top of page

So how do they (we) feel when being asked?

 

        No, not every biracial person is offended when they are asked their ethnicity.  Yes, there are some who are consistently upset when others ask, and I think this is a matter of opinion.  There are some people who are annoyed because they are upset that you feel the need to ask.  For example, parents often feel offended when asked “What is he/she mixed with?”  They often want to protect their child, and feel as if you are asking to be demeaning is some type of way.  (Desmond-Harris)  But as for me, I am not usually offended, unless you ask in the wrong fashion.  If someone has a more polite approach than, “What are you?” and they are more likely to get a smile and a pleasant response.  If asked rudely, or out of context, I often do not take the questions lightly.  So be careful when asking, because you never know how that specific person may react.

bottom of page