Out with "Oriental"

From Governor Paterson's press office:

Governor David A. Paterson today signed legislation that will eliminate the use of the term “oriental” in reference to persons of Asian or Pacific Islander heritage in forms or preprinted documents used by State government, public authorities or municipalities. The law directs that existing forms be amended no later than January 1, 2010.

“The words we use matter. We in government recognize that what we print in official documents or forms sets an example of what is acceptable. With this legislation, we take action against derogatory speech and set a new standard,” Governor Paterson said. “The word ‘oriental’ does not describe ethnic origin, background or even race; in fact, it has deep and demeaning historical roots. I am pleased to sign this legislation and remove the phrase from preprinted forms and documents. I congratulate the work of Senator Johnson, Assemblywoman Meng and the community leaders who worked to bring this important bill to my desk.”

A friend (herself Asian-American) adds:

Totally agree. My brother used to say, "oriental" describes rugs not people.