General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: If you don't believe in (recognize) white privilege why the fuck are you on a Democratic Forum? [View all]bhikkhu
(10,760 posts)is that if I get pulled over its because I was doing something wrong. I'll get treated politely by the police, and probably given the benefit of the doubt if I apologize and react politely. Its happened a few times over the years and I've only gotten a couple of tickets for minor things, and I have no issues with my treatment by the police. That's how it should be for everyone.
I can wander around, in and out of any store and not be given a second glance by security. I've never shoplifted, but I've also never been suspected of shoplifting or been looked at as "suspect" just because of my race. I can walk or sit anywhere and my presence doesn't worry anyone. That's how it should be for everyone.
If I go in any bank, or restaurant, or anyplace really, I generally am looked at as just a customer, usually welcomed (depending on the vagaries of customer service). Its nice to live in a place where you feel welcome anywhere, just because you're there. That's how it should be for everyone.
If I'm introduced to people, rich or poor, any race, any status, I've always been able to greet and shake hands with anyone as an equal, without having to worry whether I'm accepted as an equal or not. We're all just people, and that's how it should be for everyone.
I've been below the poverty line more often than not in my 49 years, though things have been ok for years, and much better lately. I suppose the most uncomfortable I've felt was when I had to get unemployment and food stamps years ago; I felt like I had no real excuses for not being able to provide for my family. But everyone was nice enough about it and I got back on my feet soon enough. That's also how I wish it was for everyone.
A lot has to change, but I hope people can see what I mean when I say white privilege should extend to everyone. Its how everyone should treat each other; people know how to do it already, they just have to widen the circle.