If we share a common humanity what matters in terms of how language is used is not what we think is affirming or hurtful BUT how those being addressed, or described, receive what is being said.
If I feel affirmed or put down by how I am named or described that is real for me, however the person addressing me feels about what they are saying.
Empathy and listening is needed before we condemn changes in language that we might see as ‘fashionable’ or unnecessary.
All of this ought to apply to our day to day conversation as we recognise the common humanity we share with one another, whatever name, creed, gender, orientation, self-identification or other criteria.
It is equally important in public documents and conversation, politically, in religious worship and in every other sphere
The key word in all of this is simply KINDNESS.
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