White privilege is a deeply ingrained societal advantage that benefits individuals solely based on their race, specifically those who are white. It is important to acknowledge and address the existence of white privilege in order to create a more equitable and just society. I have personally experienced the impact of white privilege in my own life.

As a businesswoman and property investor, I acquired my first investment property with cash nearly a decade ago. Given this information, one would assume that buying real estate should not pose a problem for me. However, the reality is different when you are a woman of colour and face the accompanying stereotypes. I recall multiple instances where I viewed properties in so-called upper-class areas and encountered skepticism and doubt. The standard questions like “what do you do for a living?” and “do you need to sell anything first?” whether I choose not to answer or state that I do not need to sell anything, it still raises doubts about my financial ability to afford the property. Unlike other clients, I didn’t receive the same walk-through and attention. One particular viewing stands out in my memory. I had a scheduled appointment with an agent, but she was busy with another client when I arrived. I patiently waited while observing how she carefully guided and spent time with the white client, but when she finally came to me, it was only for a brief moment until another white client arrived, and she directed me to explore the property alone, while she devoted her time to the new client. It felt like my husband and I weren’t taken seriously compared to the white couple.

These experiences extend beyond the property investment industry. When I walk into high-end fashion stores, I’m often left alone and unattended while white clients who appear more capable of affording the items receive immediate attention from sales associates. It’s only when the sales associates see that I’m about to make a purchase that they quickly move forward to claim the sale. In a crystal store, for example, I am told in advance that certain ornaments are expensive and not allowed to touch them, while white individuals are freely able to hold and admire them. Even at a young age, When cheque books were still used, I faced discrimination. I vividly recall a time when I was at a clothing store and the cashier, while I was paying for my goods with a cheque, questioned the ownership of the cheque as if doubting my ownership. I sarcastically responded, asking if she could read whose name was on it, reminding her that it was my name and requesting her to stop asking such unnecessary questions. These are just a few instances, and I can think of multiple more.

White privilege goes beyond individual experiences and manifests itself in various realms of life, such as education and employment. White individuals are often assumed to have the financial means and credibility to invest in properties without facing scrutiny or doubt. In the realm of education, white students often have access to better-funded schools and resources, while people of colour face barriers such as underfunded schools and lack of representation. In employment, studies have shown that white job applicants are more likely to receive callbacks and offers compared to equally qualified applicants of colour, due to implicit biases and assumptions that favour white candidates. This disparity is attributed to implicit biases and assumptions that favour white candidates. To address this issue, South Africa has implemented BEE (Black Economic Empowerment) to create a more equitable playing field.

White privilege also affects social settings, where white individuals may experience greater acceptance, trust, and leniency compared to people of colour. They are less likely to be subjected to racial profiling or unfair treatment by authorities. The absence of constant racial scrutiny allows white individuals to navigate the world more freely, without the burden of racial prejudice impacting their every interaction.

Recognising white privilege does not diminish the challenges or hardships that white individuals may face in their lives. However, it is essential to understand that white privilege exists and contributes to systemic inequalities that perpetuate racial disparities. Addressing white privilege requires active efforts to dismantle systemic racism and create a more inclusive and equitable society. This involves engaging in difficult conversations, educating ourselves about the experiences of marginalized communities, and actively working to challenge and change discriminatory practices and policies.

By acknowledging and actively combating white privilege, we can strive towards a society where everyone has equal opportunities and experiences justice and fairness, regardless of their racial background.