Comments on: 10 Things NEVER to Say to a Black Coworker

By: Nadine JB

Nadine JB — Thu, 31 May 2012 18:30:25 +0000

Looking for feedback….we are having a department picnic and there will be a watermelon eating contest. Since this has been published, a few minority individuals have expressed concerns based on “black” stereotypes. Please note that this is open to anyone in the department and is voluntary. Please share your thoughts on how I should handle this.

By: RJ

RJ — Wed, 30 May 2012 18:24:15 +0000

FYI,
I cut and pasted this from top of THIS page:
Read also: 9 Things NEVER to Say to White Colleagues

By: Sheila

Sheila — Wed, 30 May 2012 12:34:28 +0000

Lee, I really would like for you to tell me what those things might be. It would be helpful to know.

By: GeeWiz

GeeWiz — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:53:49 +0000

What sorts of things would those be, Lee?

By: Dafney Thorndeckell

Dafney Thorndeckell — Tue, 29 May 2012 17:40:58 +0000

Yes. I’m REALLY curious as to what those ten things would be. Would anyone of the White persuasion care to answer?

By: Joelyn K Foy

Joelyn K Foy — Tue, 29 May 2012 16:54:22 +0000

I’m really curious what you think those would be?

By: Lee

Lee — Tue, 29 May 2012 11:29:07 +0000

All well said. Now, in the interest of diversity, there should be a “10 Things NEVER to Say to a White Coworker”.

By: Felicia Marsh

Felicia Marsh — Sun, 20 May 2012 21:10:03 +0000

Denise,
This article was very well written and informative. Thank you for sharing it with us. So many things went through my mind as I read it because truthfully, I have encountered every single one of those comments or questions in my young 44 years of living as an African-American woman. It is the “assumptions” that amaze and not offend me the most. I really had to develop a “thick” skin due to people’s curiosity which in and of itself is not bad. At times though, I get annoyed with others who assume that my background does not allow me to be black enough. After all, “black is a diverse experience that can only be defined by the individual. I am thankful to God that I am black and I am unique just as we all are regardless of our race and ethnicity!! :)

By: LHM89

LHM89 — Wed, 22 Feb 2012 16:18:44 +0000

How about references to the front / back of the bus? I’m white and I find those offensive and insensitive, especially when used by white males in position of power.