Before deciding to pen this story, I did a bit of investigative "snooping" with several sources close to the two women involved. Normally, this stuff I wouldn't take seriously, but due to the nature of the situation, I decided to question and perhaps gain insights from both races on the ongoing subject of Race & Friendships, or what we perceive as friendship,opposed to just being "friendly."
In the field where I work, there's often a mixture of folks from all religions, races & cultures of life. African-Americans, Whites, Hispanics, Asian, Indian,and Mexican : A gatherings of a small United Nations and it's all good. But, then, there's always someone,or, some bothersome something that occurs,often leading to disbelief, suspicion, distrust and this post! Situation:
Two friends; 1 black, 1 white , stick together like 2 peas in a pod on the job: eating, working, smoking, breaking & gossiping- as women oftentimes tend to do. The white friend invites the black friend out where she introduces her black friend to a group of white friends in this manner "This is (person) my 'n#gg# ' friend!"
When I heard this story from reliable sources, I became angry at the situation. Angry at both women and angry that in 2012, people are still so insensitive - referring to the "N" word in such a jovial manner... not to mention at the expense of another person's feelings.
Reportedly, the woman was so "hurt" by this introduction, she came to work and told all what transpired on their friend's night out!
On my job, I'm friendly to everyone. I'm a professional woman who doesn't feel the need to resort to racially demeaning tactics in order to impress and circumvent a sense of entitlement or show people what a true "ass" I really am! What you see in me, is what you get. I think after hearing about this situation, more diversity is called for in the workplace. More enlightened conversation between those we think of as friends of different races, and more self respect for all!
What's your take on yet another conversation about Race in America?