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Rich White Men

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"Rich White Men: What It Takes to Uproot the Old Boys' Club and Transform America" by Garrett Neiman explores issues such as wealth inequality, systemic racism, and patriarchy in America. Neiman, a social justice activist and self-described "rich white man," discusses the hidden and insidious ways wealthy white male elites maintain their power and advantages.

Neiman points out the disproportionately powerful position held by wealthy white men in shaping political and economic decisions. Through his experiences as a CEO of a nonprofit and his interactions with his peers, Neiman sees firsthand the mindset and beliefs held by many philanthropists. He addresses their need to recognize their privilege, challenge their prejudices, and work towards a more equitable society.

I get what the author is trying to do, but most people know that rich white men got where they are because of luck, nepotism, and privilege. After all, only 30% of the US population is white male, but look how many are in positions of power. That is not because of merit, even though they tell themselves they have earned it. And unfortunately, the people who need to read it probably won't, which the author seems well aware of.

I received this Advanced Reader Copy of Rich White Men from Grand Central Publishing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

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In Garrett Neiman‘s exploration of the old boys club he would shock to find out he himself contributed to it and with his experiences and others he has packed a book full of examples of how if you do not have the right last name, ties to business alumni and can speak their language you could be locked out. They talk a big game of being all inclusive but the more you read in this book the more you say that is not the case especially the very first story Mr. Neiman told with “Edward“ the guy who said he would rather give to his alumni as opposed to the inner-city black and brown children Mr. Neimans funding contributed to after all he don’t like giving his money to lazy people. I am always amazed when people who are supposed to be so smart still buying to stereotypes and think a whole race can be just one way and no other the smoke will make you angry but will also make you proud of those fighting for the real definition of white America was built on. It is sad that this book is needed but also great that it’s out there. we should give this book to every graduate that went to college on the sponsorship and make sure they read it. I received this book from NetGalley and the publisher but I am leaving this review voluntarily please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.

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This book clearly outlines the advantages of rich white men as well as some possible policy solutions to issues of inequality. However, I’m not sure for whom this is written, for non Rich white men who might be interested in these topics, this is sort of a primer and rich White men are not likely to pick this up and I doubt would be convinced to implement change from this book.

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