Just Be Kind

 

My white friend said “Just be kind.”

We were leaving a meeting of white womyn dismantling white supremacy. We had been discussing racism for over two hours, including when we first became aware of racism and the impact that had on us.

White womyn can not only avoid talking about racism, we can also dictate under what circumstances and exactly how we should be talked with about racism.

We should NOT be ‘kind’ when it comes to talking with white womyn about racism: we should tell the TRUTH.

We get to miss the message – and we do miss the message – by focusing on how something is said instead of what is being said.

But more critical, how often do Black people learn about or face racism through kindness? Never. We as white womyn think it is reasonable to demand kindness or softness or awareness of fear in order to discuss racism – which is white privilege 101.

Be honest – and be open to honesty. Check white privilege.