Bias is like smoking. Or rather it sets up shop on the same not-quite-conscious level as smoking. A trigger occurs and the bias follows with a knee-jerk reaction. It’s not a conscious intention, so it’s easy to justify. It feels natural, part of the natural order of things–maybe not right, exactly, but that’s just the way it is.
It’s almost impossible to quit smoking. And it’s definitely impossible to quit smoking when you won’t admit you’re addicted. When you surround yourself with justifications. Everybody smokes at the bar. I’ve had a stressful day.
The thing is, though: people are dying.
And you’re mocking them for protesting their own deaths.
Because of your stupid-ass addiction.
…
If you liked this post, please spend some time reading writers of color. I just got done reading Roxane Gay’s memoir Hunger and found it particularly moving.