What is white privilege?

Amen, I have experienced white privilege quite a bit.

Sure, blame everything that goes wrong on white people. That's easy. Responsibility is a word all should learn and apply.

Once again, the media will overplay their hatred of the Republican Party and, in doing so, deliver the G.O.P. the presidency.

It's really sad the way the media doesn't even understand what it is doing. They did George Bush's work for him, now they're doing the same thing for McCain.

The American public is already suspicious of the media's leanings. Why do they have to always confirm those suspicions? They're killing Democrats with their venom toward Palin the same way they killed the Kerry '04 campaign with their venom toward Bush.

Living on the East Coast must really put them far out of touch with everyday, average American who understand basic fairness and fair treatment.

Once again, the media will overplay their hatred of the Republican Party and, in doing so, deliver the G.O.P. the presidency.

It's really sad the way the media doesn't even understand what it is doing. They did George Bush's work for him, now they're doing the same thing for McCain.

The American public is already suspicious of the media's leanings. Why do they have to always confirm those suspicions? They're killing Democrats with their venom toward Palin the same way they killed the Kerry '04 campaign with their venom toward Bush.

columns like this is why part of me hopes Obama wins. who/what will black people blame then???

I'm thinking there's a good retort to this mindless rambling called "Black Denial"...that would be as long as War and Peace though.

Can someone tell me how the editor of this floundering paper allowed the language in this blog???

Yes, nationally "even as unemployment is skyrocketing, people are losing their homes, inflation is rising..."
-and locally homicides are up, the CTA is broke, schools and roads are bad, but local politicians such as Stroger and Emil Jones are justified in employing "black privilege"?
Do the racial/political nepotism tactics that our local politicans employ foreshadow the type of Change WE can believe in on a national level??
WE who????

This essay is by Tim Wise,a longtime anti-racist activist. Here is the original link:
http://www.redroom.com/blog/tim-wise/this-your-nation-white-privilege

Well said!

You are an embarrassment Mary Mitchell.

You have officially made yourself a complete laughingstock as a so-called writer.

Watching Obama slip into a Trivial Pursuit question is eating away at you that you are desperately grasping for straws.

Watching the path your writing career has taken is like watching someone drown.

Sad.

I have a one-word comment: Powerful!

Did I hear the highly educated, professional Mary Mitchell use the word 'axe' when trying to say the word 'ask' on WIND radio this morning? Could we call the constant use of this word by blacks, and no other ethnic group, "black privilege?" My goodness...

Mary, you speak of white privilege as if it is a bad thing... It is good for those who have it. However, all others who do not have the privilege will see where you are coming from.

Moreover, many will comment as usual that you are ranting... I see it this way; white privilege is what allows those who are white to have a voice, a place in society where they are deemed by birth the privilege of expecting to have the American Dream. Others who attend school as I did and obtained a Bachelors of Science and 2 MBA's in 4 years, seemingly are only able to look in the window and wonder when?

Furthermore, as an African American woman, mother, sister, aunt, cousin and friend I am privileged to continue to sojourner forward knowing I was born of a skin that leaves me weary but never hopeless. I am privileged that in this lifetime, I will see the first black president be sworn into office. I am privileged to awaken everyday knowing that I am getting closer to the door. Privileged to have the right to speak, think, act and do... Privileged to be an African American Woman...And I accept that privilege proudly.

Dear Mary,

Sounds like "white" hard work to me. Now let's discuss the brown-not-black "privilege" of Senator Obama. WHITE...BLACK...BROWN...Male...Female...Old...Young!
Now THAT's the problem. And you appear to be a part of it.

Kathleen

I don't disagree with anything you said, but sadly you forgot one.

White privilege is not having to think about anything that you brought up in your article.

Hopefully some people will read this and realize where they do stand and maybe where they should stand.

White privilege is, in short, the problem.

I completely agree...in fact I also think:

- black teens getting pregnant in huge numbers is no big thing
- black on black crime...no biggie
- black kids dropout rate...who needs to read?
- black kids joining gangs and killing kids...whatever

While those things can qualify as white privilege, they sound a lot like another phenomenon that has permeated this country since the Reagan era: Republican Privilege.

Mary,

This presidential election is all about race. We keep hearing so- called once democratic women say they will vote republican because a woman will be vice president. I don’t believe that all these women is making excuses not to vote for a black candidate as president. They keep saying the election was stolen from Hilary. How? Obama announce he was running for president first. He didn’t force those delegates to vote him in.

Some people might say race has nothing to do with it. Then why are these so-called women only holding black people responsible. I doubt these women would be voting for Mc Cain have Senator Edwards won the nomination. Why only hold Obama responsible by not voting for him? Why these women don’t hold the delegates responsible and the local senators, congressional representatives and governor that supported Obama. Nancy Pelosi is a democrat that supported Obama but these women is not talking about making her pay. However, Oprah has to pay for not interviewing her on her show even though she said she would not interview any candidates once they announce they was running. Its not about race but only black people must pay not the whole Democratic Party that voted against Hilary.

I do not believe no one would hurt themselves for Hilary. I once heard a white woman on television say before Palin was in the picture” We will vote for Mc Cain this year and in four years we will vote for Hilary”. It s hard to believe that people will hurt themselves and their family future because of Hilary. Look at all the families losing their homes and look at the economy people cannot find jobs. When you see five thousand people line up for a Wal-Mart job, something is wrong. Look at the articles about the recent college graduates having trouble landing a job. These women are willing to vote republican knowing they will not do anything to help them. Not one person at the Republican convention spoke about assisting college students with paying for college. It s hard to believe that these women is willing to risk their jobs with a growing unemployment rate. Their kid’s future with them not getting help paying for college and not being able to get a job.

Please readers do not write in and say these women is voting for a woman to get a high seat in office and not voting against Obama. These women stated they would vote for McCain before Palin was in the picture. I ask you were these women celebrating when Condoleezza Rice was given such a high position? Were these women pressuring Mc Cain to choose Condoleezza a woman? I wish they would do a real poll on how many black women is voting for Obama compared to white women. Then we will see that it is all about race.

If these women want to vote for McCain go ahead. Just dont complain when you lose your jobs or houses and your kids cannot get financial aid to go college. You knew what McCain was about before you elected him.

Kyle Griffin
Oak Law,. Il

Remember? Making a decision based on color is racism. And picking Obama for sharing same race is racism. You compare VP candidates to Pres canidtaes. Its Obama vs McCain and not Obama vs Palin. You speak as if whites are to blame for all. I guess thats called Black Privilege. I can go on and on with inaccuracies/misjudgements with your article, but simply, its not worth my time and effort for something so eronous.

Sincerely,
not black nor white

WOW - never realized black people felt so inferior to white people!

Thank u Mary for pointing out the hypocrsy of most media coverage and spin that the gop does. Education means nothing because Obama is highly educated. Mrs. Obama is scary, but I have seen many more photos of palin holding guns than I have seen of her holding her children. Mccain's background is laughable. Palin is not qualified in the least to lead this country in these serious economic times. I personally wouldnt make it with another 4yrs of Mcbush. White privilege is what it has always been, rooted in fears and greed.

Mary,

There's only one question I have as a black man. What is Black Privilege? Let me break it down for you...Black Privilege is collecting welfare and stamps and driving around in a Cadillac...Black Privilege is collecting welfare fraudulently and working a side job for cash. Black Privilege is continuing to have children in order to get a increase in benefits. Black Privilege is calling the Ambulance and asking for a band aid because you don't have any. Black Privilege is using the Emergency Room as a primary care physician. I think we get the picture right here!!!

