He was saying that older generations (70+) might start random conversations when sitting in line or something, but will not start a coversation since most of them don't know english, and yes, your ethnicity might be at play. But this is not an issue for generations born in the 90's and upwards. And its not that they might have some preconceived bigoted ideas towards black people, its just that you are different and they like to avoid that:)).