Quote:
Originally posted by VirtuousErudite
You would be surprised. This happens quite frequently. Many older whites will place money on the counter instead of handing it to you in your hand even when you are specifically holding your hand out for the money. It's happened to me before and other friends of color (not just AA) who happen to be working at a cash register. Also not so many years ago during the days of segregated restaurants/stores blacks HAD to place their money on the counter and whites in turn placed the change back on the counter because white employees refused to touch their hands. Just as a side note it's funny how some common experiences have obvious racial overtones for blacks and miniorities but whites just "don't get how this is an example of a racism experience". I guess it's all about perception and experience.
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Thank you, for your helpful reply. I see what you are saying. I did mention that possibility in my original reply and it sounds like it could be what's happened here.
Though, for me, I don't think it's a case of, because I'm white, I "don't get how this is an example of a racism experience." It's more of a, "I come from a very ethnically diverse place and we don't seem to have this type of situation very often." I am very fortunate to have grown up in Southern California to parents who were accepting of other people. If I am ignorant about the racial overtones in something like the example given, it's because of very innocent reasons. And really, isn't it a positive sign of the times when whole groups of people don't "get" why someone wouldn't want to touch another? Wouldn't it be great if it was a non-issue for everyone? It's getting there and I for one am glad!
Thanks again for your positive reply.
.....Kelly
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