Kansas City Startup Conversation Denounces 'Enemies' Of Diversity

Recently . . . An East side conversation seemed a bit testy on the topic of legal debate and the sordid biz of quotas in the modern era.

Here's the word . . .

" 'I hate to say it, but we have enemies,' Whitney told a crowd gathered Thursday at Vine Street Brewing in Kansas City for BioNexus KC’s luncheon on investing in Black and Brown innovators. 'That’s the reality. We have people who don’t believe in the work that we’re trying to do.'

"Critics of such efforts around diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging often hold a fundamental difference of opinion on whether these goals are moral, continued Whitney, a serial entrepreneur, author, and co-founder of Nashville-based Jumpstart Health Investors."

To be fair . . .

The term "enemies" is a bit harsh in an entertainment district that has been GENEROUSLY funded by taxpayers without any hope of a sustainable profit model.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

Critics challenge DEI as immoral; this VC has a message for those seeking equity for Black, Brown founders

Pushing for equity in long-siloed industries might seem obvious to some, said Marcus Whitney, but advocates for change must remember that not everyone is on board - and some are actively working against level the playing field. "I hate to say it, but we have enemies," Whitney said.