My 2 cents
A little late to the mound, and haven't read the whole thread, but I think I can see what its all about. For some perspective, I am half east indian, half white.
I believe stereotypes exist for a reason. They came from somewhere, and are at least partially true. Yes most cab drivers in Vancouver are east indian, and obviously they speak their own languages. Wouldn't you if you went to a foreign country where you couldn't speak the language? These cab drivers may not be the cleanliest people, or the nicest, or even the most polite, but is that indicative of all east indians?
That said, I believe stereotypes are not racism. What is racism, is when you allow stereotypes to blur your vision. Of course, judge me, its a simple fact of life. I have no problem with that, but judge me after you meet me. Doing so before is racism.
Im going to share a little story with you guys. I lived in Atlanta for a few months where there is a large black population. You would not believe the amount of stereotypes and racism that floats around there. I was simply shocked.
Anyways, I was walking on the street downtown with a friend one day, and this black guy (probably homeless) comes up to me and says, "Give me your shirt!". I told him to fuck off obviously, but that sort of experience will change your perspective. However, while I did come to know many stereotypes, im not a sheep. Sure I learned why those stereotypes exist, but more importantly, I learned to also judge someone for who they are.
My self-confidence isn't the greatest, but imagine being rejected by an SP simply cause they don't like east-indians. That would be crushing. I respect them and their choices, all I ask is the same in return.
Just a question, does anyone actually believe that Miss Shay would come into this thread and not flat out deny her alleged statements?
And Miss Shay, im not saying that I agree with anything in this thread, but if taking Cabs upsets you so much, why not bike, take public transportation, get a driver? I know that this point has been made, but why expose yourself to such an environment if its going bring hate and racism into your life?