One of the challenges for me as a White man doing DEIB work is finding the balance of being outspoken and relevant – especially for other White people – and de-centering myself and my whiteness.
I am continually thinking about it, but I don't always make the right decision. My impact doesn't always align with my intentions.
Sometimes I get it right. Sometimes I get it wrong.
I'm an extrovert. A storyteller. A writer. I love to talk with people. Build relationships. Amplify the voices of others. Offer perspectives that challenge assumptions. Share stories for self-reflection. Invite people to dialogue.
I try to model public vulnerability and intentionality. Inspire other White people to think more deeply about their role in creating more equitable and inclusive cultures of belonging.
I share my views on cultural, political, social, historical events. I articulate these views with a variety of audiences in a variety of settings.
I try to find the balance between curiosity and prying, empathy and pity, confidence and arrogance, humility and meekness, compassion and being a savior.
Between being an advocate and centering myself.
Sometimes I get it right. Sometimes I get it wrong.
I don't make the best decision every time. But I do try to learn from my mistakes every time.