Where do Millennials fall on the allyship spectrum?
That’s a good question!
While Millennials have been associated with various societal changes (remember when they killed napkins?) the story with this generation and racism is complicated. Comprised of apathetic people, woke activists, and White Supremacist fraternity boys, this generation is living through an identity crisis.
How to talk to: Apathetic Millennials
Let’s talk facts:
Millennials have seen their parents live through financial turmoil, and have been given an economy that their parents (excuse our French) fucked up.
Millennials have watched their friends, siblings, and teachers murdered in cold blood by their classmates.
Millennials watched live television of the 9/11 attack during their formative years.
Millennials are experiencing crushing student loan debt, a lack of job opportunities, and requirements of 3 years experience for an entry level job.
Because of these events (among many others), Millennials have often been given the label of “apathetic,” especially in regards to politics and other societally significant moments in time. The Center for Digital Education observes some of the basis of their views, stating how Millennials don’t feel connected or represented in politics, and how many don’t feel their voice counts either way.
Some Millennials have gotten stuck being short-sighted, arguing that things like the Government or racism aren’t directly affecting them, getting stuck in the out of sight, out of mind mentality:
So now that you understand the reasoning behind their leanings, what are some ways to have conversations with apathetic Millennials?
Encourage them to have conversations with people not like them. Try to address racism in a familiar way. For example, a HuffPost article draws the example of LGBTQIA conversations, “‘A lot of white Americans who were trying to sort out how they felt about [same-sex marriage], had gay people in their families [or] people they knew,’ he said. That helped personalize the issue and build support for marriage equality among straight Americans. But fewer white Americans have experienced the same opportunities when it comes to racial equality, he posits.”
Let them know they’re not alone. Take a moment to reflect on why you are here, doing this research right now. It’s likely because you’re trying to have a conversation with someone about racism, and don’t have all of the answers. You might feel apprehensive about having a conversation about racism, and that could very well be the same roadblock this Millennial is facing. The Whiteness Project found that “26% of whites see racism as an issue in their community, but feel there’s not much they can do about it.” That’s 1 in 4 Millennials who don’t know where to start. (This is why we keep hearing that racism is a public health crisis).
Set an example. If you’re hoping to inspire your apathetic friend, one of the best ways to inspire them to get out of their own way is to walk the talk. Are you going to a protest soon? Have you donated to any organizations fighting racism lately? Did you come across an article that opened your eyes to your privilege as white person? Share these experiences with your friend. In a HuffPost article, the author says is “to have constructive conversations” about race. “If we can have dialogue that begins with grace, love, dignity and demonstration that we recognize the humanity in one another, then we have a place to begin,” he said.
How to talk to with non-ally Millennials:
As we scroll through social media, we can all recognize this demographic: white, male, affluent, late 20’s to early 30’s, home owner. The everyday Joe, in colorful pastel shorts, a nice buttoned down collared shirt, and boat shoes. He hangs out with a bunch of other everyday Joe’s, often on their parent’s boats during the summer time.
Joe is fun to hang out with, but once you learn a little more about his political views, you start to understand how he thinks.
“I’m not racist, I have a Black friend! Do I think he’s more in danger from a police interaction? No, aren’t we all in danger? All lives matter!”
He may go so far as to saunter around in his Trump 2020 hat, arguing that he has good financial policies, and that he’s keeping our country safe. You may be confused on how to approach him, but here are a few things to help you approach the conversation:
Talk on their terms. Try relating to Joe through storytelling, like this: “Even from a young age, this country has been white washed. What was your favorite book that featured a child of color?” It’s likely that they will not be able to answer your question because:
In 2013, only 8 percent of children’s books were written by or about people of color.
Starting from an empathetic place might engage them more organically with conversations about racism.
Start a conversation about this video.
Bring real life examples to the conversation. A good starting place is in storytelling, and visuals are extremely helpful.
Can you identify what is different between the two images?
Headlines portray white murderer as brilliant, and Black citizen as hostile towards police
Photo of white murderer shows a classically educated and well dressed man, Black citizen as a “thug”
Looking to learn more about the media’s influence in white vs. Black crimes? The Central Park 5 (now the Exonerated Five) and Brock Turner’s stories are studied here.
Action Items for Change
Hoping to keep the momentum and conversation going with your Millennial friends? In order to continue learning and growing with Millennials, try the following:
As we get closer to voting season, commit to having a monthly conversation about local candidates and issues they are supporting
In the next month, plan to attend an event or donate to a charity that benefits Black people, and encourage your friend to participate alongside you
Follow our Instagram page and encourage your friends to join along in our “Follow Friday” series, where we showcase Black people you should follow online