Sensitive way to broach current issues of racism with blacks.?

Question

I have a co-worker who I don't know very well. At a meeting before we got started, another co-worker brought up the racist comments of Michael Richards. My co-worker who is the only black person serving on this team, voiced how glad she was that someone finally brought it up and she complained to her friends that no one asked her opinion or discussed it with her at work. I'd like to start a discussion with her about a recent arrest and sentencing of a white college student who used racial slurs and then stabbed a black college student and how it has affected the community. Is does seem incredibly wrong and unnatural when these awful racist issues arise and it's not discussed with those who suffer it. My question is, what is the most sensitive way to do this?

Answer 1

This is tricky. Race is always tricky. But I think you need to get a good feel for what this woman is willing to discuss. It sounds like, from the previous situation that you described, she is open and willing to discuss such issues and would even welcome being a part of a dialog.
I think you need to bring it up casually in conversation...as others have said above, don't make it so she is "the black person" at work and you also don't want to un-naturally avoid current events with a race element that everyone else is discussing because she is black.
Otherwise, just be yourself - you don't seem racist and as long as you are not, you have nothing to feel guilty about.

Answer 2

From my point of view, the best way to bring up this subject is the same way you would if you were discussing it with someone of your own race. To approach it differently indicates that you feel there is a difference between the two of you. You should not feel awkward or have to stifle your opinion just because someone is of a different race (obviously, don't go off on a racist rant though!). Keep in mind though that some offices do not want these issues aired on company time or grounds, as it could lead to legal issues if the wrong people hear.

Answer 3

Since it sounds like she is receptive to discussions about racism your concern would be welcomed. I would ask if her if she'd like to go to lunch or someplace where your discussion can be semi private (like the breakroom for a cup of joe). Start with general chit chat on work stuff and then say did you hear about... More than likely she will keep the conversation going and it should be easier from then on.

You are a compassionate, sympathetic and level headed person. It is a shame that there aren't more people like you (in all colors)! :-)

You know - you could always start similar discussions in Yahoo Answers...

Best wishes!

Answer 4

I would start with a little more respect for the individuals about which you speak who are not Blacks, I lived for three years in a mixed relationship Sylvia always felt insulted by that, because she was a person, so liked to be recognised as a Black person!

We often because of our relationship experienced racism together and when discussing racism with her in the early days I simply said that I liked her a lot but confessed that as a White person I was ignorant of Black culture and racism from the perspective of Black people, and asked her to help by to cluing me in!

Then I sat back and listened!

Answer 5

I guess it all depends upon the person. I work in an all white office and I'd think "why the heck are you asking me" if they asked me for my opinion about 'black' issues. I'm black, I'm also a woman, I'm also a mother. No one thing is more important than the other.

That's just me though.

Answer 6

It's good of you to try to confront the issues, but be careful that you don't stigmatize your co-worker into THE black person at work. Don't get obsessed with viewing her perspective as THE black perspective.

Answer 7

Even tho a number of our previous leaders talked as though they have been racist, i do no longer think that they have been. Ignorant, maybe, prejudiced, yet no longer racist. And it keeps right this moment, in Utah, to a definite volume. although, we've been between the few church homes that did no longer segregate black contributors from others. No, we did no longer supply them the priesthood till 1978. Why? God purely is well-known with. As for the quote from Brigham youthful: <> the 1st area, approximately "mixing seed". observe that it is the WHITE guy of the chosen SEED who's the guy who's threatened with death if he mixes his seed. And it can not be marriage he became talking approximately, considering the fact that inter-marriage between white guy and slaves became a criminal offense. He additionally reported, later in that talk, that if the U. S. government did no longer end slavery, the white race could be cursed. interior the 2d area, from a distinctive communicate, Brigham youthful reported that they have been doubtless disadvantaged. He additionally reported, that the blacks could sometime acquire the priesthood, and all this is reward.

Answer 8

I don't think you have any obligation to bring it up, whatsoever. It's insane to think that a comedian blowing up at a couple of hecklers in an unbroadcast (but for the cellphone) act requires an explanation from every white person in the country.

You're accountable for your own behavior, period.

If you haven't personally acted 'racist', then you have no guilt.