Being of color in America by no means amounts to a constant barrage of negativity. However, unlike being white, being of color means one's race is a constant issue.
John RidleyRead
Why do we cling to bigotry? Because bigotry, plainly, is convenient. It is a near-effortless way to both elevate one's stature and make a pity grab in this culture of victims that we have become.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Bigotry is an easy way for individuals to feel superior and gain sympathy within a victim culture.
In this quote, John Ridley addresses the reasons behind the prevalence of bigotry, suggesting that it serves as a convenient means for individuals to assert superiority over others. By reinforcing prejudiced beliefs, individuals elevate their social status while simultaneously positioning themselves as victims in a society that often rewards such narratives. This reflects a deeper commentary on societal dynamics, where convenience takes precedence over critical thinking and empathy.
Themes
BigotryConvenienceSocietyVictimSuperiority
In practice
Example use cases
During a debate on social issues, one might quote this to highlight the dangers of using prejudice as a means of identity.
More from John Ridley
All quotes →Slavery was not a bad day on the job. It was not your boss yelling at you. It was not hard work for little pay. This was a full system of human subjugation.
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People of color grow up steeped in 'white' culture. The reverse is not true. And, no, listening to hip-hop on the way to work does not count as immersion.
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For children, diversity needs to be real and not merely relegated to learning the names of the usual suspects during Black History Month or enjoying south-of-the-border cuisine on Cinco de Mayo. It means talking to and spending time with kids not like them so that they may discover those kids are in fact just like them.
John RidleyRead
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