Question:
What do you or DiversityInc think about the use of the word “minority”? In my personal life, I have begun to use the term “people of color” to represent anyone non-white. I find the word “minority” offensive and degrading to the people it represents, regardless of race. But more so because the word is originally a math term meaning “the smaller part or number; a number, part, or amount forming less than half of the whole.” I am concerned about children growing up hearing themselves being referred to as a minority and society telling them that they are “less than” before they even have a chance to prove themselves. Your thoughts?

Answer:
I agree. I avoid the word “minority” as much as possible. It’s also DiversityInc’s editorial policy.

I also don’t like the use of the word “diverse” to represent everyone but white people. All human beings are a part of “diversity.”

Along the same lines I see the use of “affinity” or “network” to describe employee-resource groups. Most white people don’t perceive the need for an “affinity” or “network” group. (“That’s for ‘them.’”)

Everyone needs a “resource.”
 
Most white people do not understand the oppressive power of language. I regularly hear white people belittle respectful language as being “politically correct.” This is the chafing of people used to speaking any way they wish to people who did not care to (and/or could not) respond in kind. I’ve learned not to deny other people their own reality.

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