1. The Black Employee’s Two Jobs

The Black Employee, as described by Thurston, is hired to do two primary jobs:

1. Perform the job: This involves fulfilling the specific duties and responsibilities outlined in the job description.
2. Perform the job of being Black: This entails fulfilling the unspoken expectations and stereotypes associated with being Black in a predominantly white workplace.

Specific examples of duties under Job #2 might include:

• Being the token Black person: Representing the entire Black community and being expected to speak for or on behalf of all Black people.
• Dealing with racist comments or microaggressions: Confronting or ignoring offensive remarks or behaviors.
• Being the “diversity hire”: Being seen primarily as a symbol of diversity rather than a skilled employee.
• Navigating stereotypes and biases: Challenging preconceived notions and stereotypes about Black people.

2. Thurston’s Parody of Business Self-Help

Thurston parodies the conventions of business self-help and motivational books by using humor and irony. He mimics the genre’s common tropes, such as offering simplistic advice, using inspirational anecdotes, and emphasizing personal responsibility. However, he subverts these conventions by applying them to the absurd and often discriminatory experiences faced by Black employees. This parody allows him to highlight the absurdity and hypocrisy of these self-help books in the context of racial inequality.

3. The Power of Comedy in Addressing Race

Comedy allows Thurston to address the sensitive subject matter of race in America in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. By using humor, he can:

• Make difficult topics accessible: Comedy can make complex and uncomfortable issues more relatable and easier to discuss.
• Challenge stereotypes and biases: Through satire and exaggeration, Thurston can expose and challenge harmful stereotypes and biases.
• Foster empathy and understanding: Humor can create a sense of shared experience and help viewers connect with the characters and situations presented.
• Promote critical thinking: By presenting information in a humorous way, Thurston encourages viewers to question and analyze the underlying issues.

4. Response to the TEDTalk

Thoughts on the TEDTalk:

I found Thurston’s TEDTalk to be both insightful and entertaining. His use of humor and personal anecdotes made the complex issue of race in the workplace accessible and relatable. I particularly appreciated his ability to highlight the absurdity and hypocrisy of corporate diversity efforts. The talk challenged my own preconceived notions and forced me to consider the ways in which systemic racism can manifest even in seemingly progressive environments.

Impact on Thinking of the Current Political Climate:

The talk has undoubtedly influenced my thinking about the current political climate. It has reinforced the importance of addressing systemic racism and challenging harmful stereotypes. It has also made me more aware of the subtle and insidious ways in which racism can manifest in everyday life. Thurston’s message serves as a reminder that while progress has been made, there is still much work to be done to achieve true racial equality.