Privilege

What is Privilege?

Privilege is broadly defined as a special right, advantage, or immunity granted to, or only available to, a particular person or group of people [1].

In a social context, privilege is simply the absence of bias.

Analogy on Privilege

Types of Privilege:

There are a variety of privileges that we can often take for granted, some examples include:

• Sharing an identity that makes up the majority within a specific setting, community, or society as a whole (example: white, cis-male, Christian)
• Access to quality education 
• Access to skills-building and professional development resources that improve access to employment opportunities
• Workplaces free from discrimination and stigma associated with sexual orientation, gender identity, race, etc.
• Access to quality health insurance
• Housing 
• Neighborhoods free from pollution and crime that have few barriers to accessing fresh foods, transportation, etc.
• Earning a living wage 

Privilege Walk:

The "Privilege Walk" is an activity first published in Teaching for Diversity and Social Justice that has been adapted to highlight a number of privileges related to social class and identity. During this activity, statements are read and participants are asked to indicate whether they identify with the statement or not. This activity is often used as a way for diverse groups of people to get to another one another and learn more about the backgrounds of co-workers, peers, and friends.

The University of Arizona has adapted a detailed lesson plan available for use: Privilege Walk Lesson Plan

Identifying Our Privilege:

In our work we take on the role of a Gatekeeper. Gatekeepers:

• Interpret,
• Define reality,
• Count and measure,
• Translate, 
• Control the flow of resources, and
• Speak on behalf of

Each of these roles affect how people access information or resources, what they know about information and resources, whether they're able to have a voice, and how their voice is heard when space is given to them. We are able to use our privileges as gatekeepers to:

• Ensure decisions about how data is shared and what data tells us has proper context
• Influence policy and procedures around contracting and funding decisions
• Ensure community members have a voice in decisions that affect them and their voice is translating appropriately when necessary

Take some time to consider additional ways your role as a gatekeeper can be used to ensure we are using our privilege to benefit those who do not have privilege.

Unpacking the Invisible Knapsack: White Privilege

The attached document was created by Peggy McIntosh and explores her findings related to white privilege. The document also provides a guide for facilitators to help participants "unpack their invisible knapsack" and explore their own privilege related to race. 

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