Ohio Senator J.D. Vance has strongly criticized a Forbes article titled “3 Ways To Decenter Whiteness In Your Workplace,” written by Janice Gassam Asare, founder of BWG Business Solutions, a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion consultancy. Asare’s article discusses strategies to reduce the focus on “Whiteness” in the workplace, which she claims perpetuates inequity by favoring White dominant culture.
Vance expressed his disapproval in a public statement, labeling the content as racist and demanding accountability from Forbes. He has also initiated an investigation into Asare’s consultancy firm to ascertain if it receives any funding from Ohio state sources.
Asare responded to Vance’s remarks, suggesting he misunderstood the concept of “decentering whiteness,” which she elaborates on in her book. She offered to provide further clarification to the senator and others who might find the concept confusing.
The Forbes piece has ignited a broader debate, with other prominent figures joining the conversation. Mollie Hemingway, editor-in-chief of The Federalist, condemned the article and Forbes for promoting what she perceives as anti-American racism. David Harsanyi, also from The Federalist, criticized the idea, stating that ‘decentering Whiteness’ could imply dismissing individuals based on an immutable characteristic. Presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy called the ideology outright racism.
The controversy highlights the ongoing national discourse on race, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace, reflecting differing perspectives on how these complex issues should be addressed in a corporate environment. Responses from Vance’s staff and Forbes on this matter are still awaited.