Controversy Surrounding Decentering Whiteness Article

News: Janice Gassam Ascre, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant heading BWG Business Solutions, is presently facing scrutiny in Ohio following the publication of her Forbes article titled “decentering whiteness.” The column, exploring the disassembly of workplace systems favoring “white dominant culture,” has sparked considerable controversy.

Criticism from Ohio Senator J.D. Vance

Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, a vocal critic of the piece, denounced it as “racist and gross.” He declared an inquiry into whether Janice Gassam Ascre or her business, BWG Business Solutions, received taxpayer funds. Expressing discontent with Forbes for publishing the article, Vance revealed that he instructed his staff to investigate any potential public funding received by BWG Business Solutions from Ohio.

Labeling the Article as “Racism without the Possibility of Reverse Racism”

Vivek Ramaswamy, a Republican presidential candidate, characterized Ascre’s column as “racism without the possibility of reverse racism.” Ascre’s article supports the deconstruction of workplace systems that favor “white dominant culture,” asserting that such structures contribute to inequity and injustice within organizations.

Examining and Challenging “White Centering”

Ascre advocates for a critical examination and challenge of the concept of “white centering,” alternatively referred to as the “white gaze” or “whiteness as the default,” as a means to attain equity and justice. She underscores the significance of education, objectivity, and accountability within the workforce.

Defending the Article and Addressing Controversy

Responding to Vance’s critique, Ascre defended her article by suggesting that the senator has a limited understanding of the concept of decentering whiteness. She clarified that her piece focuses on critiquing the system of whiteness rather than singling out individuals. This controversy underscores the ongoing debates surrounding diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and highlights the diverse perspectives on addressing systemic issues related to race across various sectors.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultant Janice Gassam Ascre is currently under investigation in Ohio following the publication of her Forbes article, “decentering whiteness.” The piece delves into the deconstruction of systems favoring “white dominant culture” in workplaces. The ensuing controversy has ignited discussions on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, shedding light on the diverse perspectives regarding the approach to systemic issues related to race in various sectors.

FAQs

Q: Is Janice Gassam Ascre advocating for racist ideologies?

A: No, Ascre’s article focuses on the systemic aspects of whiteness in workplace environments rather than singling out individuals.

Q: What is the basis for Ohio Senator J.D. Vance’s criticism of the article?

A: Senator Vance contends that the article is racist and has launched an inquiry into potential public funding received by Ascre’s business.

Q: What discussions and debates are currently unfolding in relation to initiatives on diversity, equity, and inclusion?

The debate surrounding Ascre’s article underscores the varying viewpoints on tackling systemic racial issues across different sectors.