The Colorado Rockies accused one of their own fans of racism for calling out the name of their mascot. That’s right: Our latest racism controversy revolves around a purple, polka-dotted dinosaur named Dinger.
This absurdity has become the norm in our national panics over racism. A Jeopardy! contestant using a hand gesture to indicate the No. 3? That’s a racism controversy. West Point cadets playing the schoolyard “circle game” on national TV? That’s not just a racism controversy: That’s two separate investigations by the United States Naval Academy and United States Military Academy.
Keeping track of what qualifies as racism is difficult, but these examples help us learn what to avoid. It’s racist to smile while a Native American man plays a drum in your face. It’s racist to crack your knuckles while driving, even if you are a Mexican American electric worker.
The term “owner” in sports is racist (thanks, NBA!). Bird names are also racist (thanks, Washington Post!). Racism abounds in syrup bottles, nonwhite cartoon characters voiced by white actors, and Dr. Seuss books. All of these are examples of racism, all dutifully highlighted by our “anti-racist” media to show just how racist our country really is.
Now, trying to get the attention of a purple dinosaur at a baseball game has been added to the list. Here’s hoping that Barney and friends don’t plan on going to a ballpark any time soon.
