From Norm to Noticing: Unpacking White Culture’s Influence

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of White Women Wake Up, Karen and Jonelle dive deep into the concept of white culture, its historical roots, and how it continues to shape societal norms and policies. They discuss the origins of the term "Caucasian," tracing it back to a pseudoscientific study in the 1800s. They also explore how race was constructed in the U.S. after Bacon’s Rebellion in the 1670s. They reflect on how white culture is often invisible to those who benefit from it and how assumptions about normalcy and superiority can be embedded in everyday life. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing white cultural dominance in policy-making, social norms, and law enforcement, and challenges listeners to examine their assumptions.Call to ActionWhite Culture is Normative, But Not Neutral – Many white individuals don’t recognize their cultural behaviors as a distinct system because it has been the dominant framework in society.Assumptions Shape Oppression – White culture often assumes its traditions, policies, and behaviors are the default, without considering how they impact marginalized communities.Challenge Your Norms – This week’s homework is to identify areas where you unconsciously assume “your way” is the only or best way, and actively question those biases.We would love to hear from you! Contact us at [email protected] the show