What Black Men and Peacocks Have in Common
The interesting thing about being the only black man, and black person, in an office is that I have this unique opportunity to educate white people about black culture.
For me, and many black men in my position, we find that once the initial barrier of resistance is overcome and a right of passage is granted, a competent and professional black man can go about the serious business of shattering stereotypes, representing the entire black race, and engaging in the refined behaviors that engender trust from our colleagues. After all, for many of the whites that we are exposed to, most will have had very limited, if any intimate contact with other black men.
Yes, trust is the key that opens up the door to comfort and intimacy with our white corporate colleagues. That's why, when one of th...