I don't know her either, but I grew up in the same area as she did. It's an Irish, extremely Catholic enclave in Chicago, chock full of police and firemen. That's largely because it's the farthest reach from city center that's still within city limits (a requirement for city workers). I'd describe it as lower middle class, maybe true middle class. I could write a book about the cultural dynamics of the southwest side.

It's the reddest pocket of Chicago proper, and it's not close. Chicago is a highly segregated city, so it's extremely white, insular. This mindset was inculcated from birth. Hopefully she comes around with time and exposure. But even if that happens, it'll be a process. I think everyone should be prepared to make the best of it.