Describe the invisible knapsack of privilege. What is an example from your own experience of invisib

1. Describe the invisible knapsack of privilege. What is an example from your own experience of invisible privileges?

The invisible knapsack of privilege consists of “white privilege”, and men vs. women to name just a few examples. Some of this power is realized and some people are not aware of it or in denial of its existence. The invisible knapsack is where certain groups are given permission over other groups without asking for these permissions just because of their race or gender group. Meanwhile, other groups are oppressed and must fight for what is given freely without effort to the privileged groups.

One example of my own experience is not a pleasant one, because it made me realize how racist society still remains. When an individual or group realizes just because you’re white that you don’t subscribe to their thinking, they quickly change their attitude towards you in a negative way. My children are bi-racial, so when people first meet me and they’re not present with me they have received me differently (not everyone). I’ve had on more than one occasion people make racist comments not being aware of me having bi-racial children, because they just see me being “white”. This would anger me very much, however, I was at work so I had to handle it delicately in fear of my reactions appearing to be controversial and me losing my job. So, to make a statement I would say, “would you like to see a picture of my children?” Afterwards I would walk away (remember I’m at work). So, I cannot fathom what people really experience when it comes to racism if this was my experience as a “white female”.

1. Select one example from Rahman’s stand up and describe his idea through a sociological perspective utilizing course concepts.

When Rahman speaks of reverse racism it made me realize the answer to what I did not understand. I thought, “How can one talk about racism and they’re being racist?” This is until I understand “white privilege” now. I would think, “I’ll never be accepted by this group.” Now, I realize “imagine how they feel”. Every day through their day-to-day experiences they must address societies “privileged” attitudes towards them. I feel embarrassed to have thought such ways. However, now I can do more about speaking up when I see or hear unfair or ignorant remarks in reference to these issues in society, and without the fear of recourse.