Let’s Play: Is Idaho Racist?

This is the conversation no one wants to hear but everyone has an opinion on. It's an issue that has been talked about so much it's almost taboo to discuss. Is Idaho racist?

Speaking as a person of color that has lived in Boise for the better part of seven years, my opinion is, well... No. Sure, I've heard the ignorant comment directed toward me every now and again (see Facebook message written to my girlfriend over the weekend). But it's nothing worse than I've heard in Florida, Minnesota and Washington State.

It's true Idaho (more so northern Idaho) has the reputation of being an Aryan Nation and Natzi stronghold. But it's 2014. They got kick out of the state RIGHT? So... Is Idaho racist?

Idaho does boast Black and Hispanic lawmakers. That must mean Idaho is definitely NOT racist. Right? Not to mention Boise State has a very diverse student body that ranks #1163 nation wide! Think about that for a second, there are only 1163 colleges in America that have higher diversity than Idaho's most popular college, Boise State. Have you seen a Boise State Football or Basketball game? Enough said. And think of all the minority news broadcasters you see reporting the news in Boise. Even Idaho law enforcement is a shining example of diversity. (See diverse picture of Idaho law enforcement) So how could Idaho possibly have the reputation of being racist?

In all seriousness, this is one of the most accepting places I have ever lived. Sure, things happen. This whole blog post was inspired by a Facebook message my girlfriend received over the weekend.

Now years ago this message may have really upset me. I probably would have gone on the radio and blasted this guy's ignorance and intelligence. I would have pointed out that I've never been arrested, have a ten year career in broadcasting, own my own house, have a 401K, IRA, Roth IRA and stock options. So frankly, I'm too good for his tree. I would have also pointed out his many grammar errors. But today I won't because this young man is not a racist. I believe he's ignorant, uneducated and upset. He has my pity.

See, today that mindset, those words don't mean anything to me. His goal was to upset someone and it failed miserably. You wanna get at me? Words can't do it. And just because an individual spouts off the mouth some ignorant comment or the N word doesn't mean he's a racist in my opinion.

If you have ever had racially charged words directed towards you, here is your idea light bulb. It's only upsetting if you believe it. For example, if I were to say something ridiculous like, "The sun, it's purple!" Nobody would care because nobody would believe it. It's only when someone believes we are living under a purple sun do the riots and the end of society start. The second you believe the ridiculousness is when it becomes meaningful/dangerous.

So....Is Idaho racist? Let me know what you think.