From the president-elect declaring America does not have time for “political correctness” to professional ranter Tomi Lahren, it is certain that a staple of rightwing media is blaming “PC culture” for the division in our country. Basically, if I received a dollar every time I read or watched Republicans blame PC culture and political correctness for this chaotic moment in American history, I myself would be part of the one percent.

Political correctness is a phrase you Republicans obsessively cling to almost as much as your corrupted media rhetoric and participation trophy theories. You parade PC culture as an attack against the “good ole’ days” to poorly justify your unwillingness or inability to progress- not only progress as a country, but also as individuals.

PC Culture is not (and never was) a product of irrational sensitivity or spoiled millennials, but an attempt to advocate for human rights, empathize with marginalized communities, and tolerate those who hold differing ideals.

There is no denying America’s history has always been tumultuous, violent, and never great for minorities and the oppressed. Native Americans were killed, displaced, and forced onto small reservations. People of Color propelled America’s economic wealth as slaves and once freed, experienced endless discrimination. Asian-Americans were placed in US internment camps. Even women were denied body autonomy until Roe v. Wade and the criminalization of marital rape passed in the 1970s. Unfortunately, almost 2 centuries later, every single one of these communities are still battling for basic human rights. This is no surprise- history repeats itself when you choose to ignore it.

Every time you dismiss the painful struggles of minorities as over-sensitivity, you alone contribute to the divisiveness in our country. Every time you invalidate the injustices others experience and categorize it as irrelevant PC Culture, you perpetuate racism, sexism, and oppression.

Most have the tendency to shut down when conversations are uncomfortable or when they feel culpable; mentally listing muddled excuses instead of admitting your actions have physically, emotionally, or economically injured another. Your party believes apologizing or admitting wrongdoing is a sign of weakness, and your Achille’s heel will be your refusal to listen to ALL Americans: beyond your skin tone, wallet, and belief system.

Those of us you condemn as politically correct have just developed the skills you lack: empathy, compassion, and tolerance. Acknowledging the hurt and disadvantages of marginalized groups is what will make America a strong, united country.

Disparaging PC culture is just a euphemism for your bigotry; your racist dog whistle has rung out loud and clear.