To the Editor:
In “Race Matters More Than a Red-Blue Kumbaya,” (April 1), Edgar Villanueva makes important and well-argued points related to the backsliding and anxiety when it comes to racial equity funding. However, the op-ed, particularly the headline, perpetuates a divide between pluralism and racial equity. Although concern about philanthropic regression on racial equity is justifiable, pluralism isn’t at fault.
The phrase “Red-Blue Kumbaya” reads like a dismissive caricature of pluralism and those promoting it. I have worked to advance pluralism in a variety of roles for more than 20 years, including as a trained coach who helps individuals navigate cultural differences and as a diversity, equity, and inclusion leader in higher education. In my experience, people working on pluralism also support racial equity.
Pluralism is not just about coming together across political differences, but about uniting across many identities and experiences. In fact, most people I know working on pluralism agree that the country can’t have true pluralism without racial justice. Most in the pluralism field also realize how difficult these ideals are to enact, as both are still unrealized in the United States.
The headline and parts of the op-ed set up a hollow version of pluralism that does not reflect its true meaning. Pluralism is not about flattening differences to meet in the middle as the phrase “red-blue kumbaya” suggests. It’s about accepting the vibrancy of difference in a way that allows everyone to thrive. Without offering sources or examples, Villanueva then claims pluralism is harmful to racial justice work. “No one should embrace pluralism as a solution for issues that have plagued the nation for centuries,” he states.
From my vantage point, pluralism and racial justice are on the same team. I don’t see a path to healing racial injustice that doesn’t include pluralism. Given that this article was featured in the Chronicle of Philanthropy’s new section, “The Commons,” I would expect more nuance related to pluralism, its definition, and those working to advance it as a pillar of democratic and civic life in a multiracial society.
Rev. Dr. Siri Erickson
Program Support Lead
Philanthropy for Active Civic Engagement
