The Falcon   |   Volume 81, Issue 26

Published 6/02/10   |   Log In

Letter to the Editor

Born Identity exhibit depicted privileges as they are

By KAYLA BERGQUIST, SPU senior

Published: June 3, 2009

A comment was made that the title of the event was misleading and attendees thought it would be about white heritage. In many ways this exhibit did explore heritage. Looking at history reveals that certain groups of people have been given privilege over others based on skin color.

Although there have been many efforts by government and other groups to rectify the effects of past inequality, The Born Identity exhibit hoped to point out is that this work is not finished.

Other comments articulated that -The Born Identity exhibit was a racist event. Photos and descriptions of some events from our history are difficult and painful to see. As a white person, I do feel uncomfortable and guilty seeing these. The event attempted to portray a reality that most white Americans are not aware exists. It focused on white Americans because this is the group within society that is privileged. One of the main points of the exhibit was to point out that white privilege has been institutionalized into our society over time.

I hope that these feelings push us towards compassion rather than anger or frustration, that it sparks conversation to enhance understanding rather than builds resentment. I do not consider myself a racist person, but every day I experience privileges that my brothers and sisters of other races do not. I was born white; it is my "born identity" as the exhibit was titled. I do not have to think about my race as I conduct daily activities, and it is important for me to understand that this is not the case for all Americans. I encourage you to continue this conversation.

I understand how this event could come across as attacking white people. It is hard to walk into an exhibit on white privilege because it can feel like you are being attacked. I didn't ask for the privilege of being white nor do I want the injustices to exist. Changing my skin color isn't an option, but becoming aware of my own privileges, including race, allows me to address injustices where I see them and to enable and empower those around me.

© 2008-2010 The Falcon        Contact        Advertise        SPU.edu