NationStates Jolt Archive

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.
I agree with you fully. Furthermore, you're making sense. Either one of these alone is worrying enough, but both? Rotovia...are you the Anti-Christ?

I've always thought it stupid to use the term "******" by black people towards others. As you said, it's disempowering, it's demeaning. What's even MORE idiotic is that if a person of any other ethnicity says it even jokingly, it's very likely to offend. Hypocrisy is something that really, really pisses me off, and that's precisely what that is.

You're black? I never would have guessed.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.
I'm Canadian, which means I don't fully understand race issues in America. Do you consider your skin colour to be one of your key attributes?

Also, "irregardless". I hate you. Well, not really.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I understand what you mean. It's not so much the word as what it represents for you. I just find the "N-word" incredibly disrespectful, just like I'd find any obscenity offensive.

i hate every race and creed equily

I understand what you mean. It's not so much the word as what it represents for you. I just find the "N-word" incredibly disrespectful, just like I'd find any obscenity offensive.

Wait a minute, so you find words like shit as offensive as words like ******? That's some misplaced priorities.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I thought you were turkish?

I agree 100% with you. It's a horrible word and is offensive no matter who uses it; the crimes that it's associated with are some of the worst humanity has even committed, and using it even jokingly brings up some of that horrid past.

I've been stereotyped, but I'm not black so I feel for you.

Rotovia...are you the Anti-Christ?Yes

Wait a minute, so you find words like shit as offensive as words like ******? That's some misplaced priorities.

I find "******" offensive because it shows disrespect for your fellow man. Other curse words are offensive for the same reason, too. I didn't say they were equally offensive. You didn't read what I had to say very clearly, did ya.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.
Black friends I had used to use the word constantly. Sometimes I use it but only in humorous situations. Especially one period of my life when I thought it was funny to say racist things in an attempt to disarm actual racists and with the view that it did disempower hate speech. If I felt that I used it and offended someone, though, I'd be incredibly apologetic.

You're black? I never would have guessed.
I'm also Catholic, with Jewish grandparents! I'm the trifecta of minorities...

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I’m going to reply by stating that I am Irish-American. It has a great deal, with how I stand on the issue.

I find the use of Saint Paddy’s Day offensive.
Pad·dy P Pronunciation Key (p d )
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a person, especially a man, of Irish birth or descent.

It stands for centuries of oppression of the English against the Irish and is a word that any Irish person will tell you cut your soul like a dagger when you hear it. (Usually around Saint Patrick’s Day by the ignorant or uneducated.)

I personally do not think there is ever an appropriate time or use for the word “Paddy.”

My two cents worth.

its an ugly word that no one should use

i dont criticize black people who use it, i figure its not "my place" to do so.

but its still ugly

I understand what you mean. It's not so much the word as what it represents for you. I just find the "N-word" incredibly disrespectful, just like I'd find any obscenity offensive.

I would sat it's far worse; I mean, most obscenities don't have much meaning other than as cruder terms for common acts. The "N-word" encompasses so much hatred, suffering, and even the total devastation of an entire continent that its meaning is staggering.

I've seen your picture. You're not black.

I’m going to reply by stating that I am Irish-American. It has a great deal, with how I stand on the issue.

I find the use of Saint Paddy’s Day offensive.
Pad·dy P Pronunciation Key (p d )
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a person, especially a man, of Irish birth or descent.

It stands for centuries of oppression of the English against the Irish and is a word that any Irish person will tell you cut your soul like a dagger when you hear it. (Usually around Saint Patrick’s Day by the ignorant or uneducated.)

I personally do not think there is ever an appropriate time or use for the word “Paddy.”

My two cents worth.
have you often been called PADDY in your life? or heard other people of irish decent called that?

I'm Canadian, which means I don't fully understand race issues in America. Do you consider your skin colour to be one of your key attributes?<snip>I consider my heritage very important to me. I am very much a fan of being proud to be born black, white, asian or whatever. We're human first our race second.

have you often been called PADDY in your life? or heard other people of irish decent called that?

Yes to both.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.
I tend to agree with you on that. Although words only have the power we grant them, we may subconsciously grant them power, particularly those which are deeply emotionally laden. Having that particular word used against you and one of the groups to which you belong for as long as you can remember, gives it added subconscious weight, no matter who uses it.

Many formerly derogatory terms have lost power with time: kike, micky, spic, even jew. I suspect that one reason the N word continues to carry such power is its continued use by those against whom it has been directed.

