General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: When was the last time you discussed race and racism face-to-face with a person of another race? [View all]MichMan
(12,047 posts)We talk about our families, pets, what we are doing on the weekend, weather, favorite sports teams etc. All the everyday things normal people discuss with other on a regular basis.
Potentially divisive topics like politics, sex, religion, and yes, race and ethnicity are better left alone, especially in the workplace. At least that was always what I was told in various jobs I have had. The risk vs reward balance tells me not to open my mouth about such things
Another poster posted about his wife getting fired for doing just that. Sometimes the most innocent comments can be misconstrued by others. I had a friend at work that jokingly said to a co worker "if you did that, I would probably kill you" It was meant in jest, but someone overheard and he was fired for threatening violence. Had another co worker tell an off color joke to someone. They laughed, but again someone else reported him to HR and he was fired.