Introduction
It is disheartening to know that over the past 25 years, Americans are still fighting for equality. Disheartening are many measures of the opportunities and difficulties faced by African Americans and, to a lesser extent, White Americans (cite). Social inequality continues to be characterized by unequal opportunities within different social groups.
Being a white person in America you are automatically distinguished as “normal,” privileged, and the dominant group. For example, as an African American woman, I am targeted and perceived as oppressed because I identify as black and a woman. The privileges that are given to the white dominant group are not the same privileges given to minorities. Contrary to belief, even if you have …show more content…
As a woman in America, I am not given the same employment privileges as men. Although, women earn 80 percent of the salary a man is paid for the same job; it still does not represent full parity (cite). Employment and higher academic opportunities are not the same for black women as they are for white women. The screening process for black women is often more intense due to the difference in socioeconomic status and education. For example, if I was to apply for the same job as a white woman, chances are she may receive a call back before me. Being white, she is categorized as the dominant group and I would be considered the …show more content…
Although I am perceived as oppressed and disadvantage, I also share some privileges that can help in my practice as a social worker. I strongly believe that my resilience and engagement in the redefinition process can help to relate to all individuals in different aspects of their life and culture. Furthermore, I can serve as a voice for the vulnerable populations, advocate for social justice & equality, and work to strengthen social groups, organizations, and communities. My personal experiences can enhance my work as a social worker through self-awareness and knowledge to help clients overcome their issues. Being fully knowledgeable and self-aware allows the social worker to reflect and identify personal development while remaining emotionally detached from the relationship with the
It is disheartening to know that over the past 25 years, Americans are still fighting for equality. Disheartening are many measures of the opportunities and difficulties faced by African Americans and, to a lesser extent, White Americans (cite). Social inequality continues to be characterized by unequal opportunities within different social groups.
Being a white person in America you are automatically distinguished as “normal,” privileged, and the dominant group. For example, as an African American woman, I am targeted and perceived as oppressed because I identify as black and a woman. The privileges that are given to the white dominant group are not the same privileges given to minorities. Contrary to belief, even if you have …show more content…
As a woman in America, I am not given the same employment privileges as men. Although, women earn 80 percent of the salary a man is paid for the same job; it still does not represent full parity (cite). Employment and higher academic opportunities are not the same for black women as they are for white women. The screening process for black women is often more intense due to the difference in socioeconomic status and education. For example, if I was to apply for the same job as a white woman, chances are she may receive a call back before me. Being white, she is categorized as the dominant group and I would be considered the …show more content…
Although I am perceived as oppressed and disadvantage, I also share some privileges that can help in my practice as a social worker. I strongly believe that my resilience and engagement in the redefinition process can help to relate to all individuals in different aspects of their life and culture. Furthermore, I can serve as a voice for the vulnerable populations, advocate for social justice & equality, and work to strengthen social groups, organizations, and communities. My personal experiences can enhance my work as a social worker through self-awareness and knowledge to help clients overcome their issues. Being fully knowledgeable and self-aware allows the social worker to reflect and identify personal development while remaining emotionally detached from the relationship with the