Title: BIPOC vs. POC: 9 FAQs About What It Means, Why It Matters, More
Headings: Yes, There’s a Difference Between ‘BIPOC’ and ‘POC’ — Here’s Why It Matters
Yes, There’s a Difference Between ‘BIPOC’ and ‘POC’ — Here’s Why It Matters
What’s the short answer?
What does the acronym ‘BIPOC’ stand for?
Black
Indigenous
People of Color
Where did the acronym ‘BIPOC’ originate?
Why is it needed?
When should you use it?
When shouldn’t you use it?
Can you still use the acronym ‘POC’?
Where can you learn more?
What’s the bottom line?

Content: If you’d like to get more familiar with media not created by white people, you might say, “My goal this year is to read more books written by BIPOC authors,” or spend some time researching BIPOC directors or TV producers. (It’s also OK to get more specific and search out Black authors, Iranian authors, or Cherokee authors.) In short, if you’re discussing issues that pertain to groups of Black people, Indigenous people, and other People of Color, and it isn’t possible for you to get more specific, you might use “BIPOC.” When shouldn’t you use it? Acronyms and other abbreviations can feel easy and convenient, and they do have a purpose. But blanket use of these terms can still become problematic. Putting all People of Color into one category, even when attempting to emphasize certain voices, can still effectively diminish their individual experiences and cultural identity. When talking to (or about) individuals or smaller groups of people, avoid defaulting to umbrella terms such as “BIPOC,” since these tend to be less accurate. This may require some work on your part — be prepared to do that work. Here are some examples: