Hate Speech: Words that Hurt

On October 2, 2011 a full page ad appeared in The New York Times that addressed the use of the term, “gay.” With the recent eradication of the Clinton era “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy and implementation of new policies regarding the incorporation of gays into the military, this was a timely reminder that we need to watch what comes out of our mouth. Of course, words are a reflection of our attitudes. Although we have a constitutional right for free speech, it does not include any speech, gesture or display which is forbidden because it may incite violence or prejudicial action against or a protected individual or group, or because it disparages or intimidates a protected individual or group. The law identifies a protected individual or a protected group by race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other characteristic.

Your employer is not the thought or morale police but they are guided by the law to enforce any violation of the above definition of hate speech. So you can think want you want, but you are not allowed to express those opinions at work or in a public setting.

“Gay” was defined in the New York Times ad from an evolutionary perspective as:
There was once a time when all “gay” meant was “happy.” Then it meant “homosexual.” Now, people are saying “that’s so gay” to mean dumb and stupid which is pretty insulting to gay people (and we don’t mean “happy” people). So please, knock it off.

Need more guidance? Go to ThinkB4YouSpeak.com

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One of the benefits of Audrey’s work with the Forest Service-going through the Shasta-Trinity Forest.