Michael Kelman Portney

Abstract

In an era where conversations around race and identity often feel constricted by the parameters of political correctness (PC) culture, Democrats have a unique opportunity to lead by embracing a more open, straightforward approach. This paper explores how the Democratic Party can adopt a “racial, not racist” philosophy—addressing race-related issues candidly and inclusively without the restraints of PC culture. By doing so, Democrats can foster a broader, more authentic coalition that speaks to the realities of American voters across racial, social, and economic divides. This approach shifts the focus from language policing to honest dialogue and actionable policy, emphasizing respect, understanding, and unity as pathways to a stronger, more inclusive Democratic Party. Democrats must come to understand that word policing comes off as authoritarian to other potential coalition members.

1. Introduction: The Rise and Strain of Political Correctness in American Politics

Political correctness, once an ideal for creating respectful and inclusive dialogue, has come to dominate public discourse, especially on the left. PC culture aimed to uplift marginalized groups by discouraging offensive language and promoting sensitivity to issues of race, gender, and identity. However, its strict language codes and sensitivity have created unintended backlash. Many perceive PC culture as overly prescriptive, inhibiting free expression and prioritizing performative language over substantive change.

For the Democratic Party, which has championed these ideals, the challenge is now how to maintain a focus on inclusion and respect without alienating those who feel constrained by PC culture. By moving toward a “racial, not racist” approach, Democrats can directly address racial and social issues while encouraging open dialogue. This paper argues that by acknowledging racial realities without rigidity, Democrats can create an open platform that encourages mutual understanding, constructive criticism, and policy-centered action.

2. “Racial, Not Racist”: A Framework for Authentic Dialogue

2.1. Acknowledging Difference Without Alienation

A “racial, not racist” approach acknowledges that race impacts individuals’ lived experiences but doesn’t view race as a divisive or defining barrier. Instead of focusing on language policing or trying to be excessively careful, this approach encourages Democrats to embrace race as an open topic of discussion.

• Open Dialogue on Race-Related Experiences: Acknowledging that different racial groups experience different challenges is essential for addressing these disparities meaningfully. Democrats can approach race as a factor in people’s lives rather than a taboo or politically charged issue.

• Breaking Down Fear of Missteps: Moving away from stringent language requirements allows people to speak more openly, ask questions, and engage without fear of immediate backlash for saying the “wrong” thing.

• Calling People What They Want to Be Called: Move away from using pronouns for people who don’t have an unexpected pronoun. Cis-men do not want to be called Cis-men; they want to be called men. We will gladly accommodate anybody’s pronouns, but if it’s not obvious they will have to tell us. Nobody else needs to tell us. Latino’s are proud Latino’s; don’t call them Latinx.

2.2. Emphasizing Respect Over Rhetoric

By encouraging respectful, honest conversations, Democrats can create a culture of empathy that values substance over style. This approach removes the pressure to adhere strictly to PC language and instead promotes understanding and kindness in dialogue.

• Respectful but Direct Conversations: Democrats can embrace an approach that prioritizes understanding and respect over perfect terminology. By fostering conversations where people feel heard and respected, the party can build a more inclusive, welcoming space.

• Encouraging Growth and Learning: Rather than viewing discussions on race as fraught with potential offense, this approach allows people to learn and grow, transforming potential conflicts into opportunities for understanding.

3. Why PC Culture Alienates and Divides

3.1. Alienation Through Overemphasis on Language

The strictures of PC culture have led many Americans to feel they must “walk on eggshells,” particularly when discussing sensitive topics like race. This environment stifles dialogue and can create resentment, especially among those who feel marginalized or left out of the conversation.

• Perceived Elitism of PC Culture: For many, PC culture is seen as a tool of elitism, creating an “insider” and “outsider” dynamic in which those who fail to meet its language standards are seen as insensitive or out of touch. This can alienate working-class and rural voters who may be more focused on material needs than language sensitivity.

• Division Over Dialogue: PC culture often discourages open dialogue by labeling certain words or viewpoints as unacceptable. This has created divides within the Democratic base, with some feeling that they can’t express concerns or question orthodoxy without backlash.