Be Blessed,

Jerome

jeez mary..just say it..you HATE white people..its ok we dont really care what you think
if obama was white youd never support his radical tactics and lack of resume...
truly pathetic. but hey you's gettin paid!

You hit the nail right on the head. Thank you for being frank. I love your honesty.

The first thing I thought of half-way through this diatribe was that a white man should author something as a response...

maybe "WHAT IS BLACK PARANOIA?"

I learned about white privilege in the 1950s when I heard Dr. Ralph Bunche speak in Grand Rapids, Mich at a church.Later, our church group did a survey door to door in East Grand Rapids. We learned that although no one lived near, worked with nor had Negro friends...they were prejudiced. It was difficult to understand. Later I got lucky and learned more in the Peace Corps and as a teacher in an urban school in Wash. DC. So, many white people do not have a clue to their whiteness. It is especially bad with the "talking/laughing heads on tv." Thank you for your article.

BULLSEYE !

Mary, you're grasping at straws here toots. I used to respect you. Now I just think you're sad and alone in a world of liberals.

You forgot that White Privilege also includes being blamed for every problem that minorities have. It includes being told that I "owe" Blacks because they were slaves, and being white, it's my fault. The fact that my family immigrated to this country 100 years AFTER slavery was over means nothing. The fact that slaves were sold to Whites byt both Arabs and other blacks means nothing either.
After reading the above, I question whether I am even White since I look at this as a disguised political piece that has nothing to do with reality. But then again, it came from Mary Mitchell, so what can you expect

While I traditionally try to avoid your writings at all cost, there are a few times I do peruse your slanted point of view. Being an American, you have the right to your opinion, as well as voicing it. Considering what you have been given in your life, primarily because of your race, secondly because of your talent, it does go without saying that you also seem to be one of the most bigoted, racists I have had the displeasure to become familiar with. The real problem is people with your attitude, regardless of race, who perpetuate the racial divide. Instead of finding solutions for the dilemma, you consistently "drive a wedge" in order to maintain your segment of avid readers.

Black privilege is supporting a candidate because he's black and no one calls you a racist.

Why do you constantly go to the race card in every article you write? You have made yourself into a one trick pony. I use to read your column for a good insight to the city and your take on certain issues. You now sound as ignorant as the people you are bashing. It is 2008 not 1960 get over yourself.

read this and pass it on i ehought it was interesting, even though i already knew it

This is right on the money.
It is time for the country to move forward.
I hope and pray that we are ready for change.
That's ultimately what this election is about.

Your comments are about as ignorant as you. Is Sarah Palin really getting to you. What is black privilege? Voting for a black democratic canditate only because he is black. In a previous post you claimed that mostly white people belong to the NRA because they do cling to their guns and religion. If this is true why is every other building a store front church in the black areas and most of the gun offenders black. Truth hurts doesn't it........

Amen!!

I must say, this article sums up everything that I've been thinking. Very well done. I'm forwarding this to everyone I know.

white privelage huh

how privelaged do most "white" people feel ?

and whites are who ? english , american
welsh, slovenian, russian, dutch ete etc.
How privelaged are we all of pale skin?
How racist is it to group us all together
cos of skin color ?

Wow

I dont get it

Time to go roll in my money.

So you give credence to this email diatribe about anti-white sentiments, but will have none of it when somebody tries to point out the flaws and completely inaccurate statements in it?
Nice journalism Mary. Try to do some independant VERIFIED research for once.

this is just another example of Mr.s Mitchell's racism. but since she is black she is allowed to sday anything. i wonder when will people open their eyes to her hate and racism.

1. No one has said "Gee Bristol is pregnant, thats great." The thing that is criticized is not when blacks or latinos make that mistake but that there is a significant number who don't learn from their experience and impose the burden of feeding and housing their kids on the taxpayers.
The first paragraph about education is pure conjecture. It is what you "think" people will think.
2. A thug is not a trash-talking teen. A thug is someone who sells dope and actually uses violence.Also, I haven't heard anyone say what a great person this kid is.
3. Based on her academic record alone most of us privilidged whites would question her intelligence, however she has proven since then that she is intelligent, shrewd and gutsy.
4. No one is afraid of black gun enthusiasts. People are afraid of gang members carrying guns, that is not the same thing as a sportsman or collecter.

Hey Mary lets talk about Black privilege;

1. Being in your Seventys having the nerve to ask for more tax dollars for a public housing museum after saying very proudly, Ive lived here all my life and raised 3 generations here.
2. being able to support and vote for a person the same color as you and not being called a racist for it.
3. Being under the age of 18 with 3 kids and having tax dollars pay for your life.
4. Being able to not pay your gas and electric bills but demand cable as a right.
5. Being able to blame your not paying the mortgage you couldnt afford, on the banks and the evil white republician president when it was the liberal democratic president whose policies forced the banks to make those loans. (after accusing these same banks of racism for not loaning the money in the first place.)

Now Mary just keep up this race baiting and you will get 4 more years to whine as more and more people are getting tired of being told were bad.

Hey Mary lets talk about Black privilege;

1. Being in your Seventys having the nerve to ask for more tax dollars for a public housing museum after saying very proudly, Ive lived here all my life and raised 3 generations here.
2. being able to support and vote for a person the same color as you and not being called a racist for it.
3. Being under the age of 18 with 3 kids and having tax dollars pay for your life.
4. Being able to not pay your gas and electric bills but demand cable as a right.
5. Being able to blame your not paying the mortgage you couldnt afford, on the banks and the evil white republician president when it was the liberal democratic president whose policies forced the banks to make those loans. (after accusing these same banks of racism for not loaning the money in the first place.)

Now Mary just keep up this race baiting and you will get 4 more years to whine as more and more people are getting tired of being told were bad.

Mary you are one digusting racists person. Where you got you BS from is unreal. Wonder what would happen if a WHITE colummist wrote black privlage and see if they would get away with it. You couldn't be farther from the truth. It is an absolute shame you write these rasits columns. Why the Suntimes prints them I don't know. One thing I do know is I just stopped reading the Suntimes. Hope the paper fails!

Hey Mary lets talk about Black privilege;

1. Being in your Seventys having the nerve to ask for more tax dollars for a public housing museum after saying very proudly, Ive lived here all my life and raised 3 generations here.
2. being able to support and vote for a person the same color as you and not being called a racist for it.
3. Being under the age of 18 with 3 kids and having tax dollars pay for your life.
4. Being able to not pay your gas and electric bills but demand cable as a right.
5. Being able to blame your not paying the mortgage you couldnt afford, on the banks and the evil white republician president when it was the liberal democratic president whose policies forced the banks to make those loans. (after accusing these same banks of racism for not loaning the money in the first place.)

Now Mary just keep up this race baiting and you will get 4 more years to whine as more and more people are getting tired of being told were bad.

I like reading Tim Wise articles...always an eye opener. I would like to share an experience I had at work this past spring. Two colleagues, one white, one black. Both with daughters in Girl Scouts. Both brought the Girl Scout cookie sign up sheet to the office. The black colleague was first. Most people said no or only bought one box. The next day, the white colleague put his daughter's sign up sheet next to the other. And what do you think happened? Folks who said no thanks to the black colleague, now bought from the white colleague. Folks who bought only 1 box from the black colleague bought 3-5 boxes from the white colleague. The black colleague said to me, what's wrong? Don't they feel the same about little black girls as they do little white girls? It hurt my heart to say, no they don't. She tried to justify there actions, maybe they didn't see my form, maybe they didn't have any money that day, etc. She's nice like that, but in her heart and in my heart, we know why.

So true... False entitlement has always been America's greatest problem. It was entitlement that justified slavery in the States. It was entitlement that justified segregation. And sadly, entitlement is at the root of our most recent financial and social travesties today (Wallstreet, Jena, etc).

