A “My Take,” as it is assigned each week, requires the writer to express a clear opinion in only 145 words. Because I over-think everything, my process often involves spending most of the day writing and re-writing hundreds of words before, anxiety ridden, I chuck something out at the last possible minute and then do my best not to look back.
I share that to make it clear that I understand it can be hard to find the right words to express an idea properly.
One thing that acts as a pretty clear guidepost about whether a word choice or phasing is bad, though, is when marginalized people explicitly state that it excludes or is hurtful to them.
I understand that it can be hard to grapple with new information, but I have a really hard time understanding people who consistently prioritize grammar over compassion.