Privilege, Power, and Difference

     Privilege, Power, and Difference by Allan G. Johnson was a lengthy read but the message is strong. It is easy to move through life with the privileges we haven't earned without a second thought. I don't always think about the struggles others are forced to face because of these invisible advantages. As Johnson states, "All of us are part of the problem. But we could also make ourselves part of the solution." 

    According to Johnson, topics like racism and sexism are very real yet many are afraid to speak on the subjects for fear of being too vulnerable or maybe because of guilt. I never felt I was at a disadvantage because I am a female but reading this article has opened my eyes to such an imbalance. For me, this is small in my opinion to those facing disadvantages due to race, socioeconomic status, and sexual orientation, to name a few. 

    Per Johnson, "Clearly, we aren't getting along with one another, and we need to ask why not." He feels that individuals fear the unknown or unfamiliar. It is so difficult for some to accept any sexual orientation, other than heterosexual. Or that a man is in control, or more dominating than a woman, or that a gay man isn't a real man. None of these statements are true but society feels they are.

    It is easier said than done, but we need to rip off the band-aid and do something about the injustices our society functions with. It's ok to admit what we don't know and to talk about hard topics. I agree with the message Johnson relays, that things aren't going to change until we all make a conscious effort to change them. 

    I really enjoyed reading Sam's blog on this topic and the way she depicted the differences in beliefs of what privilege means, stating, "Growing up, we are taught that privilege is a good thing that is earned or rewarded. For example, it's a privilege to get your license when you turn 16 or it's a privilege to stay up past your bedtime." This is how I felt about the word itself. This article has clarified the meaning of the word in how it affects people in the real world.

    Johnson argues that "just as privilege tends to open doors of opportunity, oppression tends to slam them shut."