Evolving My Consciousness to Fight for Equity and Social Justice

I've been asked where I'm from, but I've never been asked where I'm really from.

I stole candy bars from a convenience store when I was a kid, but I was never assumed to have stolen anything by just being in a store.

After I've given a keynote or a presentation I've been told I spoke well, but never with a tone of surprise.

I've not gotten an initial interview for a position that I was qualified for, but not because of the name on my resume.

I've been referred to as "the White guy" before, but not with any sort of disdain or dismissiveness.

I've lost my temper, swore in public, been curt with servers and telemarketers, but I've never been accused of being the angry White guy.

I've had my name mispronounced, but never because it was "too foreign sounding."

I've been pulled over by the police for minor traffic violations, but I've never been harassed or abused by an officer.

I've been hired because I was the best person for the job, but I've never been seen as the "diversity hire."

I've been a privileged White dude all my life, and I can't say I've never taken advantage of that privilege for my own personal benefit.

What I can say is that I recognize my privilege, and I am continually evolving my consciousness to use my privilege to fight for equity and social justice.

How about you?