picking up a bunch of new followers and the word police

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I feel the need to address the constant requirement to re-educate new followers on language use. As an Australian, I don’t subscribe to the American obsession with policing words. You won’t succeed in bullying me into silence. It’s not all about you, and this isn’t a kindergarten. If a word offends you, that’s your prerogative, but I don’t share that sentiment. I’ve spent decades online, engaging with internet culture and studying tech law, and I haven’t been informed that certain words are universally offensive. It’s puzzling why some feel the need to announce these supposed taboos, assuming ignorance on my part.

I’ve made a conscious decision to use language that fits my context and values, informed by personal experiences, including raising an autistic family. Context matters, and I teach my kids this crucial lesson. If my language choice bothers you, that’s your issue. I have more valuable things to discuss than the outdated notion of thought policing. It’s reminiscent of 2017’s obsession with controlling speech. If you prefer sanitized language, perhaps the children’s section of the library or Sesame Street is more your speed.

As an adult, I choose my words with intention and clarity. If you disagree, feel free to move on. I needed to express this frustration, as I’m tired of the constant critique. Let’s focus on more substantive discussions and leave behind this outdated fixation with dictating language.

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