Texans are fiercely proud of our state and some small talk topics can actually come off as rude or out-of-touch. Texas isn’t just a state to us, it’s an entire way of life—from the love of BBQ to this bigger than life personality. And do not forget the cowboy culture!
In this list, we’ll share 8 things you should never say to someone from the Lone Star State.
Featured Image Credit: Alexander Hamilton /Pexels.com.
“Do You Ride a Horse to Work?”
This may look like a harmless joke, but it is an outdated stereotype. It is true Texas is known for its rich cowboy culture – but this question offends the modern lifestyle in Texas. Just like any other American city or suburb, Texans use cars to get to work (some of the biggest cars you’ll find on the market). The comment makes it seem like you think we are stuck in the past or something.
Texas Isn’t That Big, right?
No use creepin’ on Texas. People from Texas love to boast about living in the second-largest state in America (the second largest by both land area [behind Alaska] and population). It’s a simple fact that Texas is big but with the size comes diversity — and of course character. A statement like this may seem to minimize an essential component of Texas’ identity.
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“Your Accent is Funny!”
For so many Texans, our way of talking is a part of our regional heritage. Even if you mean it in a lighthearted way, calling their accent “funny” can make a Texan feel self-conscious & angry. Accents vary throughout Texas, but reducing the way someone speaks to a punchline is taking away from their culture. Instead, you should appreciate the uniqueness our way of talking carries.
“Why Do You All Love Guns So Much?”
Texans have a long history tied to independence and personal freedom —and for many, owning guns is part of that. In a critical tone, this question would feel like you are literally questioning Texans’ values and way of life. Residents may consider guns as a family tradition — part of their identity or essential for personal safety. This is a touchy one – so it should probably be approached with understanding and not judgment.
“It’s So Hot Here, How Do You Stand It?”
As a matter of fact – Texas is hot – especially in the summer. Of course, this is stating the obvious (and can come across as a lazy or even annoying thing to say to someone who grew up here). Texans are real about the weather and how to handle it. Nobody wants to hear how hot it is out there — and if all you do is whine about the heat, then why are you here in the first place?
“Texas BBQ is Meh”
Saying a Texan BBQ is not tasty – or that BBQ from another state beats our flavor standards and culture – is a sure way to start a fight. In Texas, BBQ is art & a real way of life — Texans do not take it lightly.
“You Must Love Country Music”
Though country music is popular in Texas, it is not every Texan’s favorite. The state has many other music styles – such as blues and rock music and many more. In reality, there are around 250 million people living here — many of us might have never heard a country song. Texas is diverse, and its music scene shows that.
“Yeah, It’s Like Any Other State”
For many Texans, the idea that Texas is “just another state” is frustrating. Texas is one of a kind, with its history of independence and rich cultural mix. Texans often see our state as a little bit different from the rest of the country—bigger, bolder & more independent. To say it’s just any other place is to ignore the many reasons why Texans feel the way they do about the state.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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