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Undoing Whiteness: The Dao of Anti‐racist Diversity Practice

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  • Helena Liu

Abstract

As Australia propels towards a so‐called ‘Asian Century', pro‐diversity discourses have begun to permeate organizations and society. Yet despite this outward commitment to ethno‐cultural diversity, mainstream diversity discourses and practices have been critiqued for subordinating social justice agendas and reinforcing the dominance of whiteness. This article analyses in‐depth interviews with 18 Chinese Australian managers and local councillors engaged in various forms of diversity advocacy and practice. By reading their voices via the Chinese philosophy of Daoism, I offer an anti‐racist praxis of diversity that bears the potential to disrupt white supremacy through the strength of softness and the power of non‐action.

Suggested Citation

  • Helena Liu, 2017. "Undoing Whiteness: The Dao of Anti‐racist Diversity Practice," Gender, Work and Organization, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 24(5), pages 457-471, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:gender:v:24:y:2017:i:5:p:457-471
    DOI: 10.1111/gwao.12142
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Sonia Liff & Judy Wajcman, 1996. "‘Sameness’ and ‘Difference’ Revisited: Which Way Forward For Equal Opportunity Initiatives?," Journal of Management Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 33(1), pages 79-94, January.
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