That was sarcasm. Sometimes laughter is the best medicine.

But seriously, you have every right to defend yourself if they are being physically aggressive. But if all they are using are words, anger has no value in fixing the situation. If they are using lies, counter with truth. If they are being stupid, counter with intelligence. If you can’t correct their ignorance and grow tired of trying, walk away. Sometimes you just can’t fix stupid. If they pursue, seek help. If they escalate to the point of harassment, it’s them breaking the law, not you.

Basically there’s nothing anyone can do to you (legally) that you do not have the ability to counter using calm, logical reactions. It doesn’t matter what they say, because you can either correct them or simply remove yourself from their presence. Problem solved, no escalation, no anger, no provocation allowed.