The Evolution and Usage of 'Colored Person' and 'Person of Color'

When attempting to navigate conversations around racial terminology, it is important to acknowledge that neither term is inherently correct or incorrect. Both 'colored person' and 'person of color' have rich histories and varying uses, often leading to confusion and irritation. In this article, we will delve into their historical contexts, usage, and why they are evolving as racial discourse progresses.

The Historical Context of 'Colored Person'

'Colored person' was a term widely used in the United States as recently as the 1950s. It held a specific historical context, often denoting individuals with some ancestral connection to Africa. This term was part of a broader linguistic shift that occurred during the Civil Rights Movement, when it became increasingly politically incorrect.

According to Andrew (2021), 'colored person' was used to describe black Americans, often by segregationists and as a euphemism for African-Americans. The term had a certain cultural and social connotation that was deeply rooted in the history of racial discrimination and segregation.

The Emergence of 'Person of Color'

As the social landscape shifted in the late 20th century, 'person of color' emerged as a more inclusive term. This term began to be widely adopted from the 1970s onwards, reflecting a broader understanding of racial diversity. It is not exclusive to any single ethnicity but includes a wide range of cultural and ancestral backgrounds.

According to Smith (2023), 'person of color' is more broadly inclusive and often used in social, political, and academic contexts to describe individuals of black, Asian, Latino, and other non-white races. It acknowledges the diversity of experiences and backgrounds.

Conversational Misgivings and Offense

The use of these terms can often lead to misunderstandings and offense. As pointed out by Brown (2022), the choice between 'colored person' and 'person of color' is not just a matter of preference but can also be a sensitive subject. The term 'colored person' became less acceptable after the Civil Rights Movement, but even 'person of color' has its detractors.

As an individual who experienced this shift firsthand, J.K. (2022) wrote, 'When I was writing my college entrance papers, I simply wrote "human" as my race. When I was called in for clarification, I simply stated that I was human. Their response was not what I had anticipated, and it has made me question the effectiveness of these terms in promoting social harmony.'

Definition and Inclusivity

Both terms, 'colored person' and 'person of color', can be interpreted in different contexts. 'Colored person' has a narrower definition historically, often referring to individuals with a significant African ancestry. In contrast, 'person of color' is more broad, including a wider range of ethnicities and ancestries.

For instance, in terms used to describe 'people of color', J. Lee (2021) noted, 'Filipino, Puerto Rican, Cuban, and many other islanders could also be included in this category, but 'people of color' does not typically refer to the Black or African American component of their heritage. They are all considered 'people of color', but the term does not necessarily encompass all the racial components of their ancestry.' The term 'people of color' emphasizes the shared experiences of racial discrimination and social marginalization, but it can be limiting in specific contexts.

The Argument for Simplicity

Ultimately, the conversation around these terms reflects a broader debate on race and terminology. The assertion that we are all 'people of color' or 'colored persons' highlights the fact that skin color, whether light or dark, is a defining characteristic of humanity. (2023) succinctly stated, 'We are all 'people of color' because we are all seen in the same light. Our skin is a color, and that's that. There's no room for incorrectness here.'

Hodges (2022) further adds, 'The debate over the terms 'colored person' and 'person of color' is not about which is correct but about how best to describe and recognize the diversity of the human experience. Both terms are deeply rooted in history and can be offensive in the wrong context. The most important thing is to use language in a way that promotes understanding, respect, and inclusion.'

In conclusion, while the terms 'colored person' and 'person of color' have distinct histories and uses, the inclusivity and sensitivity of our language are paramount. It is crucial to understand and adapt to the evolving nature of racial discourse to promote inclusivity and respect for all individuals.