Don't Call Me White
NOFX (usa) Lyrics

Don't call me white, don't call me white
The repetition underscores the importance of the statement

The connotations wearing my nerves thin
The negative associations with the label of 'white' are causing frustration

Could it be semantics generating the mess we're in?
Questioning whether the issue is simply a matter of word choice causing misunderstandings

I understand that language breeds stereotype
Recognizing that language can contribute to harmful stereotypes

But what's the explanation for the malice, for the spite?
Expressing confusion over why people would act with hostility towards someone based on their race

I wasn't brought here, I was born
Rejecting the notion that being white is a choice

Circumcised, categorized, allegiance sworn
Describing how one is assigned a label of 'white' despite not having chosen it

Does this mean I have to take such shit
Questioning why being white seems to make someone deserving of mistreatment

For being fair skinned? No!
Asserting that skin color should not be a basis for judgement or discrimination

I ain't a part of no conspiracy, I'm just you're average joe
Disclaiming any involvement in any type of scheme or agenda based on being white

Represents everything I hate
The label of 'white' is associated with things the singer dislikes

The soap shoved in the mouth to cleanse the mind
Metaphor for how the idea of being white is forced upon people and used to reinforce certain beliefs

The vast majority of sheep
Critiquing the conformity and lack of diversity among people labeled as white

A buttoned collar, starched and bleached
Metaphor for the rigid, uniform expectations placed on people categorized as white

Constricting veins, the blood flow to the brain slows
Metaphor for how these expectations can limit one's ability to think critically and creatively

They're so fuckin ordinary white
Bemoaning the lack of uniqueness or individuality among people identified as white

Oh, we're better off this way?
Sarcastic questioning of the idea that there are benefits to being labeled as white

Oh, say what you're gonna say
Exasperated demand for honesty and directness

So go ahead and label me an asshole
Acknowledging that some may see the sentiment expressed in the song as rude or offensive

'cause I can accept responsibility for what I've done
Taking accountability for one's actions, but not wanting to be judged based on race

But not for who I am
Rejecting the notion that race should be a defining factor in one's identity