Deal-Zimmerman is right: We need more DEI | READER COMMENTARY

After consoling a colleague following a stroke, his words in response have stayed with me years later: “Being born white in post-World War II America is like hitting the lottery.” He would agree with Michelle Deal-Zimmerman, as do I, that white privilege is real (“We don’t need less DEI, we need more,” March 20).

Growing up in mostly white middle-class suburbs, my siblings and I didn’t think much about race or poverty or disadvantage. Our communities were stable, we took for granted that we’d get a decent K-12 education, and we then planned for college and the careers that would follow. Sure, our two-parent household had its challenges, but we were generally safe, well-fed and future-directed.

In looking back, I was indeed privileged. I was never “other” (except when I wore size “husky” in grade school). I never had to have the “Green Book” to find a place to eat. I never felt that I couldn’t compete because of skin color, ethnicity or socio-economic status.

We were often taught to live by the Golden Rule and to walk a mile in another’s shoes. DEI — diversity, equity and inclusion — reinforces those values. Our divided country needs more of it.

— Herb Cromwell, Catonsville