In our journey through life, we encounter a multitude of factors that shape our experiences and opportunities. Some are within our control, like our hard work and determination, but many others are not, such as the circumstances of our birth. One critical factor that often goes unexamined is privilege. It’s important to recognize that privilege and merit are not the same thing. Understanding this distinction is not only crucial for fostering fairness and justice but also for creating a more equitable society.

What Is Privilege?

Privilege refers to the unearned advantages, benefits, or opportunities that individuals enjoy simply because of their social identity or position in society. These identities can include race, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and more. Privilege often operates invisibly, and those who possess it may not even be aware of its existence, at times, or its impact on their lives.

Merit vs. Privilege: Understanding the Difference

1. Merit is about personal effort and ability: Merit is the result of an individual’s hard work, skills, and abilities. It’s the recognition that people should be rewarded based on their actions and qualifications. Merit is earned.
2. Privilege is unearned advantages: Privilege, on the other hand, is not something people earn or achieve. It is conferred upon them based on factors, such as their race, gender, or socioeconomic background. Privilege provides unearned benefits that can make success and achievement easier for some individuals solely based on these factors.

Why It Matters:

1. Recognizing privilege is a step towards equity: Seemingly, the conversation of privilege is not something a lot of folks want to have.  Acknowledging privilege is not about guilt or blame, but responsibility. It’s about recognizing that due to historical experiences that have oppressed certain groups, while elevating others, not everyone starts from the same place in the race of life. Understanding this helps create a more level playing field by addressing systemic inequalities.
2. Avoiding the “meritocracy” trap: History has created significant disparities between groups that have led to continued trauma and oppression of marginalized groups up to present day.  As such, assuming that everyone’s success or failure is solely a result of their merit can lead to a narrow view of the world. It ignores the structural barriers that exist for many individuals and can perpetuate inequalities.
3. Fostering understanding and responsiveness: Acknowledging privilege can lead to increased understanding and responsiveness to those who face systemic disadvantages. It encourages us to listen to their experiences and actively dismantle structural barriers, through using our privilege.

Actions to Take:

1. Self-reflection: Take time to reflect on your own privilege. Consider how it has shaped your life experiences and opportunities. This self-awareness can be a powerful first step.
2. Amplify marginalized voices: Actively seek out and listen to the experiences of people who may not share your privilege. Amplify their voices, support their causes, and join the quest for equity.
3. Advocate for change: Use your privilege as a platform for advocating for change. Work towards dismantling systemic inequalities in your workplace, community, and society.

Acknowledging privilege is not an attack on personal achievements or a call for guilt. It’s an awareness of a harmful history that has and continues to shape our lives and opportunities. It’s also recognizing that while we cannot change history, we can certainly influence our future.