[Billcat]

Hmmmm.....I've always viewed being racist as treating people differently primarily because of their race or ethnicity, rather than as individuals. Also, racism would include making generalizations (especially derogatory ones) about someone based on the same factors.

There are often gray areas....for instance, suppose I hold a fundraising event and notice that someone is wearing, say, jewelry with the Star of David. If I alert them to the fact that one of the dishes being served contains pork or shellfish (both non-Kosher foods) am I being considerate or racist? If I open the door for a lady, am I being polite or sexist?

Frankly, the various "isms," while are often very real, sometimes only exist in the eye of the beholder. It's probably best not to take offense unless you are sure that the offense was intentional. If it is unintentional, either let it it pass or express your concerns to the individual quitely and privately.

Treat folks as individuals, give them respect and try to follow the Golden Rule (even if they don't), and you'll do pretty well!