I’m a White Male But Don’t Understand My Privilege — Help.
Can Tim Tebow help me understand my privilege?
--
Recently, I listened to a conversation between sports analysts about the hiring of American football star, Tim Tebow, to play the Tight End position for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
The conversation, between Stephen A. Smith and Max Kellerman on ESPN’s First Take, was not about Tebow’s abilities. It wasn’t about whether it was a good move or a bad move. It wasn’t about sports, in general.
Their conversation was centered around privilege. White privilege. And whether or not Tebow getting the job was a result of it.
Tebow is a white male (pictured above). He’s a product of the Jacksonville area. He attended the University of Florida in Gainesville about a decade ago where he is somewhat of a local legend. Together, with Urban Meyer as his coach, they won multiple championships.
Now, Urban Meyer is with the Jacksonville Jaguars. It’s hardly a coincidence — given their history — that Tebow gets another chance in the NFL here. Not to mention, the duo — in addition to newcomer Trevor Lawrence at quarterback — will sell out the Jacksonville stadium every Sunday.
I listened to both men on First Take say their piece. I tend to disagree that it is a matter of white privilege. This is more of a marketing ploy than it is about privilege.
But as a white male, I shouldn’t get a say.
That’s what this article is about. I’m a white male who doesn’t fully understand my privilege.
Someone help.
The argument
Whether you’re a sports fan or not, you have probably heard the story of Colin Kaepernick. A black quarterback who succeeded during his time in the league.
Then, one fateful day, he made the decision to kneel during the National Anthem in an effort to bring attention to the police brutality crisis against people of color.
In one moment, with one action, he divided the nation. You were either with him, or you saw his actions as atrocious and a complete disrespect to the country and our armed forces.
