Final answer:
White privilege refers to the unearned benefits White people receive due to their race, often without their awareness. Recognizing this reveals systemic inequalities that privilege is institutional, not personal, and impacts efforts for a truly color-blind society.
Step-by-step explanation:
Privilege exists in various forms, from health and ability to race and gender. White privilege refers to the societal benefits that White people receive simply by being White or being perceived as such. These benefits, however, are often unrecognized by those who possess them. The pioneering work of Peggy McIntosh highlights that many people with privilege are unaware of it and that acknowledging privilege does not diminish one's accomplishments but rather calls attention to systemic inequalities.
In discussing privilege, it's important to note that privilege is an institutional condition rather than a personal attribute. It exists independently of an individual's intent or awareness. The aim is to reach a color-blind society where policies are free from racial discrimination, but until then, efforts like affirmative action are necessary to address historical injustices.
Ultimately, the goal is to can create an awareness that leads to equity and justice for all, understanding that being treated favorably due to one's race, while others face disadvantages, is a central component of discussing racial privilege.