Ethnically Speaking by Larry Meeks

Dear Larry: Recently I was asked to participate in a survey at work about my experiences as a male in the nursing profession. I refused because when it asked for my race, mine was not listed. Like most of the United States population, I am a white/Caucasian. The only race listed that came close to what I am was European-American.

I came from a foster home and my parentage is unknown. As far as I know, my heritage could be from under a slime-covered rock.

Larry, am I being too sensitive? Would society as a whole benefit from my participation in the survey anyway?

I have another issue regarding my profession: A nurse with a Ph.D. who is a prolific writer in my field claims there is a lot of lateral violence among nurses. This writer says lateral violence can be raising eyebrows, making a face, turning away, bickering or gossip. It is labeled violence because there are victims.

I do not know whether I agree with the writer because I make a face when I have indigestion and raise my eyebrows when I am surprised by juicy gossip. Am I unknowingly being violent toward my co-workers?

Larry, what is your opinion? — Phil

Dear Phil: Regarding your first issue: Yes, I think you are being too sensitive. If you are identified as white, then list yourself accordingly. In this overly race/gender/sexual preference-conscience country, there is still a mammoth effort to ensure all professions are nondiscriminatory. The only way to gather the information to ensure fairness is via surveys. Your participation is helpful.

I pray for the day when all of this self-identity will not be necessary. Until then, comply.

Next issue: I have never heard of lateral violence. I did some research, and the only reference I could find is what you quoted regarding the nursing profession. This writer may have coined the expression just for nurses. I am not sure I would agree it should be called violence.

I believe what the writer is saying must be viewed in context. Her words by themselves can be refuted handily and made to look ridiculous. We all know, at certain times raising eyebrows, making faces, turning away, etc. can be rude, disrespectful and unprofessional. However, calling it violence, in my opinion, is a stretch.

Dear Larry: I am a 42-year-old mother of three grown children. I vote in every election, don't break the law, don't drink, have a husband in the military, attend church and am a responsible member of society.

When you first meet me, the first thing you will notice is the big bright red tattoo on my neck that I have had for more than 12 years. It is an expression of what I am, and it distinguishes me in a crowd. My tattoo is body art, and I would not trade it for the world.

I have caught a lot of grief for it from close-minded people. Larry, I agree you are entitled to not like tattoos, but honestly, I can't help but feel just a little sorry for you.

I would take the nice lady with the tattoo over the appropriately dressed weasel that pulls a fast one using his suit and tie as a costume of respectability. — Teresa

Dear Teresa: I would, also. However, I still do not like tattoos.

To find out more about Larry Meeks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2007 CREATORS SYNDICATE INC.