or- .you are where you are at because of the choices you made ). When references to “patriotic Americans”…”hard-working Americans”…and “Joe the Plumber” are made, yes….it usually white people. There are numerous ways and attempts to socially construct reality.So…when a I read a fierce criticism is levied on whites in the U.S. (from Tim Wise or Robert Jensen or Michael Eric Dyson), the first thing I try do is reflect in my own heart and mind as to whether I may have facilitated that particular injustice or contributed to some lie by my own omission. (or did I let my children watch some television program where some subtle stereotype or idea rolled off the screen into their minds?) Moreover, my Christian Faith demands that I reflect upon any trash or lies that I have allowed to take root and grow in my own heart and mind or in my home. Further, that I also try to seize opportunities to serve or give as much my existing obligations to my wife and children will allow. Dark Moon, I attempt teach my own children that individual responsibility must be balanced with cvolectile responsibility. (Obviously, I do not use those words with a 12, 8, and 4 year old.) But the point I try to drive home is that neither should run unrestrained by other. More later….

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That’s what we’ve all been waiting for! Great posting!

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