The decision to grow a beard is (I imagine) one that takes some commitment. I think some people are genuinely interested and will attempt to use it as a conversation piece to get to know you.
I've actually liked talking to strangers who were vets and want to talk about what Vietnam (the country, not so much the war) was like. I can't speak for the OP but I'd like to believe he would happily accept the annoying conversation starters you deal with, as a trade for all the conversations he believes he is shut out of because of his race.
> The decision to grow a beard is (I imagine) one that takes some commitment.
This is in danger of getting too specific, but perhaps it is relatable to the topic.
I don't understand the common perception that any amount of commitment would be involved. However, daily routines, product consumption and professional requirements all sound like commitments to me.
I've actually liked talking to strangers who were vets and want to talk about what Vietnam (the country, not so much the war) was like. I can't speak for the OP but I'd like to believe he would happily accept the annoying conversation starters you deal with, as a trade for all the conversations he believes he is shut out of because of his race.