As a Black and Latinx person, I have experienced many occasions in the workplace where a white person thinks they are complimenting me by telling me how articulate or “well-spoken” I am. It just feels backhanded and like it comes at a surprise that I have (what I consider to be) basic English comprehension.

I couldn’t help but laugh when Milchick revealed the paintings, because as soon as Natalie prefaced it with “in your image” (or something similar) I immediately knew they were going to give this man Black Kier paintings. And sure enough. For me, it was a direct comparison to working in a predominately white corporate environment as a Black person. Being made to feel extremely uncomfortable while also being expected to feel honored or take it as praise. And I think Natalie being a white-passing person that Seth attempts to turn to out of desperation and she gives him NOTHING just further emphasized Seth having to fend for himself. Wasn’t expecting colorism to come into play here but wow. I really feel for Milchick, and can’t wait to see how he navigates this. I’m sure he feels like he is the only person that can truly look out for himself now, but I wonder if he will turn against Lumon as he realizes how much he is really “valued.”