I would sat it's far worse; I mean, most obscenities don't have much meaning other than as cruder terms for common acts. The "N-word" encompasses so much hatred, suffering, and even the total devastation of an entire continent that its meaning is staggering.

I'm not disagreeing with you. (I clarified what I meant in an earlier post.) All I am saying is that "******" is offensive because it offends people, just like any obscenity. I'm not rating the degree or the severity of the word, only explaining that it holds power because it offends people.

If one more person misinterprets what I'm saying, I'm going to have a cow.

I consider my heritage very important to me. I am very much a fan of being proud to be born black, white, asian or whatever. We're human first our race second.

First, nice snip.

Second, I find the whole thing confusing from where I am because our society is quite literally becoming colourblind. I've been hanging out with a couple of friends discussing politics and asked the question "how WASPy are we?" only to realize I had forgotten one wasn't white at all. I find America's race issues really interesting for the reason that it's something I have no experience with.

I'm also Catholic, with Jewish grandparents! I'm the trifecta of minorities...

You're sure you're not gay too? Because that would round things out beautifully.

In all seriousness, I understand where you're coming from. I usually get annoyed when people complain of "political incorrectness", but I maintain that slurs go beyond that, and reach into the realm of harrasment and prejudice. I also hate how the word "nigga" is thrown around with such abandon. Not only by blacks, but by others who are just trying to be "gangsta" (are these freaks MULTIPLYING or what?)

In other words I agree with you.

I thought you were turkish?
Uh... Huh.... hmmm... I'm not really sure how to respond.

Black friends I had used to use the word constantly. Sometimes I use it but only in humorous situations. Especially one period of my life when I thought it was funny to say racist things in an attempt to disarm actual racists and with the view that it did disempower hate speech. If I felt that I used it and offended someone, though, I'd be incredibly apologetic.
You bring up an interesting point. But here is a thought. What kind of black people call each other nigga? Is it well off black people who's parents teach them the importance to strive to be the best? Not usually. It tends to be people with low levels of self pride. They think they are niggers and so call themselves that.

I'm sure neither you nor your friends intended to insult anybody, but the problem is that both you and your friends disrespected an entire racegroup.

Just to recap though, I do not belive you're a racist or a bad person. Have a fluffle :fluffle:

Yes

Ahh..I thought you were my son. Couldn't be sure. Just don't expect me to pay child support.

What's with the random seriousness, though? Fed up with hearing people use the word...?

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I agree with you. There is never an appropriate time or use for that word. As a member of a very small minority group myself (I'm transgender) I know what it feels like to be called rotten names, to deal with cruel, unkind, hurtful people, and to be called things like "faggot" or "queen" or "queer." I hate those words every bit as much as you hate the N-word, and for many of the same reasons. The words are hurtful. People who use them MEAN for them to hurt.
Anyone who uses racial epithets or slurs as a part of their speech are rotten, miserable, despicable people I want nothing whatsoever to do with.

I'm not disagreeing with you. (I clarified what I meant in an earlier post.) All I am saying is that "******" is offensive because it offends people, just like any obscenity. I'm not rating the degree or the severity of the word, only explaining that it holds power because it offends people.

If one more person misinterprets what I'm saying, I'm going to have a cow.

Okay. You're saying there's a ladder, and agreeing that ****** is very, very high on said ladder.

I just disagree with the concept that most of the other "bad words" actually offend people. It's not like they connect in any deep way to someone's identity, and that seems to be the criterion for offense. You can't be offended by someone saying you're stupid unless its an issue for you. So someone calling you a bastard shouldn't offend you unless you really have doubt about who your father is. By contrast, calling Rotovia a ****** does offend him because he is black.

I’m going to reply by stating that I am Irish-American. It has a great deal, with how I stand on the issue.

I find the use of Saint Paddy’s Day offensive.
Pad·dy P Pronunciation Key (p d )
n. Offensive Slang
Used as a disparaging term for a person, especially a man, of Irish birth or descent.

It stands for centuries of oppression of the English against the Irish and is a word that any Irish person will tell you cut your soul like a dagger when you hear it. (Usually around Saint Patrick’s Day by the ignorant or uneducated.)

I personally do not think there is ever an appropriate time or use for the word “Paddy.”

My two cents worth.Maybe's it's just my English, but I've always called it St Patrick's Day. I personally never (to my best knwoledge) use racial slurs, in any context, about any race. So I will make a mental note of this one.

its an ugly word that no one should use

i dont criticize black people who use it, i figure its not "my place" to do so.

but its still ugly
We have unanimous agreement that calling a black person a ****** is a bad thing to do. Why don't we explore some more interesting topics in race-relations.

