Listening Beyond Assumptions

Building on my suggestions from the past three blogs, you may have questions or different viewpoints on racism as I’ve discussed it. That’s good—we need dialogue. I welcome you to share your thoughts, but let’s approach this with a willingness to listen. Truly listening means focusing on the speaker or writer without rushing to judgment.

We, as white folks, often believe our way of doing things is the “right” way—whether it’s how we conduct business, worship, or make decisions. But countless other cultures approach life differently, often with grace and calmness. Imagine being in a corporate meeting as the only Black or minority person in the room. From the moment you walk in, your differences—attire, hair, speech—mark you as “other” before you’ve even spoken.

Corporate meetings, like many other settings, are rarely democratic. These spaces often involve shouting, judgment, and an unrelenting focus on the “bottom line.” For minorities, these environments are not only intimidating but also isolating, even when truth is on their side. The loudest voices dominate, leaving little room for compromise or understanding.

This issue isn’t confined to boardrooms. It shows up in small businesses, churches, social situations, and virtually anywhere decisions are made. Too often, our problem-solving methods focus on winning rather than fostering true dialogue and collaboration. This is not democracy—it’s a culture of aggression and exclusion.

Racism, then, isn’t just one of our problems; it’s woven into the very fabric of how we communicate and make decisions. Breaking these harmful habits requires us to listen, empathize, and elevate all voices, especially those that have been silenced for too long.

For more, read my book:
Racism: Can We Listen, Learn, and Live Together?
And join us at: becomingantiracist.org

Let’s shift the conversation and create spaces where everyone is truly heard.

Sincerely,
Dr. Gordon Griffin