Here is a little article on political correctness that is sure to spark some lively conversation in interpersonal and intercultural communication classes.

https://www.amny.com/opinion/columnists/mike-vogel/a-new-low-for-political-correctness-outrage-1.21777884

Cultural Identifiers

Here's a good example of the value of learning the appropriate cultural identifiers and the embarrassment that follows from not learning/using them from the Olympics. In brief: the announcer said: “She gives a hug to Lili,” Marlowe [the sports announcer] said. “That is her husband. She married Lili in 2013.”

Cultural Awareness

Here's an interesting little piece, sent to me by the author, on using cartoons to teach children cultural awareness and sensitivity. The 10 ways are easily adaptable to feature films, adult cartoons, and television shows for use with college students.
http://www.nationalnannies.com/blog/10-ways-cartoons-help-kids-learn-about-different-cultures/

Cultural Insensitivity

Just when I think we got it right, teaching about the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity in our increasingly intercultural world, I find an article in the New York Times (5/19/08, p. A6) entitled, “U.S. Regret at Koran’s Desecration”. Apparently a U.S. soldier had “used the Koran for target practice at a shooting range.” The letter of apology—from the soldier (unidentified) and read by General Hammond—said “I sincerely hope that my actions have not diminished the partnership that our two nations have developed together.” Is he serious? This is not, I fear, a simple misstep by one soldier but a pervasive insensitivity and cultural ignorance that can only create more problems than we already have.