Introduction
White fragility, a term coined by sociologist Dr. Robin DiAngelo in her book White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism, refers to the defensive reactions many white individuals exhibit when faced with discussions around race and racism.
These reactions often arise when white people’s racial biases or privileges are challenged, and they manifest in several key ways.
You can read more on white fragility here:
https://southerncross.news/unpacking-white-fragility-how-to-address-common-excuses-about-race/
Emotional Responses
One of the most common signs of white fragility is an emotional reaction such as anger, guilt, or defensiveness when a white person feels that their identity or worldview is threatened. In discussions around racial inequality, these emotions can derail meaningful conversations, as the individual becomes focused on their own feelings rather than the issue at hand.
Avoidance and Silence
White fragility often leads to behaviours of avoidance and silence. Some individuals may withdraw from conversations about race or avoid addressing the topic altogether.
Conclusion
This avoidance can manifest in the classroom when teachers choose not to discuss racial issues, even when they are relevant to the curriculum. By silencing conversations about race, white fragility reinforces a sense of racial comfort, leaving students of colour feeling marginalized and unheard.
Reference
Johnson-Butterworth, M. (21 January 2019). Book review: White Fragility by Robin DiAngelo. [Image] Retrieved September 9 2024 from: https://sites.uab.edu/humanrights/2019/01/21/book-review-white-fragility-by-robin-diangelo/
