9 - Identity-Based Questions/Statements

Question 1

I just met this new Asian co-worker and asked her where she was from. She looked offended, then said “St. Louis,” but obviously that’s not what I meant.

Answer 1

Asian - perpetual foreigner

Question 2

I’m offended by these Black Lives Matter protestors. Why focus on Black lives? Shouldn’t all lives matter? We’re never going to get anywhere if we just keep dividing ourselves.

Answer 2

Black Lives Matter vs All Lives Matter

Question 3

There are some old people who just give up, I think. They hit a certain age and they stop doing anything. Not me, ever since I retired I do all sorts of things, I travel, I volunteer, I attend all these meetings now. You just have to keep going.

Answer 3

overcoming narrative

Question 4

The thing is, adults need to keep an eye on young people. When I was a teenager, I made all kinds of stupid decisions. You want to tell me that we should just let them roam the streets doing whatever they want?

Answer 4

targeting of youth

Question 5

It’s just so annoying that I can’t say “Merry Christmas” anymore, that we have to call everything a “holiday” party when it’s always been a Christmas party. I feel like I’m being attacked for being Christian.

Answer 5

“attack” on Christianity

Question 6

All I know is that when I was younger, there were just two boxes to check - male or female, boy or girl. Now kids are all confused, boys acting like girls and girls acting like boys and all of these different labels. Why does it matter? Who cares What you’ve got in your pants? Who cares who you sleep with?

Answer 6

gender/sexual orientation - social construction