As a white man from a working-class family, I can tell you that every white person I know is relentlessly aware of American racism. I understand why people may feel motivated to deny it, seeking to feel better about the nation.

But white people like Tim Scott are not being honest. Not with themselves. Not with the American people.

It takes a positive act of will to deny racism in this country. It requires intentional self-deception.

And while I may very well be wrong, I believe the younger generation is increasingly fed up with that. I hope so.