The Mary V. Jordan Multicultural Center began its Privilege Walk series on Tuesday, Sept. 28, which asks students to consider their privileges associated with race and how those affect aspects of their lives.
A series of statements and questions were said, and if participants identified with these, they stepped forward. If a participant did not feel comfortable with stepping forward, they remained still. All attendees kept their eyes closed during the exercise.
“I think the word privilege provokes mixed emotions,” said Brook’ale Anderson, graduate assistant of programming and outreach with the Multicultural Center. “Although it is a word that has its positive connotations reflective of a special right or advantage, when pointed out, some view it as an insult resulting in a defensive response.”
The purpose of the Privilege Walk is to create a welcoming space where people can feel comfortable in creating dialogues surrounding privilege and race.
A discussion was held after the exercise, in which students commented on how empowered they were to be vulnerable and open amidst the group. Others said it highlighted the importance of compassion toward those who experience more or less racial privilege. The Privilege Walk series promotes reflection without confrontation.
“I think this activity gives students, including myself, the opportunity to become more self-aware, thus providing a space where we can come together to think of ways that we can use these privileges to promote positive change and social justice throughout the world,” said Anderson.
The series is not meant to condemn anyone for their privileges but rather to begin understanding the complexities of marginalization and intersectionality.
Another Privilege Walk will be held in conjunction with the Dr. Patricia Robertson Pride Center on Oct. 19 to recognize privilege surrounding sexual orientation and gender identity. Events in the past considered privilege within ability, and more events that ask students to be critical of their place in society are to come.
“The truth of the matter is that we all have privileges, but that does not determine who we are as individuals,” said Anderson. “What we do once we are aware of those privileges, however, is reflective of our character, integrity and ability to make real positive change in the world.”
