Politically correct. It’s a term we hear thrown around a lot lately, and people have a lot of opinions about it. But what does it mean? What does any of this mean??? A very advanced google search of the term brought back this definition: “the avoidance, often considered as taken to extremes, of forms of expression or action that are perceived to exclude, marginalize or insult groups of people who are socially disadvantaged or discriminated against.” Mr. Donald Trump prides himself on not being politically correct, and many people applaud him for this. I, personally, do not.
However, I will be the first to admit that sometimes I don’t know what words I am supposed to use or how to phrase things correctly, and I feel as though I end up tiptoeing around conversations because of this. The Donald refuses to tiptoe. Nowadays the divide between these sides is only growing. It seems as though there are the super informed people who use very specific, inclusive language when discussing political or social topics, and then there are the “fed up” who refuse to buy into this ever changing lingo, and who claim that people are too sensitive. We see this on the news, we see this with our politicians and we probably see this with our friends. But why is this even an argument?
Words are important, and ignorance for the sake of ignorance -- I’m looking at you Mr. Trump -- is wrong. This isn't about political correctness, this is about being a human being. Everyone should be conscious of their language, because often we don’t understand the consequences of our language unless we are a part of the group that it marginalizes. Language, especially when projected on a national or political level, should not marginalize members of its own society, and people should be aware of the language that they are using. Often, this is easier said than done. Not everyone has a vocabulary of inclusive language at the ready when having discussions about, what are often difficult topics already. Inclusive language is wonderful, but to judge someone by their knowledge of terms or language excludes people from conversations, creating an even larger divide. To one side, the “politically correct” become even more ridiculous, and to the other, the “ignorant” become more ignorant. Obviously, some language is outright unacceptable, and movements throughout the years, like Spread the Word to End the Word have been very helpful in putting a stop to offensive language. Still, there will always be people who don’t know or understand the proper language, and since proper language is always changing, can we really expect people to keep up? Potential presidential candidates, yes, but can we really expect every person to be up to date with all of the inclusive lingo?
So maybe, what I’ve been trying to say, is that I don’t know what I’m saying. I don’t always know if my words are correct, or if I am using them correctly. But the absolute “political correctness” of words takes a backseat to the question of respect. If a person is trying to be respectful, and if they are trying to be aware of their language, that is what is important- again, looking at you Donald Trump. As I am writing this, I am constantly going back and forth in my mind about whether or not these sentences will offend someone. If I have crossed any lines, please let me know, but kindly, because, unlike our Republican presidential candidate, I’m trying my best.
