Dear white folks…

I often read and hear white people reacting defensively with regard to people of color speaking about their experiences within Eurocentric environments, and in referencing a generalized view of experiencing ‘white people’ as a social (and global) phenomenon. I see white authors and commentators venting their frustrations at being ‘lumped in’ with themes of white supremacy, or being identified as benefiting from white privilage. I read through the push-back and the denials of what is being told to them (by many, many people of color) — that it cannot possibly be accurate, or a fair representation. I hear claims of reverse racism, of bigotry, of well-you-are-doing-it-too-so-you-are-no-better-and-I-don’t-have-to-accept-what-you-are-saying… I hear the complaints loud and clear. White folks do not like to be judged by the color of their skin, or associated with the behavior of others within their racial and cultural group.