Thursday, May 07, 2009

In a major fuck up, the Delaware Department of Transportation released these “Comments You Should Never Make to a Coworker,” highlighting offensive things to say to gays, Blacks, Whites, Asians, Indians, Spanish people and old folks

Delaware Department of Transportation: Diversity Spotlight

HIGHLIGHTS:
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender Co-workers* I don’t consider you gay.This is insensitive.* Have you thought about getting help?You are stereotyping, telling the person there’s something wrong that should be fixed.* Never call a co-worker “fag” or “homo.”This is derogatory, rude, and totally insensitive.* I didn’t need to hear that.If you aren’t interested in the person’s personal life, simply say “Thank you.”
African American Coworkers [sic]* The “N” wordYou may have heard comedians or African Americans use the word “nigger” casually. [ED: How come it's okay to say nigger in the commentary, but not in the example?] It is never, ever acceptable to use this word in any context. You are asking for trouble: leave this alone.* You peopleLet’s just say you are asking for trouble when you make this reference. The focus should be on the individual, not the race or culture.* Should we order fried chicken or watermelon for you?This is stereotyping and shows ignorance.
Asian Co-workers* You must be the new IT person.All Asians are not IT professionals.* Can you recommend a good Chinese restaurant?All Asians are not Chinese. Take some time to study a world map. The world is made up of continents with many countries, regions, cultures, and sub-cultures. Remember the news reports about a vice-presidential candidate who thought Africa was a country.
Older Co-workers* You know Wal Mart is hiring.This is not funny. An older employee has experience you could benefit from.
White Co-workers* I don’t trust white people; they are all racists.This is stereotyping and totally insensitive. Get to know the person or discuss why the actions may have offended you. Don’t generalize.
Co-workers with Disabilities* You don’t look disabled. Why do you have a handicapped sticker?The person may have a non-visible disability.* Never refer to a co-worker as “retard.”This is an insult to people with mental disabilities.
Hispanic/Latino Co-workers* You know we should send all of you back across the border.Don’t assume because people look differently or speak differently that they are not natural-born Americans. Where did your ancestors come from?* It is never acceptable to refer to a Hispanic/Latino co-worker as “spic,” “wet back,” or “hot footer.”This is derogatory.

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