Privileges

Because I am a white female, part of a dominant religious group, and around many of those in my social class, I have many privileges that I have failed to notice until recently. Some privileges I have realized are the following: I can be in company with those of my race or religion whenever I choose to. I can be sure that my neighbors will be pleasant towards me and all of my family. I can purchase a home in a nice community. I never have to speak for all of my race or religion. I can speak out against the government without the fear of being punished or cast out as an outsider. Finally, my race will not speak against me in cases when I have been pulled over or paid for a purchase with a check.
Because I am not a minority, I do not have access to specific scholarships. However, there are so many grants out there that I do have access to. This point seems almost comical when compared to some of the privileges minority students are excluded from.
I have all these privileges because I am part of the majority society where we live. I don't think anyone decided I can have these and others cannot, it is just how it is. Although it is unfair to others who come to live here, I do not think I would prefer to have it any other way. I don't think these privileges should be withheld from anyone, but I wouldn't like to have them taken away.