Is It Still Okay to Talk About Race? Part 1

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen." — Winston Churchill

Talking about race has always been challenging, but in 2025 it feels especially precarious. Fear of being labeled “too woke” or mere uncertainty of how to proceed, the willingness to engage in race-based dialogue is actively diminishing.

And yet

The time for talking has never been greater, as it’s in the silence that true harm runs rampant. You, like many, may feel discouraged, stuck, or unsure of how to navigate racial discourse in the current climate. I admit that it’s not easy, but I urge you to do it anyway.

I want to help.

In this and the next few blogs, I’ll share key points and tips that help me to stay dialed in, even when it’s hard.

• Tip #1: Belief that Talking Still Matters

I know I say this all the time, but there truly is power in talking. The most effective adversary against change and progress is apathy, and indifference. While engagement and dialogue may feel immaterial at times, they are far from futile. Your words hold weight, and choosing to ask a question, share a thought, or invite reflection is one of the most powerful acts you can make in challenging racism, prejudice, and bias.

• Tip #2: Correct the Premise

Ever find yourself saying things like, “No what I’m saying is…,” or “You don’t get it…” when talking about race?

Even if you’re using the same words, “DEI,” “fair,” “merit” what is being said, and what is being understood are not necessarily the same. I’ve often found that taking the time to clarify spoken and unspoken assumptions upon which conclusions are being made is incredibly helpful in getting on the same page and even finding points of agreement.

For example, the next time someone condemns “DEI hiring” in favor of merit, inquire about their inherent assumption that merit and diversity are at odds? A question like this helps you highlight agreement on the importance of merit, and to clarify that the call has never been to eliminate merit but rather to enhance assigned value.

Check out our next blog for more tips!