Leadership's role in curing social ills: Defining the consequences of Bigotry, Racism, and Discrimination

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A Black man has filed an employment discrimination lawsuit against a hotel in Detroit, Michigan, alleging the hotel only offered him a job interview after he changed the name on his resume, according to a copy of the lawsuit obtained by CNN.

Dwight Jackson filed the lawsuit against the Shinola Hotel on July 3 2024, alleging he was denied a job when he applied as “Dwight Jackson,” but later offered an interview when he changed his name to “John Jebrowski.” Systemic oppression in 2024.

In a world that increasingly acknowledges the multifaceted nature of systemic oppression, the conversation around bigotry, violence, and racism takes on new urgency. The call for radical change—a transformation that goes beyond mere surface adjustments to address the root causes of societal ills—has never been louder or more clear. But to effect such change, we must do more than merely point fingers at the overt manifestations of hatred and discrimination that scar our communities. We must turn the mirror upon ourselves, examining the ways in which we, knowingly or unknowingly, participate in and perpetuate norms that reward aggression, foster isolation, and contribute to the demonization of Black people simply for existing. This essay posits that confronting and dismantling the structures and behaviors that underpin systemic bigotry and violence is not just a matter of moral urgency but a practical necessity for the health and harmony of society. Our thesis is straightforward yet profound: In order to foster radical change within society, it is imperative to not only confront the prevailing bigotry and violence alongside systemic oppression but also critically examine our own complicity in perpetuating norms that endorse aggressive and isolating behaviors. By proactively dismantling these destructive patterns and advocating for inclusive and equitable environments, we can work towards preventing the demonization of Black individuals solely based on their race. The reluctance to eradicate bigotry or racism within a country ultimately serves to uphold systems of privilege and power, with those benefiting the most being individuals who exploit and thrive in societies rife with discrimination. Conversely, embracing a society devoid of bigotry and racism benefits all, as it cultivates a harmonious and just community where every individual is valued and respected. Through this lens, we will explore the intricacies of systemic oppression, the psychology behind societal norms that reward harmful behaviors, and the beneficiaries of a system steeped in bigotry as well as those who stand to gain from its dismantlement.

In addressing the deep-seated issues of bigotry and systemic oppression, it becomes imperative to scrutinize not only the overt manifestations of racism and violence but also the subtler, everyday behaviors that perpetuate these injustices. Society often rewards aggression and isolation, behaviors that underpin the very fabric of systemic racism, allowing it to persist. This raises significant questions: how can we shift societal norms to prevent the demonization of Black individuals simply for their existence? The reluctance of a nation to dismantle the structures of bigotry and racism is rooted in the benefits these systems afford to those in positions of power. It is the privileged groups that stand to gain the most from the maintenance of the status quo, as it ensures their continued dominance and access to resources. Conversely, a society characterized by minimal bigotry and the absence of racism would see a more equitable distribution of opportunities and resources, benefiting those who have historically been marginalized. The transformative potential of such a society is vast, promising not only a more inclusive and just social order but also the unlocking of untapped potential and the fostering of a richer, more diverse cultural landscape. Therefore, the imperative to dismantle systemic oppression is not only a moral one but also a practical one, essential for the realization of a society that truly values and uplifts all its members.

To advance this transformative vision, it is essential to confront not only external structures of bigotry but also our internalized biases and behaviors that perpetuate systemic oppression. According to Phillips, Adams, and Salter (2015), the perception of racism as an anomaly or deviant pattern can obscure the deep-rooted nature of these oppressive systems, allowing individuals to overlook their own complicity in upholding harmful norms. Acknowledging and addressing the ways in which we might unconsciously endorse aggressive or isolating behaviors becomes a critical step towards dismantling these destructive patterns. By fostering self-awareness and promoting inclusive actions, society can begin to erode the foundations of privilege that sustain racial discrimination. This proactive approach is crucial for preventing the demonization of Black individuals based solely on their race, thereby paving the way for a more just and harmonious community where diversity is celebrated rather than feared. The collective effort to uproot ingrained prejudices promises not only moral rectitude but also practical benefits: an equitable environment where every individual’s contributions are recognized and valued leads to social cohesion and shared prosperity. Hence, embracing a commitment to equity requires an introspective examination of how personal and institutional behaviors contribute to broader systems of injustice—an endeavor essential for realizing a society free from the vestiges of bigotry and racism.

In conclusion, the imperative to dismantle systemic oppression, confront the underpinnings of bigotry, and challenge our own complicity in sustaining harmful societal norms is not merely a moral crusade but a foundational step towards cultivating a society that thrives on equity, justice, and mutual respect. The journey towards such radical change requires an unwavering commitment to introspection, a willingness to challenge entrenched power structures, and a collective effort to foster environments that celebrate diversity and inclusivity. By acknowledging our roles within these oppressive systems and actively working to disrupt the cycles of violence and discrimination, we pave the way for a society that does not merely pay lip service to the ideals of equality but embodies them in every facet of its existence. The realization of a world where the demonization of Black individuals—or any marginalized group—is a relic of the past hinges on our ability to not only envision but enact a future that dismantles the very foundations of bigotry and systemic oppression. As we stand at this crossroads, the choice is clear: we must either be complicit in perpetuating injustice or become architects of a new, more equitable society. The path towards radical change is fraught with challenges, but it is the only path that leads to a future where everyone is valued, respected, and free from the chains of systemic oppression.

Dr. Terry Jackson is Executive Advisor, Thought Leader Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coach, Top 10 Global Mentor, and Change Leadership Architect. Dr. Jackson partners with Executives and Organizations to align Strategy, People and Processes to optimize and sustain Peak Business Performance.

https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/10/us/dwight-jackson-employment-discrimination-lawsuit-reaj/index.html

Work Cited: G Adams, PS Salter Beyond adaptation: Decolonizing approaches to coping with oppressionhttps://www.psycharchives.org/handle/20.500.12034/1364