Understanding Identity and Systemic Issues

Baratunde Thurston humorously discusses his unique name and background, sharing personal experiences with racism and systemic bias. He highlights incidents of racial profiling and introduces a game to reverse roles, aiming to transform traumatic experiences into healing. He emphasizes the need for changing actions to address systemic issues and advocates for inclusion and understanding.

What cultural influences are reflected in Baratunde Thurston's name?

• American, German, and Italian

• Yoruba, Arabic, and British

• Nigerian, French, and Spanish

• African, Indian, and Chinese

What precaution does Thurston take during a traffic stop to ensure his safety?

• He refuses to stop and drives home

• He calls his lawyer immediately

• He speeds up to avoid the police

• He turns on flashing lights and pulls over under a bright streetlight

What shift in media narratives does Thurston highlight?

• From sports events to technological advancements

• From economic issues to environmental concerns

• From police violence to racial bias in everyday situations

• From celebrity gossip to political news

What is the primary objective of the word game introduced by Thurston?

• To teach grammar and sentence structure

• To entertain the audience with jokes

• To highlight and challenge systemic racism

• To promote a new book

What does Thurston suggest as an alternative to calling the police in non-threatening situations?

• Calling a friend for advice

• Ignoring the situation

• Writing a complaint letter

• Minding one's own business

What does Thurston emphasize as necessary for systemic change?

• More government regulations

• Increased police presence

• Higher taxes for the wealthy

• Collective storytelling and changing narratives

What does Thurston identify as a systemic issue that needs addressing?

• Economic inequality

• Environmental pollution

• White supremacy

• Lack of education

How does Thurston describe the impact of someone perceiving him as a threat?

• It has no effect on him

• It encourages him to speak out

• It poses a threat to his life

• It makes him feel empowered

What does Thurston mean by 'weaponized discomfort'?

• Using discomfort as a tool for social change

• Discomfort caused by racial bias leading to police involvement

• Discomfort experienced during public speaking

• Discomfort from physical exercise

What is Thurston's ultimate call to action?

• To focus solely on personal success

• To rely on government intervention

• To use our power to choose and change the narrative

• To ignore systemic issues