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Would You Trade White Skin for Black?
The one question that sums up systemic racism in America
Years ago, activist Jane Elliot asked a large mostly all-white audience if anyone would trade their white skin in for black skin.
“I want every white person in this room who would be happy to be treated as society in general treats its Black citizens to please stand.”
Nobody moved, so she asked again.
“If you white folks want to be treated in this society as Black folks are treated, please stand.”
Again, nobody flinched. Just blank stares.
And that my friends is how all of us know that things aren’t fair or just for Black people in America.
If they were, you’d be happy to trade skin colors or not. It wouldn’t matter.
Just so there’s no mistake, let me break it down exactly why you wouldn’t trade your white skin in for a darker hue.
The median wealth of a white American household in 2024 is more than six times that of a Black household.
The wealthiest 80% of Black households own less wealth than the median white household.
Black applicants are far more likely to be denied for a mortgage than white applicants even when credit scores are…
