I too see a very strong difference between hornet and hornit. The difference between minute and minit is more subtle but is still fairly distinct. But as you point out, this does suppose a proper or at least standard pronunciation / accent. However I do believe that we have managed to acquire such a thing in that television personalities and foreign call center agents are both required to learn a "neutral" or "general american" accent. As to whether it is necessarily denigrating to groups or individuals to make the distinction I'm able to argue both ways.