In what has become the most popular area of DiversityInc.com, Luke Visconti, DiversityInc CEO, offers readers the opportunity to confidentially ask questions regarding diversity.
Question:
I am a well-educated, middle class black woman from upstate New York. Why do some white people speak to me in slang? It's as though they think they need to talk "cool" (in their perception) to be understood by me. Also, why do some white people appear surprised when they first see me after having spoken to me on the phone? Why, why, why do some white people think black people don't speak the king's English?
Answer:
Almost everyone has to deal with white people, but most white people live a highly segregated life--especially socially. This leads to discomfort in business and social interactions--that's where you'll hear dumb talk and stupid "accents." (See also: 'You're So Articulate')
One of the highest "cringe factor" things a person can do is use an accent or lingo that does not belong to them.
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