Ask99,
Since this problem is taking place at work, there are a few things I wanted to point out:
1. ** Some people at work are comfortable with email communication and others prefer not to use email in sticky situations because the email can be printed as evidence against a coworker. If you are going to email this person, make sure that you word in a professional way. Your email can reflect your disgust for his tactless behavior, but do it without name-calling. Because he might take your email to the boss/human resources FIRST and accuse you of name-calling and try to convince them of his "innoncence." So, be careful how you word the email. Secondly.......please PRINT out a copy of the email you send him**. That way he can't invent false stories about you.
If he likes to make fun of people's accents then you can send a response like this:
**I've noticed that you have on several occasions mimicked the accents of various ethnic groups in a stereotypical manner. Not every person that belongs to a particular race sounds the same. You will find Asians with a thick Asian accent and you will find Asians with an American accent. Not ever person that belongs to a particular race or culture is the same, believes the same, talks the same, or acts the same. Stereotyping prevents us from getting to know people as INDIVIDUALS. As in all areas of life......including the workplace....diversity is a strength that can help move us forward. It's hardly professional to potentially hinder the progress and constructive communication between colleagues with tactless remarks. I'm open to any clarification that you have in this matter.
2) **If this guy has beenbehaving like this for quite some time.....then you need to start documenting the incident. In the event that this guy doesn't shape up, you will have consistent and frequent documentation to support your case. And it's always good to get witnesses.