I’m Privileged?

It’s one of the hardest things to recognise, privilege. A veil that shadows your vision. It keeps you in Lala land, unable to acknowledge the suffering of those who don’t carry the same opportunity. It breeds ignorance so deep-rooted; it can’t be broken unless you see the suffering people without your privilege endure. Even with this, you are still in denial. You think people can’t possibly live like this. Who could have let this happen? What can I do to make this better? It’s alright, you’re not the only one. Just recognise your privilege. To do this, you must remove yourself from the self-built pedestal by unlearning everything you’ve been taught. Second guess everything and everyone, especially you’re family’s influence. This is not to say ignore your parent’s warnings but instead, think of why they have offered these teachings.

As much as I am oppressed due to my blackness, my dark skinned-ness, my womanhood, my African heritage, I  recognized my privilege. I have both my parents who love and provide for me and then some. I live in a beautiful house in London and an even better house in Nigeria. My family is comfortable, we go on holidays and can afford quality education. I can be open with Christianity without being looked at as a terrorist. I don’t have any disability, especially in this world that caters exceptionally for the able. I’m a black woman living in England, so I don’t worry too much about physical racist attacks like black men. Luckily for me, I’ve lived such a sheltered life, I wouldn’t recognize a blatant racist or discriminatory act unless you say to me ‘ hey you, I’m racist right now'( not the case now). I’m not rubbing my privilege in people’s faces, rather I’m accepting them. I can’t sit and wait for the world to be better so I’m doing the best I can with the resources I have. I write. I write to inspire and empower.

Privilege is a gift because not everyone is lucky enough to reap the benefits of their efforts, have a supportive family, live in a world that caters their ableism. Not everyone is ‘lucky’ enough to be born with valued skin. What sets you above those who don’t recognize their privilege or those who recognize it and basks in its benefits is your ability to wield your privilege as a sword against inequality and injustice. Every effort counts, as little as it is. Do your part as human beings and change lives however you can. A meal for the homeless, a smile to the sad or a heartfelt donation.

Key quote: Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.

-Eleanor Roosevelt