In the short time that I've been posting here, I've probably ruffled the feathers some people by asking questions about traditions that are highly esteemed by them {such as Morris dancing and the custom of blacking up}.

I also know that my mention of race/ethnicity has irritated or angered some folks here who believe that this music site and/or music in general [is or should be] color-blind.

But I'm pleased to say that I've had only a few 'nasty' [mean]comments. Also [though this wasn't the question]I would add that there have only been a few occasions in my 5 months posting here that I've received what I would consider to be purposely racially offensive public posts or argumentative PMs.

On those occassions other members/guests have posted supportive comments on the forum and I have received supportive PMs.

Usually I try to 'play pass' {ignore}these comments and those commentors. Once it seems clear to me that a person is commenting for the fight of it all, and not genuinely seeking information or understanding, I disengage. So yes, I have walked away from threads and will continue to do so. Some people may think that I shouldn't walk away from a pot after I had stirred it up..but my intention has never been to raise an issue to provoke an argument or to declare my position {the only right one} and any other position completely wrong.

With regard to subjects such as the aforementioned Morris dancing and blackening up, I feel that as a result of my engagement I better understand the folks who are involved in those traditions and I believe that many of them better understand my concerns...Therefore I count it worth posting to such threads or introducing such threads to be worth the possibility or reality that some people will be annoyed at me.

Although I don't want to be considered as speaking for any other person or any other African American but myself, sometimes I do find myself giving the [a] Black point of view or seizing an opportunity and turning it into a teaching moment {to raise awareness about African American culture and perspectives}. It's my nature to do so and I've clearly admitted it's part of the reason why I'm here {or if I didn't clearly admit it-I do so now}.

Hopefully more African Americans and other people of color will begin to post regularly on Mudcat Cafe.

This place is so rich in information and generally so welcoming that it would be a shame for newcomers of any race or ethnicity to be turned off by the atypical few.

Ms. Azizi