I'm kind of surprised that no one here has commented on your use of the word 'redneck'. I live in Tennessee and wasn't allowed to use it because my parents were from 'up north'. Obviously, it doesn't have the ugly history of the 'N' word or whatnot, but you're still revealing a prejudice here.
As a result of limited exposure to postmodern society, rednecks are more likely to be xenophobic. It may not be pretty, but it (literally) comes with the territory.
The best way of dealing with these people? Don't. When they use words that offend you, try to think about something else. If you can't, just remember that these guys aren't the only prejudiced people in the room, that you all are influenced by your environment, and that you all have a different purpose in life. Their purpose is probably not international relations, and your purpose is probably not working with rednecks for the rest of your life.
|