Allen, W.S (2022) White Women's Tears(3, white women's tears, responses, challenging cultural scripts)

What is White Settler Womanhood?

• White settler womanhood refers to how white women have historically played roles that support colonialism and racism, often under the guise of "helping" or "saving" others.

• These roles were shaped by society's expectations of white women to maintain white dominance, often unintentionally causing harm to Indigenous and other racialized communities.

The Story of Harmful Help:

• The author shares an example of calling 911 for an Indigenous woman who seemed in distress. Instead of helping, this action led to police involvement that caused harm.

• This highlights how well-meaning actions, when not thought through, can perpetuate harm and reinforce stereotypes.

"White Women’s Tears":

• This term describes when white women cry out of guilt or shame in ways that draw attention to their feelings and away from the harm caused to others.

• These emotional responses can unintentionally shift the focus to protecting the white woman instead of addressing the needs of those harmed.

Historical Roles of White Women:

• White women were seen as "moral guardians" in colonial times, tasked with "civilizing" others. This included roles in education, health care, and social work.

• These roles often assumed that Indigenous and other racialized people needed saving, reinforcing harmful power dynamics.

Modern Implications:

• Today, white women still hold positions in many institutions, where decisions can unknowingly continue these harmful patterns.

• Examples include decisions in schools, hospitals, and social services that may harm marginalized groups under the guise of helping.

Unpacking Cultural Scripts:

• White women are often raised with cultural "scripts" (lessons learned growing up) that teach them to see themselves as protectors or helpers.

• Examining these scripts is important to avoid causing harm and to understand the real impacts of their actions.

Responsibility and Change:

• White women are encouraged to reflect on their privileges and biases to break free from these harmful patterns.

• Instead of assuming what is best for others, they should listen to and support the needs of the affected communities.

Examples of Change:

• Avoid calling the police in situations where it might cause harm.

• Support alternatives like community-based resources.

• Take responsibility for learning about systemic racism and colonialism.