Can those of us without color criticize those of color? Can I legitimately say that affirmative action has run it's course and should be abandoned without being labeled racist? Can I say that a culture that discourages education is wrong? Especially when I mean that the culture is an inner city, black culture?

I've heard a lot of these arguments made and made them myself. But I've also heard the counter argument that we just 'don't understand' because we're not black. How much weigh is that argument allowed to carry?

have you often been called PADDY in your life? or heard other people of irish decent called that?

No, but I have heard of Irish people referred to as "Micks." Which is every bit as nasty as using the N-word to describe an African-American.

I've seen your picture. You're not black.
I really do not feel like prove my racial heritage, that and you scare me a little. :eek:

You bring up an interesting point. But here is a thought. What kind of black people call each other nigga? Is it well off black people who's parents teach them the importance to strive to be the best? Not usually. It tends to be people with low levels of self pride. They think they are niggers and so call themselves that.

I'm sure neither you nor your friends intended to insult anybody, but the problem is that both you and your friends disrespected an entire racegroup.

Just to recap though, I do not belive you're a racist or a bad person. Have a fluffle :fluffle:

The question is, do black people who use the word ****** do that because of low self esteem, or because of wanting to disarm the idea? Either can explain the class divide, because wealthy black people have less need to fight back against racism because its easier for them to avoid it.

We have unanimous agreement that calling a black person a ****** is a bad thing to do. Why don't we explore some more interesting topics in race-relations.

Can those of us without color criticize those of color? Can I legitimately say that affirmative action has run it's course and should be abandoned without being labeled racist? Can I say that a culture that discourages education is wrong? Especially when I mean that the culture is an inner city, black culture?

I've heard a lot of these arguments made and made them myself. But I've also heard the counter argument that we just 'don't understand' because we're not black. How much weigh is that argument allowed to carry?

Go for it. Post a new thread on any of the above topics and see what happens.

You bring up an interesting point. But here is a thought. What kind of black people call each other nigga? Is it well off black people who's parents teach them the importance to strive to be the best? Not usually. It tends to be people with low levels of self pride. They think they are niggers and so call themselves that.

I'm sure neither you nor your friends intended to insult anybody, but the problem is that both you and your friends disrespected an entire racegroup.

Just to recap though, I do not belive you're a racist or a bad person. Have a fluffle :fluffle:
It feels like fluff!

Uh... Huh.... hmmm... I'm not really sure how to respond.

Why? Do you have something against the Turks?

Go for it. Post a new thread on any of the above topics and see what happens.
LOL
I'm already getting hammered for that elsewhere (http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showpost.php?p=9605883&postcount=12). I'm not ready to fight it on more than one front.

We have unanimous agreement that calling a black person a ****** is a bad thing to do. Why don't we explore some more interesting topics in race-relations.

Can those of us without color criticize those of color? Can I legitimately say that affirmative action has run it's course and should be abandoned without being labeled racist? Can I say that a culture that discourages education is wrong? Especially when I mean that the culture is an inner city, black culture?

I've heard a lot of these arguments made and made them myself. But I've also heard the counter argument that we just 'don't understand' because we're not black. How much weigh is that argument allowed to carry?
I hope you do not mind, but I'll answer a couple of your rhetorical questions:

1: Of course you can criticize someone of colour, so long as the issue of race is not involved. (ie "That is a poor arguement" vs "You only think that way becaue you're black)
2: There is no doubt in my mind you will be called a racist for calling an end to afirmitive action.
3: No you should not criticize a culuture that discourages education. Why? Because you are singling out a race as bad, that's racism. I highly reccomend, though, that you criticize the typically innercity lower-soicio economic groups that discouage education.

I really do not feel like prove my racial heritage

Your racial heritage is inconsequential. You're not black. Your complexion is more that of someone who is "brown" like a Latino or South American/Diluted Aboriginal and in certain respects even Arab. Your skin colour is not black, and neither is your facial structure or hair. "Black" tends to be used about people who fit an African description, and you don't appear to do that.

that and you scare me a little. :eek:

Boo.

2: There is no doubt in my mind you will be called a racist for calling an end to afirmitive action.

Are you serious? I thought we would have progressed past that here. What if we just call for aid to be determined based on social status rather than skin colour?

