> I'm constantly surprised by the casual racism displayed on DC's ubiquitous neighborhood mailing lists and discussion forums. But at this point maybe that says

> I'm constantly surprised by the casual racism displayed on DC's ubiquitous neighborhood mailing lists and discussion forums. But at this point maybe that says more about me than my neighbors :/ A general point that might apply to your situation (which I know nothing about): Speaking up can make a big difference. Human beings follow and get their ideas from the herd; if they see everyone making racists comments, they think it's the way to do things and join in. If they don't like it and see nobody else objecting (like you do), they assume they are alone and don't speak up. It's a self-reinforcing system. If someone speaks up - respectfully and genuinely - then they greatly encourage others who feel the same and also they disrupt the idea that everyone shares these ideas; they show that there is an alternative. Even if the speaker gets some heat and little support at first, IME things often turn around (as long as they keep their cool). Many people just follow the herd without much thought; few are naturally hateful. At worst, the others who feel like you do won't feel as depressed about the state of humanity.