3.2. The Risk of Superficial Allyship

PC culture can foster a performative approach to allyship, where people use the “correct” language without taking meaningful actions to address systemic issues. This focus on appearances over actions can limit the Democratic Party’s effectiveness in addressing the root causes of inequality.

• Shallow Symbolism Over Substantive Policy: The emphasis on language and optics can lead to a focus on symbolic gestures rather than real policy solutions. This can result in a lack of meaningful change, as people feel satisfied with surface-level progress rather than addressing deeper issues.

• Reduced Focus on Common Ground: Overemphasizing language risks creating echo chambers, where shared understanding and compromise are lost in the drive to uphold PC standards. By relaxing these standards, Democrats can invite broader participation in important conversations.

4. Building a Coalition Around Substance, Not Semantics

4.1. Candid, Inclusive Dialogue on Race

Democrats have the opportunity to lead conversations on race that are honest, respectful, and free from the strictures of political correctness. This open approach encourages genuine understanding, allowing people to engage in productive dialogue without fear.

• Promoting Inclusivity Over Policing: Encouraging people to ask questions and engage with racial issues in a candid way fosters inclusivity, allowing everyone to feel involved in the discussion rather than sidelined by language restrictions.

• Addressing Racial Inequities Transparently: Rather than focusing on “safe” language, Democrats can be upfront about racial disparities in education, health, and criminal justice, creating solutions that address these problems directly.

4.2. Prioritizing Policy over Performative Language

Democrats can win support by focusing on policy initiatives that address real-world issues. Moving beyond language to address the roots of inequality speaks to all voters, focusing on shared concerns rather than divisive language.

• Solutions for Economic Disparities: Policies that address economic inequality, affordable healthcare, and job opportunities can speak across racial and socioeconomic lines, building coalitions around common goals.

• Tangible Reforms in Social and Criminal Justice: Instead of limiting discussions to acceptable terminology, Democrats can prioritize criminal justice reform, mental health services, and community safety programs that address issues affecting diverse communities.

5. The End of PC Culture: A Path Forward for Democrats

Embracing a “racial, not racist” philosophy means Democrats would recognize the importance of race while encouraging open, solution-focused dialogue. Moving away from PC culture does not mean abandoning respect or inclusivity; rather, it means creating a political environment where people feel safe to discuss race openly and respectfully.

5.1. Creating a Broader, More Resilient Coalition

By moving beyond restrictive language, Democrats can build a coalition that encompasses a wider array of voices, including those who have felt marginalized or alienated by PC culture.

• Welcoming Working-Class and Rural Voices: Focusing on real-life issues without requiring adherence to specific language codes allows Democrats to include voices from diverse backgrounds who may otherwise feel sidelined.

• Fostering Unity Around Shared Goals: A “racial, not racist” approach encourages a focus on shared interests—economic opportunity, healthcare access, community safety, and education reform—rather than on divisive identity politics.

5.2. A Roadmap for Authentic Engagement on Race

Democrats can adopt this approach to foster genuine connections and community solidarity across racial lines. An open, “racial, not racist” approach creates the space for candid discussions, mutual understanding, and collaborative progress.

• Focusing on Real Issues That Impact All Americans: Instead of focusing on politically correct language, Democrats can lead the charge in addressing racial and economic inequalities through policies that benefit everyone.

• Supporting Respectful, Authentic Discourse: Rather than forcing language rules, Democrats can model respectful engagement by encouraging members to speak openly, ask questions, and listen with empathy.

Conclusion: Embracing Authenticity and Respect in the Future of the Democratic Party

For Democrats, the path forward involves moving away from rigid PC culture and toward a “racial, not racist” framework. This approach allows the party to address real issues directly, without alienating potential allies or discouraging meaningful dialogue. By creating an open environment that welcomes different perspectives, Democrats can foster a more inclusive coalition that focuses on substance over semantics, forging connections across lines of race, class, and region.

The end of strict PC culture does not mean the end of respect and inclusion; rather, it offers Democrats the opportunity to promote a unifying vision based on shared goals and mutual understanding. Through candid, empathetic dialogue and actionable policy, Democrats can build a movement that speaks to the true needs of a diverse America and sets the stage for a unified, prosperous future.