Ep 4. 13 Things White People Take for Granted

Decoded season 1 episode 4 titled “13 Things White People Take for Granted” is a thought-provoking episode of the documentary series, hosted by Brad Meltzer. The episode explores the various privileges that come with being a white person living in America. Throughout the show, Meltzer uses his charismatic personality and investigative skills to take a deep dive into the history, policies, and mindsets that have led to these privileges.

Meltzer starts the episode by discussing the concept of white privilege and how it is often misunderstood by white people. He points out that white privilege does not mean that every white person has an easy life, but rather that, as a group, white people have certain advantages that people of color do not. The show then delves into thirteen specific examples of white privilege that many white people take for granted.

The first privilege that the show examines is the ability to wear a hoodie without fear of being shot by the police. Meltzer talks to parents who have lost their children to senseless violence because they were wearing a hoodie, such as Trayvon Martin. He also talks to experts on racial profiling and police brutality to explain why this privilege exists and what can be done to change it.

The second privilege is the ability to walk into a store without being followed by security. Meltzer visits a department store with a black man and a white man and films the difference in how they are treated by store employees. He then talks to experts on racial profiling and implicit bias to explain the roots of this privilege and what can be done to combat it.

The show goes on to examine other privileges such as the ability to apply for a job without worrying about having a “black-sounding” name, the ability to hail a taxi without being passed by, the ability to speak their mind without being labeled as “aggressive”, and the ability to avoid uncomfortable racial conversations.

Throughout the episode, Meltzer interviews a wide range of people, including historians, activists, and everyday Americans, to get a well-rounded understanding of these privileges. He also provides historical context to show how these privileges have been built into America’s culture and policies.

Overall, “13 Things White People Take for Granted” is a powerful episode that forces viewers to confront some uncomfortable truths about American society. The show highlights the fact that while many white people may not be actively racist, they still benefit from a system that privileges them over people of color. The episode also offers some suggestions for how viewers can work to combat these privileges and create a more just and equitable society. Whether you are a person of color or a white person, this episode is sure to challenge your assumptions and make you think differently about race in America.