Some people have a hard time recognizing privilege, saying "I work hard. I don't get things handed to me." I understand that. Here's how I respond: privilege isn't bonus points for you and your team. It's unfair penalties the other team gets that you don't.
Privilege isn't the presence of perks and benefits. It's the absence of obstacles and barriers. That's a lot harder to notice. If you have a hard time recognizing your privileges, focus on what you don't have to go through. Let that fuel your empathy and action.
My favourite thing is when very wealthy people say that they worked hard, as if the rest of us are just sitting at home all day.
That reminds me of this post I saw yesterday:
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Transcription
Some people have a hard time recognizing privilege, saying "I work hard. I don't get things handed to me." I understand that. Here's how I respond: privilege isn't bonus points for you and your team. It's unfair penalties the other team gets that you don't.
Privilege isn't the presence of perks and benefits. It's the absence of obstacles and barriers. That's a lot harder to notice. If you have a hard time recognizing your privileges, focus on what you don't have to go through. Let that fuel your empathy and action.