Bearing the Benefit: An Evolution of Passing to Trespassing & How We Got Here

Name

Kennedi J. Williams, Georgia Southern UniversityFollow

Publication Date

4-1-2024

Major

Philosophy (B.A.)

Document Type and Release Option

Thesis (open access)

Faculty Mentor

Dr. Jasmine Wallace

Abstract

In recent years, we have seen a shift in the social treatment of white people in America. The desire to be politically correct at all times, in hopes of avoiding becoming the next viral “Karen” or racist has become imperative. The following thesis will explore the latest trend of white women buying racial capital by producing mixed-race children. At first glance, this idea can be a bit problematic. How can we assume the reasoning behind a woman choosing to bear a child? With this in mind, I would like to emphasize that individuals do not have to consciously be racist for them to reproduce techniques of racism and white supremacy. Today many people would deny having racist attitudes—and sincerely feel this way—and yet they have unconscious biases and/or promote unfair socio-political norms. Therefore, I am not considering individual interests or beliefs. I am looking at structural racism in relation to white supremacy with a specific focus on socio-political norms concerning one’s perceived value in proximity with whiteness (i.e., colorism).

Thesis Summary

In recent years, we have seen a shift in the social treatment of white people in America. The desire to be politically correct at all times, in hopes of avoiding becoming the next viral “Karen” or racist has become imperative. The following thesis will explore the latest trend of white women buying racial capital by producing mixed-race children. At first glance, this idea can be a bit problematic. How can we assume the reasoning behind a woman choosing to bear a child? With this in mind, I would like to emphasize that individuals do not have to consciously be racist for them to reproduce techniques of racism and white supremacy. Today many people would deny having racist attitudes—and sincerely feel this way—and yet they have unconscious biases and/or promote unfair socio-political norms. Therefore, I am not considering individual interests or beliefs. I am looking at structural racism in relation to white supremacy with a specific focus on socio-political norms concerning one’s perceived value in proximity with whiteness (i.e., colorism).

Recommended Citation

Williams, Kennedi J., "Bearing the Benefit: An Evolution of Passing to Trespassing & How We Got Here" (2024). Honors College Theses. 950.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/honors-theses/950