Disparity Trap is a board game that focuses the conversation on the systems and institutions established to create inequity within the United States and how we as individuals have the ability to alter those systems for the better. The game's sole purpose is to encourage participants to work together in order to understand systemic inequity more clearly.
Now, I know what you might be thinking, "Who wants to play a board game about systemic oppression?" To be honest, when I first conceived this idea back in 2019, I thought the same thing. However, with the two pandemics, COVID-19 and racism, over the past year, the world has been forced to stop in its tracks. And because of that detour, the light of injustice has shined far brighter than ever before.
With the murders and attacks on those who identify as Black, Brown, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) as they live their everyday lives at work, in the park, or simply walking down the street, it's hard to stand idle or be complacent. Seeing how racism has manifested into a spectrum of disguises in today’s society has made me realize I couldn't shelve this game any longer. Our country is in crisis, and I believe the biggest obstacle is our inability to TALK about the issue.
How are we supposed to find a solution as a nation, when we can't even agree on the problem?
If we don't talk about it now, then when?
If not us, then who?
The objective of this game is to open a path toward conversation about the systemic impact of racism. I invite you to play the game, share your experience, and to join the conversation.