http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/287100.html states: Description of the practice of using speech that conforms to liberal or radical opinion by avoiding language which might cause offence to or disadvantage social minorities.
conforming or adhering to what is regarded as orthodox liberal opinion on matters of sexuality, race, etc.: usually used disparagingly to connote dogmatism, excessive sensitivity to minority causes, etc.
http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/politically%20correct : conforming to a belief that language and practices which could offend political sensibilities (as in matters of sex or race) should be eliminated
As yourdictionary points out the term is now used to disparagingly. So to some out there it's not ok to have a language that is sensitive to minority groups. To some it is seen as a means of censorship. So if someone says, 'You're just a woman', and I take offense it's because I'm too sensitive. If someone says, 'Black people are drug dealers', and I point out it's not ok to group people in that way, I may be attempting to censor their views? If I hear, 'I don't like Muslims because they are all terrorists' is that ok too and what about people who says 'Migrants who come here and don't speak English cause problems'? Am I alone is thinking the logic of this thinking is not quite right?
What about the first European migrants to this land? Did they try and fit in? Did they learn the local language and adopt the inhabitants customs?
I love the diversity in Australia. I love that I can get great food from just about everywhere in the world in one city. I love that my senses come alive when I wonder around different parts of Melbourne. I love the difference I see and hear in the city and its surrounds. I love it when I hear my friends tell me how much they love their kids' classes being multicultural. A new generation mix, learn and relate to each other. Such an image offers hope for a better world. Is there really so much to lose by being tolerant, accepting, sensitive and caring?
On a recent televised discussion about asylum seekers I heard someone say we need to take 'political correctness' out to have an honest discussion. I suggest this would be more an airing of racist, bigoted views rather than a discussion of the issues involved.
Malcolm Fraser, in his Australian Refugee Association oration in June this year, said, 'A strong, multicultural Australia that draws strength from its diversity, that debates real issues of importance to ourselves and to common humanity, has contributed so much in the past. It must do so again.
Hear, hear.
