Asian murder hornet renamed due to ‘discrimination’ or something

The name of the Asian giant hornet, which most people simply refer to as “murder hornets” is being changed in response to “a rise in hate crimes and discrimination against people of Asian descent.”

The Entomological Society of America released a statement on the name change, revealing that they are now dubbing the insect the “Northen Great Hornet.”

“Amid a rise in hate crimes and discrimination against people of Asian descent, usage of ‘Asian’ in the name of a pest insect can unintentionally bolster anti-Asian sentiment,” the group fretted.

According to the society’s president, Jessica Ware, the new name aims to be more “scientifically accurate” while avoiding creating any stigmas about any particular ethnic group or race.

“Common names are an important tool for entomologists to communicate with the public about insects and insect science. Northern giant hornet is both scientifically accurate and easy to understand, and it avoids evoking fear or discrimination,” she explained.

“‘Asian giant hornet’ does not convey unique information about the biology or behavior of the species,” the statement continued.

Social media reacted to the name swap:

Sierra Marlee

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