Addressing Ben Jerry’s Call to Fix White Supremacy: A Critical Analysis

Ben Jerry's, the iconic ice cream brand, has recently made headlines with their assertion that 'white supremacy and privilege is a white people issue that needs to be fixed.' This statement has stirred significant debate, particularly after two very wealthy white men—owner-operators of the brand—are at the helm of this progressive message. This essay explores whether Ben Jerry’s actions reflect genuine social justice or merely a calculated business move aimed at maintaining a progressive image.

Who is Responsible for Fixing It?

The question of responsibility is indeed fundamental. Reclaiming rhetoric similar to 'Who is responsible for getting him clean, me or him?' from your personal friend’s experience, one might ask, 'Who is responsible for fixing systemic issues like white supremacy and privilege? Us or them?' The complexity of the issue lies not only in the intentions but also in the actions that follow the advocacy.

It is noteworthy that Ben Jerry’s, several years ago, shifted from being a more traditional brand to positioning itself as an ethical and socially conscious entity. This shift has certainly contributed to their growth and profitability. However, the question remains: is it merely a veneer of social justice to sell more ice cream, or do they genuinely believe in the issues they champion?

The Equivalence of Luxury and Social Justice

The assertion that Ben Jerry’s has been 'equating their very expensive ice cream with social justice for years and it made them rich' highlights a critical point. Many brands, including luxury goods and fast fashion, have capitalized on social and environmental causes while reaping significant financial benefits. The question of authenticity comes into play: are these companies truly committed to social justice, or are they using it as a marketing tool?

Privilege, in an intrinsic sense, can be seen as a subjective notion, varying widely based on individual experiences and societal structures. Despite this, acknowledging and confronting privilege is a necessary step towards social change. Ben Jerry’s, as a corporate entity, may see it as part of their brand identity and social responsibility to address these issues, potentially helping to shape public discourse and influence behavior.

Belief vs. Business

There is a fine line between advocating for social justice out of genuine belief and doing so for business advantages. Ben Jerry’s has profited substantially from appearing woke or progressive in political perspectives. This dual nature of their approach raises questions about the depth of their commitment to social justice. Are they merely playing a role or are they genuinely seeking to make a difference?

The apparent contradiction between their wealth and their proposed solutions might be seen as a classic case of 'the rich get richer.' The assertion that 'as a whole, privilege really does not exist' from a holistic perspective highlights the individual nature of privilege and the need for personal and structural change. It suggests that while privilege can be a relative term, it still holds significant impact in society.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ben Jerry’s stance on addressing white supremacy and privilege raises essential questions about the intersection of business and social justice. Whether their motivations are purely altruistic or driven by commercial interests, the impact of their actions is undeniable. As consumers and citizens, we must critically evaluate the claims of brands like Ben Jerry’s, ensuring they use their influence for genuine and sustainable change.

As the conversation continues, it is crucial to hold these companies accountable, pushing for authentic practices that extend beyond short-term profits to long-term social and ethical impact. The road to addressing issues like white supremacy and privilege is complex, and all parties—individuals, corporations, and institutions—have roles to play.

Keywords: Ben Jerry's, social justice, privilege