Ethnically Speaking by Larry Meeks

Dear Larry: I need your help. Please help settle something that has caused me a lot of anxiety for some time now.

About a year ago, when I was promoted to a supervisory role, I was accused of racism. That incident caused me a great amount of stress. I never have felt so sick to my stomach.

A co-worker accused me of giving "harder" tasks to my white employee instead of to my black employee. This accusation was taken all the way up to the company's human resources department. I was totally innocent and found not guilty, and nothing came of it. Even though I was completely exonerated, I felt that no matter what I said I would have that mark on me.

Thinking back over the situation, I realize why I gave the white employee different tasks. This person has a college background and studied mathematics. The black employee does not have that background and finds math difficult.

It never occurred to me that my decision could be viewed as racist. I only tried to match a person's skills with the work that had to be done.

Ever since the investigation, I have been terrified to treat my team unequally, even though I know they are not at the same skill level. I am now even scared to talk to my black co-workers for fear of offending them.

Growing up, my mother taught me to treat all people with respect. I have done my best to carry out her teachings. I admit there are some racists in my family.

I am trying to understand my anxiety and why I am so ill at ease with my black co-workers. Larry, do you think I am feeling this way because I am racist? — Christine

Dear Christine: Based on the information you provided, I do not believe that you are a racist.

I believe that your anxiety is the result of being accused and that you are now afraid of being labeled with a second charge.

You didn't ask, but I believe you now must be careful not to be accused again. A second charge could cause your employment to be brought into question. I don't want to add to your paranoia, but I have seen people fired or removed from supervisory positions based solely upon other people's unsubstantiated accusations. Too many people have made frivolous charges against others, and that has given civil rights and affirmative action programs serious setbacks.

If it makes you feel any better, once you have been made a supervisor, being accused almost comes with the territory. I also have found that being a minority does not shield you from being charged. My unofficial survey seems to indicate that minority supervisors are accused as much as or more than non-minority supervisors.

Race is not the sole root of false discrimination charges. I have seen women, disabled people and the aged make false charges, too. The reasons for the charges are complex and difficult to understand. I personally have seen people make false charges to remove supervisors, cover for their own failure to perform, and prevent being demoted or fired, as well as for revenge, promotions, salary increases, and the pleasure of seeing others put into hot spots.

Life is too short to have a job that puts you in a tailspin. If you cannot come to grips with your angst, you should consider a transfer or some other change.

To find out more about Larry G. Meeks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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