By Paul Lachhu

Distance bias refers to the propensity of people to prefer people or things that are closer rather than farther away. People who are out of sight are more likely to be “out of mind”. The founder of the nonprofit group Black Girls Code relates that they felt a sense of belonging when working in the office, because other people of color connected in many different ways – nods, waves, smiles and conversations. When she began working at home because of the pandemic, however, she felt isolated. A partner at Mckinsey explained that human interactions have given way to virtual meetings in the remote work world, challenging people of color who are hesitant to speak during online meetings.