The greatest challenge we will face in this current election and with America's future in general is educating those who carry this false entitlement (and the politicians who self-servingly perpetuate it) that the freedoms they tout, both deserved and undeserved, are not birth rights but instead liberties that must be earned AND preserved, like any true citizen. Until that day, true change will never come to America.

Thanks for stating what African Americans have obviously known since we have been so called declared equal.

Oh man...I've actually seen this guy's standup routine.

Think Father Flager on cocaine!

Mary Mitchell has completely gone over the edge of all reason and sense. For every perceived double standard she points out there is a reverse example of it or her use of race simply isn’t relevant. As a liberal democrat, I would simply file your confused rant in the same place I would any Limbaugh rant. You both are wrong, take things out of context and then feel indignant when called out. Go ahead say I’m a racist as that is always your first excuse to not be civil. So here are some of your examples right back at you …
So white people are given a pass on teen pregnancy – ask the Spears family if all the attention they got was positive. The big issue here is not Bristol being pregnant; it is the fact that the policy that failed her family is the same her mother would impose on the country.
You want to make Bristol’s boyfriend an issue? How about Ferris Bueller’s sister’s best friend’s cousin’s boyfriend. This person has nothing to do with anything. I don’t care what some friend of the Obama family has to say either. But to counter your white privilege thing, he calls himself redneck and some black youth call themselves nigga. He says he likes to shoot and rappers speak lovingly of their AK or gat. Neither one is appealing, good thing we let ignorant teenage boys out of the stupid things they say – Ice Cube went from thug to Disney movie star. Let’s hope all the niggas and rednecks live long enough to grow out of it.
Your whole college example of white privilege is comical. You now feel you can speak for white privilege by saying “whereas a person of color who did this would be viewed as unfit for college, and probably someone who only got in the first place because of affirmative action.” Please take note that nobody actually said that, just something you think someone you hate might say. College is hard, and anyone who gets through deserves some credit.
You say “White privilege is being able to be a gun enthusiast and not make people immediately scared of you.” Do think any person sees a cache of weapons and feels safe? Any group of white guys who owns guns is immediately called a fanatic militia and rightfully so. I’m scared of those guys.
All of the rest of your rant is calling out hypocrisy. Maybe if you had paid attention to politics before Obama, you would know that is just the normal partisan garbage. Congratulations, welcome to the old double standard of party politics. A democrat cheats but a republican has a youthful indiscretion. As the polls stand now, there is a virtual tie. Bush-Gore was a something like 50-50. Who got to claim white privilege in that election? America is divided more red/blue than black and white.
In the end your wrongheaded blog here does nothing but alienate. I hope as a country we elect Obama on the issues. But win or lose I hope you consider the number of white people who have voted for him when talking about race.

Has Ms Sneed seen this article? Anyone else? We must do our part...this truly has saddned me. It was in 1981 when I was in the 6th grade when a group of white racist people trashed the private Christian school I attended with all kinds of racial degrading stuff on the walls. Totally defaced our school. Bomb threats. The whole nine. So don't tell me that white privilege does not still exist. Anytime you won't support Senator Obama because he is the most qualified man is crazy. So what this is telling me is that the privilge would rather have the country tank into the toilet than to have a qualified candidate in the office? Just to say that a white woman is superior to a black man...

I read your article today about the individual that was shot by police in Englewood neighborhood. I was in the area at the time of the shooting and I was deeply disturbed by the action of the citizens in the area. I witnessed children running towards the shooting and I also witnessed parents getting upset with school security as they work hard to prevent children from running towards the scene. As usual it was stated that the individual that was shot did not have a weapon. There we many witnesses that observed the individual with a gun and yet they keep silent. Well, it’s time to break the silence. The officer’s response to the individual’s actions were well justified. Today the community along with other activist marched to protest the shooting by police. This is the reason that none of our activists are ever taken seriously because they choose to use their voices in support of illegal action performed by criminals. Instead of marching in the neighborhood and to the police station; they should have marched to the individual's parent’s home and asked them where did they go wrong. I am not blaming the parent for their son’s action because there are many other influences in a person’s life; but I do put the blame where it belong and that is on the individual that pointed the gun at the police. It is time out for blaming the police. It is time out for making excuses for people that choose to live a life of crime. It is time out for hearing the outspoken minority’s voice that denounces the outstanding job performance of the Chicago Police. It is time for the silent majority to speak out. The citizen in the Englewood community are held hostage by daily gun fire, robberies and burglaries; therefore if the activist want to march about something…march to your next door neighbor’s house who you know is committing burglaries. March to the corner and talk to the people that you know are carrying guns. The people in the community as well as the activist are well aware of the people that commit crimes; they also have an abundance of knowledge of where the drugs are kept and who on the corner is carrying a gun. In the past our leaders use to march against issues that were unjust and fought for right that will give us a fair chance to prosper. I am starting to wonder what these so-called community activist are marching for today. I can guarantee it is not for the safety or uplifting of the community. It’s time to turn a deaf ear to activist and protesters that support criminal activity and it’s time for the silent majority to start speaking out. We are losing our community as well as our children. Allow the police to do their job; that’s what we pay them for.

Mary, I know you've heard this before so I know you don't mind hearing it again. Seriously, get some help. I can only imagine what type of friends you have. I'm assuming they're not white, at least not on the inside. You know what I'm talking about. I don't understand your preoccupation is with white people. I don't even understand your obsessive thoughts with black people. It appears there's no in between and really your thoughts have nothing to do with this election. Obama's black, so what? Is that all he is to you -- a black man? Come on, give it some effort. Stop with the black and white thing. Even though I'm not an Obama supporter I know there's more to the man.

I am white and have tried to explain white privilege often, including just yesterday to many of my co-workers, family members and acquaintances. This column expresses it in a way that probably will still refuse to believe but I loved it anyway.

Being a white woman, I highly disagree with what you said. I do not believe tht getting pregnant at 17 is Okay, for any child. I will sway in my voting choice just because a woman is now a V.P. Candidate. I do not think it was a trick question either, she clearly did not know what she was talking about.
She should be able to see why she was picked as his running mate, I certainly do.
I as a white woman will not vote for a white woman because of her color of her skin. I as a white woman will vote for Barack Obama because of what he stands for not the color of his skin either.

Everything written in this article is everything that I think when I watch FOX NEWS......it is getting better because now I can keep my food down....

Gee Mary, thanks for the insult as you say, "For those who still can't grasp the concept of white privilege, or who are constantly looking for some easy-to-understand examples of it, perhaps this list will help.

You just could not help but insult your readers could you just to spread your words of hate. Oh wait, your "hate" article was a few days ago, wasn't it! How I cringed when I read that article!
Thanks Mary - because of you the Chicago Suntimes has lost ANOTHER LOYAL subscriber!

Please readers, do NOT respond to this article. She is NOT worth it!

No disrespect because I thought your blog was cute, but let me reply simply by saying "NO DUH". Everyone white, black and in between knows this. This is something that even immigrants know of, and even move here (America) to take advantage of "white privilege". Now for the reason of me writing this is to let you know that no one cares, but if they did you would have failed them anyway. You would have failed them because you are sugar coating the truth as the liberal media tends to do to make people feel better. If you want to explain it better next time call it the " Base of Racism Nationwide". Then go on to tell them that when people take advantage of so called "white privilege" it makes them a racist. A racist even though they may sit back and write against the ills of society in a so called liberal city that was refered by MLK Jr. by being one of the most racist cities he has been to.

Funny knock on Palin, who hardly seems like the best choice McCain could have made.

