If you don’t want to be called a racist, here are a few simple rules you can follow, even if right now you can’t understand what they’re for. I was going to get all bloggy and explain each one, but I decided not to, because everyone needs to figure this stuff out on their own.
Don’t use the N-word. Just don’t.
Don’t complain about not being allowed to use the N-word.
Don’t say “I’m not a racist.”
Don’t explain why you’re not a racist.
If someone calls you a racist, use these words exactly, “I’m sorry I offended you. I won’t do it again.”
Do not vary from the script. Don’t insert the word “if” at any point.
Don’t explain to people of color why something is not racist.
Don’t explain racism to people of color.
Don’t tell anyone, ever, that they are being oversensitive.
Don’t deny or dismiss someone’s experiences just because they don’t match your own.
Don’t dominate the conversation.
Listen twice as much as you speak.
Calling people out on racism is painful, unrewarding work. Don’t mistake it for someone’s hobby.
Don’t use phrases like “you people” or “that noise about racism” (example from recent kerfuffle). Always be respectful.
Be willing to learn and change.
Instead of arguing on the internet, go read some books about the civil rights movement.
Don’t make the conversation about you and your own hurt.
Don’t try to turn things around and say that calling out racism is itself racist. That’s bullshit.
Remember that if you oppose people who are protesting racism, you have just aligned yourself with White Supremicists and Neo-Nazis. Congratulations. Don’t like your new allies? Then make a better choice.
hawberries
