When asking someone of the Caucasian race what it means to them to be white, you might get some blank stares. Somewhere in the mix of this country’s racial issues, the white race gets lost, and often times fails to speak up when the conversation focuses on race and racism. In order to establish a post-racial society where the social construction of race does not dictate the fate of one’s life in any way, then everyone must feel they have a race and racial experiences.So, what does it mean for me to be white? Honestly, I have never really given it much thought. I have never felt allowed to show any sort of pride or affection towards my race. With whites making up the majority of this country’s population, it is assumed that whites have nothing to complain about.

I feel that this is one of the main reasons that white individuals often shy away from discussing racial issues. In the United States, whites have not had to endure as much racial prejudice as people of color have, and this leaves many whites feeling unqualified to add any input into racial discussions.

I have sat in silence in class as other students exchanged opinions about racial issues. I noticed my black classmates growing a little upset at some of the scenarios my professor was presenting. Even though I felt I had thoughts that could contribute to the discussion, I held them in because I felt my opinions would be looked down upon due to my whiteness.

Even though being white is extremely common, I still feel the thought of having pride for your people and your heritage is an important, admirable concept.

The election of President Obama was indeed a great success for the African-American community, but hopefully the 2008 election proves to benefit members of all races. The racial pride generated by African-Americans all over the country in support of Barack Obama was truly magnificent. I have never before felt an amount of racial pride even close to what it seemed African-Americans were experiencing at that time.

Witnessing this unity and pride within one racial population was extraordinary, and it made me feel as if I was missing out on something, like there was something I just did not get.

It is not too much for me to fathom that we could one day have a post-racial society, but, like President Obama said about his administration, nothing will happen overnight and change might not come right away. Just like with Obama’s administration, reaching a completely post-racial society is going to require patience.

I feel it is important that we as Americans join together and begin to write an equal, collective history of our multi-racial generation. We can make the difference now, and only together can we all move towards the ultimate goal of living in a post-racial society.