White-splaining: When Good Intentions Go Awry

What is White-Splaining and Why It Matters

As white women committed to self-improvement and genuine allyship, it’s crucial to pause and ask ourselves: Are we truly making space for voices with lived experiences, or are we inadvertently co-opting conversations that aren’t meant for us? In this post, I want to dive into the term “white-splaining,” a concept that challenges us to re-examine our tendency to over-explain or claim ownership over issues that affect marginalized communities. We’ll explore how white entitlement creeps into areas like art and music, reflect on the controversial 2025 Superbowl halftime show, and consider practical steps for transforming our approach to allyship.

What is White-splaining and Why Is It Problematic?

"White-splaining" is akin to mansplaining; it occurs when white individuals, often unintentionally, assert authority over topics of race, culture, or marginalized experiences, frequently to people who live these realities. Much like mansplaining, white-splaining centers a white perspective in conversations where it isn’t needed. During our podcast discussion, my co-host/mom, Karen, and I reflected on how even our progressive intentions can lead us to "take over" narratives instead of amplifying those who experience the issues firsthand.

Recognizing White Entitlement in Art and Culture

White entitlement isn’t just about feeling that we deserve a seat at every table—it’s about the unconscious assumption that every cultural expression is somehow for us, even when it isn’t meant to be. Consider the art world: historically, many artists created work specifically for communities systematically excluded from mainstream narratives.

For example, Afro-Brazilian artist Rosana Paulino addresses the Black experience in Brazil through her compelling artwork, transforming historical pain into pieces that reflect the scars borne by Black Brazilians. Her work challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about race and history. Yet, we sometimes find ourselves clinging to art or music as if it were our personal right, forgetting that not every cultural artifact is designed for our consumption.

Reflecting on Kendrick Lamar's 2025 Super Bowl Halftime Performance

The Superbowl halftime show featuring Kendrick Lamar was a turning point for many of us who are trying to rethink our relationship with cultural expression. The performance was a bold statement, rich with social commentary, symbolism, and cultural significance.

However, the reaction among white progressive circles quickly turned into a kind of group exercise in self-validation. We eagerly dissected every nuance, intent on proving how "woke" and aware we were becoming.

Or, at the opposite end of the spectrum, many white spectators felt disappointed or disconnected from Kendrick Lamar's halftime performance, struggling to relate to a show that wasn't tailored directly to their experiences or preferences.

This discomfort wasn't simply about musical preference—it revealed how accustomed we are to cultural expressions catering to our perspectives, highlighting the subtle expectations that come with white entitlement.

Regardless of how positively or negatively we perceived the halftime show, our collective reaction as white individuals still exposed a common thread of entitlement—expecting that cultural expressions should speak directly to us.

The Historical Roots of White Entitlement in Culture

To understand white-splaining fully, we need to appreciate its historical roots. White supremacy has long dictated what counts as legitimate culture and whose voices are heard. Our modern media and art institutions were built on foundations of exclusion, creating spaces that cater primarily to white audiences.

This entitlement extends beyond art and music, infiltrating spaces like fashion, beauty standards, and even culinary traditions. For instance, the appropriation of Black hairstyles such as cornrows or dreadlocks, indigenous clothing designs used without proper acknowledgment, or culinary staples from various cultures repackaged and popularized for mainstream, predominantly white audiences.

This history of cultural extraction informs not only the creation of these expressions but also how we interact with and interpret them, reminding us to acknowledge the origins and communities for whom these cultural elements hold profound significance.

Personal Reflections: My Journey with White-Splaining

In my own journey, I've seen firsthand how easily our intentions can become counterproductive. Reflecting on the moments when I've eagerly jumped into conversations about cultural events or social justice topics without adequately listening first, I've come to realize that even good intentions can unintentionally silence others. For example, when discussing Kendrick Lamar's Super Bowl performance, I found myself initially eager to explain its nuances from my perspective, inadvertently overshadowing perspectives rooted in lived experiences different from mine.

Recognizing this pattern requires humility, self-awareness, and a willingness to acknowledge our own biases and entitlement. It also involves consciously giving credit where it's due and stepping aside to let marginalized voices be fully heard. White-splaining is a symptom of a broader cultural issue—a legacy of supremacy we must actively dismantle through intentional self-awareness and continuous learning.

Moving from White-Splaining to Genuine Allyship

So, how do we move away from white-splaining and towards genuine allyship? It starts with listening. Instead of feeling compelled to decode every cultural moment through our own lens, we need to step back and ask: Who is this art really for? Who benefits from this narrative?

Practical Steps to Avoid White-Splaining

-Practice Active Listening: Engage in conversations about marginalized experiences by first listening. Avoid interrupting or offering unsolicited explanations. Our role is simply to support and validate.

-Reflect on Your Entitlement: Ask yourself why you feel the need to claim ownership over a narrative. Is it because you’re seeking validation?

-Amplify Voices Without Appropriation: Use your platform to amplify voices that have historically been silenced rather than imposing your own interpretations.

-Commit to Continuous Self-Education: Continually seek resources that challenge your perspective and broaden your understanding.

-Foster Safe and Inclusive Dialogues: Encourage conversations that prioritize the experiences and knowledge of others.

The journey away from white-splaining isn’t one-size-fits-all. The diversity of experiences and perspectives is not a weakness; it’s a call to be more nuanced in our approach.

Moving Forward: Becoming Conscious Allies

As we navigate a world where cultural expression and identity intersect with power and privilege, vigilance is key. Lessons from the Superbowl, cultural appropriation history, and personal experiences all highlight one truth: true allyship requires humility, self-awareness, and ongoing learning.

Let’s commit to being present, listening more, challenging assumptions, and creating spaces where marginalized voices shine without our interpretations overshadowing their authenticity. Growth isn’t measured by how loudly we speak about our progress, but by how deeply we listen and evolve.

Together, we can wake up with open hearts and minds, honoring every lived experience authentically.

Stay Curious, Be Open & Keep Waking Up!

-Jonelle