Whiteness as a Visa

• In Event: 174 - Section on Racial and Ethnic Minorities Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 17. Racial Theory

Abstract

I draw on existing ideas within critical studies of whiteness to make the concept of whiteness itself more accessible to a general audience. In conceiving whiteness as a Visa, I propose three metaphorical interpretations of its functions. First, I conceive of whiteness as a Visa in relation to the credit card’s memorable slogan: “It's everywhere you want to be.” In this sense, we come to understand the ubiquity of whiteness in tastes, values, worldviews, institutions, and knowledge production. Second, whiteness functions as a visa (i.e. travel authorization document). Whiteness operates as a passport for some, as well as a pass-port for racially ambiguous others. As a form of citizenship, whiteness holds a transnational appeal allowing for its largely unquestioned acceptance across borders. The universal appeal of whiteness, I argue, facilitates the erosion of cultural traditions in favor of a white racial frame to which all are expected to comport. Whiteness also supports and legitimizes the conquest of both a foreign and native “other.” Finally, I argue that whiteness is used as a form of currency constantly exchanged and negotiated by whites and nonwhites alike within dynamic racial economies, both domestic and global. Within the global racial economy, I argue that whiteness functions as a currency familiar to all and accepted worldwide. In addition to being a commitment to white supremacy, I view whiteness as an allegiance to capitalism, imperialism, xenophobia, violence, and heteropatriarchy. I conclude with some ideas on how to “just say no” to the specious allure of whiteness.

Author

• Rahsaan Mahadeo, University of Minnesota