"The reason why you were allowed to get away with that in the '60s and '70s is because this country's racist administrative policies were such that rich white kids were getting exemptions. I said no exemptions"
About this Quote
Montel Williams, a prominent tv character and supporter, is known for his honest observations on social justice issues. In this quote, Williams speaks to the systemic inequalities prevalent in America during the 1960s and 1970s. The phrase "permitted to get away with that" can be translated as a reflection on the out of proportion leniency managed to certain groups, particularly wealthy white people, throughout this age due to established societal and governmental predispositions.
Williams identifies the administrative policies of the time as "racist", recommending that they were developed or controlled to disproportionately favor white people at the expense of minorities. This systemic imbalance meant that abundant white kids frequently received exemptions from particular societal rules or commitments, likely referencing aspects like military drafts, instructional chances, or judicial leniences, where minorities may not have actually been approved comparable concessions. The exemptions discussed suggest organized favoritism based on race and class, indicating a wider critique of systemic racism ingrained within the organizations.
The latter part of Williams's declaration, "I stated no exemptions", signifies a require equity and accountability, promoting for a society where opportunities are not given based on race or socio-economic status. It underlines an aspiration for a fairer system where everybody is held to the very same standards, regardless of their background.
By assessing this historical context, Williams welcomes modern audiences to recognize and dismantle any remnants of these biased practices. His statement functions as a tip of the prevalent nature of systemic racism and the need for continuous caution and reform. In essence, the quote challenges us to challenge past misbehaviours and work towards a more just and fair society, free from the biases that when allowed particular groups to evade accountability.
