7 Things Not To Say To A POC | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Politics and Activism

7 Things Not To Say To A POC

The basics on how to not be ignorant.

293
7 Things Not To Say To A POC
kenfagerdotcom / Flickr

Going to college, you'll meet all kinds of people. You'll meet people from the same county as you and you'll meet someone from a country with no people of color (POCs). That's my experience going to college. Microaggressions are so common when you leave where you are from and realize you are a minority.

Not everyone knows some things can't be said because of where they're from, and some people do and are just ignorant.

This article is for those who want to learn and be more cautious with they say to POCs.

1. Do not use or call someone a racial slur for your own recreation.

This is probably the most common I see, being black and mixed it's easy for some people to think:

"Hey, there's not a black person in here. Let me say something funny and use the N-word at the end as a punch line."

"There's not black people in here, I can use the N-word."

Or the unicorn:

"I hear it in rap music so it's alright."

Black people only use the N-word because it's rightfully theirs.

2. "YAS, girl!" "Oh my God, girl." "Hey, girlfriend!" "Sup, sista!"

I don't think this one needs much of an explanation. Using a fake slang accent is a no-no. It's trying to assimilate to a culture that's not your own — it's very annoying and it prompts looks.

3. "Is that your real hair?" or assuming that their hair is not real.

This is just rude and ignorant. Hair is an amazing art form and it has yet to be mastered to its full potential.

4. Calling them ghetto.

At this point there is no trying at life, you're probably already dead.

5. "I'm darker than you — Look I'm blacker than you-"

I don't understand why people compare themselves to lighter-skinned POCs it doesn't change the fact that they have lesser life chances just distinguished through the ethnicity.

6. Do not wear other cultures!

No, you can't be Native American for Halloween or wear a bindi because it's pretty. These are cultures that other people cherish and try to salvage. Because of the increase in western traditions, it's harder to keep other cultures.

7. "You're so different for a ____ person."

What does that mean? Generalizations are never the answer. Not everyone is the same, yeah there are stereotypes for a reason, but that does not apply to everyone.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

6613
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
college

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

3085
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

2277
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less
Entertainment

11 Signs You Live At The Library As Told by 'Parks And Recreation'

A few signs that you may live in the library whether you'd like to admit it or not.

2139
brown wooden book shelves with books

Finals week is upon us. It is a magical time of year during which college students everywhere flock to the library in attempt to learn a semester's worth of knowledge in only a week. For some students, it's their first time in the library all semester, maybe ever. Others have slaved away many nights under the fluorescent lights, and are slightly annoyed to find their study space being invaded by amateurs. While these newbies wander aimlessly around the first floor, hopelessly trying to find a table, the OGs of the library are already on the third floor long tables deep into their studies. Here is a few signs that you may live in the library, whether you'd like to admit it or not.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments