Guest Editorial: Let BBC Know that "Chinaman" Is OffensiveAnh Lębyline‚ Aug. 07‚ 2008I think the BBC should consult the Oxford Dictionary. I was flabbergasted as I listened to the "BBC World Service" radio news program last evening (August 5, 2008) on KQED 88.5 FM. In the BBC's report of the arrival of the Olympics torch at the Beijing event, their reporter, Quentin Summerville, said, "... and the most feared 'Chinaman,' Yao Ming, ... " Lest the BBC not know it yet, the term "Chinaman" is a racially offensive and derogatory word. It is a racial slur. It is offensive to Chinese Americans, Asian Americans, and Asians. One does not have to be Asian to be offended by this word. |