We often say things without thinking about the deeper implications or the hidden messages they carry, and sometimes, phrases that seem harmless to us can reflect a broader social context of privilege and inequality. Here are 21 common phrases that people might use without realizing they reflect white privilege.
“I Don’t See Color”
The phrase “I don’t see color” is often used with good intentions, implying that the speaker treats everyone equally regardless of race. However, according to Forbes, “for many Black and Brown people, those words are like nails on a chalkboard.” By saying you don’t see color, you ignore the systemic racism and daily discrimination that affect non-white individuals.
“Everyone Can Succeed If They Work Hard Enough”
The idea of the American Dream suggests that anyone can achieve success through hard work. While hard work is important, this phrase overlooks the significant barriers that people of color face, such as discrimination, fewer opportunities, and systemic biases. Success is not solely based on effort; it’s also influenced by the unequal starting points.
“I’m Not Racist, But…”
Saying you’re not racist usually precedes a statement that is, in fact, racist or problematic; it’s a way to shield yourself from criticism while still making a harmful comment. Instead of using disclaimers, it’s crucial to listen, learn, and address any prejudiced views we might hold, even if they are unintentional.
“Why Does Everything Have to Be About Race?”
If someone is asking why everything has to be about race, it often happens when discussions about race make some people uncomfortable. It reflects a position of privilege where race does not significantly impact one’s daily life, and for many people of color, race is an inescapable part of their identity.
“I Have Black Friends, So I Can’t Be Racist”
Having friends of different races does not exempt someone from holding or perpetuating racist views. This phrase can be used to deflect responsibility for a person’s actions or statements, while true allyship involves continuous learning, unlearning biases, and supporting marginalized communities beyond superficial friendships.
“All Lives Matter”
While it is true that all lives matter, this phrase is often used to undermine the Black Lives Matter movement, which highlights the specific injustices faced by Black individuals. Saying “All Lives Matter” ignores the disproportionate violence and discrimination that Black people face, diluting the urgent call for racial justice.
“I Don’t Understand Why It’s Offensive”
When someone tells you that a word or phrase is offensive, dismissing their perspective reflects privilege. It’s this response that indicates a lack of willingness to empathize or understand the experiences of marginalized groups. Instead, it’s more productive to listen and learn why certain language can be harmful.
“I Never Owned Slaves”
The statement about never personally owning slaves deflects responsibility for the lasting impacts of slavery and systemic racism. While it’s true an individual may not have directly participated in historical injustices, benefiting from systems built on those injustices is a form of privilege. Acknowledging and addressing these benefits is crucial for racial reconciliation.
“My Ancestors Faced Hardships Too”
Comparing the struggles of white ancestors to the systemic racism faced by people of color today can minimize the ongoing issues. Many groups have faced hardships, but the unique and pervasive nature of racial discrimination against Black and Indigenous people requires specific recognition and action.
“I Just Think Everyone Should Be Treated Equally”
Equality is an important goal, but treating everyone the same without considering their different needs and barriers can perpetuate inequality. Equity, which involves giving people the resources they need to succeed based on their circumstances, is a more effective approach to achieving true fairness.
“Why Can’t We All Just Get Along?”
While it’s a nice sentiment to ask why we can’t all just get along, this phrase can oversimplify complex issues of racism and social injustice, because it suggests that the solution lies in individuals simply being nicer to each other. This ignores the need for systemic change and accountability for discriminatory practices.
“I Don’t Get the Big Deal About Cultural Appropriation”
Cultural appropriation involves taking elements of a marginalized culture without permission or understanding, often stripping them of their original meaning. This phrase reflects a lack of awareness about the historical and cultural significance of these elements. Learning and respecting the origins of cultural practices is essential.
“I’m Just Playing Devil’s Advocate”
If you say that you’re being the Devil’s Advocate in discussions about race, it can come off as dismissive and insensitive. It can imply that the experiences and issues faced by people of color are up for debate or intellectual exercise, rather than serious and pressing matters that affect their daily lives.
“It’s Just a Joke”
Dismissing racist or insensitive comments as “just a joke” minimizes their impact and the hurt they cause. Remember, humor that relies on stereotypes or discrimination reinforces harmful biases. It’s important to understand that jokes can perpetuate racism and be hurtful, even if that wasn’t the intention.
“They Must Have Been Doing Something Wrong”
Often used to justify the mistreatment or discrimination against people of color, the phrase “they must have been doing something wrong” in instances such as police brutality is victim-blaming. It doesn’t address the systemic issues and biases that lead to such incidents.
“I’m Not Like Other White People”
While telling everyone that you’re not like other white people may be intended to show that you see yourself as an ally, it can come off as self-congratulatory and dismissive of the real issues. True allyship involves acknowledging one’s own privilege, listening, and actively working towards equality, rather than pointing out that you’re different.
“They Just Need to Assimilate”
Expecting people of color to conform to the dominant culture ignores the value of diversity and the importance of cultural identity—especially as assimilation can erase unique cultural practices and languages, leading to a loss of heritage. Celebrating and respecting cultural differences enriches society as a whole.
“I Don’t Get Why They’re So Angry”
If you’re saying “I don’t get why they’re so angry,” it dismisses the legitimate frustration and anger that can arise from experiencing systemic racism and discrimination. Understanding the reasons behind these emotions is important for solidarity with people of color.
“Everyone Faces Problems”
Of course, everyone in life faces challenges, and other groups face problems, but saying this can minimize the specific and often more severe struggles faced by people of color due to racism and discrimination. You should acknowledge the unique difficulties that come with racial inequality without comparing them to everyday problems.
“I Don’t Think Racism Is That Big of a Deal Anymore”
Saying that racism isn’t a big deal anymore overlooks the persistent and pervasive nature of racial discrimination. It’s true that some progress has been made, but racism remains a significant issue affecting the lives of people of color in various ways.
“They Should Just Get Over It”
One final harmful phrase which can reflect white privilege is “they should just get over it”. This dismisses the historical and ongoing trauma that people of color experience due to racism, and it implies that the burden of resolving systemic issues falls on those who are affected by them. Understanding that healing and progress take time and collective effort is essential.
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