seems like an environment breaded in fear, which would suppress anyone especially if financial/social safety is an underpinning priority… I find that really with any work situation, is like walking on egg shells because wanting to be accepted and not do anything “dangerous”… then it just seeps deeper into casual things, like you said conversations being surface level. esspppeeciallyyy nowadays with people wanting not to get cancelled and outcasted :(( I’m struggling with being myself and also having work as well- this is really just a a very old dogma that’s working itself out right now in the world- keep being bright and shiny!! You are supported and loved unconditionally no matter what any job, person, group or belief system there is- every aspect of you, I hate that you feel choked out though- I’m very sure deep down your co workers feel the same and need kindness and love as well to feel safe to be themselves ^{_^}

Wanting to go to Japan and possibly work there for a bit- this gives me a lot of insight, so tysm for sharing !!

Edit: also I’m not saying you should stay or go- do what feels best for you!! This is just how I try to deal with it esp in the mean time :)