Is being "awoke" broke for White Folk

by Michael Rice

Somewhere along the line, the idea of being "awoke" can be misconstrued and misinterpreted. Being "AWOKE" means being aware of your circumstances, environment, and cultural presence. It means your eyes are wide open to the GAME being played around?you.

This is a term for Black people and does not translate well with White people. This is especially true because being "awoke" to be black people represents an important reclaiming of their history and an affirmation of their lived experiences. It allows them to better understand the forces that have shaped their communities and to contextualize present-day inequities. This awareness, while often painful, can also be empowering, as it provides a framework for resisting oppression and working towards justice.

On the flip side, for white people, being "awoke" to this history can be a deeply uncomfortable and even depressing realization. It forces them to confront the ugly truths about how the prosperity and power of white America was built upon the systemic exploitation and marginalization of Black and other minority communities. This awareness can trigger feelings of guilt, shame, and a sense of responsibility for the actions of their ancestors and the ongoing manifestations of racism.

Some white people may instinctively resist or deny these realities, as confronting them challenges their long-held beliefs about the country's founding principles and their own position within it. The cognitive dissonance between the ideals of equality and opportunity and the harsh historical and contemporary facts can be psychologically distressing.

This dynamic highlights a key reason why the concept of being "awoke" may not translate as quickly or be as readily embraced by white people as it is by Black people. For the former, it can represent an uncomfortable reckoning with uncomfortable truths, while for the latter, it represents an empowering reclamation of their identity and lived experiences.

Navigating these differing perspectives and emotional responses is crucial for fostering meaningful dialogue and progress. It requires white people to approach the process of becoming "awoke" with humility, openness, and a willingness to grapple with their own biases and the legacy of white supremacy. It requires Black people to have patience and empathy while also asserting the importance of their own experiences and narratives’ which means keeping a watchful eye on what white folks are doing and thinking.

In summary, the concept of being "awoke" is complex, multi-faceted, and deeply rooted in one's lived experiences. While it may manifest differently across racial lines, the underlying goal of increased awareness and activism against oppression is universally important. The key is to approach this discourse with humility, respect, and a willingness to learn from each other.

about the Author

Michael Rice is a dedicated community advocate and change-maker, using his diverse expertise to empower marginalized youth and catalyze positive social transformation. As an accomplished Community Engagement Specialist, Michael brings a wealth of knowledge from his background in social work to develop and implement impactful programs tailored to the unique needs of underserved communities.

Michael's impressive track record as an award-winning social innovator underscores his visionary approach and unwavering commitment to making a meaningful difference. He is the founder of several groundbreaking youth-focused initiatives that provide mentorship, educational resources, and personal development opportunities to help young people unlock their full potential.

In addition to his hands-on work in the field, Michael is also a published author, having penned insightful books that explore the critical intersections of race, social justice, and community empowerment. His thought-provoking writing has been widely acclaimed for its ability to shed light on complex issues and inspire meaningful dialogue.

With a deep empathetic understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable populations, Michael approaches his work with creativity, strategic vision, and a steadfast determination to drive sustainable progress. As a respected leader in his community, he continues to be a powerful voice for social equity and a catalyst for transformative change.

Contact Michael Rice at 325-339-8208 or email: [email protected] - www.michaelricespeaks.com and www.communitypartnersinchange.org