Study guide explores ‘white privilege’ and racism

March 13, 2013 | God at work in the World
Story and Photo by Gladys Terichow | Mennonite Central Committee Canada

Canadians of European ancestry generally don’t pay much attention to the benefits and advantages they enjoy because of their skin colour. So says Sue Eagle, a director of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) Canada’s Indigenous Work program.

To help deal with this situation, dubbed “white privilege,” a new study guide, supported in part by MCC Canada, has been published to help individuals and congregations explore how it can be an expression of racism.

“It is impossible to work towards racial justice and reconciliation without naming and dismantling unearned white privilege,” says Eagle.

The study guide, “Cracking open white identity towards transformation,” contains personal stories and questions for critical reflection and discussion. Eagle is among 15 people who shared their personal experiences of white privilege in this resource published by the Canadian Council of Churches.

Married to Harley Eagle, a member of Dakota and Salteaux First Nations, Eagle’s reflection, “Mummy, I’m part white,” explore the issues that she faces as a woman of white European descent raising two children who are part aboriginal.

“As she grows, Danielle needs to figure out, with her father’s and my help, what it means to have a legacy of white privilege, with its racial superiority, from my side of the family, and a history of oppression and internalized feelings of racial inferiority,” Eagle writes.

She says it is difficult to recognize the unearned benefits and advantages of white privilege because they are largely invisible and socially accepted. “I can watch the news and see people who look like me depicted in roles that show strength, intelligence and power,” she says. “If staff in a store pays attention to me, it is to offer assistance, not to keep an eye on me for fear that I am planning to shoplift.”

In addition to mending relations with Indigenous Peoples, Eagle says examining unearned white privilege will also help individuals and congregations experience more authentic relationships with newcomers to Canada. “As people of faith, we believe all children are created in God’s image and we want to challenge ourselves and our congregations to live lives that reflect that core belief,” says Eagle.

The study guide is available through the Canadian Council of Churches by calling toll-free 1-866-822-7645.

Share this page: Twitter Instagram

Comments

Until now, we have always donate our household and personal items to the local MCC outlet here in Kelowna, as we supported what we thought was its faith-based purpose. Our last donation was just two days ago. That was the last time. We do not support racist organizations, and the MCC's anti-White racism is totally repugnant to us. Fortunately, there are plenty of other outlets for our goods. We will certainly spread the word about MCC.

Add new comment

Canadian Mennonite invites comments and encourages constructive discussion about our content. Actual full names (first and last) are required. Comments are moderated and may be edited. They will not appear online until approved and will be posted during business hours. Some comments may be reproduced in print.