It's interesting to observe White people clinging to their racist views at the merest suggestion that something they said or did might be racist.
I have no expertise in the science or psychology of addiction, but it kind of seems like addiction.
The vehemence with which people object to possibly exploring an alternative perspective.
The lack of equanimity, unwillingness to engage in a conversation, or do the tiniest bit of self-reflection.
When you're addicted to drugs or sex or power or gambling, that thing owns you. Controls you. Drives every decision.
I wonder if – perhaps unconsciously – racism is like that. I don't know.
I forget who said it, but I like this saying about White supremacy:
When you're used to 100%, 98% feels like oppression.
I think we're dealing with some of that these days.
While there are many White folks genuinely awakened to striving toward antiracism, there are plenty doubling down on their racism.
I wonder if, because they've never thought about it before, the recent brouhaha about racial justice is too threatening.
That 2% shift feels oppressive.
And to think it will shift more? Frightening!
So instead of walking away from the blackjack table where they just lost $500, some White people are pulling out another $500 and playing another hand.