Luke Visconti’s Ask the White Guy column is a top draw on Fair360.com. Visconti, the founder and CEO of Fair360, formerly DiversityInc, is a nationally recognized leader in diversity management. In his popular column, readers who ask Visconti tough questions about race/culture, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability and age can expect smart, direct and disarmingly frank answers.
Question:
See now, that’s the problem: I always tell people, ‘You’re not “White”! You’re: Irish, Italian, German, Polish, Scottish, Czech, Russian, etc., etc. — something! So, please don’t disrespect your ancestors and your heritage!’ So, Mr. Visconti, what are YOU I’d love to hear wonderful and fascinating things about your heritage. Let’s all share! Thanks.
Answer:
Wow, Nancy. Shouldn’t we all be allowed to describe ourselves
I am a veteran and proud of my country. I am fortunate my European ancestors had the necessity (and opportunity) to flee the oppression of their origin, but they had a place to go, thrive and propagateAmerica!
America is my heritage and by utilizing the first amendment to publish Fair360, formerly DiversityInc, I have staked my entire professional careermy life workto improve the prospect of a better American heritage for our sons and daughters. America has not always been fair or kind to all of the people under its care, but strong leaders like Franklin, Douglass, Garrison, Truth, Anthony, Chavez and King have been able to move our country towards fulfilling the promise of the Constitution.
Being born white, I have had the benefit of white privilegewhich is why my column is titled “Ask the White Guy.” It’s my hope to share as much of my white privilege as I can because, in my opinion, leveling the playing field is how I can help all of my fellow citizens thrive.
