One thing I'm missing is the distinction between "being racist" and "racist behaviour / thinking / whatever". I find it more useful to acknowledge that I have "sexist thoughts" or "behave in a sexist way" than that "I'm sexist". It gives me more hope for change.
Likewise, I find there's a better chance for a constructive dialogue if I call someone on "sexist behaviour" than if I go "you're a sexist".
But the point is good. It's important to acknowledge that like privilege, racism and sexism are things most of us carry around. It's not just the monsters over there.
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Date: 2008-06-01 08:57 pm (UTC)One thing I'm missing is the distinction between "being racist" and "racist behaviour / thinking / whatever". I find it more useful to acknowledge that I have "sexist thoughts" or "behave in a sexist way" than that "I'm sexist". It gives me more hope for change.
Likewise, I find there's a better chance for a constructive dialogue if I call someone on "sexist behaviour" than if I go "you're a sexist".
But the point is good. It's important to acknowledge that like privilege, racism and sexism are things most of us carry around. It's not just the monsters over there.