How should I respond to offensive jokes?

I heard a joke that I found really offensive. How should I respond?

It's important to address offensive jokes thoughtfully. You could express your discomfort directly or suggest that such humor isn't appropriate.

What if the person telling the joke is a friend?

In that case, you might want to approach it gently. You could say something like, 'I know you were trying to be funny, but that joke really bothered me.'

What if they get defensive?

If they become defensive, try to stay calm and explain why the joke was hurtful. Emphasize that it's about respect and understanding.

Is it okay to just ignore it?

Ignoring it is an option, but it might not address the underlying issue. If you feel safe, it's often better to speak up.