Analysis Of Privilege, Power And Difference, By Allan Johnson

was the “difference” which was then rejected and replaced with white skin, which is considered “clean.” The problem with this clip is the inferiority thatis conveyed. Audre Lorde, in “Age, Race, Class and Sex” writes that “much of Western European history conditions us to see human differences in simplistic opposition to each other” such as “dominant/subordinate” and “superior/inferior” (114). She further continues to discuss the act of systematized oppression and the groups who “occupy the place of dehumanized inferior” such as black people and women (114). It is important to note that here Lorde identities blacks and women as two separate groups who alternate the bottom of the social totem pole, dependingon the instance. This fails to even

This speaks to the tone-deaf approach too many people still have to diversity. It would be easier to cut the company some slack if the issue of racismand colorism was less prevalent or unknown. However, it is no secret to anyone that blacks are not offered the same privileges as whites. In his book “Privilege, Power and Difference”, Allan Johnson touches on this subject when he talks about his experience being a straight white male. Johnson recognizes his inherent privilege, and acknowledges not having to worry about being discriminated against at school, work, or everyday life. All because of the skin he was born in. (6). Johnson therefore benefits from the “cultural assumptions” granted to him at birth. Fortunately, he recognizes these things and marks the differences between himself and a black female colleague and the discrimination and racism she may face. Not everybody can recognize his or her privilege, but for every person who can’t, there exists an Allan Johnson who can recognize and admit to it. If those in arguably the highest societal position can recognize the plight of those at the bottom, then it illustrates the confusion of the continued disregard for more responsible advertising. The question still remains how an ad like this managed to even get pass a trial run. If fingers are being pointed, it is important to also examine the two actresses at the center of the debate. The black model was portrayed by Nigerian model Lola Ogunyemi. In response to the backlash, Lola revealed in The Guardian that she jumped at the opportunity to work with Dove. She stated that, “having the opportunity to represent my dark-skinned sisters in a global beauty brand felt like the perfect way for me to remind the world that we are here, we are beautiful, and more importantly, we are valued”. Her take is similar to Dove’s in that her intentions were good. However,