[AnnieK]

Originally Posted by Dezzy

I wouldn't call racist an insult, it's an accusation and one that's easily dispelled if it's not true. It does feel a bit rich though as you tend to bandy out phrases such as 'Leftie' 'Remoaner' and other terms for people that don't share your opinions yet you oppose people calling out others as racist. If you consider the latter an insult then does that mean you regularly insult other members too?

As I said when transphobia was a talking point a few weeks back, I don't consider someone saying 'you are transphobic (or in this case, racist) and here's why I think that' to be an insult. That is someone arguing their point. If someone turned around and said 'I think ____ is a transphobic/racist prick' then that is verbal abuse.

I can't consider the accusation of racism or any other forms of bigotry an insult in itself, especially if the accusation is explained fully in a sensible way.

I agree again, if a name is levelled at you and an explanation given and you are given the opportunity to disprove that label, it is not insulting and goes back to the freedom of speech that we are all afforded. If there is no chance of a reasoned discussion and it is used as a shut down, then it becomes insulting. I believe the only way forward is people discussing uncomfortable topics and then these being debated in a adult manner - not just you called me this so I will call you that etc etc.

I do believe this country i far more tolerant now and will only continue to improve as education and better protection laws develop BUT we still have a long way to go to total tolerance of all