Heather McGhee’s Honest Discussion On Race In America 

It’s become a cliché in American politics for leaders and activists to say, “We need to open up a dialogue about race.” But the conversation rarely happens. And when it does, it’s usually between two sides with deeply-held positions and no intentions of changing their minds. But on Sunday, a long-overdue, spontaneous, open and substantive discussion on race happened on CSPAN. 

Heather McGhee, president of the public policy group Demos, was a guest on Washington Journal when a white man called in seeking advice from an African-American. “I was hoping your guest could help me change my mind about some things,” the caller said, addressing McGhee. “I’m a white male, and I am prejudiced.” McGhee slowly closed her eyes, sighed, and gave the man his full attention. 

Here’s his call:

Although the man openly admitted he was prejudiced had problems with the black community, it was obvious from the calm look on McGhee’s face that this was an opportunity to create real change. Instead of chastising him, she praised the caller. “Your ability to just say ‘This is what I have. I have these fears and prejudices and I want to get over them’ is one of the most powerful things that we can do right now at this moment in our history,” McGhee said. She then answered the man’s question, giving him advice for how he can overcome his prejudices.  

McGhee’s answer: