We Have Become Too Concerned With Being Politically Correct

My most recent post was about racism and stereotyping. I understand that this is a very real problem that our country is facing, and many persons still are racists and bigots. However, I do believe, that our country has become too concerned with being politically correct. Cases where race had absolutely nothing to with the situation, have been blown up to a scale where race has become a deciding factor.

One notable example that I can think of is with the use of the N word. African Americans frequently call each other this word, and it is fine. However, when a person of a different race even dares to utter this word, they are condemned as racists who have no respect whatsoever. This doesn't make sense to me. Why are these people being held accountable for something they said, while the Blacks who use it casually in day to day conversations face absolutely no repercussions. To me, this is a case of people simply looking for opportunities to call others racist. Keep in mind though, the context of the situation matters greatly. If the word is said in a way to invoke harm and malice, and to establish racial superiority, then it is wrong. However I very rarely see instances where the intent is to degrade ones race.

Another notable example with over political correctness, is the controversy surrounding the name of the Professional Football team from Washington. The Redskins. Many are crying for the owners to change the name as they believe that it degrades Native Americans. This statement could not be any further from the truth. The reality is, the name, although previously considered derogatory, is in now way, shape, or form saying that Native Americans are considered inferior. Several Native Americans have even been asked whether they feel offended by the name, and their response has consistently been that they feel honored that their culture is being represented by a widely visible icon. If the very cultural group that the name is supposedly degrading, is honored that their name is the official name and logo of a football team, who are we to disagree?

As you can see, I believe that being Politically Correct has gone way too far. Yes, we need to respect all cultures and races, but that does not mean that we should start becoming overly sensitive, and taking offense at words and phrases that had no intent of harm or malice whatsoever. As Charles Osgood aptly says, "Being Politically Correct means always having to say you're sorry",

Take Care,
Political Police