Today I read of a belief by young Black people that racism does not exist here in America. I was suprised to hear that not one but many young Blacks hold this belief. The article quoted a conversation where a Black girl and guy, both believed to be college undergraduates, were having in the company of an older Black female.
She says, "This is what I'm saying to you man. Racism doesn't exist."
He agrees. "Racism is just a figment of your imagination."
Here was what I, a Black male in his 40's, wrote as my two cents worth:
It's scary to hear there are Black Folks in America today who believe Racism doesn't exist. What do they believe happened to it? Or do they believe it never existed?
Why if that statement were true that would mean that Blacks in America have open access to the best jobs, best neighborhoods, best schools, best hospitals, even best country clubs that this great country has to offer. It would mean that we're just not motivated enough to take advantage of what this great country unconditionally offers us.
Last I checked Blacks can't assume they'll get equal access to a Denny's Restaurant here in this wonderful country of ours.
Unfortunately, there's a word that defines people who can afford to have such beliefs; PRIVILEGED
1.privilege - a special advantage or immunity or benefit not enjoyed by all
2.privilege - a right reserved exclusively by a particular person or group (especially a hereditary or official right); "suffrage was the prerogative of white adult males"
Who would've thought that my favorite quote from the book "Showing My Color" by Black author Clarence Page would apply to some of our own.
"Privilege is least apparent to those who have it"
Maybe racial blindness is the price we'll pay for equality. But we won't know until equality truly happens for all.
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