General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: "Woke", "cancel culture", and the meaning of words [View all]Silent3
(15,206 posts)You're admitting that there is "cultural baggage of 'wokeness'", and that's half way to the point.
I would hope all human beings, regardless of race or life experience, to at least attempt what is called "the principle of charity" when interpreting what other people say. At least make some effort to find the best possible interpretation of what someone is saying, and run that by as at least one point to consider, rather than either getting needlessly angry misinterpreting their words, or missing the main point because you simply don't care what someone meant if they offended your sensibilities by not tailoring they're words to your liking.
It's important to realize this: There is no correct way to make a point that someone won't misunderstand it. The best anyone can do, especially when listeners are lazy about applying their own preconceptions, are to hope you reach as many of the people you most want to reach. If the topic is at all controversial, a bunch of people will be pissed off and/or miss the point.
And, while vocabulary and sensitivity in wording are important, remember there are usually much more important issues on the table, and bigger fish to fry.
This is not a call for you to bend over backward, or make some great personal sacrifice for the benefit of someone else who you don't think has earned any special favors from you.
You should not view the the "principle of charity" as anything other than a favor to yourself, and better communication in general.