‘You May Have Oppressed Somebody:’ Prof to White Student Who Said He Left His House That Day

Sam Richards brought two students in front of the 700-student “SOC119: Race and Ethnic Relations” lecture in attempt to discuss privilege and discrimination.

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In a March 4 livestream, Richards attempted to convince two White male students that they are oppressors while discussing Coca-Cola’s “be less White” training.

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Richards asks for the student’s thoughts on a slide which read, “To be less white is to be less oppressive, be less arrogant, be less certain, be less defensive, be less ignorant, be more humble, listen, believe, break with party, break with white solidarity.”

“I think, you know, it’s more or less just recognizing the advantages you have in life,” James, a student, responded. “Whatever that may be, and not thinking yourself superior because of that.”

Richards replied, “Awesome answer man.”

The professor then posed to Brian, the other student: “What White people would find that offensive?”

“Conservatives, I guess,” Brain responded.

Richards asked, “What would they find offensive about it?” Out of “canceled” concerns, Brian hesitated.

“White people have been like, ‘we’re oppressors, we’re arrogant, we’re really confident or certain, defensive — and dumb,” Richards replied. “White people are dumb. That’s a message: White people are dumb. That is a key message right there.”

Richards then asked Brian: “Who have you oppressed today?”

“I haven’t oppressed anyone today,” said Brian.

“You’re breathing. Have you left your house today?,” replied Richards.

“Yes,” Brian said.

“Okay, so you may have oppressed somebody,” Richards finished.

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