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Taken for granted Quote by Jodi Picoult

“I look right at juror number 12, the teacher. “Finish this sentence,” I say. “I am…?” I pause at the blank. “Maybe you’d answer: shy. Or blond. Friendly. Nervous, intelligent, Irish. But the majority of you wouldn’t say white. Why not? Because it’s a given. It’s identity that is taken for granted…” quote by Jodi Picoult
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““I look right at juror number 12, the teacher. “Finish this sentence,” I say. “I am…?” I pause at the blank. “Maybe you’d answer: shy. Or blond. Friendly. Nervous, intelligent, Irish. But the majority of you wouldn’t say white. Why not? Because it’s a given. It’s identity that is taken for granted. Those of us who were lucky enough to be born white are oblivious to that good fortune.””

Jodi Picoult

About This Quote

White identity is often invisible to those who have it, while others are defined by it.

In simple terms: White people often don’t notice their race, unlike minorities.

Key Takeaway

Recognize and question assumed racial norms.

Themes

identity race social perception

Mood

introspective critical

Type

social educational

When to use this quote

  • education
  • policy making
  • personal reflection

Key Concepts

privilege awareness implicit bias

Questions to Reflect On

  • How does privilege shape daily interactions?
  • What can be done to make invisible norms visible?
A Different Perspective

May simplify complex racial dynamics into a single narrative.

4.3 out of 5 (4 ratings)

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