You don’t get to define what is, or is not, an “open minded perspective” for anyone other than yourself.
10 Likes
Exactly. Name-calling is never a productive way to have a discussion. If you’re trying to get someone to think harder about their position or reconsider their words, calling them “closed-minded” or “tone-deaf” or a “bigot” (I realize that particular word wasn’t used in this particular case, but it’s one that I see get thrown around a lot when someone says something likely well-intended but reflective of outdated thinking patterns) is a surefire way to make sure that doesn’t happen. A few decades ago, saying you “don’t see color” was basically taught in schools as being a good thing … unless you have strong reason to believe the person who says it is not willing to engage in good-faith discussion, responding to it with name calling only shuts down further dialogue and keeps them from reconsidering their position.
Context is always important. For example, an article interviewing a black equestrian because they won a major competition is different from a human-interest article interviewing a black equestrian about their experience as a black person in a sport that’s historically white and elitist. Asking about unique challenges they face related to their racial identity, like helmet fitting, would probably not be appropriate for the first article unless it’s something they specifically say they want to talk about, but it could be totally appropriate for the second one as long as it’s done respectfully.
9 Likes
Thank you for your feedback regarding my posts.
I’ve been called a racist in person only once: when at work I was required to check the passport of a Chinese citizen to ensure she would be able to legally re-enter the United States after her vacation abroad with her American boyfriend. As I looked for the appropriate visa in the booklet, she angrily told me that if she had “round eyes”, I wouldn’t be looking in her passport.
Once you have been called a racist in person, you will never forget the wound.
I wonder if it’s ever happened to you ?
Your words describing my thoughts and opinions which are based on my life experiences (not yours), have no power over me. I’m numb to it. You know which words and phrases I’m referring to, because you chose them on purpose to put me down. It may have worked for you in the past with other people, but not this time, not with me.
I wish you all the best.
6 Likes
Uvex makes helmets for other sports as well: cycling, skiing, etc.
