White Privilege in Australia

Dr. Peggy McIntosh is Associate Director of the Wellesley College Centre for Research on Women and author of the White Privilege Theory

There are opposites of the terms ‘normal’ and ‘privilege’.

If ‘white-skinned’ people are normal and privileged, people whose skin is other than ‘white’ are abnormal and disadvantaged. Such logic makes First Peoples abnormal and disadvantaged. Until McIntosh’s first publication in 1988 on White Privilege Theory, people with White Privilege did not realise they owned such privilege. Whether told or not, a white-skinned person might not feel that they have had great opportunities simply because of their ‘whiteness’.

However, exposure to disadvantage because of their ‘whiteness’ is highly unlikely. Nevertheless, for an exceptionally long time First Peoples have known disadvantage, much of it has been generational disadvantage. Exposure to disadvantage because of the colour of one’s skin leaves the person psychologically unwell.

 

McIntosh’s Revelation

It was not until Peggy McIntosh’s work that the concept of White Privilege became known. Before this, those receiving help from White Privilege were often unaware of its existence. Many individuals with white skin might not have realised the extent of opportunities they received solely due to their whiteness.

McIntosh presented a TEDx talk in 2012 it is summarised below:

 

Recognise white privilege

Understand the Concept: White privilege refers to societal advantages that white people have over non-white people, simply because of their skin colour.

Reflect on Personal Experience: Acknowledge how your race has impacted your life experiences, opportunities, and outcomes.

Educate Yourself: Learn about the history and systems of racial inequality and how they perpetuate privilege.

Listen to Others: Pay attention to the experiences of people of colour and understand their perspectives without being defensive.

 

Using White Privilege to Fight Inequality:

Amplify Voices of Colour: Use your platform to elevate the voices and experiences of marginalised communities.

Support Racial Justice Initiatives: Engage with and support organisations and movements working towards racial equality.

Challenge Racist Behavior: Speak up against racism in all forms, whether it is blatant or subtle.

Advocate for Policy Change: Support policies that aim to dismantle systemic racism and promote equity.

Educate Others: Share knowledge about white privilege and racial inequality with friends, family, and colleagues.

Reflect on Biases: Continuously reflect on and work to overcome your own biases and assumptions.

Practice Allyship: Be a consistent and active ally by showing up, listening, and taking action to support racial justice.

 

Disadvantage and Psychological Impact

While those with White Privilege might not have experienced direct exposure to disadvantage due to their skin colour, the narrative is starkly different for First Peoples.

Consider the impact of systemic disadvantage on individuals’ psychological health.

 

Confronting Systemic Inequities

The acknowledgment of White Privilege sheds light on societal disparities ingrained within Australia. Understanding the concept allows for critical reflection on systemic disadvantages faced by marginalised communities, especially First Peoples. It underscores the urgency of addressing these disparities and developing strategies to heal the psychological wounds inflicted by systemic inequities.

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