(For disclosure, I’m a white woman, and I’ve been trying to check my various forms of privilege for a while. I know that as a feminist, I probably overlook the issue of intersectionality quite frequently, and that’s something I have to deal with. Furthermore, I have to examine my own racist beliefs and visceral ‘but I’m not like that!’ reactions. I know that it’s an on-going project, and that I’ll probably mess up along the way, and feel some unpleasant emotions, but that’s my problem and no one else’s. And it’s necessary if I’m ever to become a true ally. Or, you know, a decent human being.)

Note: I’ve chosen not to have comments in my blog cuz I’m more just publishing my Quaker journals which didn’t have those historically. This may seem unfriendly I realize. I’m happy to link to threads that develop however (e.g. to this blog, which I’ve been studying with interest, doing some homework). Thanks for providing this community service.

I do not know how many times I have posted (and said)things that were reckless, careless, and rooted in thought patterns that needed change.

Indeed, I have learned to “shutup” and keep my fingers off the keyboard for a while and just read and reflect on what is being presented.

For what it is worth, I am grateful for the way you and the other writers hold yourselves out speak about issues with brutal honesty and razor-sharp clarity.

All the best,

Adam

I completely agree with you. LDR made some really good points too. As a biracial WOC, I have no respect for people who pat themselves on the back simply because they’re “nice” to a few people of color.

Then they move on with their smug self-satisfaction while holding onto prejudice deep down. No thanks!

I have been around plenty of white people who act as if they have no ill will toward POC, but their true colors show eventually.

I respect people that are willing to talk about race honestly and openly. I respect people who are willing to admit whatever issues they might have. I respect people who are willing to see the humanity in others, no matter what color they might be.

That, to me, is the definition of an “ally”. It is somebody who acts out of sincerity rather than a misguided sense of guilt or political correctness. It is somebody who doesn’t pretend to be what they are not. It is somebody who doesn’t talk about their “black friends” to prove how open-minded they are.

What LDR said inspired me to consider something. The prejudice that some so-called “allies” display is a reflection of the fact that for some people, hate is difficult to overcome. It is deeply rooted in the psyche.