How to talk about racism

To get tangled up in precise definitions would be to miss the point. It's better to be aware of the nuances, engage with each other with an open mind - and have that difficult conversation.

The People's Association said that while the error involving the use of the photo was "culturally insensitive", it was not "racist". PHOTO: SARAHBAGHARIB/INSTAGRAM
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Using a single word to describe something can lead to quibbles over the precise definition, while discussion of the thing itself is neglected.

Recent debates about race and race relations have reminded me of this point.

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