A bunch of long time mastodonians are suggesting that newcomers take the time to learn the rules, to recognize what is and is not "courteous" where the tools of the site are concerned. That's fine, and I agree.
However, I also want to make clear that you have every right to insist on being your whole, complete self in this new space. Insist on it and keep insisting on it until whomever says otherwise relents.
This isn't one of those "ignore the rules" suggestions: this is a suggestion that we make ourselves visible in our fullness from the jump. We bring all of us to this dead elephant site and figure out how to be our full and complete selves.
I say this because the massive influx of new users creates an opportunity to push the norms of this place in a direction that enables us to be all of who we are. And yes, this is going to involve friction. It will involve conflict.
But growth is never easy, nor is building a new home from nothing. And, even in my newness to this site, I would caution long time mastodonians to give us the space and time to figure out how to be our full selves without demanding we submit to norms (not rules) that limit who we can be and how we can make that present.
I promise you your site and your communities will be better off for it.
@shengokai To an extent, yes.
<EDIT>
After more reading, it is clear that there was a misunderstanding on the part of both parties here. I failed to see this discussion was about race relations. As such, I'm retracting my statements entirely. I am sorry if any offence was caused and hope you can see it in yourself to forgive.
Happy to discuss further if you want, but also happy to just leave it be.
Already have another episode out folks. This one is titled “Missing the Point.”
New Mastodonians, please 🙏🏽 follow thread for context. Oh and the other posts on @shengokai page regarding the valid criticisms marginalized folks made of their experiences in the #fediverse and what does that mean in ensuring safe space for them here.
Dr. Johnathan Flowers
David de Groot
Nisa (she/her) 
Robin Detje