Racism, classism, colorism, sexism, etc. are all part of our human DNA as much as the need for water and food.
I truly believe this.
The study of humankind – going back thousands of years – points to this.
Travel the world – US, South America, Asia, Europe, Africa – we see bold remnants everywhere.
The cure?
First, acceptance. Everyone must accept the truth about themselves and others. No more shock and awe when we see racism, et al. The acceptance of reality in all of us. This means you. This means me. (Sure, we can weep for the victims and reality, but we must see the truth.)
Second, compassion for self.
Third, compassion for others.
Fourth, the willingness to listen, learn and evolve. (This is what separates humans from every other species – intentional evolution.)
Fifth, the willingness to have courageous conversations; to share and hear hard truths.
Sixth, patience. It has taken thousands of years for us to arrive here. What is deeply entrenched in our DNA cannot be solved overnight.
Seven, post-acceptance. The realization that, even after conversations and evolution, some will remain racist, et al.
Sounds easy enough, right? The first step is always the hardest.
Published by JC Hurtado-Prater | Leadership Professor + Consultant
JC Hurtado-Prater serves as Assistant Dean and Associate Professor of Leadership at the Fermanian School of Business at Point Loma Nazarene University where he oversees the graduate business and leadership programs. In addition, through his company, Bluestone Consulting, LLC, JC serves as a leadership consultant for executives and teams at global organizations such as Johnson + Johnson, Cisco, Visa, U.S. Navy, U.S. Department of Interior, U.S. Centers for Disease Control, Harbor Freight, Park Hyatt and more.
A veteran of the United States Army, JC earned a BA from UCLA, MBA through Saint Joseph’s College and is currently completing his doctorate in business administration through Indiana Wesleyan University. Passionate about community service in San Diego, JC serves on several local boards for organizations such as UC San Diego, South Bay Community Services, Thrivent Financial Southwest Region and Southwestern College Foundation. JC resides in the 4S Ranch area of San Diego, CA. In his free time, JC enjoys reading, working out and kayaking the California coast.
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