When you see the words:
"Working class."
What comes to mind? It was probably not that different from the image attached to this post. (That was the first image google delivered. This is the type of image often used in TV news.) The term "working class" is generally associated with whiteness in the US. In more recent years you are more likely to hear "white working class" or even "white working class men" which is at least more honest. You will almost never hear "black working class" --I think this is by design. "Working class" has a certain connotation in US politics.
Let's explore why the way this phrase is used may further white supremacy, capitalist interests and even sexism.
- There are not many trade unions in the US. The phrase "working class" is closely associated with unions. How could this contribute to the racialization of this term?
- How are trade union jobs vs. domestic, service, care-taking and janitorial labor viewed differently? Do you think most people think of a hotel maid as working class? What about a restaurant worker?
- Have you ever encountered a person who used "working class" as short hand for "white working class men" ?
- How does the close association of work with whiteness play into existing racial narratives and stereotypes.
- What are other terms that are similarly loaded? (real american, thug, corn-fed, urban)
- Why do you think there are so many ways to avoid mentioning race directly in American political discourse?