2. Summarization
Can white people be true allies and how can they help if they are able
to be. Robert mentioned that a lot of white allies are not fully aware
that their actions, though well meaning, still attribute to the prejudice
and racism seeps through this country’s system. He gives a lot of
pointers on how, as a white male/female, they can lend their hand to
the cause without stepping over their bounds to people of color.
3.
4. Alliance with a hint of superiority
This article spoke to me because I have ended plenty of longtime
friendships due to false flags of alliances. Plenty of times I have had
Caucasian friends who would, in person, speak on the injustices they
see in this country but soon do a 180 when an injustice breached on
their turf. These truths appeared heavily once the Trayvon Martin
murder appeared in the headlines. Suddenly all of their posts and
conversations on race were prefixed with “You all know I'm not racist.”
or “I'm saying this from a level headed place, and not from a racial
one.” and my favorite “This has nothing to do with racism, but I just
find it funny…” It opened my eyes as to how oblivious I was to their
contradictions and made me reflect on just how many things I let them
get away with.
5.
6. How I would make it right
The good thing about this “fake alliance” that some white people perpetuate
is that the other half is very aware and very vocal on calling it out. But there
needs to be a conversation that is directed by PoC so they can truly see the
perspective of the disenfranchised. Chicago is home to a multiple of city
colleges and universities that are heavily progressive. So I would make an
event on where allies are brought in and are just instructed to listen to the
perspectives of people of color. To not only listen but to understand the
differences in culture, environment, and experiences that put us so far on the
opposite spectrum. I would have guests such as activists, victims of racial
discrimination, and professors of cultural studies. At the end of the event,
there will be a Q&A where the white audience members can ask their
questions and be educated on the true answers
