Oriental: What’s In A Word?

Have you ever been called something that didn’t quite feel right?

For a long time, the word “Oriental” was used to describe Asian people and cultures. But today, when used for people, it’s considered outdated and disrespectful.

Why? Because the term comes from a time when Asia was viewed through a colonial lens as “the East”, a broad label that grouped countless cultures, communities, and identities into one category.

Think about it: Asia is home to billions of people, hundreds of languages, and thousands of traditions. No single word can capture all of that. And trying to fit all these glorious cultures into one box takes away the sheer depth they hold.

That’s why many people prefer terms like Asian, or even better, names that reflect a person’s specific culture, nationality, or heritage. It’s a simple shift, but one that recognizes people for who they are rather than placing them into a catch-all label.

At House of Jaya, this resonates deeply. Many of us know what it feels like to carry layered identities that cannot be neatly boxed into a single category.

Because respect often starts with language. And sometimes, choosing the right words is one of the simplest ways to make someone feel seen.