Otegha Uwagba, an insightful author and podcaster known for her book 'Whites: On Race and Other Falsehoods', joins Mariel Richards for a heartfelt discussion on the complexities of race and whiteness. They dive into how societal expectations shape personal identity and the burden placed on Black individuals in predominantly white spaces. Uwagba critiques performative allyship and emphasizes the need for authenticity in addressing racism. Their exchange also highlights the misrepresentation of Black writers and the nuanced dynamics between Black British and American communities.
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UK vs. US Racism
Otegha Uwagba recounts a conversation with a Black American man during her first US visit.
He assumed the UK was better regarding racism, highlighting a misconception about the UK's racial dynamics.
insights INSIGHT
Subtle UK Racism
Racism in the UK manifests differently than in the US, often less visually obvious but equally impactful.
Otegha emphasizes the need to recognize and address UK racism despite its different presentation.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Evolving Race Conversations
Otegha Uwagba discusses the shift in conversations about race since the London riots.
She and Mariel Richards note the increased urgency and openness in these discussions, particularly this past summer.
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Little Black Book: A Toolkit for Working Women is a modern career guide packed with fresh ideas and no-nonsense practical advice. It covers topics such as networking, public speaking, and managing finances, making it a valuable resource for freelancers and creatives. The book features contributions from trailblazing women, providing a curated collection of career insights.
Whites
On Race and Other Falsehoods
Otegha Uwagba
In 'Whites: On Race and Other Falsehoods', Otegha Uwagba explores the complexities of racism and whiteness, particularly in the context of George Floyd's murder and subsequent protests. The essay delves into the challenges faced by Black people in navigating both racism and white efforts at anti-racism, questioning what true allyship looks like and whether it is achievable. Uwagba's work provides a compelling portrayal of the Black experience, emphasizing the need for white people to relinquish the privileges of whiteness for genuine progress.
In November 2020 author and podcaster Otegha Uwagba came to Intelligence Squared to discuss her new book, Whites: On Race and Other Falsehoods. Containing reflections on racism, whiteness, and the mental labour required of Black people to navigate relationships with white people, Whites is a record of Uwagba’s observations on this era-defining moment in history.
In the wake of George Floyd’s brutal murder, the subsequent protests and scrutiny of institutional racism, it has been impossible to ignore how race is embedded in every aspect of our lives. ‘A reluctant expert’, as she describes herself, Uwagba explored the impacts of whiteness; not only discussing its effect on Black people’s lives, but also how it can shield white people from truly facing their own privilege and prevent them from being effective allies in the fight against racism. The episode was hosted by CEO of gal-dem Mariel Richards.
To find out more and order the book click here: https://bit.ly/359AKjt
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