Reducing discriminatory use of language

Relaxing prejudiced use of language
Reducing prejudice in language
Reducing linguistic discrimination

Implementation

In 1999, the South African government introduced law banning the publication of "propaganda, ideas or theories based on unfair racial stereotypes". This would ban the use of "hurtful and abusive words" such as kaffir, boer, coolie and coon. The media were also banned from "violating the privacy of individuals by publishing personal details that could impair their dignity", such as "disabled".

Claim

The discriminatory use of language is a pervasive issue that perpetuates inequality and marginalization. Words hold power; they shape perceptions and reinforce harmful stereotypes. By allowing derogatory language to persist, we tacitly endorse discrimination and division. It is imperative that we actively challenge and change our linguistic habits to foster inclusivity and respect. Addressing this problem is not just a matter of sensitivity; it is essential for building a just and equitable society for all.

Counter-claim

Banning publication of discriminatory language would make it virtually impossible to record what people say in anger, for example racially-charged politics and parliamentary records.

In Slovakia and in the Czech Republic, after the fall of the communist regime, the terms Roma and Romany were promoted as a replacement for the old term Gypsies and Gypsy. This has happened nation-wide in all public places and media and the new terms became well rooted even in the people's everyday vocabulary. However, after ten years it was evident that Roma and Romany adopted the very same pejorative connotation as the former Gypsy. Besides, in the history there was at least one more similar unsuccessful attempt to solve problems with Gypsies by renaming them. That was in the 18th century, when Empress Maria Theresia ruled that Gypsies should be called New-farmers.