What Can We Do? Allan G. Johnson Jillian Chen and Elanore Ferrara

Privilege -It is a problem with society (not the individual) -For change to occur the society has to change -Oppression is not a thing of the past -There will always be someone on top -Oppression can never really go away completely

ideals -Johnson particularly focuses on how to change the status quo associated with race, gender, social status, etc. -He encourages his readers to take the path of less traveled, not the path of least resistance. -His challenge is to stand up for what you believe in. Not only should you have an opinion, but you should make it known to others. -Raising questions about what has been known as the accepted and normal way of life.

Steps towards change Acknowledge That trouble exists -In order for this to happen people have to speak out Pay Attention -Be critical of what people say and do Do Something -Be proactive, become a member of a club, create change

Other Key points -“Rules become more visible when someone breaks them.” page 703 -“Some will say it isn’t ‘nice’ to make people uncomfortable, but oppressive systems do a lot more than make people feel uncomfortable, and there isn’t anything ‘nice’ about allowing that to continue unchallenged.” page 702