Good Intentions Do Not Excuse Racist Comments

I was in conversation with white woman about racism. She seemed well informed, conscious of the privilege she had that others did not, and willing to acknowledge her own part in the system. 

As we conversed she said, "I see everyone as white."

This is a variation of the sentiment "I don't see color." It is problematic by setting up white as the norm and assumes everyone wants to be and should be seen according to that norm. It erases a part of their identity and denies white as a color. For a more in depth look at the harmful nature of these statements, there are many books and articles to help you better understand. 

My objective in mentioning this experience here is to remind us that while we may have good intentions when we say or do a particular thing, the impact can be vastly different. We must acknowledge when we make a mistake and seek to repair damage. AND we must continually examine ourselves, our assumptions, and how we can easily come from a place of white supremacy even when trying to be equitable.

Excerpt from "Nice Racism" by Robin DiAngelo

 "When spiritual white progressives refuse to acknowledge racism and white supremacy in the hear and now by continually moving the conversation to an enlightened level we have not yet achieved and a realm we do not occupy, they engage in denial. While we may all be one on another plane we have not yet seen, we are certainly not all one on the physical plane we actually reside."

This statement critiques the tendency of some spiritually inclined white progressives to deflect discussions of contemporary racism and white supremacy by shifting the conversation to an abstract, idealistic level. By focusing on an unattained, "enlightened" state of unity—where racial differences and injustices are transcended—these individuals may inadvertently deny the pressing and tangible issues of racial inequality that persist in the present. This form of denial serves to sidestep the real and urgent work needed to address systemic racism on the physical plane we currently inhabit. The statement underscores a critical point: while philosophical or spiritual aspirations of unity and oneness can be valuable, they should not overshadow or replace the immediate, concrete efforts required to address and dismantle the racial inequities that affect people’s lives today. True progress requires acknowledging and confronting these realities in the here and now, rather than postponing action to a hypothetical future state of enlightenment.

Whatever our beliefs, we cannot ignore what is currently happening and the ways each of us perpetuate that reality. Things on this plane of existence don't change because there is a higher plane of existence we can achieve. They change because we face truth, even the truth of ourselves, and allow that truth to move us to action.

Diversity Equity Inclusion Belonging

Diversity is difficult to maintain if the workplace is not equitable and staff do not safe. Examining work culture is important for identifying the behaviors that are driving BIPOC (Black Indigenous People of Color) staff, those with disabilities, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals to quit. 

Diversity and equity are interconnected concepts that, while distinct, are essential to fostering inclusive environments. Diversity refers to the presence of varied identities, backgrounds, and perspectives within a group or organization, encompassing differences in race, gender, age, sexual orientation, and more. It highlights the richness of varied experiences and viewpoints. Equity, on the other hand, focuses on ensuring fair treatment, opportunities, and access for all individuals, particularly those who have been historically marginalized or disadvantaged. While diversity emphasizes the “who” is present, equity addresses the “how” individuals are treated and supported. The connection between the two is crucial: achieving true equity often requires a diverse group to ensure that all voices are heard and that systemic barriers are addressed. In essence, diversity without equity can lead to superficial inclusion, while equity without diversity may fail to address the root causes of disparity. Together, they create a more comprehensive approach to fostering a genuinely inclusive environment.

We cannot improve if we cannot face the truth. Facing the truth with curiosity and compassion is the most powerful way to transform into the best versions of ourselves.

And we do this together.

Book Recommendation

 "Nice Racism" by Robin DiAngelo is one of the best books for white progressives. She provides concrete examples where I immediately recognized myself and my problematic behaviors.

This is the book if you're interested in understanding the complex dynamics of race and progressivism. It is a provocative and insightful book challenging the notion that well-intentioned progressives are immune from perpetuating racial harm. DiAngelo, known for her influential work on white fragility, delves into how white progressives—often with the best of intentions—can unintentionally contribute to the very problems they aim to address. By exploring the nuances of how progressive attitudes can sometimes lead to harmful outcomes for people of color, Nice Racism provides a critical perspective that’s essential for anyone looking to engage more thoughtfully in antiracist work.