Summary

In this chapter, the author examines the way in which white fragility is created. Looking at her own life as a white person, she discusses the way in which she had a sense of belonging from the beginning of her life. For example, her parents likely attended birthing classes taught by whites, and the doctors and nurses who attended her mother were likely white, while the cleaning staff was made up of people of color. The author was surrounded by forms of media and education in which whiteness was the norm and in which she felt connection and belonging. In short, the author is freed from what she calls "the burden of race" (54). When she is at a job, she can work without fear that her performance will be tied to her race and without fear of racism. She will be free from the...