Is it politically correct to call someone Oriental?
I was told that Oriental is a rug and that it is more proper to use the term Asian. How do the Asians feel about that? No offenses intended here. I just want to be respectful. Thank you
I really appreciate all your answer. Thank you for responding and understanding the sincerity of the question.
Posted in oriental carpets
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January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
I don’t particularly like being referred to as "Oriental" as it’s kind of the equivalent of calling an African American "colored" - it’s dated and kind of derogatory, although not as bad as other names. I’m okay with "Asian" or "Asian American" as I was born and raised in the US; additionally they are generally accepted as politically correct . I don’t mind when people ask me specifically what ethnicity I am as it kind of breaks the "they all look alike" mentality. Just don’t assume that when I open my mouth I’ll speak with an accent, that I wasn’t born here, or that I’m good at math.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
Asian is preferred.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
Oriental is for objects, not people. Asian is fine.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
I think Asian is preferred. I havent heard anyone use "oriental" when referring to a person in decades so I would go with Asian.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
Asian is P.C. now a days. Oriental is more applicable for items like rugs and decor.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
I believe that Asian is preferred. If you know their specific nationality, that is even better, i.e., Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Thai, etc.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
Oriental is a form of art.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
I always tell people that…
"Rugs and food are Oriental. People are Asian."
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
A few Asians have told me that Asian describes people and their various cultures. Oriental describes things.
January 31st, 2010 at 4:57 am
Asian is the correct term. Rugs and food are Oriental