Them, "You're from Arkansas?"
Me, "Yup."
Them, "Why would anyone want to live in Arkansas? It's just a bunch of rednecks and cows."
Me, "I used to wonder the same thing about Chicago. Why would anyone want to live among a bunch of gang members and homeless people?"
Them, "What? Chicago's not like that."
Me, "And you're just as wrong about Arkansas."
My point is: I firmly believe that there is not a state in our country that doesn't have stereotypes. And yes, stereotypes come from somewhere. There are rednecks in Arkansas. There are gangs in Chicago. There are ditzy blondes in California. There are rude people in New York. There are potato farmers in Idaho. However, this does NOT mean that everyone in the state exactly the same!
While these stereotypes are excellent fodder for comedians, they are not acceptable in everyday life! I used to just shake my head in disappointment and chalk it up to ignorance. Then, I decided, "Why is ignorance okay? Why is it an acceptable excuse?" It's not. Please know that, if I hear you talk about the South as a bunch of dumb hicks, I will gently correct you. Or not so gently ... it really depends on what you said. :)
So, as a public service for anyone who holds these stereotypes, let me clear up a few things about myself:
- I wear shoes.
- I grew up with running water.
- I have never had a romantic relationship with a relative.
- I am not an idiot.
- I like my Southern accent.
- I own nothing with the Confederate flag on it because I understand the war is over.
- I have been to a museum.
- I don't think of myself as better or worse than you because of where I'm from.
- I don't think the South will "rise again" because I don't know where exactly it would rise from or to.
- I was not pregnant at age 12.
- I have a college degree.
- I do not own one gun, let alone many guns that would necessitate a rack.
- I am not a racist.
- I do not own a pair of overalls.
I'm sure there is more to clear up about myself, but just ask and I'll tell you. And now, I will end with a quote from Martin Luther King, Jr.
"Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance and conscientious stupidity."
