The Nickle Boys: The White Privilege
The white privilege refers to the benefits available to whites over non-whites in some societies in the same political, economic, and social conditions. The Nickle Boys illustrates the dominance whites have over blacks in such communities in the thematic concept of racism and discrimination. Racism and discrimination are some of the most significant themes in the novel. Elwood Curtis, a black student in Florida, attempts to find a way out of black intimidation. The development of the subject of white privileges continues when Curtis meets Turner, another black who survived in the streets. Elwood’s upbringing by his grandmother permitting to only listen to records Martin Luther King that the author Colson Whitehead describes as ‘scratchy’ show blacks have little privileges in white societies.
Elwood’s arrival at Nickel is not what he ever imagined. However, it was one of the best scenes of his life. The separation of white students from blacks is an indication of discrimination at Nickel Academy. Blacks are not allowed to mingle with whites; this is a depiction of the difference in treatment and handling concerning race.
Another instance of white privileges at Nickel Academy is the criteria for promotion through the ranks for ethical conduct and behavior. The kids who get to the top positions get their freedom. Theoretically, ethical behavior is rewarded by promotion. However, this only applies to white kids. Elwood attempts to stop a fight between some inmates, an action that sees him punished and tortured that he spends weeks at the hospital. Elwood’s naïve act of choosing to believe in the promotion system despite Turner’s protests only lands him in trouble. All this happens because he is black otherwise; he would get different treatment for his obedience.
Spencer, the director, compels Griff, the 15-year undisputed black boxing champion, to give away a fight or he is thrown out. Black people were forced to make decisions they did not want because of fear of oppression. This is because they had little privileges in the outside world than whites, and Griff could not imagine getting back out, so he gave in to the director’s demands. The rigging of the boxing is a whole sign that white kids get better treatment and an underlying unfairness. Elwood and his fellow blacks understand they have been stronger to confront the situation.
The incarceration of Elwood is another element of the white privilege theme. The author’s description of Elwood’s situation shows the treatment that black people got from law enforcers. Colson says that a boy like Elwood in such circumstances would, of course, be arrested. He got a ride in a stolen car but is locked up for the underlying reason for being black in public. The association of blacks with robbery, violence, and theft is another point that Whitehead refers to by mentioning the circumstances of Elwood at his arrest. Perhaps he would get different treatment if he were white.