Sometimes you won’t relate — and that’s OK
Why every writing staff needs a minority writer and editor who understands other minorities
“I don’t care what the difference is between a hijab, niqab or a burka,” the editor told me. “Just call it a burka and move on.”
“I do care,” I shot back. “And considering this post is about how Muslim women are treated post-9/11, her attire matters.”
“But no one knows the difference between the three,” she responded.
“And that’s the entire reason to leave those lines in the post explaining what they are,” I said. “Even if a few didn’t care before, they’ll at least know now.”
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She deleted my headwear explanation anyway. I shook my head and scowled. I can’t say I was surprised. This was one of many times I’d dealt with an editor who didn’t give a damn about anyone’s culture that wasn’t hers. It is one of a million reasons why editorial staff should be diverse. Whether you know it or not, your writing team is better with that other “seat at the table.”