sigelphoenix

*puts on pedantic hat*

The concept of "invisibility" is one that's come up in my studies of both feminism and racism. It's really something that happens in all "-ism"s, whenever there's a privileged group and an oppressed minority. But it's kind of a hard thing to explain sometimes, especially because (for me, at least) it's something that's easily overlooked. But that's makes sense if it's called "invisibility," huh? :P

Here is an ad that illustrates the idea perfectly. It's in French, but you don't need to understand the words. I saw it linked on feminist and just love-love-loved it.

I won't say what the ad is, because it works so beautifully on its own. But it just explains invisibility so well -- it's the ability to assume you're normal, to be the default, to *not* have to put forth extra effort just to do normal, everyday things. It is a *huge* privilege, but since by design it isn't meant to be noticed, most people in privileged groups don't even understand that they have it.

That's why it galls me when I hear straight people complaining that the concept of domestic partnerships gives non-heterosexuals special rights. Or men complaining that Women's Studies is giving women special consideration. Or white people complaining about the consideration of racial minority status as a benefit in selection processes. Or anyone who whines about "special treatment" of minorities. None of this would even be necessary if the default for society weren't straight, rich, white, able-bodied (possibly Christian) male. These unusual treatments stand out only because the default identity doesn't *need* attention -- it just *is.* That's how it's "invisible."

I know I can't explain it as well as I'd like. Please please please watch the video -- it's only a few seconds long, and it's really worthwhile.