PSA: Some may notice that in Black & other communities of color, we're very formal in addressing elders or even peers that we're not personally associated with. Why? It's about respect. Either for their status as elders in our community or their professional position. It's a big

deal to us, ingrained from childhood. Calling a grown person by their 1st name is reserved for close intimate friendship or relationship. So calling President Obama "Barry" or even "Barack" or VP Harris "Kamala" is wildly to disrespectful to Black folx. You all think it's cute.

It's not at all to us. It's a reminder to us of the disrespect & disdain historically & presently for Black folx. Our parents & grandparents were often not given their rightful respect by many in the whyte community. So I explain this to say, some of us may "come for you". Others

With all rules, there are "carve-outs". When we in the Black community refer to the President Obama or MVP Harris by their 1st name, we're strictly talking as family. Family can use 1st names amongst & with family. Yes, it can be confusing if you're not family. Only family can do

this. Don't call us out about it. Context is EVERYTHING. If you're privy to family discussion, count yourself fortunate that we're comfortable to let you listen in. You're considered trustworthy. Don't repeat family business. Nothing will get you removed from family faster than

to repeat family business. Especially, if you're not a true member of family. Just 2b clear, Teena Marie was family. If she were alive, she was exempt from the rules. Believe it or not, I don't make the rules. I do follow them, and I'm explaining this bc I want to prevent

unnecessary strife.

@BunneeShelton Well said!

@Fleurdelisazure Thanks Doll.

@BunneeShelton I’ve taught my children to call adults Ms., Miss, or Mr plus first name. Should I be teaching them to use Ms, Miss, Mr and last name? 🤔 Should i ask folks their preference?

@Riginal_Zen I would ask their preference. Used 2b, we never used 1st names but younger generations are more comfortable with Ms/Mr Teri/Terry.

@ElonMuskSuckz Actually, if you don't know their surname or first name, you can go with Miss Lady. Much better than ma'am.