Save the term “Oriental” For Oriental Rugs Not People
Did you know that it is now considered incorrect to say someone is “Oriental”? Much like the many years of history of oriental rugs, the term “Oriental” has been used since the 1300’s to describe someone from Asia. When did the word become so loaded? Even Merriam-Webster’s New World College Dictionary says that when used to describe a person, “Oriental” is “now often regarded as a term of disparagement.”
In an article by Leaya Lee, an NYU student she states that:
- Washington State Senator Paull Shin sponsored a bill in 2001 that would remove and prohibit the use of the word “Oriental” in all state and local legislation. The bill, passed in 2002, stated that the word Asian must be used to describe those of Asian descent. In a July 1, 2002, Seattle Times article, Shin, a Korean War orphan, explained that the word “Oriental” was offensive because it was first used to signify everything east of London and later to characterize people with flat noses, small eyes, black hair and mysterious ways.
Interestingly enough, at Abingdon Rug Outlet we are sticking with the term “Oriental” to encompass our beautiful selection of Oriental rugs and many a beautiful Oriental rug you can find offered at a discount price!
