“... what was this genius thinking?”
Before a former soldier where I worked turned me in for “politically incorrect thought,” (no kidding) I spoke with everyone I could who had recently separated from the military. I wanted their perspectives on whatever they wanted to talk about. A couple of them were as liberal as any indoctrinated college student who believes in global warming, chem trails, etc. The black guy who turned me in for “politically incorrect thought” sounded like the type who would visit Iran or North Korea because they just know our government is lying about them. It can be painful and life altering to be stupid.
As for the accusation, the HR manager “snuck” into my cube at work and warned me to never talk* to that young man again. He could ignore the charge this time, but if it happened again, I’d be either written up and/or fired. To say I was stunned that such a thing could happen at General Dynamics understates my feelings. (It was pretty common that if any black person lodged a complaint against a white person who wasn’t a manager, that white guy was fired. White privilege card not accepted here.)
* I was always on the lookout to get recognition for line employees who had done something special. I’d gotten a few cash awards given to them over the years. That came to a screeching halt. I never spoke to anyone I didn’t already know again.
“As for the accusation, the HR manager “snuck” into my cube at work and warned me to never talk* to that young man again.”
After a couple of similar experiences during my time in the corporate world, I warned my kids to NEVER get too ‘comfortable’ with someone who “looks like America” (meaning anyone other than white males) as they can have you on the street the next day, if they decide to. That simple.
I’ve also heard that the handful of straight white teachers that aren’t banging their high school kiddies are also in the same fear, as many actually do get THREATENED from future coeds, telling them that they may just team up an put an end to the guy’s career. Pretty much INSANE now for a normal white guy to EVER consider that profession.