I’ve lived in Marin my whole life - born and raised here as a working-class, biracial adult (not white-passing). I’ve gone through every stage of life in this county. I love many things about living here, but Marin has a huge problem that everyone already knows but no one really talks about.

On the surface, it looks like this liberal, yoga-loving, eco-friendly paradise where everyone’s hearts bleed for a cause. But if you’re not white or Asian, especially if you’re Black or Brown, it’s a whole different story. The reality is there’s a lot of prejudice, a lot of bias, and a clear preference for white people - especially in professional spaces. Everyone’s all about diversity when they need a Chief DEI Officer, but the rest of the time? Good luck! The ancient boomers here would never trust you in a position of power and they have implicitly taught their children and successors to do the same.

Take the Canal and Marin City, for example. These areas are segregated from the rest of the county and no one bats an eye. I’ve seen firsthand, so many unqualified white people get hired or promoted just because they live in Mill Valley or Ross (and, well, they’re white). I’ve come to call it the “blue eyes, blonde hair advantage,” and it’s real.

Why is it so rare to see Black people in public offices, educational leadership roles, or executive teams outside of the Canal and Marin City? It’s hard to ignore, and super shitty. If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, you know the rest.

Edit: Grammar

Edit: I am prepared for the unwanted responses from white people (and white adjacent) who feel uncomfortable by this post