@JLeslie Dear, @ETpro meant, I think, that What are you? implies a thing, not even a person. That is why he reacted so strongly, correctly. It is a sad reflection on society and humankind when we have to ask someone What are they? or even Who are they? simply because of their skin tone. But I understand what you are saying and I know you, too, mean no ill will. I am curious about someone’s origins and background too – and might ask them, once communication has been established. I think the OP, and then @ETpro in his way are talking about the same thing, but from different aspects in time and perspective; should it even matter, and, what do you say when someone says What are you? Who are you? when they haven’t even asked how you are doing and whether you’d like something to drink first…
Depending upon the situation – I might either walk away, tell them to fuck off, or tell them my background and ask about theirs.
Here, on the internet and without photos and names (for the most part, of course, barring those who choose to post them – bravely, I might add, we are all just posters. On Fluther: jellies. And it’s great how it doesn’t matter what your skin colour is, accent, gender sometimes.
But should someone want to know more about me, personally, beyond the Fluther “persona” and whatever I’ve written, say, in a PM – they’d better ask politely and be prepared to share as well. And I’d like to know first and foremost where they are coming from, so to speak. You and I have shared private chats so I know you mean well and are earnest.