“If I cannot do great things, I can do small things in a great way.”
~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
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“In American, we would like to think the reason we have had success is that we worked harder or we were smarter. Admitting racism has played a part in our success means admitting that American dream isn’t quite so accessible to all. A social justice educator named Peggy McIntosh has pointed out some of these advantages: having access to job and housing, for example. Walking into a random hair salon and find somebody who can cut your hair. Buying dolls, toys, and children’s books that feature people of your race. Getting a promotion without someone suspecting that it was due to your skin color. Asking to speak someone in charge, and being directed to someone of your race.
When I was researching this book, I asked white mothers how often they talked about racism with their children. Some said occasionally; some admitted they never discussed it. When I asked the same question of Black mothers, they all said, Every day.
I’ve come to see that ignorance is a privilege, too.
So what have I learned that is helpful? Well, if you are white, like I am, you don’t get rid of the privilege you have, but you can use it for good. Don’t say I don’t even notice race! like it’s a positive thing. Instead, recognize that differences between people make it harder for some to cross a finish line, and create fair paths to success for everyone that accommodate these differences. Educate yourself. If you think someone’s voice is being ignored, tell others to listen. If your friend make a racist joke, call him out on it. Instead of just going along with it. If the two formal skinheads I met can have such complete change of heart, I feel confident that ordinary people can, too.”
The author of “small great things,” Jodi Picoult, wrote at the Author’s note of the book.
P.S. “small great things,” by Jodi Picoult
2017/6/17 small great things Damakey
