In an attempt to gain perspective on the meaning of privilege, Ms. Wrambel’s sophomore class participated in a Privilege Walk. The class is studying Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. Huckleberry Finn is a post Civil War novel about friendship between boys of different races. The book discusses topics regarding race and social class. With privilege being a huge topic of modern debate, the class took a look at the differences of privilege in modern America.

A Privilege Walk consists of people lining up, and stepping forward or back based on how the questions apply to them. The questions included, ‘Step forward if you have ever been offended by the portrayal of your gender in television or movies, did you ever go on a family vacation, and did your parents attend college.’ These questions demonstrate the lifelong impacts of privilege. Sophomore Hannah Ward participated, saying, “It seemed to be very eye-opening for many of the participants who may not have realized the differences among Padua students. It became visibly clear that not everyone comes from the same background as one may think.”

Participating in the Privilege Walk sparked a class discussion about issues pertaining to race, racial portrayal, and racial injustices. The class spoke about their personal beliefs in relation to privilege. The students discussed their take on what it means to be a woman, including the advantages and disadvantages of the gender. Sophomore Ava Stratton says, “I was shocked at the seriousness at which the class took this assignment. Privilege is the next issue we as Americans need to address.”

Even though Huckleberry Finn was written over 100 years ago, the issues the character struggle with are still relevant. In Huckleberry Finn, success is less attainable without privilege, making the topic of privilege a new American affair.