What's a good way to respond to statements like these?

Question

I am a black American. I grew up in a very urban area, and it was the norm in my neighborhood for everyone to use a lot of slang when they spoke, and to use use words like "ain't" and to drop the "g" from words ending in "ing". My parents made sure that my family did not follow these habits.

I frequently get questions (from co-workers, from extended family, etc.), such as, "Why do you talk like that", or " Where do you come from" or even comments like, "How does it feel to be a white girl in a black body".

I feel that this is wrong on so many levels, and offensive besides. I'm not sure how to respond without sounding like I'm being defensive.

Answer 1

How about, "The ability to articulate clearly lends to one's credibility."

Edit: And, "My parents taught me better."

Answer 2

they aren't trying to insult you, but understand you. Its actually somewhat of a good thing. Because you are breaking what they believe to be the norm for the black society and educating them. So my advice is to be honest but polite.
Just tell them your mother raised you right, and taught you how to speak correctly. That just because they see something on television doesn't mean that it is correct.
Your co-workers are most likely impressed but going about showing it the wrong way. It is up to you to straighten them out.
If that doesn't work, then just ask them "how it feels to be an ape in a human body" they'll get the hint. lol

Answer 3

haha! I get the same thing (although I am mixed so it's to be "expected") I work in a professional setting (law firm) and I don't speak bad english. So to some I am "whitewashed" but I just choose to talk like I have some sense! While other girls "get thizzed"(sp?) and talk like they have no damn intelligence - I get my money!! So I just ignore what others say and so should you. We don't have to fall under the stereotype to be black. Some women choose that........others don't.
This guy I am talking to said "you are gonna have a big culture shock when you get with me!" WTF!! I was so mad. He made the assumption that I don't know anything about black culture because I don't speak the way "he thinks" a black girl should speak. I prefer not to talk like "BAPS" (haha) I am to educated to do that.
Don't even worry about it girl!! Who cares.......we cannot help it if we are educated!!

Answer 4

I am an educated woman who chooses to use appropriate language, it has nothing to do with the color of my skin.

P.S if anything you should ask them how does it feel to be ignorant! They should not define you by the color of your skin or geographical upbringing to determine how educated you should be!

Answer 5

Wow. Huh... I would either ignore them or say something like, "Like white girls, there are many types of black girls." Or something like that.

I've been asked why I don't "act" gay and I say that there are innumerable types of gay men, not just one stereotype.

Answer 6

Tell them that you're from Vermont and tell them you're not black but just tan really nicely and thank them for noticing!