Hello, Lakitha. Thanks for the note. Your point is well taken, that White people "will excuse or ignore racist behavior from other white people because the other white person was nice to them. It’s another reason why I can’t trust white people to determine my safety in any given situation that involves other white people!"

I hear what you are saying. And it does make me realize that if I witness racism, I should call it out. May I ask, do you call it out when you see it--say, at the supermarket or Post Office? (I haven't noticed it at those places, but am imagining a scenario.)

That brings me back to high school....the "popular" or "mean" girls would sometimes bully one girl, who looked different (White like them, but with different, not beautiful hair and clothing, etc.) It would happen in the locker room after gym class.

To this day, I regret that I didn't walk up to them and say, "Hey, cut it out. Leave her alone." But I was an unsure high schooler in my own way, too, and was afraid to do that. I did not want to risk my luck at skirting their meanness (most of the time).

I don't think it will surprise you to learn that those of us Whites who say we want racial equality do not hold friendships with racist people....unless we are related to them by birth or marriage, we pretty much try to not associate with them. If we do have to, the people I know have discussions and question that thwarted view.

I daresay, though, that the "sit down and shut up, White people" line is offensive. Would you agree?

Thanks.

Best, Alice