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Privileges are defined as unearned advantages or benefits that individuals or groups have due to aspects of their identity, background, or circumstances. These privileges can vary depending on the situation and context, and while they may be used to create positive change, they can also become sources of oppression.
The press release highlights that privilege is amplified by power, which allows certain individuals or groups to control outcomes for others. The misuse of privilege can lead to discrimination and prejudice in society, often manifesting as forms such as racism, sexism, ableism, and ageism.
Public discussions about systemic racism have brought attention to white privilege and its impact on people of color. The statement emphasizes that racism is not created by racial minorities but exists in societies where some lives are valued more than others based on race, gender, education, class, or religion. It states: "Privilege by itself is not the problem, instead, the problem is the use of privilege as a tool of oppression, as is the case with white privilege and Christian privilege in the United States."
The document further asserts that white supremacy relies on white privilege and connects this dynamic to what it describes as "white Christian nationalism." According to the release: "White Christian nationalism begins with a set of assumptions that identify the United States as a country for white people living a white Christianity that lays blame at the feet of other racial/ethnic groups while pandering to fear of its extinction."
Recent government actions are criticized for targeting diversity programs and communities labeled as radicalized. The press release notes: "Dismantling of programs and curriculum focused [on] diversity, equity and inclusion were a start...with the presidential order identifying 'illegal and immoral discrimination programs, going by the name “diversity, equity, and inclusion” (DEI).'"
It also raises concerns about what it calls an increase in authoritarian measures in the United States: "Fascism is the order of the day in the United States with the actions of the president rooted in notions of privilege that continue to glorify racism, sexism, xenophobia, and homophobia." Examples cited include militarization of cities and policy decisions made through executive orders since January 20, 2025.
The statement criticizes what it sees as unchecked power being exercised by national leadership: "The perpetuation of privilege is evident in the unchecked powers being wielded by the 47th president backed by Congress and the Supreme Court that continues to support actions which are in some cases unconstitutional while attempting to silence critique and calls for justice and mercy."
Finally, it calls upon faith communities to demand accountability rather than perpetuate systems lacking oversight: "Communities of faith should demand accountabilities rather than perpetuate privilege and lack of accountability for caring for communities and people."
