Privilege, Power & Difference
Allen Johnson
3 Talking Points
“All of us are part of the problem. But we can make ourselves part of the solution”. This quote in particular I can relate to because I think many of us at one time or another have been on both sides of this issue. It is important to remember to stay the course and be the change you want to see in the world.
“The hard and simple truth is that the we that’s in trouble is all of us-not just the straight, white, middle and upper class males - and it will take all of at least most of us, to get us out of it”. Key Point - ALL OF US!
3. Diversity wheel: Get a sense of who you are. “The characteristics
at the center part of the wheel is very hard to change, the object
of quick and firm impressions, and can profoundly affect our lives”.
The Diversity Wheel was an eye-opening experience for me in a
previous class. It made me think about myself as an individual
and part of society. It is part of growing and changing to take a hard
and honest look at yourself before the real change can happen.
4. “Just as privilege tends to open doors of opportunity, oppressions tend
to slam them shut”. This particular statement is powerful. Again, it
forces you to look at yourself, others, and the world around you.
It is time to find the solution and make the change.
The author argues that privilege, power, and difference shouldn’t be viewed as an individual's problem but rather a societal issue. It affects all of us. Johnson points out that privilege opens doors for those people have it while oppression slams them shut for those who do not. This is the societal issue that we collectively need to be part of the change and not the problem.
We all have so much ability to make change, especially when we can get on the same page and work together!
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