Yes,white privilege exists and shouldn't be denied. It also exists in Latin America, where whites usually have more money, better jobs, etc., in nations like Ecuador and Mexico where a majority is Indian/Indegenous or mixed blood. Still, white priviledge is not nearly the boost assumed by many, particularly those who view us whites with contempt.

As much as I like to agree with you, Mary you are right on with this one.

Well I actually read the letter on Facebook and I found it quite interesting, so I pasted it to my blog on Myspace too. Then for good measure I emailed it to all of my friends on Yahoo. Not that I am anti-white, black or anywhere in between, I have an entirely different view on the world we live in. There is and have always been a smokescreen behind all of the issues in American Society. It just so happens that color and sex is the main two.

It just so happens that black people expect more from one another than white people do. That's a good thing, not a bad thing.

I agree with this entire statement. I've heard this over and over from a lot of black people as well as whites. I'm pretty sure some people are going to call the statement above "racist viewed", but it is only the truth. Everything in it are simply facts. But as the right-wing likes to say all the time, "the truth hurts"!!!

I don't normally agree with your positions, Mary. And many times I am appalled at some the statements you make and the columns you write. You tend to pick your battles and stances that seem overly racist at times, even radical and zealous.

This posting is an exception, however. Unfortunately, you have hit the proverbial nail on the head. I don't consider myself to be a racist, revolutionary, Black Nationalist or far-left zealot, nor does my philosophy fall under any of the regular categories normally attributed to African Americans in this country, and especially this city.
But those issues that you have outlined in this posting are generally true. Hell . . . they're all true. As painful as that fact is, and as open-minded and as inclusive as we wish to be, as a people and as a society, the fact remains that White Privilge is a fact of life, whether you accept it or not.

This election will prove to be a watershed event. Those of us who love to espouse platitudes of inclusion and acceptance and understanding . . . all the so-called enlightened liberal positions and politically correct statements, will be replaced by the sudden realization that: "Man . . . this Black guy might actually become the President of the United States!"
Those hopes and dreams of our predecessors may actually come to fruition in our lifetime. It, on the other hand, may also send a lot of our "enlightened" Caucasian bretheren over the edge. They can all say what they wish others to believe about them in polite company. They can also appear in public and continue to give "support" to the Obama ticket, showcasing their unwaivering support of equality.

But in the sanctity of the voting booth . . . that's another question.

Wait until November. True colors will come to the fore.

Why is it called racism if a white woman suports a white candidate but if 99% of all African Americans supports a black candidate it is labeled as cultural pride? Voters on both sides have their reasons for voting the way they do. Possilbly for issues. Do all African American or white voters know Obama's or McCain's policies on the issues, and then make a decision on who best reflects their personal views. Maybe they are supporting Obama and not McCain based on skin color? Don't be so quick to scream rascim if you don't want to point it out on both sides.

white privelige is knowing that 75% of the violent crime in this country that is perpetrated against white people is committed by blacks. thanks mary

Why is it called racism if a white woman supports a white woman for political office but if 99% of all African Americans support a black candidate it is labeled as cultural pride? All voters have their reasons for voting the way they do. Do you believe that a majority of either white or black voters really analize the canidate's positions and seriously vote for who more closely shares their ideals? More likely its a knee jerk reaction to who you identify with more.Don't point your finger and scream at white people who support McCain/Palin as racists if you don't recognize the inherent racism in the rigid voting block that the African American community have become in this election.

Nice article by the left. Real nice. The difference between Gov. Palin's daughter getting pregnant and the black/Latino ones who get pregnant is she knows who the father is. That is usually a problem for the black and Latino girls who end up on the Maury Povich show crying because they chose the wrong guy to have the paternity test. Great TV!!! Thanks for providing that one Mary Mitchell. Love it when people make themselves look stupid. Secondly, Gov. Palin's daughter will NOT be living on welfare like the black and Latino girls. Why? Because she has a family to support her in all the ways necessary in this situation. Does the black/Latino girls? No, unfortunately not. Why? Mary Mitchell, you can explain that one. I'm white I wouldn't understand. The bottom line is that just because you get pregnant does not give you the right to put the bill on those working and taking care of their own families. Take care of your own and pay for it. Just like us.

Mary,

You're racist views are starting to show.You are better than that.Everyone has two choices in life.....1) BE A VICTIM and blame everyone else for your situation or 2) empower yourself and overcome life's hurdles.

Why can't the community be allowed to present these issues to GOV. Palin and McCain at a televised forum? People need to ask her these questions and demand answers!! They need to get some of those young "black" Howard University, Harvard, Columbia, Spellman, etc. students to ask Gov. Palin these questions!! I am dying to hear her answers!

Another note: Harvey Levin of TMZ bashed Obama for declining Lindsey Lohan's offer to campaign for him during a fundraiser. Levin made a point that Obama is being hypercritical because he used cocaine years ago! But, lets not forget that Cindy McCain abused pain killers for years without no one knowing it, but yet the world is sympathtic for her! YES, I see the WHITE PRIVILEGE here!!!!

Very well said. White privilege is also making the decision to bury this true article well thought out article.

Thank you for laying this out in a manner that should not be arguable. Although some will rip it apart, because they cannot get away from the years of brainwashing that goes along with the very definition of "white privilege"; they feel superior in their knowledge and ability to know what is best for anyone who looks different than them. The difference in the way the two party’s actions are viewed and reported by much of the media is clear to everyone. We can see it, but we dare not speak of it, lest we become the next target.

The white privilege group refuses to acknowledge anyone's right to disagree with their "principles". They are a mean and vicious group, who will lie and smear in order to be perceived as right. The depths to which they will sink reflect the depth of their insecurity

Perfect! I could not have stated it better myself! Excellent job!

I'm sorry, but I came across this blog and needed to comment. What is being talked about here is not "white" privilege, but "rich" privilage.

The majority of instances above are becuase the people involved had money or power or both. They also involve the Protestant-Anglo community that has been elitist since before even the founding of this country.

I'm tired of what are really "economic" advantages being painted as race ones. One paragraph refers to "being able to fire people who didn't support your political campaigns and not be accused of abusing your power ". Have you not heard of the Stroger or Jackson family in Chicago?

Does no one remeber that as every immigrant group, from Italians to Lithuanians and especially the Irish Catholics, came into this city that they were crapped on by the Protestant-Anglos by being denied housing and jobs?

People of minority races need to be aware that the white poor get no financial help for college or housing. It's not because their not poor, its because they happen to be of European ancestry, and that means you get nothing from Gov. in terms of help or assistance, whether you need it or not.

It's assumed from the minority point of view that you have an advantage at going to college or getting a job because your white. WAKE UP! You only have an advantage if you happen to be part of the "lucky sperm" club, someone who is handed everything because their father or grandfather happened to succeed at business or stole it in the last century.

I plead with minorities to stop looking at this as a "race" issue and start looking at it as a "class" issue. We are all poor, from broken homes and have very little to rely upon. Take a look at the people who claim "race" is the problem. Most of them do it while at the bully pulpit, where they recieve "donations" from their poor congregations and then drive around in high end cars with high end suits and expensive bling that was bought with donations.

Look at it this way. Who profits from arguing racism between sets of poor people? The rich people, no matter what color they are.

Was this article written for Black people or White people?

Think about that next time you're out spending time with Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and other 'racial con men', because like them, your editorial commentary is a racial con job.

I like Obama. I'm not going to vote for him, but I'm excited for the country. Just as I found it exciting for Clarence Thomas, Colin Powel, Condi Rice.

So next Editorial, how about doing one on 'The Black attitude'. You can confer with Walter Williams and Bill Cosby.

Chris K.

Amen! Thank you!

