Community Organizing for Social Justice Teach-Out

Power is the ability to influence outcomes. Privilege is the advantage that some people inherit because of their identity, whereas others experience prejudice and discrimination because of theirs.

White privilege refers to the privileges that white people inherit because of their majority skin color. As these advantages are often unspoken, white people may be unaware of them or recognize that they have them. Because of this, their discussion can cause confusion, and white people can become defensive or angry, even when there is good facilitation.

Which of the following do you experience in everyday life? (Identify those that are 'yes.')

1. I can arrange to be with people of my race most of the time.
 
2. I can watch television and see people like me.
 
3. I can expect that children will take courses that represent their race.
 
4. I can go into a supermarket and find foods which fit my culture.
 
5. I am never asked to speak for all of the people of my racial group.
 
6. I can go to the mall without fearing that people of my race will be noticed.
 
7. I can feel welcomed and "normal" in most public places.

Power and Privilege