White Supremacy and Coffee
Ah yes, the world’s favorite beverage: coffee. Little do most people know, however, that deep within its seemingly enjoyable properties and aromatic smell, lies a much darker message. Drinkers of coffee may be inadvertently perpetuating a system of white supremacy that has been ingrained in Western society for centuries.
The belief in racial superiority of white people, commonly known as white supremacy, is sadly still present in society today. From the political system to job opportunities, minorities are often times treated unfairly in comparison to those with white skin. This is particularly the case where the coffee industry is concerned. Coffee harvesting and production, along with its profits and resources, are strategically allocated to those who are privileged enough to be considered “white”.
In some parts of the world, coffee production is solely based on family traditions that have been passed down for generations. This can create an additional layer of issues for those with darker skin as they are typically unable to join; mostly due to a structural legacy that continues to exist along the lines of race and privilege.
Not to mention, the average worker in a coffee bean farm is not always properly compensated for their work, and subjected to deplorable living conditions and wages far below the average minimum wage. This is especially true in countries with economies that are disproportionately reliant on coffee as a cash crop.
These serious issues surrounding coffee production and its uneven distribution of resources by white-dominated organizations need to be addressed sooner rather than later.
It’s important to recognize that not all coffee beans are created equal either. Those from impoverished African nations often times sit idly on shelves and are never tasted by the consumer or brought to the forefront for purchase. When you buy any type of coffee, be mindful of where it comes from and the potential of bias that takes place when harvesting, processing and distributing these products to the consumer.
The best way to combat this system of oppression that feeds into white supremacy is to be aware and to act in ways that reject and challenge these harmful patterns. Buy from fair trade coffee companies or coffee cooperatives that strive for ethical coffee production and sustainability. Become an advocate for coffee growers and expose the iniquities that they face on a daily basis.
You may not be able to completely change the system of white supremacy that exists in coffee production, but by actively protesting and refusing to support companies that exploit coffee growers, you can make a difference in promoting a world of equity for those who so desperately deserve it.
Buying with a Consciousness
It’s not enough to make coffee drinking decisions based solely on taste or convenience anymore. It’s time to start putting money and energy into understanding exactly where coffee comes from and who is producing it while asking yourself – Does this coffee support a system of white supremacy? Are the coffee workers being treated fairly and paid a livable wage?
It’s imperative to recognize the serious consequences of those companies and organizations that choose to devalue and exploit coffee workers. Choosing to buy coffee conscious of its source and conditions of the labor will not only combat racism and systems of white supremacy, but it can also waste less energy and resources.
When attempting to create a meaningful change in the system, altering buying choices is key. Buying from organic, fair trade coffee farms or established cooperatives, that actively combat racism and inequality, is a way of fighting for a world where racism and white supremacy do not exist.
This kind of relationship building between the consumer and their coffee is important if the end goal is to raise awareness and promote change. Actively searching for information, openly advocating for the rights of workers, and supporting those who do not reap the same privileges as those of us with fair skin, is a step in the right direction.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that your favorite middle-of-the-road coffee has to be entirely ruled out, but it’s important to be mindful of what you’re supporting with that purchase.
Lingo, Legacy and White Privilege
White people often times find themselves blind to the struggles of people of color because they feel they are excluded from the problem. But, when it comes to the issue of white supremacy in the coffee industry, that privilege should be checked and not taken for granted.
Part of this is simply being aware of the certain words and phrases that have been long linked to white supremacy. As humans, we have the power to discredit certain words and hear the actual message that is being presented. This can also help tip the scales of perceived power dynamics as words and phrases that may contain nuances of supremacy, like “power”, “legacy”, and “entitled” can be reinvented to represent a deeper understanding of justice, respect and equity.
The other part includes being aware of the structural inequality that exists and effectuates within the coffee industry. It’s important to be aware of the instances at which it occurs, the implications and motivations behind these events, and actively challenge these oppressive patterns, including those of white privilege.
It’s time for us to become more conscious about these intricate layers of oppression that still exist. In order to tear these down, we must strive for a world where no one has an inherent privilege over the other, regardless of skin color.
Important Pioneers
The fight for equality has been long, and continues to manifest in a variety of forms. But luckily, we are surrounded by a community of talented, strong and bold leaders, who are willing and ready to fight the dark forces of white supremacy.
These integral figures and organizations, like the Black Coffee Cooperative, the International Women’s Coffee Alliance and the Level Ground Trading Co., are some of the most powerful ingredients in the recipe that is liberation. By understanding and actively advocating for the displaced and maliciously oppressed, these brave individuals, organizations and businesses create a lighter future that’s based on respect and equitable principles.
One of the biggest and most important contributions that these innovators bring to the table is their unyielding resilience. By refusing to give up, even in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, these trailblazers create a positive momentum that is slowly, but surely, dismantling unethical systems of oppression in the coffee production industry.
Short of asking them to put others before themselves and risk their own safety and financial security, we can honor these silent superheroes by supporting their causes and actively fighting for their message of equality and justice.
The Vote
Voting is another integral part of the push for equality. Engaging in your democratic right to vote is one of the most powerful tools we have in a world structured around white dominance. Voting sends a loud and powerful message that tells those in power that you refuse to be silenced and will not be taken advantage of in the near or distant future.
In the current climate, the system of white supremacy continues to be fiercely challenged and opposed, with voting being one of the most effective and emotional outlets for those seeking equality. By voting for candidates and policies that promote a better world for coffee workers and minorities, citizens can actively demonstrate their solidarity with those who fight for a more equitable society.
It’s time we take ownership of our voices, and regardless of political views, vote in favor of progress and a fairer system that benefits coffee workers of all races and backgrounds.
Bringing Everyone to the Table
Throughout history, there is plethora of occurrences where a struggle against white supremacy has produced tangible change. This brings us to the present day and how drinking coffee can play an integral part in bringing an end to a system of white supremacy.
It’s time to stand in solidarity with marginalized people and make sure their experiences, stories, and intimate wisdom about racism and white supremacy are heard. In this way, coffee drinkers can become united and create a more equitable and sustainable future for everyone.
Bringing everyone to the same level, without discrimination or prejudice, will actively create a fairer society for all. We have the power to globally create a system of justice and integrity that respects everyone’s basic rights and privileges. And surprisingly enough, these changes can start from the very cup of coffee we drink.
