It was merely three years ago, during a conference on the subject of race, that Professor Binna Kandola overheard multiple diversity and inclusion directors representing prominent organizations suggesting that racism was on the decline. In a conversation with the senior partner of a major accounting firm, he refused to attribute any racism within his organization to anything other than isolated malevolent individuals. He failed to recognize their collective responsibility in ensuring equitable and respectful treatment of all.
One year later, in 2020, these directors found themselves compelled to substantially revise their perspectives. Whether their responses to the George Floyd tragedy and the ensuing global protests were authentic or performative remains a matter of ongoing scrutiny.
The pre-2020 complacency surrounding issues of race could potentially resurface unless we remain steadfast and watchful.
