Episode 28: Uncomfortable Conversations with Emmanuel Acho
Sep 20, 2021
In this episode, Sharon sits down for an uncomfortable conversation with bestselling author and Emmy-nominated host, Emmanuel Acho. Known for his viral web series and book, “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” Emmanuel is no stranger to navigating difficult conversations surrounding race in the United States. Emmanuel and Sharon dive head first into topics such as white privilege, teaching our children about race and the key messages of the social justice movement. Taught with grace, wisdom and unshakeable determination, Emmanuel provides tactical ways to combat ignorance, administer justice and treat others with empathy.
Link to Full Episode:
This Episode Will Teach You:
- What is white privilege?
- Ways white privilege is manifesting itself in the U.S
- Difference between racism and racial ignorance
- We all have a responsibility to improve race-related issues in the U.S
- How to avoid being unintentionally offensive
- Best ways to educate yourself about race and racial issues
- How to teach your children about race
- How to analyze the deeper meaning of the social justice movement
3 Biggest Takeaways:
- Emmanuel and Sharon discuss the definition of white privilege and how it presents itself in American society. Emmanuel explains that everyone experiences some sort of privilege, but white privilege is the unique access and immunity granted to people based on the color of their skin. White privilege is present in the United States because it was founded and ruled by white men. Emmanuel says that white privilege manifests itself today not because white people are racist but because white people typically choose to elect, hire and associate themselves with other white people. This pattern has historically excluded people of color from the political, social and economic experiences white people in America are accustomed to.
- Next Emmanuel explains how to avoid racism, racial insensitivity and racial ignorance. Just as one would study the history and culture of a foreign country to avoid being offensive while visiting, Emmanuel suggests doing the same for people of different cultures and customs in the U.S. It is important to proactively educate yourself about others who are different from you and put yourself in spaces where the majority of people have different backgrounds and perspectives than you. Additionally, Sharon and Emmanuel talk about how to teach our children about race. In order to effectively teach empathy, understanding and inclusion, parents must demonstrate these principles in their actions.
- Lastly, Sharon asks for Emmanuel’s perspective on the social justice movement and the protests that occurred in the summer of 2020. Emmanuel challenges listeners to look for the message of the social justice protests. The strong emotions of anger, heartbreak and devastation were the symptoms of some greater illness. Emmanuel believes that we must first address the deep-rooted sickness of racism in order to heal the symptoms.
About the Guest:
Emmanuel Acho is the host and author of “Uncomfortable Conversations with a Black Man,” an Emmy-nominated web series and bestselling book that seeks to inform and educate white America on racism, systematic racism, social injustice and the Black American perspective. Emmanuel is also a FOX Sports analyst and former NFL linebacker.
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