Racism: The Impossible Discussion ...

[Behind the Aegis]

3. Not impossible but certainly difficult.

I see it from the other side and can empathize with the difficulty you and other AA members face, especially in the light of some horrific racist events and their aftermaths. As a Jew, I see it here with regards to anti-Semitism...A LOT! As a gay man, I don't see too much push back in regards to homophobia, but there is quite of bit of "fag" jokes that seem to get the "ok" from allegedly "progressive" posters.

It is difficult, but don't let them bog you down with "the dictionary says..." it is nothing more than a misdirection. I actually have a pat response in regards to anti-Semitism, I post it, then re-focus the discussion. If that doesn't work and they keep blathering on about the "definition", then s/he isn't worth the time, and unless a bigger point can be made, I move on to something/one else. I don't know if it will help you, but it might.

"How is this any different having a climate change discussion with a fox-watching conservative?"

In some cases, the is absolutely NO difference, but there are some, who with time, do come to understand. But, let's be honest, sometimes, it is nothing but a damn exercise in futility.