Addressing racism, especially by those who have historically benefited from its systemic structures, is indeed a non-exhaustive topic. I cannot run out of topics on racism. I wish I could. The complexities and nuances of racism require ongoing dialogue and action. It's not uncommon for individuals experiencing racism, particularly for the first time, to question their perceptions. I have had self-doubt as a result of microaggressions and sought validation of my experiences through discussions with both Black and white peers. It was not my imagination. This approach isn't merely about finding solidarity but also about navigating the often gaslit paths of institutional racism.
Your comment brings to light a crucial aspect of the conversation around racism: the burden of proof is frequently placed on the victim. The expectation to provide evidence of one's experiences with racism, only to face disbelief or accusations of "reverse racism" (that made-up term attempting to turn white people into victims, as if it's backward—not the correct type of forward racism), is a harmful cycle that perpetuates systemic issues. This dynamic underscores the importance of believing and supporting those who courageously speak out about their experiences.
The assertion that topics on racism are a stretch of the imagination or that claims of being "overqualified" are more prevalent among white men than they are a reflection of racial bias attempts to minimize the lived realities of many Black individuals. Racism is not a matter of competition or comparison but a pervasive issue that affects people of color in distinct and damaging ways.
To move forward constructively, it is essential for everyone, particularly those who have not personally experienced racism, to engage in self-reflection and actively participate in anti-racist practices. This means not only acknowledging the existence and impact of racism but also taking tangible steps to dismantle it. Becoming the "really good person" one imagines requires more than passive self-perception; it demands active, ongoing efforts to understand, challenge, and change the structures and behaviors that perpetuate racism.
