The Importance of Focusing on the Effect of Words

In discussions about language, white people often use the defense of intent versus effect when confronted with the harm their words may cause. They claim that their intentions were never to hurt or oppress others. However, this focus on intent does not absolve them of responsibility for the impact of their words. Similarly, when discussing faith, it is unproductive to simply state that intention is not the issue. It is more beneficial to acknowledge and address the effects of our beliefs and actions.