Your racial heritage is inconsequential. You're not black. Your complexion is more that of someone who is "brown" like a Latino or South American/Diluted Aboriginal and in certain respects even Arab. Your skin colour is not black, and neither is your facial structure or hair. "Black" tends to be used about people who fit an African description, and you don't appear to do that.



Boo.
I don't know how that changes the point of discussion.

The question is, do black people who use the word ****** do that because of low self esteem, or because of wanting to disarm the idea? Either can explain the class divide, because wealthy black people have less need to fight back against racism because its easier for them to avoid it.
I'm an upper middle class black man, and I do not find it easy to avoid. I've never been a lower-class innercity black person either, so maybe it is harder for them to avoid it. But all black people will tell you they've felt it.

As an Irish (Northern) Australian, I use paddy at least once a week, theirs nothing wrong with that, i hear the occasional Danny Boy (even though im female) quite frequently too, and i laugh along with the rest, and when in partly sober on St Paddys day (yes northern irish can still celebrate St Patrics) ille definately call it St Paddys day,

To anyone who thinks that Paddy or Danny Boy is offencive, get off your donkey and start focusing on whats important,

The Irish have seen first had what religious intollerance can do (*Becomes more serious*) and racial intollerance is just as bad, humans are diverse, cellebrate that fact!

and on a lighter note, the Irish are known for good humor, im proud of that, so be comfortable with the fact that your Irish, and take pride in all its colloquial names, the world can do with some humour right now, and the Irish are just the ones to bring it!

so C'arn the Danny Boy's called Paddy
(oh, and before it gets asked, yes i was 100% sober when i wrote this)

As for the N-word, i saw some little kids in a play group (ages aprox. 3-6), 3 were black and about 9 were white, the 3 black children were new to the area, (they were refugees from Sudan) after about 10 mins of "how did you get that colour? were you always like it? does it come off?" the kids were all fine and played quite happily, i think we could learn alot from kids, understand the basic fact that someone is either black white or somewhere in between, understand that the colour wont change (please exclude all micheal jackson comment, this is just on principle!) but were all still people and can all play in the big sand box of life just as well as each other,

if you want to give colloqial names to being black or white fine, be proud of what ever heritage youve got! Black, white or somewhere in between - and accept all the stigma that comes with it, i have one friend thats black (and i mean the really dark african black) when i call him a ****** he calls me Danny Girl and if its someone else calls him a ****** he just says, yep, im a ******, and i bet i can jump higher than you (hes 6.6ft) too!

I don't know how that changes the point of discussion.

I wasn't aware I was addressing that at all.

Why? Because you are singling out a race as bad, that's racism. I highly reccomend, though, that you criticize the typically innercity lower-soicio economic groups that discouage education.

So, who are "the typically innercity lower-soicio economic groups that discouage education?"

Ahh..I thought you were my son. Couldn't be sure. Just don't expect me to pay child support.

What's with the random seriousness, though? Fed up with hearing people use the word...?

Sorry...I forgot to upgrade you to Mk. 2

(Hands over upgrade)

Anyway. I liked what Rotovia had said earlier about placing one's humanity above one's percieved "race". We're all almost genetically identical to begin with, what's a few mixed genes?

I think if more people in the world had this kind of attitude things would be better. I mean...In Africa, the Darfur Genocide...they're killing based on nose size.

*sigh*

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I agree - I hate that word. What are the "harmless origins" of the word anyway?

Are you serious? I thought we would have progressed past that here. What if we just call for aid to be determined based on social status rather than skin colour?
I'm not saying it's right. Just go to the nearest street corner and say "I think we need to end affirmative action" and see how long it takes for you to be called a racist.

Chance's are you're not. A very good point has also been raised, one I agree with. Modern affirmative action IS racist. it says black people cannot get anywhere by themselves. Yes, certain groups deserve extrea support to be equal. But the level of skin pigment is not one of these valid reasons.

I wasn't aware I was addressing that at all.
Oh.

I agree - I hate that word. What are the "harmless origins" of the word anyway?
A person of Nigerian origon. It also comes from the Latin word meaning darkness.

Alot of you have very good questions and comments. I plan to get to all of them, so please bare with me.

We have unanimous agreement that calling a black person a ****** is a bad thing to do. Why don't we explore some more interesting topics in race-relations.

Can those of us without color criticize those of color? Can I legitimately say that affirmative action has run it's course and should be abandoned without being labeled racist? Can I say that a culture that discourages education is wrong? Especially when I mean that the culture is an inner city, black culture?

