Dr. Erec Smith: Rethinking Diversity and Anti-Racism with Empowerment
Anti-racism is headed in the wrong direction... Empowerment is about feeling powerful when you haven't felt powerful in a long time.
How can we make our society more inclusive and fair? Dr. Erec Smith, a professor at York College and a thought leader in rhetoric and composition, believes the answer lies in rethinking our approach to diversity and anti-racism. In this episode of 'The Social Exchange', host Zach Rhoads engages Dr. Smith in a compelling discussion about the current state of Critical Race Theory (CRT) and anti-racism efforts. While acknowledging the good intentions behind these movements, Dr.
Smith argues that they have strayed off course and offers a fresh perspective through what he calls the Empowerment Model. Drawing inspiration from cognitive behavioral therapy and rational emotive behavior therapy, Dr. Smith's Empowerment Model emphasizes the importance of self-talk, language, and interpersonal connections. He believes that by focusing on these elements, we can foster a more genuinely diverse and thriving society. Throughout the conversation, Dr.
Smith delves into complex topics like racial essentialism, anti-essentialism, and the role of language in both civic and professional spaces. Listeners will find themselves questioning established norms and considering new ways to promote equality and understanding. Whether you're deeply invested in social justice or simply curious about alternative viewpoints, this episode offers valuable insights that challenge conventional wisdom. Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that encourages us all to rethink how we approach diversity and anti-racism.