Complexities of standpoint in researching 'whiteness'

1
Complexities of standpoint in researching
'whiteness'

• Manuel Madriaga
• Sheffield Hallam University
• 14 June 2006

2
What is Standpoint?

• epistemological stance that the oppressed can
  see with greater clarity not only their own
  position but also that of the oppressor/privileged
  , and indeed the shape of social systems as a
  whole (Frankenberg, 1993 8).

3
A challenge to standpoint

• Having things in common is not necessarily the
  prerequisite for insightful dialogue on the
  social construction of whiteness (Back, 200248).

4
A challenge to standpoint

• Back (200252) in interview with key figure of
  BNP, Critical insight was produced where common
  ground was established and equally in moments
  when our respective worldviews came into direct
  confrontation

5
Methods

• Life-history interviews with US Military Veterans
  in central California
• Latinos, black and white respondents
• Indirect approach to examining whiteness in
  notions of American-ness
• Examined symbols and ideas American Flag,
  American Dream, and Melting Pot

6
The Flag findings

• White responses expressed official
  interpretations
• Black respondents highlighted issues of racism in
  expressing their love for the Flag
• Latino respondents, although more varied
  responses, downplayed their Latino-ness

7
The Melting Pot Idea

• The Melting Pot is unlike the race-neutral symbol
  of the Flag.
• Melting Pot Idea Assimilation?
  Anglo-conformity? A myth?

8
The Melting Pot Idea

• Official cultural expression

9
The melting pot idea

• I think we are more of a melting pot country
  than England. Our diversity is what makes us
  unique in all the world. There is nothing like
  America, bar none! (black respondent, CT)

10
The Melting Pot Idea

• Vernacular cultural expressions
• buffet
• Anglo-conformity
• myth it does not exist

11
Back to methods

• Standpoint is very empowering in uncovering the
  taken-for-granted nature of whiteness in
  American identity. However, during my field
  study, I did not feel empowered. I felt
  restrained.

12
Findings

• When we went to school, history was a very
  important part of our curriculum. But, now, they
  dont feature the European history and thats
  where most of our people come. The schools try
  to feature the whole world. But, there are few
  minorities here (white Veteran, FS)

13
Findings

• We have always helped the world. And, people
  now move into this country and the first thing
  they do is put their hand out. Imitating a
  Latino accent I am the poor, lonely immigrant.
  I dont know nothing. I dont know English. I
  dont want to work. (white respondent, PB)

14
Findings

• This Black kid comes into our room, the only
  black kid in the room, everybodys head turn,
  whats the big deal? We turn out to be the best
  friends in the world (white respondent, BB).

15
Findings

• A lot of times a person from a different
  background can relate to you more (Latino
  respondent, GG).

16
Concluding remarks

• I realized the extent of taking on a oppressive
  position in being American (situational)
• Also confirmed the notion that having things in
  common is not necessary for research on issues
  of race.

17
Concluding remarks

• Standpoint is key in understanding differences,
  however it should not be at the expense of
  ignoring similarities.