I've heard a lot of these arguments made and made them myself. But I've also heard the counter argument that we just 'don't understand' because we're not black. How much weigh is that argument allowed to carry?
you can make them but you have to be very careful that you are reflecting the truth, that you are sensitive to culture and history, that you are not generalizing about a whole race based on its worst representatives, and that you recognize your own conflict of interest in any racially based criticism.

So, who are "the typically innercity lower-[sic]socio economic groups that discouage education?"
I wonder? Perhaps exactly that? Not just poor black people. But a group comprised of all races.

Your racial heritage is inconsequential. You're not black. Your complexion is more that of someone who is "brown" like a Latino or South American/Diluted Aboriginal and in certain respects even Arab. Your skin colour is not black, and neither is your facial structure or hair. "Black" tends to be used about people who fit an African description, and you don't appear to do that.



Boo.
You are aware that racial indetification based on pseudo-scientific physical characteristics has been out of common use since WWII, right?

you can make them but you have to be very careful that you are reflecting the truth, that you are sensitive to culture and history, that you are not generalizing about a whole race based on its worst representatives, and that you recognize your own conflict of interest in any racially based criticism.
Well said.

Well said.
thank you

I wonder? Perhaps exactly that? Not just poor black people. But a group comprised of all races.

I agree. What people don't realize is that the so called "inner city black culture" is also a latino, white, even sometimes asian culture. It's just the culture of stupid poor people.

I tend to agree with you on that. Although words only have the power we grant them, we may subconsciously grant them power, particularly those which are deeply emotionally laden. Having that particular word used against you and one of the groups to which you belong for as long as you can remember, gives it added subconscious weight, no matter who uses it.

Many formerly derogatory terms have lost power with time: kike, micky, spic, even jew. I suspect that one reason the N word continues to carry such power is its continued use by those against whom it has been directed.

Something similar to this was floating around in my head, so I thought I'd bump it, very intelligent comment me thinks.

I agree. What people don't realize is that the so called "inner city black culture" is also a latino, white, even sometimes asian culture. It's just the culture of stupid poor people.
I agree, though I'd be tempted to call them "typically ignorant" not stupid. ;)

JihadOrange brought this to my attention:
I tend to agree with you on that. Although words only have the power we grant them, we may subconsciously grant them power, particularly those which are deeply emotionally laden. Having that particular word used against you and one of the groups to which you belong for as long as you can remember, gives it added subconscious weight, no matter who uses it.

Many formerly derogatory terms have lost power with time: kike, micky, spic, even jew. I suspect that one reason the N word continues to carry such power is its continued use by those against whom it has been directed.Not only that, but it's continued use against black people. This momory is courtesy of a drunken redneck last thursday night.

disempower this, empowerment that. It's all relativity. Especially since it's usage is merely a symptom. Merely a symptom indeed. But then we in the west like suppressing symptoms rather than causes. Unless we're like Frankenfurter and are "[removing] the cause, but not the symptom!"

All this reminds me of the time when I thought I actually found a definition of the word that was more than "A disparaging term for a person of african american descent" or such in that vein ad nauseum.

But as it turned out it was really Nigard and nigardly. Which I could not determine whether it was related to the word we so fondly refer to as THE N word, due to my supreme ignorance of how to research etymology of things other than names.

you can make them but you have to be very careful that you are reflecting the truth, that you are sensitive to culture and history, that you are not generalizing about a whole race based on its worst representatives, and that you recognize your own conflict of interest in any racially based criticism.
See that's what I'm having problems with... The idea that we need to walk softly on important issues makes it hard to discuss them. There's a point where the merit of the argument trumps any kind of hurt feelings on either side. Or it should if you want to do more than pay lip service to a problem.

Look at the contempt Bill Cosby is bringing on himself for making these same arguments. At some point we have to just decide that race isn't the issue -- education, personal responsibility, law and order, one of these things is the issue. And we all need to decide that. I don't think we can make much progress as a society until we can throw out race as a consideration in public policy.

JihadOrange brought this to my attention:
Not only that, but it's continued use against black people. This momory is courtesy of a drunken redneck last thursday night.

It's self perpetuating. As is self-segregation.

The concept we are talking about here is word reclamation for oppressed groups just like 'Queer' has been reclaimed but not as the queer community would have liked.

****** is offensive but by using it in a positive way, it eventually empowers those who it was used against and disempowers those who would perpetaute racism.

disempower this, empowerment that. It's all relativity. Especially since it's usage is merely a symptom. Merely a symptom indeed. But then we in the west like suppressing symptoms rather than causes. Unless we're like Frankenfurter and are "[removing] the cause, but not the symptom!"
You are right, the use of ****** is linked a deeper social and psychological problem

All this reminds me of the time when I thought I actually found a definition of the word that was more than "A disparaging term for a person of african american descent" or such in that vein ad nauseum.

