Reply #208: Not out of date at all. [View All]

[Caliman73]

The system is still defined and regulated by those who hold the most power. Women, Blacks, and Latinos must still abide by rules set up by the system set up predominantly by Anglo men in order to have any success. Ask yourself this question and be honest, when someone defines a "good American citizen" what image pops into your mind?

You are correct in saying that poor white men have been oppressed as well along economic lines, the difference is that the poor status of a white male was still higher than the status of even a wealthy Black man or women in many cases.

You are also correct that not all white men or white people are racist or oppressive. The problem is that the system has been set up to benefit white people and forces non whites to adapt to a white system in order to belong. The system is called white privilege. There is also male privilege that benefits men and inherently disadvantages women.

What power is truly held by non-whites and women? Think about this, if the President did anything that was stereotypically Black he would be pilloried. He is often attacked regardless. When Hilary Clinton showed slight emotion she was raked over the coals as being unfit to lead because god forbid she let a tear fall down her face. President Obama and Hilary Clinton are powerful, but they are powerful only while they play within the boundaries set up for them.

I suggest you read works by Deborah Tannen, she explains things better than I can.