Navigating Academic Privilege

Theological Insights for Pasifika Communities

Abstract

This article scrutinises various aspects of academic privilege, integrating some of the challenges I faced and the insights gained while furthering my theological education. Inspired by the complex roles of a tautai (Samoan traditional navigator), the article is structured in three parts. The first section seeks to undefine privilege by interrogating the infamous prestige afforded to those in leadership positions, highlighting why such privilege is both a blessing and an unenviable task. Part two redefines privilege as a relational responsibility, namely, to serve in and between intersecting spaces. The third and last part engages the field of theology, where the author’s own privileges are addressed, and a challenge is issued to those in academic spaces regarding the repurposing of one’s position and privilege in service of his or her communities.