But as it turned out it was really Nigard and nigardly. Which I could not determine whether it was related to the word we so fondly refer to as THE N word, due to my supreme ignorance of how to research etymology of things other than names.It originates form the Latin word meaning darkness, for the record. I researched it during a spate of extreme boredum(sp?).

See that's what I'm having problems with... The idea that we need to walk softly on important issues makes it hard to discuss them. There's a point where the merit of the argument trumps any kind of hurt feelings on either side. Or it should if you want to do more than pay lip service to a problem.

Look at the contempt Bill Cosby is bringing on himself for making these same arguments. At some point we have to just decide that race isn't the issue -- education, personal responsibility, law and order, one of these things is the issue. And we all need to decide that. I don't think we can make much progress as a society until we can throw out race as a consideration in public policy.
Is the issue actually your desire to make noise over your responsablity to treat people with respect? In any arguement you should be careful not to simply insult the group your are addressing, but rather to put forward a sound argumement. If you are seeking to do anthing else or have trouble with this, then I would be tempted to question your motives.

The concept we are talking about here is word reclamation for oppressed groups just like 'Queer' has been reclaimed but not as the queer community would have liked.

****** is offensive but by using it in a positive way, it eventually empowers those who it was used against and disempowers those who would perpetaute racism.
This would be a good point if that happened. But what happens on the contrary is that blacks with low self esteem use the word. Not out of a desire for disempowerment, but rather out of a belief they are niggers.

This would be a good point if that happened. But what happens on the contrary is that blacks with low self esteem use the word. Not out of a desire for disempowerment, but rather out of a belief they are niggers.

Yes, but to them ****** is a militant, superior identity, much as nerd has come to be (you've seen my thread, you know what I'm talking about). It has become a term of empowerment, even of arrogance, in some circles.

Yes, but to them ****** is a militant, superior identity, much as nerd has come to be (you've seen my thread, you know what I'm talking about). It has become a term of empowerment, even of arrogance, in some circles.
The difference is that people who call themselves nerds do it with power. People who call themselves niggers don't.

It's funny how concerned and offended most of you are at the concept of somebody dropping the n-bomb...where I live, I'm not sure I know somebody who ISN'T racist and doesn't use that term. Not just my friends...shit...most everybody I know. I drop that bitch every day.

It's funny how concerned and offended most of you are at the concept of somebody dropping the n-bomb...where I live, I'm not sure I know somebody who ISN'T racist and doesn't use that term. Not just my friends...shit...most everybody I know. I drop that bitch every day.
All I can say is I hope you're kidding.

You are aware that racial indetification based on pseudo-scientific physical characteristics has been out of common use since WWII, right?

And you are aware that you are not "black" just because you say you are?

See that's what I'm having problems with... The idea that we need to walk softly on important issues makes it hard to discuss them. There's a point where the merit of the argument trumps any kind of hurt feelings on either side. Or it should if you want to do more than pay lip service to a problem.

Look at the contempt Bill Cosby is bringing on himself for making these same arguments. At some point we have to just decide that race isn't the issue -- education, personal responsibility, law and order, one of these things is the issue. And we all need to decide that. I don't think we can make much progress as a society until we can throw out race as a consideration in public policy.
we can throw out race as an issue when race stops BEING an issue. to prematurely abandon all efforts to correct racism on the thought that "race doesnt exist and we should all be equal" is to ensure that those on the short end of the racism stick will continue to be there

lets consider affirmative action for example. a well meaning concept that has been largely abandoned. it had severe problems in implimentation and a spotty record of helping those who really needed and could benefit from the help.

BUT to argue that those flaws are so bad that it must be dismantled without addressing the realities behind its being needed to begin with. and to toss it out without making plans for how the original goals of affirmative action can be achieved, is to leave us mired in the racism of the past 200 years.

race IS the issue. its not all "white" peoples fault. bill cosby addresses the issues that are somewhat under the control of the black community and individual families. good for him! he doesnt need to prove his credentials in making his criticism, his background is well known by the general public. other people, especially those of other races DO need to prove their credentials before criticizing black communities. this is no different than the need to prove yourself in any public arguement.