First of all Mary. Dont lump Hispanics into your article like you are speaking in their best interest too. This "white privelege" crap is something that we have no interest in complaining about.
We overcome things Mary. We dont complain about it.
The amount of hate in your heart can only be exceeded by the platform that is given to you to display it. And that is a shame.
Look around you Mary. You work in the media. I would say that at least half of the media is "white" . And about 80 percent of them are helping you help Barack get elected. "White privelege" at work.
Did you know that Sara Pahlin's son is going away to fight. So that you can keep your priveleges?
All of them. The white, black and even the pink ones Mary.
Your a running joke Mary. It's just too bad that the Chicago Sun Times cant see that.
God Bless you Mary.
Forgive my spelling. Dictionary priveleges. Just lost them.

Hey Shelley, or should I say Mary? Maybe you and Mary should start doing some joint articles.
Next time you make a comment, make sure that your not the pot. Complaining about the kettle.

Mary,
Do you read this stuff? I hope you have a good laugh at some of these people. This is the problem with America. If the skills were reversed and Obama was the 26 year Senator who graduated 5th from the bottom in his class, was computer illiterate and picked a female running mate who was 1/2 his age with no real experience do you think the White guy with Obama's resume would be neck and neck with the Black guy in the polls. Do I hear a big fat NO.

I wholeheartedly agree with all of the things said except "white privilege".

Racism goes both ways Mary.

I'm not saying her race isn't involved in how she is treated or that this stuff isn't true. It's very true and Palin seems like some poorly written joke, but it's articles like this that help perpetuate racism.

Obama doesn't play the "poor wittle minority" card and neither should you Mary.

We don't win an election against the anti-black campaign by being anti-white right back. We are above it, Obama is above it, and you should be above it Mary.

BTW, I am white. I fail to see my special privileges. Maybe you should look into the Money Privilege. Guess that would be too close to home, huh. I'm sure blaming color is easier.

O-bomb '08!

This article was well written.

I know that people are afraid of change, but can we really afford to allow our society and our economy to continue to spin out of control.

Please people, this election is very important. We cannot simply vote for McCain/ Palin because we are afraid of the alternative.

If we vote McCain/Palin we are dooming ourselves. Think rationally here. Do we really want more of the same in office again? This is our future that we are talking about here. Look at our economy, its scary.

It's amazing to me that the majority of the posters were too stupid to realize that this was a reprint. It would probably be best that these comments be directed to Tim Wise considering Ms. Mitchell did not write the essay.

I see a lot of whites not paying attention to this blog. Obama doesn't wear a flag pin and he is a terroist or unpatreotic. Palins husband does not want to be a part of the U.S., wants Alaska to a saperate country, but this get know media attention. If it was Michelle Obama, the story would be all over FOX KKK NEWS.

yet another racist article from the tribune racist writer.

blaming everything on white people is getting old for blacks, don't you think?

RESPONSIBILITY for your own actions.

glad to see in the comments that I am not alone in my dislike for mary mitchell and ANY of her work.

reverse racism at its finest.

mary, please quit, resign, whatever. you are a joke.

Great article, wonderful comments and all valid points by the powerful Tim Wise. I can tell that Amerikkka still has a very very long way to go concerning racism and prejudice, not by reading the article, but due to the response to the article written here. Keep going Mary and Tim.... the deaf, dumb, and blind have to be brought to the light somehow. Let the truth be told!! POWER TO ALL OF THE PEOPLE...OBAMA 2008!!

Crash and burn some did on this topic with opinions. First the article was not written by Ms. Mitchell, but as usual the diatribes of hatred come spewing forth regardless of the author.

White people screaming "Black people that vote for Black people are racist!" is hilarious. EXCUSE THE HELL OUT OF ME, BUT WHEN THE LAST TIME A OVERLY QUALIFIED MAN HAS RUN FOR THE PRESIDENCY WHO HAPPENS TO BE BLACK BEFORE? I speak in terms of the identifying classification which America has insitituted for Black Americans.

Stop HATING THE PLAYER - HATE THE GAME! Hey WHITE PEOPLE it is still your game, tighten up your skills and get back in the game. Don't get angry and walk away now that a few of us know how to play it astutely.

Now that is privilege when a job - The Presidency - has been abused over the last eight years and now that a candidate who happens to be Black is the best to lead this country over the next four to eight years, Whites would rather turn their backs to the previous administrations ills again for another four years to someone with similar if not EXACT philosophies who will steward the United States continously in this WRECK ECONOMIC MESS.

It has been proven White people will vote against their interest in terms of racial solidarity, then blame others for the America's sluggish economic problems.

White people, it ain't that bad to have a Harvard educated, top of their class type guy, who was the Law Review Editor, and a University of Chicago college lecturer to run the country.

I know some white people thinking:
Damn, It's Hard Out Here For A White Person.

Guess what? Not when you are PRIVILEGE!

White privilege is when a white chief of police, a white police officer and a white director of social services can ignore evidence that a 4 year old black child is being abused to the point where eventually that child is murdered.

White privilege is when a white chief of police, a white police officer and a white director of social services can ignore evidence that a 2 year old black child is being abused to the point where eventually that child is murdered.

White privilege is when a white chief of police, a white police officer and a white director of social services can ignore evidence that a black child has been raped by a white man diagnosed as having paraphiia and that white man gets away with it.
The real display of white privilege in this is that the chief of police, the police officer and the director of social services were involved in all three cases that stemmed from 1978 to 2008. http://taylorspetition.blogspot.com/
http://exposepwc.blogspot.com/
Those two sites will show that these are not just words this is reality.

I can understand your frustration with white privilege, but it's foolish and also dangerous to make such stark generalizations about how white people interpret the actions of blacks and whites. It's true that race often plays a hand in peoples' perceptions, but if you leave that as the only variable that's in play then this all becomes hopeless and no one takes responsibility for themselves or their actions.

Ms. Mitchell

I think you ruffled a lot of different color feathers!!, now what's next - white privelege indeed

Mary:

Do your readers realize that your whole column (not just the first one or two paragraphs) was taken verbatim from Tim Wise? Of course, without quote marks, how would they know?

Doesn't the intro say the article was written by Tim Wise? Also, there is a link to the original content.

"EXCUSE THE HELL OUT OF ME, BUT WHEN THE LAST TIME A OVERLY QUALIFIED MAN HAS RUN FOR THE PRESIDENCY WHO HAPPENS TO BE BLACK BEFORE"

Douglas - again, an unbelievably ignorant statement. Do u really think a white person with Obama's limited credentials would be a party nominee??? "Overly qualified"???

Too funny

WHAT IS BLACK ENTITLEMENT?

Mary,

Thank you for posting Mr. Wises article. As long as we continue to ignore the truth especially when it's as ugly as this we can not change it. Senator Obama affords us the opportunity to address this age old issue. Racist, I believe are a minority, they are cowards, the more we out them they better our society becomes. Thank you again.

This was fantastic! How wonderful, courageous, and gutsy you are!

ED C, you are an idiot. You say Hispanics don't complain? What are you smoking. What about all of these marches being held every year. The ones with ILLIGAL IMMIGRENTS MARCHING FOR RIGHTS THEY DO NOT DESERVE. But yet all these illigels do is steal hard working people social security numbers, to get jobs that belong to American citizens, and the ILLIGAL HISPANIC WOMEN use more then one social security to receive several walfare checks. But yet they want to march because this country is being unfair to them? That is some B.S. Maybe the drug dealers, and child molasters should march for rights to commit illigal acts, like those crossing the borders illigally.

