Recently, one of my White Advanced Placement students asked for permission to leave the class. This guy is great; one of his colleagues called him a “genius.” I asked him to write the hall pass, so I could sign it. When he handed me the pass, I checked it for accuracy (time, date, room number, etc.), and he said to me, “They’re not going to check it. I’m White.”
What was interesting was the way he said it. There was not a hint of disrespect, racism or superiority. He was simply relaying his experience. At most, the comment was a sardonic reflex to the status quo. What it shows, though, is that he clearly understands White Privilege.
Being in the minority at our school (less than 5%), how is it that a White student attending a predominantly African American and Hispanic school can pick up on this preferred status (this legacy) he has acquired?
And try this one on for size . . .
All but one of the administrators are of color!
This discussion is far from over.