Would you call this being racism or discrimination?

Q: I DO NOT want to offend any Nationality. Just please let me know what you think. Would you call it being racism if I answer a question regarding living costs in the UAE different to i.e. an Indian/Paktistanis or a Westener? Telling an Indian/Pakistani that he is doing good receiving a salary i.e. Dhs 4.000 and tell a Westerner he should not get less than Dhs 20.000? Sometimes I have my problems answering these questions about living costs/standards because I do not want to offend any Nationality. No Westerners are looking for i.e. shared accomodation. Indians would not mind to share one room in a villa for an whole family. No Westerner would do that. How to avoid to offend any Nationality? How to avoid being called a racist? I receive emails and violation notices regarding this. Is it my fault that Asians do not mind to share rooms and Westerners do not? Is it my fault that different Nationalities have a different life style? Thanks in advance!

A: In my personal perspective I think being told upfront is a better choice than being misled by the words from one who is afraid of offending someone. On observation I don't actually think you have been obviously and deliberately rude to anybody. Maybe a lot of people prefer a cushioned way of accepting opposing opinions. Paraphrasing to a less opinionated tone can maybe help, although as I repeat, I haven't really seen an answer of yours that is downright offending. It should help not to generalize too. Most of time stereotypes are downright truths but like anywhere else, difference in lifestyle and status exists in every country. No offense on your statement, but saying that "Asians do not mind to share rooms" is basically saying that ALL Asians don't mind sharing rooms, which is of course not entirely true. Some can be downright picky as well. Living standards vary not only across race but also on one's social standing, education, personality and a lot more other factors. Perhaps it depends on how open-minded your readers are. I personally don't readily take offense but some people are quick to be outraged when they perceive that you are probably adding insult to injury. Whether some people like it or not, you have obviously been a great help to a lot of real people seeking real answers to real questions in this section. If you feel the satisfaction in that then you can probably just waive off negative vibes. Cheers!

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