The Poison of Privilege

Mariza I have something to share but before I do you must be aware of the fact that this no ordinary lesson in school but a bit more intense, you see we’ve all been fooled.

Time out, wait a minute, hold that thought, I’m fairly young and my mind can be bought. I’m here to socialize, get by, and follow the norm; this is what I’ve been taught since the day I was born.

I no longer can spout the status quo I’ve been given it all for the cost of my soul. White, American, heterosexual, male, born in the middle class with no reason to fail. My life has been formed by men who look like me but what I’ve discovered isn’t easy to see.

What are you talking about the President is fine. He talks of freedom and patriotism all of the time. Look where we live, the home of the brave and the land of the free. You never owned slaves and neither did he.

That’s just the surface of what I’m talking about. You see there are these things called privilege, power, and clout. I never earned the benefits of my status, color, or sexuality but they all have shaped everyone’s reality.

Don’t you think that this fuss is a bit absurd? Your life is carefree and you’re free as a bird. If people work hard it all equals out. That is what they tell us I have no reason to doubt.

Wait a minute you’re a woman, Mexican, and a teenager at that. Nobody cares what you think you’re only a stat. What’s brilliant about this system we’re in is it picks the same winners yet we all think we win. So we go on believing in the American Dream where democracy is broke and capitalism is a scheme.

I’ve been listening and you make some sense. Let’s flip the script because reality’s best.

Mr. Sliwa why are people oppressed?

Mariza this is English class it’s not on the test.

I’m tired of learning about dotting my “I’s” and cross my “T’s” this world’s full of liars, haters, and thieves. Can someone please tell me why I feel such a loss? I’m beginning to crack from the weight of this cross.

Just sit in a row and follow the bell. I am spinning my history so you’ll fall under this spell. I have to remain neutral or you’ll never think but this white ship is starting to sink.

What is this whiteness and privilege you hold? Is it true we still have slaves just not bought and sold? My people are dying for just a few resources. Could you spare what you stole with wagons and horses?

What did you read or hear that provoked this attack? White males have always had a target on our backs. This country’s traditions are slipping away. Even the concept of marriage has gone to the gays. So shut up and listen and it will all be just great.

I’ve tried but it’s no use I can no longer relate. Maybe one day you’ll be in my shoes with no light in sight just a slow burning fuse. Please take my hand and place it yours. Together we’ll fight for justice not wars. You see we’re just allies not enemies at all. This poison called privilege is killing us all.