Coleman Hughes

Coleman Hughes is an American writer, podcast host, and public intellectual whose work focuses on race, public policy, and applied ethics. Hughes studied jazz trombone at Juilliard before leaving to pursue writing and intellectual interests, later earning a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy from Columbia University. He is a former fellow at the Manhattan Institute and a contributing editor at City Journal, where his writing addresses topics such as race relations, social policy, and ethical issues. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, National Review, Quillette, City Journal, and The Spectator.

Hughes gained national attention when, at age 23, he testified before a U.S. House subcommittee against H.R. 40, a bill to study reparations for slavery. He argued that reparations would exacerbate racial division and undermine unity, contending that such payments would insult Black Americans and further divide the country. His testimony sparked significant debate and established Hughes as a prominent voice in American public discourse on race and policy.

Hughes created the podcast "Conversations with Coleman" to facilitate open discussions on social and political issues, emphasizing thoughtful and rigorous exchanges on race, philosophy, and public policy. He has appeared on television and podcasts including "The View," "Real Time with Bill Maher," the "Joe Rogan Experience," and "Making Sense with Sam Harris." His TED Talk, which addressed colorblindness and free speech, became a focal point in debates about institutional self-censorship and open dialogue.

Hughes is the author of the book "The End of Race Politics: Arguments for a Colorblind America." In the book, he examines the history of colorblindness in American society and argues that emphasizing skin color can create new forms of racism, challenging the objectives of the Civil Rights Movement. His perspectives have influenced critiques of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, particularly as organizations reconsider these initiatives. Hughes is also a contributor at CNN and The Free Press and has been recognized on Forbes 30 Under 30 list for his contributions to national conversations on race, public policy, and ethics.