I’m a brown Karen and don't want your kids to call me “Mate” at work

"And while I’m at it - they should stop saying this thing, too." *clutches pearls*

Hi, my name is Nama, and I'm also a Brown Karen.

(Technically that might be a contradiction in terms, but that's a discussion for another time.)

My point is I am Gen X, 48, and a huge fan of Cold Chisel.

And... I don't want your kids to call me "mate" at work.

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"When did mate become unprofessional?"

A debate about people calling customers "mate" has taken over the interwebs this week because of a now-viral Reddit post, where a dad has complained about his daughter being told not to use the classic Aussie term when she's working.

He's obviously a male Karen, but no one seems to care about that - they're just outraged because it's bloody un-Australian to not be allowed to use the term in any context. It's unconstitutional even. ("It's Mabo, it's the vibe." IYKYK)

So I absolutely agree with Dad Karen, but as a Brown Karen, I also reserve the right to complain about anything when it applies to me.

In the post, the dad explains that his daughter was serving a customer at a fruit and veggie shop when she was pulled up for using the word "mate".

The customer said: “‘Can I tell you something? Please don’t call me mate. It’s unprofessional to use that word in the workplace.”

The dad added, “She’s pretty sure the customer was also Australian which added to her being more confused.

“When did the word ‘mate’ become unprofessional?”

Since forever... mate. 

Mate, how good is Cold Chisel? Image: Nama Winston

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"Just say hello...?"

I like to think of myself as a cool mum, not a regular mum, but manners still matter to me.

Not BS like elbows on the table, but please and thank you, and standards when you're at work.

I have a 17-year-old son, and I would not be impressed if he called a customer older than him, "mate."

I have raised him to hold doors open for strangers, give up seats on public transport... and yes, to respect his elders (as long as they are not being dicks - context also matters).

And, while I'm at it, this common 'greeting' when I enter a shop is also lazy - and even rude.

Using, "You right?" when addressing a customer.

I get it all the time, and I do find it rude - and no, I don't clutch my pearls in response, but I do laugh.

Sorry (not sorry) to be a Brown Karen, but I bet no Boomer white male has been welcomed like that.

Is it an appraisal? Am I supposed to reply, "Yeah, all gee, mate"?

Maybe just use "hello" or "can I help you?" 

That's what I'd say if I was working and Jimmy Barnes walked in, for example.

That's what I reckon Kath Day-Knight would do.

Because newsflash: manners and respect is Aussie, too.

Now, bring on the hate... mates.

Originally published as I’m a brown Karen and don't want your kids to call me “Mate” at work