We are all given chances, but only some of us are given the honor to do more than the chance we got- the so-called ‘privilege’ that not everyone has. Privilege, as what Merriam-Webster Dictionary denotes, is a special opportunity to do something that makes you proud.
We don’t know each other’s story, but if you know about privilege and you’re aware that you’re enjoying it, you’re lucky enough. But not all people understand this ‘power’, and a high school teacher got the chance to elaborate the powerful message it really delivers.
Here’s what he taught to his students:
To teach the lesson about privilege, he made a simple exercise. First, all the students received a piece of paper and crumpled it into a ball.
Then, the recycling bin was placed in front of the classroom..
“You represent the country’s population, and everyone has the chance to become wealthy and reach the upper class”
“All you must do is throw your paper balls into the bin while sitting in your seats”
As expected, students in the back of the room had it worse than the ones in front, and complained about this unfairness.
Everyone threw their ball and many (not all) students in the front made it, and only a few in the back made it.
“The closer you were to the recycling bin, the better your odds: this is privilege. Did you notice how the only ones who complained were in the back of the room?”
“But people in front of room were less likely to be aware of their privilege. They only saw 10 feet between them and their goal”
“You are students receiving an education, and your job is to be aware of your privilege. Use this privilege called ‘education’ to try to achieve great things, but also to advocate for those who are behind you.”
Source Credit: BoredPanda