Ms. Mitchell:

What happened to your scholarship? You are an educated person! Black or White; take some pride in your work and reflect some objectivity.
It is so easy to "write to incite." Your skill as a writer has greatly diminished, your work now reads like a page out of the "national enquire."
I can only imagine the embarrassment senator obama must feel every time he reads your work. The man wants and has tried to distance himself as far away fror race as possible and you do him no favor by consistently shouting about the white devil.
I imagine that senator obama has told you to "ease-up" on the race ranting. Hiding behind someone elses' writing only frustrates white people and in the end will cost obama votes.
Try writing something with objectivity and maybe you will regain your legitamcy.

I'll try again, since evidently you censored my last attempt for reasons I bet you can't explain. I have 1st Amendment rights, also. I even fought for this country. Sent to VietNam by President Lyndon Johnson.

Ok, here goes: Mary, NOBODY would have disagreed with you had you said, "the wealthy-privileged", "VIP-privileged", or "celebrity-privileged." But instead, everything is only according to race to you.

So let me ask, when Jesse Jackson made a phone-call to Mayo Clinic so that Allison Payne of WGN could be seen infront of thousands of people who have been waiting and waiting for months and what have you. So Mary, was that 'white privilege'?

Ok, while I had to put 25% down before I could get a house, like alot of us, we now have this policy instituted in 1997 whereby a high-risk person can buy a home even if they only put $500 down. I'll be honest, the banks, lenders, mortgage companies, don't want to have the race-card thrown at them. And liberal politicians want the votes. And oh, has it come back to haunt this nation now. As we work on a bail-out plan. Where's the 'white privilege'?

Ok, the newspapers, including yours, are too afraid to go after black politicians the way they go after white ones. Dorothey Tillman and Emma Mitts can make racist comments towards hispanics all the time and it won't even make the first 4 pages of your paper. Garbage like Arenda Troutman was what, page 15 recently. Lets see a white politician try that. Is that 'white privilege'?

What about Jesse's sons being given a beer distributorship? Is that 'white privilege'? Or Farrakhan's son?

Let's first understand what a newspaper blog really is meant for. It is a attempt by the Sun Times to see what types of people read the paper. Ethnic make-up, sex, age, location etc. The Sun times or MM couldn't care less about your opinion. It's just numbers.

In regard to white priviledge...it is also knowing that the person who impregnated your daughter will assume the reponsibility of raising that child and not put it on the tax payers of the state. It is also "knowing" who the father is of the child. Both which are sorely lacking in the black community here is Chicago. O.J. is guilty. Justice at last..or can we expect another riot?

First let's understand what this blog and all others in the Sun Times is really all about. It is a device for the Sun Times to find out what types read their paper. Ethnic makeup, age, sex, locality. You don't really think Mary M or the sun times cares what you think?

Now about white priviledge. White priviledge is knowing the identity of the person who impregnated your daughter. It is also knowing that the person will assume the reponsibility of caring for this child and not put it on the state. Yes, that's white privilede. The opposite is black irresponsibility. Oh, I'm sorry I can't say that in the Sun Times. It will probably be taken as racial.

First let's understand what this blog and all others in the Sun Times is really all about. It is a device for the Sun Times to find out what types read their paper. Ethnic makeup, age, sex, locality. You don't really think Mary M or the sun times cares what you think?

Now about white priviledge. White priviledge is knowing the identity of the person who impregnated your daughter. It is also knowing that the person will assume the reponsibility of caring for this child and not put it on the state. Yes, that's white privilede. The opposite is black irresponsibility. Oh, I'm sorry I can't say that in the Sun Times. It will probably be taken as racial.

The Daleys, Strogers, Madigans, Austins, Blagojeviches, Steeles, Bushes, Joneses, Jacksons, Kennedys, and now the Palins!

That's what polticial nepotism SHOULD be...equal opportunity!

Ms. Mitchell,

I am going to tell you what is sad that when you look in the mirror you never see what other people may see . The article that was wriiten by T. wise was dead-on,in my opinion. Let me reiterate ,in my opinion. I have always wondered why caucasions perspective always differ when the tables are turned? This is rhetorical...it would be a great moment in life if for once people would step outside of their box and look at situations as they are presented..on a case by case basis...not by race,creed,color ,sexual preference or religion. I am sorry, white people,I have encountered, do generalize and project this sense of entitlement....

It never ceases to amaze me, that in a world full of humger and homeless, we can still find the time and energy to rattle on about racism. Look People! for once and for all racism does exist. Now, that it has been said, stop blogging about it, and do something about it. Sarah Palin and her family should not be targeted for something we as black people hate to be targeted for. When white people talk in this manner it is racism, but the question is, what is it when African Americans do it?

No, Ms. Mitchell, the problem is not merely "white privilage"; the problem is racism, in all forms.

Your rant here, and your recent columns have been increasingly and embarrassingly more racist.

Ms. Mitchell, part of the problem is you.

No one said it better. All we can do is hope that people see the candidates for who they truly are, and that Obama is the best person for the job. So much is riding on this election.

MARY,

YOUR ARTICLES ARE WHAT KEEP RACISM ALIVE! YOU SHOULD BE THE ONE TO APOLIGIZE FOR YOUR COMPLETE RACIAL PROFILING! I HATE READING YOUR ARTICLE BECAUSE ALL IT DOES IS CREATE TROUBLE. IT'S PEOPLE LIKE YOU AND JESSE THAT KEEP IT ALIVE!!

"...and whites are who ? english , american
welsh, slovenian, russian, dutch ete etc.
How privelaged are we all of pale skin?
How racist is it to group us all together
cos of skin color ?"

exactly what I was thinking--
I never have identified myself as white-- none of my German family would.
Is it impossible for blacks to understand that there is also a hierarchy of the anglo races in which someone like you lumping me in with Irish, Poles, or Russians because they are white, is extremely offensive? I'm sure that to some this also would sound racist but then if that's the case I will say they, like Mary, don't get it!
There is no white privilege, there is only Darwinism in its interrupted state as we have it.
No one discusses race when this level of comfort that is called "success through hard work" is achieved. ideally, your race will abandon its culture and emulate these more successful ones to succeed and assimilate, making these columns irrelevant.

Wow, I didn't realize that it was o.k. to not publish comments to a racial rant. When did you guys start to censor people?

I will try again. I am fed up with Mary spouting about "White privilage." For every argument that she comes up with for white privilage I can guarantee that someone could come up with a similar comment about "Black Denial." The black community constantly blames the white community for the number of black men in jail. Yep, we put the gun in their hands and made them pull the trigger. We forced them to join a gang. Is it white privilage when Todd Stroger does nothing but run Cook County into the ground, and hires is family and friends to high paying county jobs? How about the other African American politicians that have basically installed their children into office, like Bobbie Steele. Or better yet Emil Jones, who is handing his Senate seat to his UNQUALIFIED son? Is that white privilage?

Now she is attacking Sarah Palin's daughter. No one is saying that her daughter getting pregnant isn't irresponsible and a problem. But it is no different an issue if she was African American. The problem lies with the family. However, if you want to talk about percentages and stats, the incidence of teenage pregnancy in the black community is MUCH higher. Mary if you want to go after something, that is a great cause.

It is time that Mary and people like her use their energies for the good of their community, instead of trying to blame someone else for the problems.

What about Hispanics?
We are left nowhere with your columns and with Obama and McCain.

Maybe instead of IMAGINING this so-called 'white privilege' kick your on, you'll write an article asking young African-Americans to take education seriously. Instead of having a LESS then 50% high school graduation rate. President Clinton in the 90's pushed through and got the Welfare Reform Act passed. So none of us are obliged to take care of these drop-outs anymore. They need to graduate like others. No more excuses.

Mary, you're the best and you don't try to appease White people and that's why I like you and will always reach out to you for your assistance. Keep telling it like it is. The truth hurts, but it need to be spoken.

