Martin was an accomplished litigator before shifting to collaborative practice a few years ago. Because he means well, has travelled a lot, and is an avowed pacifist, he believes himself to be competent in diversity and inclusion issues.
Martin is a White, cis, and heterosexual man. He’s charismatic and is seen to be a mentor to many. He prides himself on being a people person and a good listener.
At the same time, his administrative assistant has noticed that he is frequently inappropriate with his remarks to clients of colour, talking about his travels to their supposed places of origin. Normally, she just laughs. One time when Martin told a woman client how slim she’s become, his assistant winced. After that he said to her, “Let me know when I put my foot in my mouth with the ladies, OK?”
For this case, determine:
•What is happening?
•What are some assumptions Martin is making?
•What does Martin need to do so that his behaviour and impact on the world match his intention?
•What prevents Martin from getting what he needs up until now?
Martin is a White, cis, and heterosexual man. He’s charismatic and is seen to be a mentor to many. He prides himself on being a people person and a good listener.
At the same time, his administrative assistant has noticed that he is frequently inappropriate with his remarks to clients of colour, talking about his travels to their supposed places of origin. Normally, she just laughs. One time when Martin told a woman client how slim she’s become, his assistant winced. After that he said to her, “Let me know when I put my foot in my mouth with the ladies, OK?”
For this case, determine:
•What is happening?
•What are some assumptions Martin is making?
•What does Martin need to do so that his behaviour and impact on the world match his intention?
•What prevents Martin from getting what he needs up until now?
