Last class, we spent some much deserved time exploring
questions surrounding where we should put our efforts in addressing racial
injustices. Some argue that efforts should be placed primarily on changing
others’ consciousness – others’ racist thoughts and feelings – while some say
that it is only worthwhile to focus on oneself and one’s own consciousness.
Others argued that appeals to change consciousness are futile. No matter what
thoughts, ideas, and perceptions occupy people’s minds, there still exists a
system of racism outside of individuals’ minds. Changing, and perhaps
dismantling, that system is where our priorities lie.
While I’d like to say
that a combination of all of these is what’s necessary, this blog will focus on
consciousness, it being what I think is a prerequisite for action against the
system of racism and the institutions through which it acts.
Michelle Alexander prefaces her book by noting: “I have a
specific audience in mind – people who care deeply about racial justice. It is
my hope and prayer that this book empowers you and allows you so speak your
truth with greater conviction, credibility, and courage”. This book is written,
then, in order that we better understand the truth of racism and are able to
relay it to others more effectively. There are two dimensions here. One,
expanding our own consciousness, our own understanding of racism so that we may
possess a stronger feeling of truth and conviction; and two, extending that
understanding unto others.
Furthering one’s consciousness, Alexander would argue, is
necessary to change the hearts and minds of others. The questions that ensue
are:
- · How do we increase our understanding of racism?
- · How is this book doing that?
For one, applying methods of history, sociology, and
philosophy to the study of race all contribute to a greater understanding of
how racism works and why it occurs. I now know that there are cities where 80%
of black men are under the control of the criminal justice system. I know that
the presence of crack in black neighborhoods is very much due to economic
troubles black communities have endured after industrial jobs moved abroad. I
know that Reagan and Nixon are both assholes, and that their campaigns revolved
around trying to get the largest amount of votes possible. I know that Bill
Clinton is also an asshole. This new knowledge, the statistics and the
understanding of history, strengthens my ability to “speak my truth with
greater conviction, credibility, and courage” and it strengthens my desire to
do so.
Stories, art, personal experiences, and many other things
also contribute to our understanding of racism. What they all have in common is
that in strengthening our awareness of the workings of racism, we are able to
have a greater impact on those around us. And although it might not be the best
form of activism, conversation – with
friends and family and others – is one form
of activism, and it is one that if done with conviction and truth, can change
minds and foster the care and empathy necessary for change.
