âIf You Donât Know Where You Are Coming from, You Wonât Know Where You Are Goingâ: Exploring the Intersections of Family History, Colonialism and White Racial Identity

Hannah Lynn

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Chapter 8 âIf You Donât Know Where You Are Coming from, You Wonât Know Where You Are Goingâ

Exploring the Intersections of Family History, Colonialism and White Racial Identity

In: Making Sense of Racial Identity: Racial Being or Being Racialized?

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Hannah Lynn

Hannah Lynn
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Type:: Chapter

Pages:: 125â145

DOI:: https://doi.org/10.1163/9789004751354_011

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Abstract

This essay delves into the complexities of understanding and accepting White racial identity through critical family history and storytelling. By reflecting on personal experiences and colonial legacies, the author examines how privilege and miseducation contribute to racial bias and guilt. Drawing on Helmsâ framework, the essay critiques the paralyzing effects of guilt and highlights the need for meaningful anti-racist action rooted in humility and introspection. It serves as a call for White individuals to critically engage with their identities and leverage privilege to dismantle systemic inequalities.

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Making Sense of Racial Identity: Racial Being or Being Racialized?

Learnersâ Journeys Towards Identity Development

Series:Â Critical Storytelling, Volume: 15

Cover Making Sense of Racial Identity: Racial Being or Being Racialized?

E-Book ISBN:: 9789004751354

Publisher:: Brill

Print Publication Date:: 03 Feb 2026

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Chapter 8 âIf You Donât Know Where You Are Coming from, You Wonât Know Where You Are Goingâ

Exploring the Intersections of Family History, Colonialism and White Racial Identity

Abstract

Citation Info

Share link with colleague or librarian

Making Sense of Racial Identity: Racial Being or Being Racialized?

Learnersâ Journeys Towards Identity Development

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Chapter 8 âIf You Donât Know Where You Are Coming from, You Wonât Know Where You Are Goingâ

Learnersâ Journeys Towards Identity Development