Unveiling the Fallacy: How the Phrase "I Don't See Color" Perpetuates White Supremacism
- Connie DeMillo
- Feb 16, 2024
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 27, 2024
In our journey towards racial justice, the phrase "I don't see color" often emerges as a seemingly well-intentioned sentiment. However, closer examination reveals that this statement, meant to convey a sense of impartiality, actually perpetuates white supremacism. In the context of the Baha'i Faith, where unity in diversity is a central tenet, it becomes crucial to unravel the fallacy behind colorblindness and confront the hidden dangers it poses to our pursuit of justice.
The Baha'i Faith emphasizes the oneness of humanity and celebrates diversity as a source of strength. However, claiming not to see color dismisses the unique experiences and challenges faced by individuals from different racial backgrounds. By negating the significance of color, we inadvertently ignore the systemic racism deeply embedded in society.
"I don't see color" operates under the assumption that treating everyone the same erases racial disparities. In reality, this perspective ignores the pervasive influence of white supremacism, perpetuating a false sense of equality. It fails to address the root causes of systemic racism, hindering progress towards a more just and inclusive society.
To dismantle white supremacism, we must embrace a more nuanced understanding of racial dynamics. Unity in diversity doesn't mean ignoring differences, but acknowledging and celebrating them. By recognizing the unique experiences associated with different racial backgrounds, we can cultivate empathy and understanding.
The Baha'i teachings encourage active engagement in the elimination of prejudice and the promotion of justice. This necessitates confronting the impact of seemingly benign phrases like "I don't see color." The path to racial justice requires acknowledging the existence of racial disparities and working collectively to dismantle the structures that perpetuate inequality.
Moving beyond colorblindness is an essential step towards creating a more just world. It involves cultivating empathy, actively listening to diverse voices, and dismantling the deeply ingrained systems of oppression that continue to disadvantage certain racial groups. In the Baha'i Faith, where racial justice is a primary challenge, embracing the complexities of racial realities is an integral part of our spiritual and social responsibilities.
The phrase "I don't see color" may appear well-intentioned, but it ultimately hinders our progress towards racial justice. As Baha'is, let us strive to move beyond the allure of colorblindness and actively engage in dismantling white supremacism, fostering unity in diversity and contributing to the realization of a more just and inclusive world.
If you want more...
The four levels of racism, from Anti-racism daily
You state, "treating everyone the same erases racial disparities," and how the mentality of colorblindness "perpetuates a false sense of equality." I wholeheartedly agree. As well-meaning as it seeks to be, colorblindness is a failed brand of magical thinking.
Growing up in the 90's I vividly recall sentiments of racial colorblindness pervading popular culture. Lots of these sentiments came out of from socially conscious pop music artists, some of who, ironically, were people of color. There is so much to recall about how and why the "colorblind" worldview was manufactured and disseminated in a post Brown v. BoE America... But I feel this bit of social engineering, as well-meaning as it may have been, simply hasn't proven to be an…