How has use of the term "white privilege" harmed you?

[Waiting For Everyman]

326. The problem with flipping discrimination around into white privilege

(or any other sort of privilege, the point is the same), is that it goes from an actual action (discrimination) to a passive state of being (privilege), which in fact is condemning or blaming people for acts they didn't do but other people of their race did... which is racism again... definition:" n. Discrimination or prejudice based on race. "

That unchangeable fact of being white becomes the focus of the issue instead of actually changing acts of discrimination where it is found to exist. Hence, actual change for the better is sidelined. Instead, people focus on purifying other peoples' attitudes which is a pointless waste of time, and can be dangerous (the example of the religious right for instance).

The bottom line of it is that instead of judging people as individuals, with concepts of privilege we are back to judging people as a race (or gender etc.), which is a step backwards. And that stepping backwards is why many resist it.

The OP asked a question, seemingly to point out that there is no answer, and I answered it, mostly to make the point that there is an answer. It goes to the old saying, if you don't want to hear the answer, don't ask the question.

I am white, but I am also a woman, so I can understand both sides of the issue of privilege. And I can sum up my viewpoint the most succinctly by saying this: anybody who wants to replace the supposed privilege of one group by setting up a similarly abusive privilege by another group can fuck right off. I am not the tiniest bit interested in that. I am interested in equality as humans and equal treatment under the law for all. Regardless. (Sort of along the lines of this general idea...)

As to societal attitudes, I'm not into telling anybody what they ought to think. I believe that attitudes tend to correct themselves over time when there is equal treatment under the law, as much as they are going to be corrected in a given person that is.

But whatever people here want to do about their political causes is up to them. As of course mine are up to me, and the same for all of us. We prioritize what we feel is the best way to go.