Equality Means Equality for Everyone
In a truly anti-racist society, every person should have the same freedoms, the same dignity, and the same right to express pride in their heritage. If we are committed to true equality, then fairness must apply to all. That means if someone can proudly proclaim “Black Power,” then another person should be able to say “White Power” without backlash. If “Black Lives Matter” is an accepted statement, then “White Lives Matter” should be equally acceptable.
Unfortunately, in today’s climate, these ideas are not treated the same way. “Black Power” is often seen as an empowering statement, while “White Power” is associated with hate groups. “Black Lives Matter” is viewed as a movement for justice, while “White Lives Matter” is condemned. Why the double standard? Shouldn’t true equality mean that every group has an equal right to affirm their existence and value?
Of course, history plays a role in this discrepancy. “White Power” has, in the past, been co-opted by supremacist groups, and “White Lives Matter” has been used by certain organizations as a reactionary slogan rather than a genuine call for equality. But if we are truly striving for an anti-racist future, then we must move past historical baggage and ensure that every group has the same rights.
The goal should be mutual respect, not selective outrage. If one group is allowed to celebrate their identity, then all groups should be. If the response to someone saying “Black Lives Matter” is not outrage, then the response to “White Lives Matter” should not be condemnation. True equality does not elevate one voice while silencing another.
Being anti-racist does not mean prioritizing one race over another. It means genuinely treating all people the same. If we truly want to live in a world that values fairness, then we should be consistent in how we apply our principles. That means supporting equality of expression for everyone—without exceptions.
Let’s be consistent. Let’s be fair. Let’s be truly anti-racist.
Steve Holder 