She Strengthens

The Privilege Paradox: Unpacking the Blind Spots of 2020

As we reflect on the past year, it’s clear that many of us have been forced to confront our own privilege. Whether it’s the ability to work from home, have groceries delivered, or avoid police brutality, we’ve all had to acknowledge the advantages we’ve taken for granted. But what happens when someone is oblivious to their own privilege, even when it’s glaringly obvious?

The recent interview with Olivia Jade, daughter of actress Lori Loughlin, serves as a stark reminder of the privilege paradox. Olivia’s parents were found guilty of bribing her way into an Ivy League school, yet she claimed to have no idea that her privileged upbringing was abnormal. She thought it was normal for her parents to “work hard” and play the system because they could afford to. It wasn’t until the scandal broke that she realized her privilege, and even then, she was confused about what was wrong with her parents’ actions.

The Privilege Bubble

Olivia’s story is a prime example of how privilege can create a bubble of ignorance. She lived in a world where her parents’ wealth and connections were the norm, and she had no concept of the struggles faced by others. Her admission of privilege is a step in the right direction, but it’s frustrating to see how long it took her to realize the error of her ways.

The Backdoor to Success

The “backdoor” methods used by Olivia’s parents and others like them are not available to the majority of college hopefuls. Immigrants, low-income students, and those without connections are often left to navigate the system on their own, with limited resources and support. The life that 99% of the population lives is a mystery to those like Olivia, even at 21.

Beyond Acknowledgment

While Olivia’s acknowledgment of her privilege is important, it’s only the first step. As a society, we need to move beyond mere acknowledgment and take action to address the systemic inequalities that perpetuate privilege. We need to invest in our own knowledge, educate ourselves, and use our privileges to amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

Actionable Steps

So, what can we do? We can start by being more thoughtful about supporting small businesses, researching organizations to donate to, and requesting to help max out corporate matches that others may not be able to utilize. We don’t have to lead a grassroots organization, but we can all take small actions to help those who lack our privileges. As we enter 2021, let’s strive to be more self-aware, more empathetic, and more proactive in using our privileges to create positive change.