“When people get onto you for being [privileged], that’s kind of unfair, isn’t it?”
This question arose from one of my students during a discussion about privilege as a form of social control. Instead of answering directly, I asked, “What do you think of #notallmen?”
Another student explained that the hashtag emerged during the #metoo movement as a way for some men to deflect from the discussion of sexual and physical violence against women. The hashtag essentially shifted focus from women’s experiences to defending men’s innocence, even though those not involved in such behavior didn’t need to defend themselves.
My name Christopher Hall, MSW, PhD, Assistant Professor of Human Services Administration and Delivery at the University of North Georgia. I began my career in intimate partner violence intervention in 1999, attending the Oregon State Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence state conference. One session, “Understanding Oppression Theory,” introduced me to a model where oppression is defined by the combination of Power, Privilege, and Prejudice. Without all three, the impact is not the same.
In that workshop, the presenters discussed how many women fear walking alone at night due to the potential risk posed by men. A woman in the audience dismissed this fear, saying she felt safe in her neighborhood, challenging the idea that such fear was a valid example of oppression.
The presenters responded by pointing out that while it’s good she felt safe, her statement dismissed the very real fears of those who have experienced violence. Then they turned to me, the only man in the room, and said, “By staying silent, you supported oppressive behavior. You could have used your privilege to address the danger men pose, but you said nothing.”
Their words struck me, leading me to reflect on how my silence contributed to oppression. It highlighted the personal moral responsibility to speak up, especially when I share the same layers of privilege as those perpetuating harmful behaviors.
This story may seem out of place in a discussion about Indigenous Peoples in evaluation, but it’s relevant. In an AEA365 blog I wrote a few months ago, I emphasized the importance of white evaluators critically examining their motivations behind land acknowledgments. I urged them to reflect on how they offer resources, amplify voices, and support Indigenous peoples beyond mere symbolic gestures.
Anyone whose ancestors claimed land, committed genocide, or caused harm to Indigenous Peoples—and who benefits from those actions—must confront the ongoing legacy of oppression. Without actively working alongside Indigenous Peoples to use the power of evaluation to empower and create resources, land acknowledgments risk becoming hollow statements, reflecting only the privileges gained from these historical injustices.
Lessons Learned
Privilege is not something to feel ashamed or guilty about; it’s often an unchosen aspect of identity. However, reflecting on the privilege we hold as evaluators provides an opportunity to recognize the power we have to effect change. We can make the voices of those often overlooked and unheard impactful and central to our work. By understanding and utilizing our privilege, we can contribute to more equitable and just outcomes in the communities we engage with.
Rad Resources
Working with Indigenous Communities: Companion Resource Guide
Indigenous Cultural Safety, Cultural Humility, and Anti-Racism
The American Evaluation Association is hosting Indigenous Peoples in Evaluation (IPE) TIG week. All posts this week are contributed by members of the IPE Topical Interest Group. Do you have questions, concerns, kudos, or content to extend this AEA365 contribution? Please add them in the comments section for this post on the AEA365 webpage so that we may enrich our community of practice. Would you like to submit an AEA365 Tip? Please send a note of interest to AEA365@eval.org. AEA365 is sponsored by the American Evaluation Association and provides a Tip-a-Day by and for evaluators. The views and opinions expressed on the AEA365 blog are solely those of the original authors and other contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of the American Evaluation Association, and/or any/all contributors to this site.