In The Margins EP 82: The Invention of White People with Dr. Jacqueline Battalora
“Some folks say white people have no business being in this work. But, you know, we have to be, and it's a job that you want to work yourself out of.”
In this episode, Ralph Newell is joined by Dr. Jacqueline Battalora, author of Birth of a White Nation: The Invention of White People and Its Relevance Today.
Battalora is an attorney and professor of sociology at Saint Xavier University in Chicago.
Tune in as they discuss “whiteness,” the taboo of privilege, and the importance of understanding the truth of our history as well as the distressing implications the overturning of Roe v. Wade may have on our constitutional rights around race.
KEY POINTS:
- Dr. Jacqueline Battalora’s journey to diversity, equity, and inclusion work
- What does the term “whiteness” really mean?
- Why are white people considered the norm?
- How was whiteness invented and why does it matter today?
- White replacement theory and DEI education
- What does it mean to be an ally?
QUOTABLES:
“I think we have to be really clear about what we mean by whiteness. Malcolm X referred to whiteness not as a complexion, but as a state of consciousness.”
“White people really are just submerged as the norm. So I become the norm against which all other racial groups are measured against and considered in relation to.”
“Let me address one thing that I often hear, which is the whole ‘preaching to the choir’. I don't know of any choir that doesn't need daily practice.”
GUEST RESOURCES:
Learn more about Jacqueline Battalora: https://www.speakoutnow.org/speaker/jacqueline-battalora
PRODUCTS / RESOURCES:
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In The Margins is produced by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and edited by Instapodcasts (visit at instapodcasts.com)