Rep. Ayanna Pressley says non-racist white people need to essentially become activists if they want to be considered culturally “good enough” in 2020.
The Massachusetts Democrat recently spoke with comedian Samantha Bee about the George Floyd protests, racism in America, and the role of “Karen” and “Becky” — blanket terms for all white women — moving forward.
“Everyone will say, ’Well, you know, I’m not a racist,’” Ms. Pressley told the host for a recent “Full Frontal” interview. “Yeah, great. That’s not good enough. What you need to be is anti-racist. And that means being intentional and deliberate and unapologetic and dismantling structural racism and systemic oppression, and not being afraid to call it what it is: white supremacy.”
Ms. Bee echoed that sentiment by saying that “reluctant white people are going to be dragged into a more progressive future or rightfully dragged on Twitter.”
“Using your privilege in a tangible way [is necessary],” Ms. Pressley continued June 10. “Doing more than liking and retweeting. OK? No more hashtags. … Let’s just do the work.”
“White women, be useful. Use that privilege for good,” Ms. Bee implored.
“Yes, Karen. Come on, Becky,” Ms. Pressley said, agreeing.
• Douglas Ernst can be reached at dernst@washingtontimes.com.
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