Last year, we added a new entry discussing use of the term “racist.” The next eight tweets contain some details. #APStyleChat (1/9)
Deciding whether a specific statement, action, policy, etc., should be termed racist often is not clear-cut. Such decisions should include discussion with colleagues and/or others from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. #APStyleChat (2/9)
Begin by assessing the facts: Does the statement or action meet the definition of racism? That assessment need not involve examining the motivation of the person who spoke or acted, which is a separate issue. #APStyleChat (3/9)
In general, avoid using racist or any other label as a noun for a person; it’s far harder to match the complexity of a person to a definition or label than it is a statement or action. Instead, be specific in describing the person’s words or actions. #APStyleChat (4/9)
Cases in which the term racist might be used include identifying as racist support for avowed racist organizations, statements calling another race or ethnic group inferior, or employing negative stereotypes for different racial or ethnic groups. #APStyleChat (5/9)
If racist isn't the appropriate term, consider how best to describe the situation. Depending on the specifics of what was said or done, alternatives may include xenophobic, bigoted, biased, nativist, racially divisive, or in some cases, simply racial. #APStyleChat (6/9)
Do not use “racially charged,” "racially motivated," "racially tinged" or similar terms as euphemisms for racist or racism when the latter terms are truly applicable. #APStyleChat (7/9)
Examples: Mississippi has a history of racist lynchings, not a history of racially motivated lynchings. He is charged in the racist massacre of nine people at a Black church, not the racially motivated massacre of nine people at a Black church. #APStyleChat (8/9)
Always use specifics to describe the words or actions in question. But do not use a derogatory term except in rare circumstances when it is crucial to the story or the understanding of a news event. #APStyleChat (9/9)
