Racism is a difficult issue to broach. It is often an uncomfortable topic, for people of all colors. Yet we are all human beings, with negligible amounts of genetic variation.
We are crafted in God’s image with skin colors that range on a broad spectrum of hues. Our differences make us unique and color the world with a variety of beauty.
So, what exactly is the root of our discomfort?
I’m not fully certain of the answer. Even as I type these words—I type, I delete.
Will using the word we in reference to the white majority cause offense? Will it create a sense of “us” versus “them” and invalidate the very message I am trying to convey?
While researching and reviewing reader comments about various publications surrounding the topic of racism, my fears of speaking into the subject were assured.
Afraid to misspeak
In a review of Robin DiAngelo’s book, White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism, one reader posted: “This incredibly rich, well-researched book disturbed me deeply during the weeks it took me to read and process. As it should have and continues to, it lays bare the dark myths and delusions that condition us all to accept and collude with institutional racism in the United States today.”
Another reader commented, “Hated this book! I mean I REALLY hated this book. Writer was a racist and it was more of a how-to on how to become a racist.”
The emotionally charged sensitivity surrounding racism places everyone involved in a position demanding strength, courage, and bravery.
For me, I am fearful of saying the wrong words and offending my peers. I am anxious about coming off as ill-informed and lacking in empathy. I am concerned about the stigmas surrounding my skin color discounting what I have to say.
Does race exist?
Before we go deeper, what exactly is race?
According to Richard S. Cooper, M.D., Chair of the Department of Public…
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