And you are aware that you are not "black" just because you say you are?
while i have not seen a photo of rotovia, i would suggest that he is a better judge than you are of his own blackness.

it may well be that black means something different in the US than it does in sweden.

while i have not seen a photo of rotovia, i would suggest that he is a better judge than you are of his own blackness.

it may well be that black means something different in the US than it does in sweden.

Besides, unless he put someone else's face on his country's currency when he posted it on this forum, it would appear he most definitely is black.

******, ******, ******, ******. It's just a word. You're the one who gives it power. Once you learn not to, words can't harm you.

The difference is that people who call themselves nerds do it with power. People who call themselves niggers don't.

If you don't call yourself a ******, how can you possibly know that?

Besides, "gangsta" people as far as I've seen try to say everything with power.

******, ******, ******, ******. It's just a word. You're the one who gives it power. Once you learn not to, words can't harm you.

The problem is that because we can only understand most people as simple categories, words determine identity. If someone uses the wrong words to desribe you, they are establishing the wrong identity and giving you the wrong role in society.

Thank you, Rotovia.

First off I find the "n" word offensive. No matter what text it's used in. Yes, we hear it every day in music and on TV, and I admit some of those songs i do like. but I dont think there is an "appropriate" time to say it. The way I've been brought up, the "n" word can be used for either a black or white person, although it's mostly pinned on black ppl. My dad grew up during the time when that word was used often, but thank God I didn't grow up w/ the same values. My boyfriend is black, and i'm white, so i've begun to change my dad's ideas on black people, which makes me very happy, b/c he used to say the word alot, and it always made me cringe.....but i think i've made a difference, even though it's just one person...I challenge everyone to try to change one person's perspective today, tomorrow or in the near future. One person a day can make a difference.

First off I find the "n" word offensive. No matter what text it's used in. Yes, we hear it every day in music and on TV, and I admit some of those songs i do like. but I dont think there is an "appropriate" time to say it. The way I've been brought up, the "n" word can be used for either a black or white person, although it's mostly pinned on black ppl. My dad grew up during the time when that word was used often, but thank God I didn't grow up w/ the same values. My boyfriend is black, and i'm white, so i've begun to change my dad's ideas on black people, which makes me very happy, b/c he used to say the word alot, and it always made me cringe.....but i think i've made a difference, even though it's just one person...I challenge everyone to try to change one person's perspective today, tomorrow or in the near future. One person a day can make a difference.

true, the only question is how. Also, I think a "Good on yer!" is in order.

The problem is that because we can only understand most people as simple categories, words determine identity. If someone uses the wrong words to desribe you, they are establishing the wrong identity and giving you the wrong role in society.

Don't include me in your we. If someone uses the wrong words to describe you, point out their errors, or accept their ignorance. You determine your role in society, all others can do is try to identify and/or categorize you. Be that in a positive or negative light.

The way I see it, any black who calls me a 'cracka' gets called a ****** in return. Nothing personal, just gotta hold some folks to their own standards.

And you are aware that you are not "black" just because you say you are?
I swear to God Fass... :mp5:

******, ******, ******, ******. It's just a word. You're the one who gives it power. Once you learn not to, words can't harm you.
I beg to differ. They do hurt me. Ergo you're arguement is void. God home.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.
In the words of the old beer commercials, "brilliant!"

Thank you, Rotovia.
Your welcome? What did I do?


Ps. I am getting to the mant other posts I haven't yet responded to.

I swear to God Fass... :mp5:

Another one of those blaspheming against their deity... :rolleyes:

Some song lyrics that I felt were appropriate:
People are people so why should it be
You and I should get along so awfully

So we're different colours
And we're different creeds
And different people have different needs
It's obvious you hate me
Though I've done nothing wrong
I never even met you
So what could I have done

I can't understand
What makes a man
Hate another man
Help me understand

People are people so why should it be
You and I should get along so awfully

Help me understand

Now you're punching and you're kicking
And you're shouting at me
I'm relying on your common decency
So far it hasn't surfaced
But I'm sure it exists
It just takes a while to travel
From your head to your fist

I can't understand
What makes a man
Hate another man

Help me understand

From "People are People" by Depeche Mode

A word is just a few letters strung together.

The power, comes from how you react to it.

Rotovia, you say that word offends you.

Why?

"******" simply means "a stupid man."

Its a derivative of "Niggard".

Obviously, you're not stupid.
So why should it matter what rediculous labels anyone gives you?

You know that its not true, so why should the opinion of any douchebag, who wants to make you upset by using an innacurate phrase, mean shit to you?

