Sensitivity with regard to language is extremely important to anyone who seriously holds the intent of non-harming. Both Rosalynn Carter, when referring to mental health issues, and the Riverside Church, when referring to people who have been in prison [article], ask that you please use the word ‘people’ rather than ‘prisoners’ or negative slang such as ‘crazy.’ Similar thought can be taken in general, with various words that slide easily into common use, and while it can be tiresome to be always vigilant, imagine the gratitude, when you notice and stop sending unintended pain someone’s way.
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