A Colourblind Society: Uncomfortable Conversations
Are we too focused on race? Have recent anti-racist movements like Black Lives Matter abandoned the ‘colourblind’ spirit of the original civil rights movement? Coleman Hughes is an American writer, podcaster and public intellectual known for his criticism of modern social-justice ideas about racism and racial inequality. In this live FODI edition of Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps, Hughes articulates his vision for a future where individuals are judged by ‘the content of their character’, not the colour of their skin. Drawing from research and personal insights, he argues for a society that embraces a colourblind ethos, aiming to dismantle divisive narratives and foster a more inclusive culture.
Coleman Hughes [USA]
Coleman Hughes is an author, podcaster and opinion columnist who specialises in issues related to race, public policy and applied ethics. Coleman’s writing has been featured in The New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, National Review, Quillette, City Journal, The Spectator, and the Washington Examiner. He appeared on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list in 2021. In 2019, Hughes testified before the US House Judiciary subcommittee at a hearing on reparations for slavery. In 2024, Coleman released his first book, The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America. He has appeared on prominent TV shows and podcasts including The View, Real Time with Bill Maher, the Joe Rogan Experience, and Making Sense with Sam Harris. He is a columnist at the Free Press, and a contributor at CNN.
Photo: Evan Mann
Josh Szeps
Josh hosts one of the most listened-to Australian interview shows in the world, Uncomfortable Conversations with Josh Szeps. In New York, he was a contributor on the NBC TODAY Show and a founding host of the groundbreaking US news network, HuffPost Live. Josh won a Webby Award while the organisation won a Pulitzer. In Australia, he anchored ABC TV’s Weekend Breakfast and Afternoons with Josh Szeps on ABC Radio. Josh is the newest columnist at the AFR. His show is available on Substack and every podcast platform.
We acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation - the custodians of the country on which we meet - and acknowledge their Elders, past and present.
The views and opinions expressed by the Festival participants are not necessarily the views of The Ethics Centre and our partners.