Posted by Dinah on January 31, 2003, at 21:05:59
In reply to standing by my view » OddipusRex, posted by IsoM on January 31, 2003, at 20:15:28
This kind of reminds me of the midget thread a while back. And yes, humor about groups does make me uncomfortable. Am I overly sensitive? If I am, I'm not going to apologize for it.
I know that "rednecks" are considered fair game for jokes. They aren't a recognized minority. The ones I know don't really mind and even find it funny, but that doesn't mean I'd use the term or make the jokes anyway. It's not really something they have a whole lot more control over than little people or people of color. I suppose that they could try to move up the social caste system, but why should they have to? To be more acceptable in the eyes of the majority? My mama taught me that you don't make fun of anyone, especially about something they can't change.
I always apply the word substitution test. Would it be funny if you substituted a vulnerable recognized minority group? If not, then perhaps it shouldn't be said.
Perhaps I am sensitive to this fact because some of my best friends married people who might be classified as rednecks. But it wouldn't make any difference. I would feel the same way about Ukrainian jokes, especially made by non-Ukrainians.
So Oddipus, while no one was trying to be unkind to you or to this social class, I'm sure, please don't feel that you are to be censured for caring. I admire it in you. And when people call you over-sensitive, say "Thank you" very politely. Because it's not a crime to be sensitive to the feelings of others.
(By the way, I also see practical jokes as socially accepted forms of aggression, so feel free to tell me that I have no sense of humor. I'm comfortable with that. :) )
Dinah
P.S. Didn't the term redneck come into being because the people were out working or playing in the outdoors a lot? Hardly a badge of shame.
poster:Dinah
thread:35991
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/social/20030120/msgs/36021.html