Ultimately, it really depends on who you would be comfortable having live in your home. Sure there are stereotypes and some of those are carried on and perpetuated by the people themselves. If a black man came to your house in a suit and worked at a stock brokerage company, would you consider him? If a black man came to your house w/a baseball cap backwards and baggy pants down past his butt, working part time would you consider him?
I know this may seem like appearances, but it’s more than that. It’s presentation and what they think of themselves, too. If Hally Berry or Penélope Cruz look-alike came to your house looking for a room to rent, would you say no b/c strictly b/c of their race?
There’s more to this than just race. There’s so many factors to consider besides their job and ability to pay rent and cleanliness and even hobbies. If some white guy wanted to rent a room from me and he played drums in a band and would practice 20 hours a week, I might not want to have him as a roommate.
And of course religion would be considered, as well. If a born-again christian wanted to rent a room from me and I sensed they would be preaching and wanting to convert me, I maybe wouldn’t rent a room to them.
Excuse the pun, but it’s not just so black and white.
And as far as discrimination, I think one should be somewhat discriminating about with whom they will be sharing a home.
