Ethnic Sensitivities
African American/black: It's acceptable to use these interchangeably to describe black people in the United States. When referring to specific individuals, use the term he or she prefers.

American Indian/Native American: The two terms are synonymous. Some indigenous people in the U.S. prefer "American Indian" to "Native American." It's best to use individual preference, if known. When possible, use national affiliation rather than the generic "American Indian" or "Native American," for example, Navajo, Hopi, Cherokee. To specify someone was born in the U.S., but isn't Native American, use native-born.

Asians, Asian American: Use Asian when referring to anyone from Asia, but use Asian American when specifically referring to those of Asian ancestry who are American citizens.

Adapted from The News Watch style guide;
http://newswatch.sfsu.edu/guide/

Religious/Ethnic Holidays
To respect the wide variety of religions on our campus, use "holiday party," rather than "Christmas party" and "winter break," rather than "Christmas break."

Frats/Greeks
Representatives from Carnegie Mellon's fraternities and sororities tell us they don't appreciate the nickname "frats." The term "Greeks" or "Greek organizations" is okay, though.

Gender Sensitivities
Our recommendation is to take a little extra time to construct your sentences so you can avoid having to use gender-specific terms. For example, by using plural pronouns ("they," "their"), you can avoid having to use the awkward but gender-sensitive construction "he/she" or "his/her."

Instead of "chairman," use "chair." Instead of "waiter/ waitress," use "server." Instead of "mailman," use "postal carrier." It's also becoming more common to see the term "actor" used for men and women.

Sexual Orientation
gay/lesbian: "Gay" is acceptable and preferable as a synonym for homosexuals, primarily males. "Lesbian" is preferred for women. When possible, use "gay and lesbian." It's best to use "gay" as an adjective, not a noun, for example, "gay man," "gay people." Where space is an issue, "gay" is acceptable to include both gays and lesbians.

gay lifestyle: Avoid this term. There is no one gay lifestyle, just as there's no one heterosexual lifestyle.

gay relationships: Gay, lesbian and bisexual people use various terms to describe their commitments. If possible, ask the individual what term he or she prefers. Otherwise, "partner" is generally acceptable.

homosexual: This is the medical/clinical term for lesbians and gays. (adj.) Of or relating to sexual and affectional attraction to a member of the same sex. (n.) A person who is attracted to members of the same sex. "Gay" or "lesbian" is the preferred term in all contexts, except clinical.

Adapted from The News Watch style guide;
http://newswatch.sfsu.edu/guide/