I've been there and get a portion of it at least. I'm not really sure what to say except that for a number of these people they've never been in that position and frankly cannot imagine it. Which isn't helpful and calling people out gets old, I know.
If it makes you feel better, that weird vibe you get is just people worried you're going to think they're racist. Which ironically makes you think they're racist. Go figure.
You don't sound especially "enlightened" yourself, anonie. It sort of sounds like there's nothing that other people are going to do that's acceptably inviting to you, so maybe it's not really other people that are the problem.
Now, if they start up with that "can I touch your hair?" shit, please feel free to call out a fool.
I get it. I think that's an understandable feeling.
I just don't know what us whities are supposed to do with comments like this? You want us to take out billboards somewhere inviting minorities to Portland? You want us to acknowledge the situation by starting a conversation on race with the only minority in the room at a party?
There is always a slight accusatory tone to these comments like the majority somehow isn't doing... something. Sorry, just hanging out at a party.
Thank You Blabby and arenit.
Personally, I've always sorta enjoyed being in the position of being the only one of my race around, in travels or parties, etc.
And if we were living in a truly colorblind society, would this writer even care about this?
SO BRAVE
If it makes you feel better, that weird vibe you get is just people worried you're going to think they're racist. Which ironically makes you think they're racist. Go figure.
Now, if they start up with that "can I touch your hair?" shit, please feel free to call out a fool.
I just don't know what us whities are supposed to do with comments like this? You want us to take out billboards somewhere inviting minorities to Portland? You want us to acknowledge the situation by starting a conversation on race with the only minority in the room at a party?
There is always a slight accusatory tone to these comments like the majority somehow isn't doing... something. Sorry, just hanging out at a party.
Personally, I've always sorta enjoyed being in the position of being the only one of my race around, in travels or parties, etc.
And if we were living in a truly colorblind society, would this writer even care about this?