Jeff Chang

In this discussion, Jeff Chang, journalist and Vice President at Race Forward, delves into the troubling evolution of "diversity" from a noble ideal to a corporate buzzword. He critiques how this commodification often masks systemic inequalities and merely serves to placate whiteness. Chang illuminates the ongoing battles against affirmative action, sharing crucial historical contexts, particularly regarding Asian American experiences. The conversation urges a rethinking of diversity initiatives to aim for true equity and meaningful social justice.

Jeff Chang, a cultural critic and author based in the San Francisco Bay Area, delves into the alarming surge of anti-Asian violence in the U.S., noting over 2,800 incidents linked to COVID-19. He emphasizes the need for historical acknowledgment and collective action among communities of color. Discussing the response to racial justice movements, he highlights the importance of empathy and solidarity. Chang traces the painful roots of anti-Asian sentiment, connecting historical discrimination to modern challenges faced by Asian Americans.