White Supremacy: What They Don't Get, and What Matters Most

The ideology of white supremacy is rooted in deep-seated beliefs that dehumanize people of different races, and its proponents often fail to grasp fundamental truths about human nature, equality, and the legacy of oppression. However, it is not merely what they don’t know—it is, more profoundly, what they choose to ignore and deny.

The Illusions of Skin Color

One of the most troubling aspects of white supremacist ideology is the belief that skin color inherently defines a person’s worth or potential. This belief is a profound misunderstanding of both human nature and the inherent value of every individual. The assumption that one’s achievements are predetermined based on their race is both false and harmful.

This is exemplified by the story of Joseph Boulogne Chevalier de Saint-George, a black man who became one of the greatest swordsmen and classical composers in France. His success was a direct result of his father ensuring he had the same opportunities as his white counterparts. This fact counters the idea that innate superiority or inferiority can be attributed to skin color. Instead, it underscores the power of education and opportunity.

The Ignorance of History

White supremacists often ignore historical context and fail to recognize that their beliefs are archaic, rooted in a bygone era of oppression and violence. The history of Nazism is one of the most tragic chapters of modern history, fought against by countless people who took up arms and gave their lives to protect human dignity and equality.

The actions and sacrifices of those who fought against Nazism and its ideologies are a reminder of the stark consequences of allowing such belief systems to flourish. Rejecting this historical narrative is not just ignorance; it is perpetuating a dangerous and harmful ideology that has no place in our modern world.

The False Identity of ‘White Supremacist’

Another common fallacy perpetuated by some white supremacists is the idea that a ‘white supremacist’ cannot be disassociated from racial identity. The term ‘white supremacist’ is not employed to insult but to describe a specific ideology. Many individuals who look white identify with this term because they want to distance themselves from the harmful beliefs and actions associated with white supremacy.

Furthermore, attributing achievements solely to race is not only absurd but also disempowering. Telling someone to take pride in their race implies that their worth is defined by an external, arbitrary factor. True strength and achievements should be recognized based on personal merit and effort, not race.

Racism and Economic Reality

White supremacists often argue that whites are superior economically, ignoring the facts. While some white countries might be wealthier, this does not mean that all white people are rich or successful. Countries like Argentina, Ukraine, and Belarus are examples of lily-white nations that are still economically troubled, highlighting that wealth is not solely determined by race.

Moreover, forcing women to bear more children because of racial identity is ethically and morally indefensible. It is a form of coercion and disrespect that fails to recognize the autonomy and individual choices of women. Discrimination in any form is harmful and must be rejected.

The Right to Speech and Cyberspace

White supremacists often claim the right to make hateful statements without consequence. However,cyberspace is a private domain, and platforms like Facebook, Reddit, and Quora have the right to regulate their content. The First Amendment, which protects freedom of speech in the United States, applies only to the actions of the government, not to private companies. This distinction is crucial in understanding why such platforms can and do censor harmful content.

While individuals have the freedom to speak, this freedom does not extend to expressing hatred or inciting violence. Cyberbullying, harassment, and spreading harmful ideologies online can—and should—be regulated to maintain a safe and respectful environment for everyone.

Understanding and combating white supremacist ideologies is a collective responsibility. It requires education, awareness, and action to promote racial equity, respect for human dignity, and a future where everyone's achievements are judged based on individual merit rather than racial identity.