Discrimination, racial/ethnic jokes - you can't just say "loosen up" because it's a joke?

Question

Discrimination affects European-Americans the least. Since they're the dominant race in America,
caucasian sterotypes don't significantly affect them in any way. Sure, there are the ridiculous sterotypes such as white people can't jump...but that doesn't stop them from being in basketball, track, etc. On the other hand, the sterotypes of blacks that they're not intelligent and that Latinos are lazy results in discrimination in the work place. When was the last time you've seen a rich, top executive on TV that was black or Hispanic? And for Asians - when was the last time you've seen an Asian guy in a non-martial arts, non-nerdy, non-comical movie/tv role?

Every race has sterotypes, but these sterotypes affect the caucasian group the LEAST.

Jokes about certain a certain group will only increase sterotypes and help further discrimination.

Any thoughts?

Answer 1

I was just denied the opportunity to apply to rent an apartment, despite showing that I can easily pay the rent and have excellent references. Why? As the property manager explained to me, I have no recourse because I'm not a 'protected' class - a person of color or other perceived disadvantage. So, the legal system won't help me as it would one of them.

Discrimination against anyone is wrong and is NOT FUNNY.

Constantly cracking jokes about white Americans does harm - even though you claim it is less than the harm done to others. It creates a social acceptance of bigotry against those persons. If harm is done, as you say, it is NOT OKAY.

Answer 2

white people can't jump is not a stereo type that is the truth. White people can't dance I think is more of a stereotype. I think folks should lighten up.

While we are on the subject of movie role here is one for you. A recurring character called "the magic *****" many times the only black character in a movie. The black charcter that saves or give advice to the main White character. (i.e. orpheus) there are tons of examples. Apollo Creed in Rocky (not a great ex.)

Answer 3

out of curiosity are you a european-american?

Ive gotta tell you, as a white-irish american ive seen a lot more caucasian stereotyping than 'white guys cant junp.' how about that we're uptight, racist, ignorant, cause all the world's harm and injustice, are all stinking rich, have no empathy for the rest of the world, did i say are to blame for all the world's harm and injustice?

Ive seen countless black and hispanic comedians joke about caucasians, and honestly i dont mind. i think its funny, but theres no way a white comedian could get away with as many racial stereotypes..

Answer 4

Maybe I'm not the brunt of a joke (usually) but I am discriminated against. And I'm caucasian so I guess discrimination gets all over the place.

Answer 5

So whats your point. We are all different one way or another. What ever colour - race - religion we are. it won't make a dime a difference to the feelings we have of each other.
The Lord gave us something to think about, what that was, who knows, but he did a dam good job of making it interesting.
So much so, he has decided that if we don't figure something out soon, he may need to start again with another Ark of animals.
Hopefully next time round he gets it right.

Answer 6

Not really...ever heard of the "White Collar Comedy Tour"?
I find those guys and their humor MUCH funnier than ANY other brand of humor out there....sorry, just don't get into the ethnic jokes.....never thought they were terribly funny generally speaking...

Answer 7

The bottom line is that it's a joke if you make yourself the target, it's aggression if someone else, anyone else, is the target.

Answer 8

tread lightly and carry a big stick

Answer 9

I think you're wrong and just plain bitter.