Mary, the essay made a lot of good points. The main problem in the U.S., brought into focus by the increased proliferation of blogs and electronic recording devices, is that Americans are getting dumber by the year. It's so easy to throw out a catch phrase or buzzword, e.g., "simplistic, sexist, old-school, patronizing...ad nauseum," in lieu of thoughtful analysis, let alone correct spelling and proper grammar. And, I'll digress here, but consider all the voters who think Hillary Clinton was robbed of the nomination because of sexism, sun spots or the Good Ole Boys Club. No, for some of us, she was not taken seriously because she's aloof, a proven liar, married to a convicted liar and draft dodger. She ran a poor campaign and one seemingly rife with dissension. When one claims, as did this would-be commander in chief, that she "misspoke" about landing in Bosnia under enemy fire, there are those of us who consider such actions a really good reason to vote for someone else. And what can anyone say about Sarah Palin's candidacy, and John McCain's irresponsibility for choosing her, that any 12-year-old couldn't figure out?

Mary I can't believe half of the stuff you write about, it's crazy. White privilege, yeah right I’m missing out. You’re really touching on rich and poor privilege, not white or black privilege. Here's my white privilege. My father passed away several years ago. I have been on my own since, worked full time to pay rent, food and other necessities and save what little I could. I then went back to college and completed my undergrad. Then I applied to pharmacy school and I am working my way through pharmacy right now. When I graduate I will owe over 150K for my education in student loans. 30k for undergrad and 33k a year for pharmacy school x 4 years. Your life is what you do with it, it's all about having priorities. You have a child at 16, buy a 50k car and live in an apartment, commit a crime - there's nobody to blame but themselves. They made that choice. Oh had a kid - shouldn't of had unprotected sex-- let me rephrase shouldn't of had sex at all at age 16. It doesn't matter race, this goes for all races. You have choices in life. I see a lot of people having 5 or 6 kids making only 20,000 a year if that. What life are you going to give that child, hence the reason there are so many sh*theads in the world today. I am not having a child with my girlfriend until I am couple of years out of pharmacy school and MARRIED. Also, I will probably only have two children. PRIORITIES! I want my children to have the privileges I had and didn’t have. If I dropped out of school and we had a child and bought an expensive car yeah it would be less work and I could have everything now. However, I don't want to live pay check to paycheck and just get buy. If people in the world today thought twice about these issues, they could provide their child with a great life - with plenty of options. If you can't afford a child then don't have one! There is no excuse. You can wear condoms, not have multiple partners, or not have sex at all. In the end it's really you being selfish and wanting the better things in life now, instead of sacrificing to provide your child with a good life.

Hillary Clinton gave a great example of white privilege when she said, "If HIV-AIDS were the leading cause of death of white women between the ages of 25 and 34 there would be an outraged outcry in this country."

I guess, Asian-Americans don't count, huh?

The trouble is with this focus on privilege that the discussion supresses the considerable evidence that groups differ in average ability.

By ignoring these factors, we risk demonising successful groups, as happened to the Armenian Jews or Jews in Germany. Also the Chinese in Mayaysia.

We know in terms of evolution, that groups exposed to different environmental pressures may develop distinct genetic traits. This is clear in athletics.

In terms of academic ability, it is quite clear that Ashkenazi Jews & East Asians, on average, outperform whites.

For example, in Brazil, it is the Japanese who are the highest-achieving group. They were brought in as indentured labourers to work the plantations after slavery was abolished in 1888. Yet, today, the Japanese outscore Whites on IQ tests. Seven studies of Jews in Britain yield a median IQ of 110. In educational achievement, East Asians in Britain also outperform the indigenous Whites. Similarly in Australia, East Asians (mostly Chinese and Vietnamese) average higher than Whites in IQ, educational achievement, and earnings. There are pockets of ethnic Chinese elsewhere in the world such as in Mexico, Argentina, and especially Hawaii, where they also do well.

These results are remarkably consistent over time, place, and situation, irrespective of the original status of the people, or the language, history, and political organization of the country concerned.

ISN'T TIM WISE A WHITE MAN?

Readers here are attributing the comments made in Tim Wise's article to Mary Mitchell and accusing her of being racist for having such a point of view. Little do the readers seem to know, Tim Wise is a white man who happens to know and understand what he is talking about. Based on the ignorant rantings here by some readers, he was right on.

White Privlege? Tell that to the people in Appalachia. I guess Mary Mitchell forgot what Martin Luther King said after visitng Appalachia. He said it was as bad if not worse than the shacks he witnessed in Mississippi for negroes.

And Mary? Didn't Barry Obama's mother and maternal grandparents do a wonderful job raising him? Where again was his African father?

One wonders how the word "privilege" came to be pared with the word "white"! in and of itself privilege has nothing at all to do with a particular race or ethnic group. Would you tell a Pakistani man that he has white privileges over his wife or daughters?
Those who say they want to end racism seem to think that ending white privilege will do the trick but lets look at the following questions: 1. what is wrong with privilege 2. what is the difference between privilege and advantage 3. which privileges are earned and which ones are not earned 4. how does one get rid of privilege's 5. when white people get rid of their supposed privileges will pocs be happy to use them.
Let's try a little experiment: find one friend, family member, neighbor or even a spouse. For the next 4 weeks tell them that you are angry about the privileges they have. Those privileges could be a better paying job, more respect at work, higher grades, children who do better at school than yours, better health and others.
After 4 weeks analyze their responses then honestly ask yourself if your test subject gave up any privileges and what the status of your relationship is.
This whole idea of white privilege is not only unjust but inherently evil.

I think Tim Wise sparked interesting dialogue with this essay but totally missed the point. The crux of white privilege is NOT simply the political shenanigans that captivated the country, that’s a totally different discussion. What he is pointing out is the blatant racism this country is built on and how it was used as a polarizing issue during the election. True privilege is the comfort of knowing that, as a white person, you never have to speak to a person of color to truly succeed, but the same isn’t true for people of color. The comfort of being the majority, never having to step out of your comfort zone (rather, doing it by choice) and the luxury of looking at other cultures as curious oddities are all testaments of white privilege. White people, as a whole, still benefit from slavery economically, culturally and mentally; and African Americans, as a whole, still suffer from it in all three aspects. For people of European decent to say, “my grandparents came here many years ago and made something of themselves, why can’t you?” shows they don’t understand the issue. To be honest, probably because they’re white and can’t grasp it.

I really appreciate what you've written. I also appreciate the criticisms many of your white readers have raised. However, I do fault your white critics for not sharing the history of degradation that members of the "white racial and ethnic groups have experienced prior to, during, and after the American slave holacaust. Many white Americans who know about the "white" welfare queens and kings who were members of their families fail to reveal their personal experiences that inform their displaced denunciations of "blacks." You have to remember that Africans brought here as slaves were subject to the whims and schemes of the white folks who ran the American slave "system." White folks were the "first causes" of American slavery and the lifestyles that developed in the African community; that's right, Africans were turned into "blacks" by the power of authorship of the white prevailing power structure. Poor whites had to suffer the twin failure of not succeeding in a country designed by wealthy whites to provide plenty of surplus capital for the aristocrats back in Europe by using kidnapped African labor and kidnapped "poor European" labor. (Check out the history behind the term "kidnapped." It's a term peculiar to whites in Europe.)Check out the "Protestant Ascendency" and take a close look at the conditions faced by poor European whites at the turn of the 17th century. There was nothing done in colonial America that hadn't be tried and tested on whites, by whites, in Europe. Yep, whites paid a high price for their "white skinned privileges". Check out the book, "The Invention of Whiteness' in order to get a sense of what life was like for poor American whites. Check out the book, White By Law, for an idea about the construction of "white skinned privileges" in the law and their purpose.

