Many Americans deny the existence of privilege even while we see it, hear it, and feel it tear us apart. To end the destruction, we need to recognize that having privilege harms the privileged, talk about it so we can get over it, and make the New Privilege a reality.
The Privilege is Real
People are uncomfortable talking about, even thinking about privilege — particularly their own. I mean avoid eye contact, short of breath uncomfortable. I see this as I work around the country training executives, employees, community leaders, and young people on equity, diversity, and inclusion — all to create opportunities for good health. No matter how many times I say there is “no shame or blame associated with privilege,” eyes drift downward and I see people struggle to just breathe. As America’s gaping wounds grow more visible each day, this is not the time to look away. It’s the perfect time to settle into our discomfort.
[For more of this story, written by Natalie S. Burke, go to https://medium.com/@natalie4health/why-i-wont-give-you-ten-tips-to-manage-your-privilege-9ba16cf31671#.qkckbtpfr]
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