It's sometimes a little difficult to know the acceptable terminology, because not everyone within a particular group agrees themselves. Some native Americans don't at all mind being called "Indians" (an indication that Columbus was really lost and totally clueless about where he actually was), whereas others find the word offensive. The terms "black" and "African-American" are also subject to conflict. Some find them offensive, while others prefer either one or the other.

I tend to think that Caryn Elaine Johnson (better known as "Whoopi Goldberg") has the right idea. She said, "Why African-American? My family has been in this country for generations. I don't regard myself as African-American. I'm an American."

I'll drink to that!

Don Firth