As I talk with family and friends about the racial injustice that has been ignored for so long, some of us are feeling a lot of shame. Not necessarily because of what we personally have done but for what has gone on before us. The feeling of collective shame is in the air.
Rightfully so. My niece said it so well. Whites have benefited from racism. That’s hard to get our heads around. A hard pill to swallow. Yet it’s true. America is finally waking up to the discrimination that is deeply ingrained in our society.
Perhaps we need to feel guilty and shameful and shitty (my niece’s word) for all the atrocities and injustices allowed for centuries. if we wallow in our shame, then and only then, can we take responsibility.
On the other hand, guilt, shame and feeling shitty only leads to anxiety and overwhelm. When we swim in a sea of emotions, overwhelm settles in. We feel defeated and it paralyzes us to take action.
How can you take responsibility and not feel shitty?
Instead of letting shame take you hostage, get grounded. Be curious, listen and learn. Develop your empathy muscle. Show compassion. Understand what it would be like to walk in another’s shoes, without your same privilege. Stand in your truth, speak up and take inspired action for what you believe in.
Harness your privilege for the equality of all.
