The Illusion Of Equality

Our society consists of individuals from many different races, class standings, and of course different genders. The shared ideal of a society is that everyone is working towards a common goal. When a society is able to work together, despite differences and conflicts that may arise, it will be most productive for all in society. Unfortunately our society was founded upon a system of inequality and though we have strived to enact changes through the civil rights movement, equality is still a long ways away. Because of this our society is not operating at level it should be, much like a car unable to shift out of a low gear.

As a white male in America I among the most privileged in society. Despite my social class, my gender and race alone put me at a strong advantage in society. Realizing the power that my position has, I know that I am able to help others in society realize the plight our great nation still faces today. Many white males are not aware of the white privilege they possess, that being the invisible package of assets that play a role in every day of our lives.

On an individual level I can show my white male peers how our lives are different from people of color and even white women. I have the freedom to walk through department stores, and not be scrutinized by the color of my skin, or to be rejected for a job I applied for knowing my skin color did not come into play. This reassurance that I will not be discriminated against may be beneficial to me, but it is endemic of a society unable to ignore race, class, and gender. Many white males are unaware of their privilege because it common place in their lives. If they are made aware of how their experiences differ from people women and people of color they can then work to enact change.

At an early age children should be taught about discrimination much like the children in the film, A Class Divided. Children's minds are malleable and it is crucial for our society to instill beliefs and values at the very early stages of socialization. A Class Divided showed how quickly children can be taught to believe inaccurate information about their peers. By teaching them the harsh realities of discrimination we can make progress towards equality.

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