I created this series as an exploration of my whiteness and as a way for me to think about my personal privilege and identity without relying on the crutch of comparing it to other people's experiences. Self Portraits of a White Woman is representative solely of my story and perspective. Ironically it was in this forced vacuum that it became clear to me how my privilege and status inherently effect others. In the end, this series became a documentation of my personal journey in better understanding race, but I hope it can also inspire others to begin their own self examinations.
Morally, I would rather identify with the female side of oppression than the white side. But the reality is I am both. The great modern irony of liberal whiteness is that your intentions do not make up for the inherent privileges of your skin color. For a long time this was a reality I refused to accept. But I now understand the damage of this denial. I acknowledge that the world will always see me as I am, a white woman with systemic privilege. But that does not mean that I cannot also do good.
More In This Series
Don't Look Down
Relearn Rethink Repeat