Plain English with Derek Thompson

A New Way to Think About Racism in America

Aug 12, 2022
Heather McGhee, a writer and policy advocate focused on race and economic policy, discusses how racism in America hinders collective progress. She shares insights from her book, emphasizing the 'Solidarity Dividend'—the idea that unity across racial lines can lead to shared benefits. The conversation touches on a poignant metaphor of a drained pool in Alabama, symbolic of exclusion, and critiques how current policies might not appear explicitly racist but perpetuate inequality. McGhee calls for critical reflection and collective action to achieve social justice.
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ANECDOTE

Drained Pool Metaphor

  • Heather McGhee visited a drained public pool in Montgomery, Alabama.
  • The city drained the pool rather than integrate it during the Civil Rights era.
INSIGHT

Diversity and Zero-Sum Thinking

  • Derek Thompson highlights research showing that diversity can create a zero-sum mentality.
  • This hurts support for redistribution, especially among right-wing respondents.
ANECDOTE

Cross-Racial Solidarity in Kansas City

  • In Kansas City, McGhee observed white fast-food workers embracing cross-racial solidarity.
  • They recognized their shared struggle with poverty and organized for better wages.
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