I understand what you mean, that relating certain stories reveals that one is an ally towards another's causes. At the same time, there are appropriate times when certain subjects are discussed as well as inappropriate ones. For example, today I went to the post office and I noticed that someone in a wheelchair was entering. I believe (although I hesitated) that it was appropriate for me to hold the door for her. It would have been inappropriate for me to have blurted out, "My grandmother was an amputee."
Or, say you're talking with friends, one of whom happens to be homosexual. Would you out of the blue turn to that person and say, "So, I think Ellen Degeneres' marriage is groundbreaking" or "Cheney is a fuck for not supporting gay rights, considering his daughter"? And would you continue to point out certain famous gay people, even when the subject matter changed? That is the behavior I'm calling out.
We have no control over our initial circumstances, including our race. As such, I think there is no doubt that you will run into people who, in a sense, want to apologize for their position, or point out that they respect yours.
I understand, and of course in certain contexts and circumstances would welcome that sentiment. It is the expression of such, however, that signifies sensitivity, and it is the sensitivity of certain subjects that is paramount.
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branchandroot
(no subject)
Date: 2008-06-23 07:24 pm (UTC)Or, say you're talking with friends, one of whom happens to be homosexual. Would you out of the blue turn to that person and say, "So, I think Ellen Degeneres' marriage is groundbreaking" or "Cheney is a fuck for not supporting gay rights, considering his daughter"? And would you continue to point out certain famous gay people, even when the subject matter changed? That is the behavior I'm calling out.
We have no control over our initial circumstances, including our race. As such, I think there is no doubt that you will run into people who, in a sense, want to apologize for their position, or point out that they respect yours.
I understand, and of course in certain contexts and circumstances would welcome that sentiment. It is the expression of such, however, that signifies sensitivity, and it is the sensitivity of certain subjects that is paramount.
One may be well-meaning and still be a clod.