I have had to endure racism as a hospital intern.
For older white patients who say racially insensitive remarks without intending to offend, I politely "correct" them if you will, and they are for the most part grateful.
For the white supremacists that occasionally come in, I treat them with respect and dignity, without expecting any back in return. Even if they do treat me with great disrespect, question my "American-ness", or look down on me in general.
I would hope my professionalism and respect speak volumes and will help them readjust their "racial" perspective.
Many SDNers like to dismiss racism directed against minority group doctors (it's true, look up some old posts on the issues), but the truth is racism hurts, and hurts a lot. It's easy for someone who has never experienced racism to dismiss it casually, but to those who have endured it--even regularly--it is emotionally scarring.
I'm Asian American if anyone cares to ask...
A little unusual to quote yourself...
Anyway, the question was, what did the older white patients say?
I'm surprised you aren't curious about the white supremacists.
Anyway, just to give you a little taste, I've been called:
a) Oriental (I find this term very insulting, especially if you look into the history of the word.)
b) China-man (yes...it's true...more insulting than (a))
c) Chink (hands down the most insulting...)
d) Jackie Chan
e) Jackie Chan
I'm Korean by the way.
Most of the "unintended" racism seems to come from older white males who have served in the military and took part in various tours: Vietnam, World War II (yes, really!), and the Korean War. This becomes more apparent after talking to them or seeing their military-related attire (caps, jackets, etc.).
They also don't consider me a true "American" and are surprised I was born in this country. *Sigh...
But their initial suspicions sort of fade away after seeing my kindness and professionalism--their suspicion not so much in my abilities but rather in my presence (as in, why am I here, in this country haha). I don't think these patients have ever questioned my abilities to conduct requested tasks and what not--though my South Asian, black, and Hispanic friends have had different (much worse) experiences.
Perhaps this is due to the fact that I'm East Asian, have a very light skin tone, and I'm a pretty big guy
🙂 (flex)
This isn't to say all older white patients are like this. Many can be very kind and open as well. These are just examples of racism.
To all you nay-sayers, I actually did a little experiment with my friend (who happens to be white). We would both tend to a older white male patient and compare and contrast our experiences. Mind you, we are both very amicable and professional. To make a long story short, if you have read my post in its entirety, both my friend and I agree I had experienced racism.
