ddw, thank you. I pretty much agree with most of what you just said, although I AM partial to NOT being called some male gender thing, like chairman:-)

I thought I was clear that I don't agree with changing Twain, either.

The DC thing sounds pretty absurd...too bad everyone couldn't have talked it out, explained the meanings of the word, etc. As far as his being gay...the only explanation I can give would be some segments are so tired of the past history of prejudice that now, that they feel some support, they will use it to achieve their goals, with no apologies.

I have wondered what new words we could come up with to reflect equality (where's Will S. when we need him!). Many of the new words do not flow very well, but they seem to be the best we can do at the moment.

Sorry about getting on the soapbox, it just gets close to home whenever I read or hear the "n" word.

All the best,

kat