White privilege is not a choice. It is not something you decide you want or not want. It is real and it exists in our country, our state and our community.

For those who are not familiar with the definition of white privilege and what it encompasses I encourage you to research and educate yourself as to what it is. In brief, it is that white people enjoy privileges, advantages and opportunities that are not available to people of color.

To deny white privilege is to say to people of color that your experiences are not real, your stories have no meaning and your concerns do not count. What could be more divisive?

Talk with people who have opinions different from your own and listen with an open mind. Engage people of color in meaningful conversations and listen to their stories and concerns. By doing this you will gain a better understanding as to why people of color feel as they do.

We all want the same things —  equality, justice and respect. And we all have to work together to make sure that these are available to all people. And when in conversations with others, listen not with just your ears, but with your heart.

— Carol Pomeroy

Salisbury