I feel sorry for those "whites" who haven't gotten over the shame of the birth, lives, and beings as it relates to their own white skinned selves. After all, "blacks" don't have to be convinced to live as if the world wasn't a prejudiced place run by white folks; it's white folks who have to convince themselves that they and their offspring, unto future generations, won't have to give back all their ill gotten gains and pay for the privileges of being white skinned in a country built on the backs of "blacks." I imagine that's a real hard reality for any white skinned person to face anywhere on planet earth; given that the American system of colonialism and "dark skinned enslavement" was reproduced in every continent that whites came into contact with, through out world history!!!!

how does the auto bailout benefit the poor people?i know of no one whose looking to buy a new car.it's enough gas prices are high now starting to go down .well no confidence in that. as well as all the other problems we face. the banks are not giving loans as evident with republic builders as well as others no money to put down on a new car,so why such the need to build autos that nobody can afford.do'nt the auto builders still have cars to sell i'm sure they sold them all and if so sell used cars. explain to me please why msust they have all this money.

Only in America

Where can you find a huge population who is highly educated, diverse and so culturally aware of the world?
Where can you find a population that after being so trusting, patient and giving are being slapped in the face and on the behinds while asked to give up more in the name of greed for those who really do not need?
Where can you find laws that are applied and misused by a few while the majority pay a huge price because they are afraid to speak up and speak out against the abuse?
While laws that say you can’t hire the new illegal minority it seems they have become the majority who make enough of a decent living to live well and send the rest of their under the table tax free pay to their families out of the country.
Now the previous majority and minority cannot keep a job, home, food on the table, and their children in decent schools because the money and the jobs are gone. Therefore, they demand a change and it has come hopefully not too late.

However, while we vow to be the United States and not just red states and blue states and yes, yellow states, some people did not get, or did not want to get or refused to get that memo. Because in certain states as election night closed we still saw red states and yellow states. So why and what does this mean? It means that while deep in our hearts we know these states had a majority who wanted to see change, who voted for change, but will not receive change or will be the very last to receive change because of those who remain resistant to change.

The resistant ones will continue to crush, slap and hopefully in their minds and greedy self-centered hearts eliminate the well-educated and highly qualified previous majority and minority. They will continue to have jobs and pay the illegal non-educated, non-qualified majority while telling the highly educated and highly qualified that there are no jobs for them, by giving false hope, handing out false evasive job applications and illegal job qualifying tests. All in the name of greed?

Those in denial will continue to block the way of change and the new way of thinking and doing and being all in the name of greed. They feign and deny that they are hurting anyone. They will pretend and pretense that everything is okay and business as usual while the rest of us, the one major and sought after majority that are highly educated, highly qualified, and who used to be able to call a place home are running out of options for surviving. We are now rapidly becoming the demoralized, cash poor, homeless majority. And this has, is, does, oh, my goodness really happens Only in America.

Five minutes from being homeless
Yvonne in Georgia.

He also missed talking about biggest under-achieving race in this country - the african american race....

White privilege...why not take up a real discussion about the complete collapse of cities like Detroit and New Orleans. What do they have in common...hmmm...let me think

LOOK IN THE MIRROR AND SOLVE THE REAL PROBLEMS...

While it is true that Lincoln regarded slavery as an evil and harmful institution, it also true, as this paper will show, that he shared the conviction of most Americans of his time, and of many prominent statesmen before and after him, that blacks could not be assimilated into white society. He rejected the notion of social equality of the races, and held to the view that blacks should be resettled abroad. As President, he supported projects to remove blacks from the United States.
In 1842 Lincoln married Mary Todd, who came from one of Kentucky's most prominent slave-holding families.2 While serving as an elected representative in the Illinois legislature, he persuaded his fellow Whigs to support Zachary Taylor, a slave owner, in his successful 1848 bid for the Presidency.3 Lincoln was also a strong supporter of the Illinois law that forbid marriage between whites and blacks.4

Found your website. Thought you might like to read what I have to say about white privilege:

I believe that the concept of white privilege is a racist concept

Racism is defined by Merriam Webster Online (2008) in part as: “a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race”

Racist is defined in adjective form by Dictionary.com (2008) part 2. as “discriminatory especially on the basis of race or religion”

The concept that one is born privileged by virtue of race or skin color is a racist view. The racism in it comes from the necessary assumption, which is inherent to it, that all people born white are therefore privileged.

Some people are privileged by virtue of white birth, just as some people are privileged by virtue of black birth. The concept of white privilege discounts that some people who are white are not privileged because of it. The concept is therefore racist.

Noteworthy to the concept of white privilege is the position that some white people are in denial that white privilege exists. There is no challenge in this writing to the existence of white privilege in certain circumstance just as there is no challenge to the concept of black privileged in certain circumstance. The concept exist in circumstance, yet to apply it broadly in practice as the position that all who are born white are therefore privileged, is a form of racism.

One might argue that the use of the concept as a means of countering discrimination is completely counter productive as it perpetuates an imbalance by enforcing that one exists. It promotes jealousy and hatred for whites.

Imagine if you will, a child born to lunatic white parents and kept in a pit and fed scraps, upon rescue by human services at age ten, when does he or she recognize the so called "white privilege"?

References

racism. (2008). In Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary.

Retrieved December 15, 2008, from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/racism

Racist. (2008) In Dictionary.com-Online Dictionary

Retrieved December 15, 2008, from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/racist

Mary, I have explained to you multiple times in what I believe to be very clear English, why people feel differently regarding the pregnancy of Bristol Palin and that of typical inner-city youth. You have intentionally not responded to ANY of these salient issues. The absolute BIGGEST reason people view them differently is this: In absolutely no way, shape or form will Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston be accepting government monies. PERIOD. Tax payers are loath to see their tax dollars go to people who have 6 children, by several different fathers who are nowhere to be found, no possibility of income or future. THEN THEY DO IT AGAIN. If you can support your own children, responsible taxpayers could care less how many children you have. When you are taking federal funds, and continue having children you cannot possibly afford, thereby EXPECTING taxpayers to continue giving one a 'hand-out', well, that's when us taxpayers get a little miffed. And, this is wrong, why........?

I think class is a greater divider in our society than is race. Black intellectuals as Henry Louis Gates Jr. and Nelson Peery would agree with that.
It would be easier in our society to have a friend of another race than one of another class.
This will be especially true now with the election of Barack Obama to the most powerful office in the world. It was even true before, however, with Condoleeza Rice and Clarence Thomas et. al..
Race has only ever been a "pretext" for class. That is, it was only ever a pretext to enslave and exploit people en masse. Therefore racism may fade while class animosities and class exploitation continue. Many of the stereotypings, antipathies and exclusion that earlier were only about race are now as much or more about class.
In the '80s, the Reagan-Bush era, when our top 1% decried the fact that they had to pay taxes to a society that had been so good to them they fomented class hatred and class insecurity on a massive scale. They first did away with the class egalitarian thinking of the Great Depression era and the '60s implementing what had been called a "crypto-racist" campaign. They were said to cryptically - or using coded messages and coded language - stoke racial fears and animosities. They applied racial stereo types to the general population of the lower economic classes. They denounced "welfare queens", criminals, drug addicts and such causing the hating segment of the public to redirect their hate and apply it more broadly, to all poor people given social problems such as those.

"For people of European decent to say, “my grandparents came here many years ago and made something of themselves, why can’t you?” shows they don’t understand the issue. To be honest, probably because they’re white and can’t grasp it."

On the contrary, most of us were taught at an early age that there will ALWAYS be people who blame others for their problems. People who relish living in the past. People who never want to really work at something to achieve.

No...we grasp it just fine!