Neil deGrasse Tyson Speaks, Kicks Over Mic

If you are a science lover then you have probably noticed that Neil deGrasse Tyson, Astrophysicist and public intellectual par excellence is everywhere these days.   He has been cable news’ go to guy for all things science lately, and his lively personality and informed opinion have him commenting on everything from black holes to organized religion to Wu Tang.

Most notably, he is the host of the updated Cosmos, a beautiful, moving and mind-blowing look at the universe we call home.  If you have ever wondered about your place in the universe, you must watch this.  If you have never wondered about your place in the universe, then it is time you do.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xb5tdqplTqQ

It’s safe to say that deGrasse Tyson has made his bones–his well-earned credibility make him a celebrity worth listening to.  In addition to being an all-round brainiac, he has done something quite remarkable–he has become well known as an Astrophysicist who is also black, rather than becoming famous for being a black scientist–a nuanced difference that comes down to being a content expert rather than a notable quota-able, marginalized except to show “hey, look he made it so we can’t be racist!”

Then he said this–a clear, simple compelling answer to disparity that puts institutional barriers into sharp focus:

From the outer Cosmos to the inner workings of institutional racism deGrasse Tyson brings reasoned, measured and reflective thinking to the masses!  You, fine sir, are doing it right!

Author: Susan X Jane

Susan X Jane, Principal of Navigators Consulting, has over 30 years of experience exploring race and representation in both the public and private sectors.  Susan is a transracial adoptee—a Black woman raised in a White family and community—an experience that created an early focus on the way race shapes our concept of ourselves and each other. Susan has worked to address race and racism as a community organizer, nonprofit program developer, professor of communications, and consultant to corporations and impact-focused institutions.  As Principal of Navigators Consulting, she draws on decades of experience to work with organizations in the public and private sectors. To any who seeks to build a better world, she offers her skills as a teacher, coach, and strategic partner to help create diverse and inclusive environments where the humanity of all is respected and protected. View all posts by Susan X Jane