#alison wiltz

[odinsblog]

“White people claiming that American society is merit-based is like claiming they won a race when their opponent has their hands and legs bound.

The myth of meritocracy claims that Americans live in a fair, equal society, where hard work and resilience are the factors most responsible for shaping our lives. Under this theory, nothing stops anyone from succeeding other than, perhaps, themselves. This worldview may seem like a harmless attempt to encourage self-determination until you discover the carpet doesn't match the drapes. Once you realize that racism hinders equality, the myth of meritocracy is left bare and exposed, like the emperor, who wasn't wearing any clothes.

While the myth of meritocracy attempts to justify racial disparities as normal, this worldview is challenged by the data.

According to The Survey of Consumer Finances, the wealth of a typical White household was 7.8 times that of the typical Black household. Faced with this stark reality, many would concede that racist laws, policies, and practices created and maintained this racial wealth gap, while others, those who endorse the myth of meritocracy, would insist that Black people don't work hard enough. If they punched the clock more often, then all of their suffering would be alleviated, those endorsing the myth expect us to believe.

Many endorse racial stereotypes to justify racial disparities, calling Black people lazy or making other blanket claims to disparage the state of the black family.

It's easier for some White people to believe the world is fair than to commit to doing their part to make it so.”

—Allison Wiltz