By Megan Thomas
This personal essay by Otegha Uwagba was written and published in the aftermath of George Floyd’s brutal murder, which left society at a historical turning point where denying the consistent and ultimately life-threatening reality of institutional racism was no longer possible.
This violent moment was, of course, by no means an isolated incident, but its public nature – the fact that it was video recorded in broad daylight – made it significant. For many white people, this was the first time they’d chosen to open their eyes to a pervasive problem, meaning that Black people were made to shoulder yet another burden: that of dealing with white efforts of anti-racism despite there being a very loose understanding of what allyship actually means and the action it requires.
For a short essay, Uwagba goes into impressive depth. Something that was particularly poignant to me was her discussion of the anti-racism reading guides that circulated – those of the “wake up and educate yourself” variety. While taking no issue with the concept, what she found confusing was when books such as her “Little Black Book”, a modern career guide for creative women, would appear on these lists, ultimately with no link other than her own race. Alongside plenty of other examples, this one shows how a genuine interest in achieving an anti-racist society, rather than the vague intellectual concept of it, is not something to which people show much meaningful commitment.
To some extent, despite it being an essay, this reads like a memoir, especially through its personal anecdotes and how Uwagba navigates the concept of whiteness and what it means to her, as well as society. In parts searing, in others understanding, and in all parts deeply reflective, Whites is a stimulating and worthwhile read.
BUY THE BOOK: Waterstones | Foyles | Amazon
Disclaimer: I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please get in touch if your preferred online platform is not listed here – I’ll see what I can do!
Read more on race politics:
Have You Read This 