LibraryScenariosWhen representation becomes burden rather than progress
Scenario

When representation becomes burden rather than progress

My colleagues assume I'm the diversity hire because I'm the only Black person in my department and it's making me question my own qualifications.

Juana
Online
The coach is replying

More people experience this than they realize.

What we've seen

Tokenism transforms professional achievement into evidence of inadequacy, forcing constant proof of worthiness that others never provide.

Ideas that help explain it
Worth thinking about

“Where Are You with Adopted identity — chosen and given?”

If this sounds familiar, the Library can help you find the bigger picture.