Understanding Discrimination: A White Male Perspective

Is it possible that white males are discriminated against in American society?

As a white male with 67 years of experience, I can attest that this question is not merely theoretical. The reality of discrimination goes beyond what's captured in news headlines, revealing a complex and nuanced landscape in America.

The Diversity of Racial Experiences

The data shows that discrimination affects people from all racial backgrounds. According to recent statistics, anyone can be accused of discrimination based on various racial contexts. Here is a breakdown of different racial groups:

White: 48.72% Black or African American: 20.47% Two or more races: 13.46% Other races: 12.15% Asian: 4.03% Native American: 1.08% Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander: 0.09%

This doesn't mean that discrimination is evenly distributed; rather, it highlights the diversity of experiences and the need for everyone to be vigilant in the face of discrimination.

Position and Prejudice

Let's look at the positions of power in America. Imagine the corridors of Congress, state legislatures, corporate boardrooms, and the military. Are white males represented there? If not, why not? This isn't just about statistics; it's about the lived experiences of those in these positions and the challenges they face.

Exclusion in Writing Competitions

An email update I received for writing competitions ending in June illustrates a stark reality. Out of 45 competitions, most were open to college students. Some were exclusive to LGBTQ individuals, and many were targeted at specific age groups. Two were open to white individuals, while the rest favored minorities. This isn't just a coincidence; it reflects real systemic issues.

The Myth of Reverse Discrimination

Does reverse discrimination exist? Yes, it does, but it often goes unnoticed. I can provide a prime example from my college days. When applying for food stamps, I was denied despite being single, a working individual, and having children. It was frustrating, to say the least. However, this is a rare case, and the prevalence of such incidents is significantly lower than the opposite scenario.

Discrimination in Media and Society

While white jokes are often lampooned, the irony is that people tend to overlook similar aspects of discrimination when it comes to other races. White males can face significant societal and media criticism for their actions, yet the impact is often not as visible or recognized.

Population Shift and Perceptions

One argument is that white males are not generally discriminated against because they are in the majority. However, this overlooks the fact that white males make up the majority in:

Politics Banking sectors Wall Street The military The criminal justice system

So, the argument that white males are not discriminated against because of their majority status is flawed. The issue lies more in the shift of the general population towards diversity. As the United States moves away from being predominantly white, it can create a sense of displacement and marginalization among some white males.

Standing Against Discrimination

While some may feel marginalized, it's important to recognize that the law guarantees equal protection under the law. Whether you are a minority or a white male, everyone should stand against discrimination based on sex and race. Discrimination cases can be pursued under federal law through the EEOC (Equal Employment Opportunity Commission).

By advocating for stronger laws against discrimination, we collectively benefit. Strong anti-discrimination laws ensure that everyone is treated fairly, regardless of their background.

Encouraging Positive Change

My goal is to encourage people to re-examine their viewpoints and seek positive solutions to problems and negative feelings. I am open to the possibility that I may be wrong, but I believe my observations hold some truth.