‘White Noise’ Red Flags - OAF

White noise red flags are phrases that immediately trigger my brain to save power and disregard the rest of the message. These phrases are often OAFs (opinions as fact) which are all, at best, TBU (true but useless).

• If it were me…

• I know/understand what you’re saying

• It seems like you…

• I think…

• …should…

• …could have…

• … is offensive.

• …isn't about race.

• All I did was…

• Only/Just/Simply

• The whole point is…

• … is the right thing to do.

• As a *insert non-Black marginalization*…

• Technically/Actually/Basically…

• I agree, but…

• I’m confused…

• At the end of the day…

• Here’s the thing…

• The real issue is…

Now that you know these, I have a feeling you will notice how often OAFs and TBU statements are used to shut down critical thinking and constructive conversations.

Good luck!

- WWW