For the past few months the “white saviour complex” has been on my mind. It started back when I was labelled by Instagramers I don’t know as a “white saviour” due to my posts about Zambia. Although their harsh comments were uncomfortable and in my opinion, misguided, they did get me thinking: Do I have the white saviour complex? After a few months of mulling it over I came to the conclusion that while it is something I need to carefully monitor, no - I don’t have it. But perhaps that is not what I portray online. I love to share images of my experiences in Africa because they have touched me deeply, but I feel it necessary to make a few things clear:
Everything I say applies to me first, and I'm continually sorting through these realities. As you probably know, I am passionate and involved in foreign missions. I am not discouraging foreign-aid or bashing missionaries for a second – rather I am encouraging everyone to learn about privilege, oppression, power, and colonization because they do affect you and the people you encounter. Read books like When Helping Hurts and do research on the country you’re going to before you get on the plane. Learn the customs, norms, and values so you don’t unintentionally offend the people there. Ask questions but try to listen more. I am no expert on this, but these are thoughts I have been wrestling with for a while and I felt it was time to write and share it. It is beautiful when people with different cultures and upbringings can unite for the purpose of the Kingdom – and that should happen – so let’s try to participate in a way that is respectful for all people involved. ARTICLE LINK : https://afropunk.com/2018/06/white-savior-your-volunteer-trip-to-africa-was-more-beneficial-to-you-than-to-africa/
2 Comments
Viktoria Fulop
2/25/2019 04:10:26 pm
Well said and reflects your sensitive and sincere heart. I believe God will use you continually and powerfully. Keep up the good work! Let’s take Jesus for those who haven’t heard about Him yet!
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Ashley
2/25/2019 06:44:41 pm
Thank you for reading Viktoria! Your comment is encouraging to me - I’m grateful for fellow labourers like you who are diligently spreading the good news :)
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