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I find discussions like this one only seem to prolong racism in general. I know that it if something is wrong it should be highlighted but it can, sometimes, be counter productive to highlight every difference between points of view.
I only dislike or like very few people. That is because I have only got limited experience of most people. I, in my lifetime have only met perhaps 5 or 10 thousand people in the world, clearly a tiny fraction. This means that, to varying degrees, I can allow myself to form an opinion on some people. Everybody else, I can not comment on in any sensible way.
Taking this one step further, this means I cannot understand the motives of someone putting up a black (or white) effigy for Halloween. They may be doing it for fun or to make some racist point or because they are ignorant of the offence someone else may take. I am in no position to judge.
This means I can go about the world knowing that most people don't know me and whatever they do is not focussed at me so I don't need to be offended. I may be horrified, disgusted or delighted and pleased but I never, ever need to feel offended. (except if I know the person who did/said it).
I deliberately try not to be offended, so I understand squeeb's point about lightening up but I think this applies to everyone, not just 'black people' but squeeb, white people, christians, muslims and just about every category of people you can name.
Rant over.
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