Thanks Ana for pointing out the blackboard myth is exactly that, an urban myth.
So far as i know, the use of the world 'coloured' in South Africa was to group together people of mixed or dual heritage. Blacks were blacks, whites were whites and coloureds came somewhere in the middle, not good enough to live in white areas, or bad enough to be pushed out to live in black areas.
Language evolves and why shouldn't it. In the past, people were described as 'cretins' or 'cripples', we now use different terms because the earlier language is no longer acceptable. I don't believe its a good thing to take offence where none was intended. I don't mind having my use of language corrected. I'd believed, incorrectly, that the phrase "nitty gritty" was linked to slavery. Someone on gransnet put me right on that one.
I don't like the term 'politically correct' as a catch all to put down anyone who tries to avoid offending others.
I'm off to hug a tree or three whilst walking my dogs on this bright, frosty morning.