It is far too easy for me to sit on my “enlightened” pedestal and challenge the racist world around me from on high. My ability to do this is in and of itself an example of white privilege.
I also worry about my part in externalizing the forces of systemic racism without looking internally. If I only focus outside myself I am really creating a microcosm of a protected white system that maintains the status quo. By linking my innocence to the greater system I help to reinforce the current white power structure.
What I would like to do is open up the challenge for those who have noticed and do notice things that I say and do that are a problem. My first inclination is to say that I don’t want to hear from white people on this but I’m not sure if that is what I should do. I want to work to enable the black voice. Honestly, I think that the only true way forward is to really listen to the group that has been subjugated for so long. However, I don’t want to close off conversation. If there is a white ally who can speak to a problem where a black voice doesn’t feel comfortable then I don’t want to shut that down. That white voice must actually be speaking for the black community though. I have no interest in listening to any claims of reverse racism. That’s simply another tactic to maintain white supremacy.
What I will commit to though is that if I am challenged by a white voice I will verify the issue with the black community. It is their perspective, pain, guidance, and wisdom that is truly important right now. I want their recommendation on a path forward and not the recommendation of the white community. As a community in power the white perspective is way too skilled at proposing a course of action that seems to honor the black community while keeping the power exactly where it has been for hundreds of years.
That’s it. Please challenge me. If I say or do something that you think is problematic please let me know. Also, if you have a memory of something I may have done in the past I invite that too. If I have done something or not done something in the past that has stuck with you I would like to be made aware so that I can face it and seek reconciliation.
There is plenty of judgement, accusation, and apology in our world today. What we need a lot more of is active reconciliation.
Feel free to reach out to me and I will do my best to approach what you say with an open mind.