White people helping with diversity

First off, I’m going to state the obvious that diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is absolutely a white people issue. I’m not going to go into why, there is a lot of literature about that already. You can start here.

What I want to talk about is everyday DEI, from my very white guy (VWG [I like this acronym, I might use it more now…]) experience of trying to stand up for DEI in everyday life. This usually ends up being at work at a tech company which is very white and Asian (South and East). There are a lot of issues, but let’s start small.

I spend a good amount of time making comments on Yammer in different groups, as well as participating in DEI groups and activities, and talking about DEI in person with coworkers whenever the opportunity arises. This is really just posting resources when applicable, providing VWG muscle to back up good things others have said (see: just agreeing with), and having the uncomfortable conversations when necessary. To me, this feels like the bare minimum that I should be doing, so I try and do it as much as I can.

For many people, these small things I just described seem like a drop in the bucket when it comes to racism, sexism, homophobia, etc., and it definitely feels that way, especially when compared to the historical systemic racism that exists in the world.

But those little things matter, and they slowly make an impact. Isolated, it feels like nothing is happening and nothing is changing, but people notice, and it helps them to change and improve. I have had a number of people talk to me privately or 1-1 about agreeing with what I am saying and appreciating that I am speaking out. I’m not looking for attention or to be lauded here; I am pointing it out so that other people who do not do the small things because “it won’t help in the long run” realize that it does. They are the initial pebbles that help to start the avalanche. Do the small things, especially when it will not be seen. It adds up over time.

This message is especially for you white people. It feels wrong, but you will be listened to more, especially if you are a VWG. Use that podium to move the conversation in the right direction.