About Our Guest:
John Graham is an author, and speaker who specializes in topics related to race, identity, and corporate culture. He has a deep understanding of the historical and social constructs that shape our society and has dedicated his work to helping individuals and organizations navigate these complex issues. John is the author of the book "Plantation Theory" and is known for his thought-provoking insights and engaging speaking style.
Summary:
In this episode, Lexi B. interviews John Graham about the concept of divesting for the purpose of investment. They discuss the need for Black communities to build their own institutions and create self-sufficiency, rather than relying on systems that were not designed with their best interests in mind. John shares his perspective on the historical context of racism in America, the challenges faced by Black professionals in corporate America, and the importance of understanding the language of power. He also emphasizes the need for healing and therapy within the Black community and offers practical advice for individuals looking to navigate the corporate world while staying true to their values.
Key Takeaways:
Building self-sufficient communities is essential for divesting from systems that do not serve the Black community.
The North and the South both have a history of racism, and it is important to understand the nuances and complexities of racism in different regions.
The construct of power dominant individuals and institutions is resistant to change and will not willingly give up their privilege.
Divesting from the corporate world requires a shift in mindset and a focus on building one's own venture while using corporate employment as a source of funding.
Understanding the language of power is crucial for success in corporate environments and requires a deep understanding of conversational pragmatics.
Quotes:
"We continue to fight to change a construct that wasn't built nor designed with us in mind." - John Graham
"Divestiture is only possible when you have an infrastructure to rely on as an alternative." - John Graham
"Your corporate employer should be your venture capital backer." - John Graham
"We still inherently believe that our value is connected to our work output and that is not true.." - John Graham
Important Links and Continued Learnings:
Plantation Theory: The Black Professional’s Struggle Between Freedom and Security - John Graham
Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome - Dr. Joy DeGruy
PowerNomics- Dr. Claud Anderson
Accounting for Slavery: Masters and Management - Caitlin Rosenthal
