Should I include the word "negro" in my MLK blog post?

[malthaussen]

15. Depends on what your objective is

If it is to display intellectual integrity, then use the caption without modification. If it is to CYA, then don't. Any use of the forbidden word will draw fire from those who look for such things.

You could put the caption in quotes, add "sic" after the forbidden word, or use the quote but omit the forbidden word, either with ellipsis or not. The quote is coherent without the qualifier.

But the most sensible advice is ask your superiors if they feel like having to fight a battle over the forbidden word or not, and go from there.

In 1965, "negro" was not racist, in fact it was the word used by "sensitive" liberals who were uncomfortable with the expression "colored people." Even though "colored people" was not considered racist in the context of the times -- it is highly unlikely the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People would have chosen a racist name for their organization.

-- Mal