Is saying someone is black racist?

Question

I think it is not. I mean we are comfortable calling people Asian. When I said was to describe a person as classwork in my class and i said he was black, the entire class went on a huge debate on whether calling someone black is or is not racist. It was about half on both sides. It is a useful way to describe someone. Your opinion?

Oh yeah and I am pretty sure there is a difference between African Americans and Blacks. Just a side note.

Answer 1

it is retarded that society has gotten to the point where you can't describe someone without being called pregidous, Is refering to a woman as Her or she, sexist

Answer 2

It's not racist to use the word 'black'. I think it's a useful way of describing someone when everyone else in the room isn't black. Just like saying someone is 'white' if everyone around them is a different race.

I have a friend that is overly concerned with being politically correct and she will go out of her way to use every other description (tall, fat, dark hair, blue shirt) before she will say the word 'black'. It gets ridiculous when she's trying to point out the one black person in the crowd but she refuses to say 'it's the one black guy'. Trying to hard to ignore the color of someones skin when it's makes for a simpler description of someone just makes things weird. When you make a big deal about ignoring something obvious, it somehow points out the differences even more. Describing someone physically by using their race should be the same as saying the color of their hair. It shouldn't be a big deal.

*Personally, I never say 'African American' unless I know that's what the person wants to be called. I like to keep it simple and say 'black' or 'white'. Funny how it's not acceptable to call Asians 'yellow'!!

Answer 3

I think we have gone back to calling people black now, but I could be wrong. I haven't heard the term "african american" in a long time. That's the thing with being pc. It's always changing! Gays didn't want to be called "queer" so they boycotted the word. Now, it's back again, but you have to use it in a certain context. It's confusing. What would you call a black person in Canada? "african canadian"? What about Europe? "african european"? I think it's safe to say "black". I mean, I'm called "white" yet I am not really white. My skin is beige.

Answer 4

I don't think it's racist. In fact I'd say it's being minimally observant. Just make sure you make some effort to be sensitive to using the appropriate term of the time. (Example: "African-American", "Black" ect).

Just be sure not to make the colour of one's skin the focus of your observations.

Answer 5

If someone has black/brown skin... then they are called black, i dont see the problem. I have white skin and i dont get mad if people call me white. Would it have been better if you called him a darkie??

Answer 6

I don't think so if we take it literality, as we not consider saying someone is white a racist.

Answer 7

I guess it could be, since the 'proper' term is African American, but to everyone in my town, it is not a big deal.

Answer 8

It relies upon the type you reported it. in case you merely reported it..it is one factor. yet while there grew to become into disgust on your voice as you reported it, then you definately could have some hidden prejudices occurring..

Answer 9

What's wrong with being racist against blacks? It might save your life someday by knowing first hand that blacks are violent and should be avoided at all costs.

Answer 10

its cool as long as you dont say something offensive along with it.