Being a well-intentioned person is important, but it’s only the beginning. It’s the foundation- the price of entry into a complex conversation about people, differences, culture and historical context.

We are living in a country where racism and misogyny is evident everyday. And where there’s racism, there’s violence against people of color. Where there’s misogyny, there’s violence against women and girls.

As an organizational leader, or colleague to others, it’s critical to have a clear understanding of privilege as a conceptual framework, as well as your own privilege, so that you can acknowledge and extend yours.

Privilege isn’t a bad thing- it’s not something to be embarrassed or ashamed of. Having privilege can be a good thing- and a powerful lever for positive social change!

Own your privilege- acknowledge it. Only then can you see and call out when others are denied it. Only then can you extend it to others. Only then will your good intentions turn into the positive impact only you are capable of making.

Here are some useful and important resources on the basics on White Privilege aimed at helping you identify, accept and extend your privilege.

Understand your privilege: Truth to Power on Police and Violence

https://www.facebook.com/AFROPUNK/videos/10154320464926623/?hc_ref=PAGES_TIMELINE

Understand your privilege: Why It’s Black Lives Matter, Not ALL Lives Matter

http://bendstowardjustice.tumblr.com/post/104742740875/dear-white-protestors

Understand your privilege: Reverse/Black Racism is Not a Thing

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GNh4FTYZQ2U

Contributor: Corey Jamison