Recently, the AP Stylebook updated sections related to race.
A few highlights include:
- Race-related coverage (revised): Writing about issues involving race calls for thoughtful consideration, precise language, and discussions with others of diverse backgrounds.
- The racist, racism section added detail on systemic racism, structural racism and institutional racism.
- The people of color, racial minority section is replaced by separate sections on each term. Among the points: Don’t use BIPOC, BAME or POC unless necessary in a quote; if used in a quote, explain it. Many people object to those terms on varying grounds. Use people of color only when necessary in broad references to multiple races other than white.
- New entries on Black Lives Matter, Juneteenth and slaves, enslaved people.
There were new entries added (not in the race-related coverage entry)on:
- Defund: To stop providing or to reduce funds, especially government funds, for a program, group, etc. The term is sometimes misrepresented as abolishing police. Avoid using the term other than in a direct quotation; if used in a quotation, explain and provide detail about what is being sought.
- Kung Flu: Do not use this racist nickname for COVID-19, including in a direct quotation. Instead, paraphrase and refer to a racist slur for the disease.
- Looting, looters: Apply the word looters carefully and specifically to those who engage in looting. Avoid the labeling and the stigmatizing of larger communities, groups or all protesters.
- Riot, unrest, protest, demonstration, uprising, revolt:Use care in deciding which term best applies.
Every time you log into AP Stylebook Online, you can easily find recent updates by clicking on “New Entries” or “Recent Changes” on your subscriber homepage.