If you’re working with American Indians on a daily basis and you happen not to be one, inviting your co-workers to an office “powwow” or asking them to “hold down the fort” while you're away, is a sure way to get yourself into trouble, according to an article in Diversity Inc.
Among the other things your American Indian colleagues may find offensive:
Being called “chief,” “Indian-giver” or “Squaw”
Being asked how Indian they are
Being asked if they live in a teepee
But it occurs to us that this doesn't even begin to cover it. If you are American Indian, we know you’ve heard it all. Help your non-Indian colleagues out. Raise their awareness by sharing your stories of workplace insensitivity. Post your comments here.