When you become offended, and react to such a word, you give it it's power over you.

I would say you need a thicker skin.

I'm also Catholic, with Jewish grandparents! I'm the trifecta of minorities...
My best friend when I was growing up was black, and his adopted parents were white and polish. Imagine a big black guy with a last name ending in -ski!

JihadOrange brought this to my attention:
Not only that, but it's continued use against black people. This momory is courtesy of a drunken redneck last thursday night.
Not to , in any way , take away from your argument (which I agree with) but I'm sure some people (not me) would be offended to hear the term "redneck". Alot of southerners consider that derogitory.

Your welcome? What did I do?


Ps. I am getting to the mant other posts I haven't yet responded to.

Oh, noone has/had ever actually offered an actual meaning when they found out I was curious about it. Mostly they just gave me warnings that I could come to serious bodily harm from any black person who overheard me either talking about the interest or heard me berating someone who had actually used the term in its deragatory meaning in public more or less. And a couple people acted like their feathers got a tad ruffled/were amazed that I would even wonder about it, but they didn't say anything more, possibly because they knew how odd a person I was/am.

I dont really have a problem with most cussing, but when it gets to dissing or discriminating against people because of things that are no fault of their own (eg: race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disabilities/defects, etc.) thats when my head really blows off. And no, i dont think there is ever an appropriate time to use the "N word."

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

Chill, everythings cool, as long as you are not white nor christian everything and anything you say is ok. You can even discuss blowing up fellow citizens.

Check out Americas new superpower KKK blackamericaweb.com to see its ok. :) So glad I found a way around my companies security to read some good websites for a change.

The whole race card is such bs in America today.

Thank you so much for posting this thread :)
That particular form of address has become popular among the black students at many of our local high schools - they all walk around saying "hey nigga, how you doin'?". I'm not black but the first time I heard this I was horrified! It's demeaning and highly disrespectful to these kids' ancestors who went through hell trying to get this word erased from our vocabulary.

Ditto for the style of wearing one's pants halfway down to the knees. Newsflash kids - this style did NOT originate in prisons. It dates back to the days of slavery when blacks were only allowed to wear belts on sundays for church - white men frequently accosted blacks on the streets on their way back from church and pulled their pants back down saying something like this "get yer pants back down where they belong ****** boy".

So come on guys, show some dignity and some respect - address your friends as buddy, brother, dude or by name and wear your pants proudly at the waist as intended :)

"******" simply means "a stupid man."

Its a derivative of "Niggard".

For the record: the word "******" and the word "niggard" have nothing in common - certainly not meaning! - save for the fact that both start with the same four letters.

The word "******" (which can be thoroughly researched online - etymonline.com has significant data on it), is ultimately derived from the Latin "nigrum, niger", meaning, quite simply, "black", although English received the word via the French nègre and the Spanish negro, both of which, (surprisingly enough) mean "black".

From etymonline.com:

Niggard: 1366, nygart, of uncertain origin. The suffix suggests Fr. origin (cf. dastard), but the root word is probably related to O.N. hnøggr "stingy," from P.Gmc. *khnauwjaz (cf. Swed. njugg "close, careful," Ger. genau "precise, exact"), and to O.E. hneaw "stingy, niggardly," which did not survive in M.E.

The one word is Latin in origin, the other word (probably) Germanic - and ne'er the twain meanings shall meet.

Both the word "******" and the word "negro" have the same root - a Romance word meaning "black". Neither has any relation to the word "niggard", save for any crafted in the minds of those who don't know better ((in)famously, a DC staffer was fired for using the word "niggardly"...).

The "harmless origins" alluded to by the author of the post (Rotovia) are indeed the Latin roots above - regardless of which, any American should be able to relate that the word has indeed been used to symbolize oppression - setting the grounds for his very thesis.

For the record: the word "******" and the word "niggard" have nothing in common - certainly not meaning! - save for the fact that both start with the same four letters.

The word "******" (which can be thoroughly researched online - etymonline.com has significant data on it), is ultimately derived from the Latin "nigrum, niger", meaning, quite simply, "black", although English received the word via the French nègre and the Spanish negro, both of which, (surprisingly enough) mean "black".

From etymonline.com:

Niggard: 1366, nygart, of uncertain origin. The suffix suggests Fr. origin (cf. dastard), but the root word is probably related to O.N. hnøggr "stingy," from P.Gmc. *khnauwjaz (cf. Swed. njugg "close, careful," Ger. genau "precise, exact"), and to O.E. hneaw "stingy, niggardly," which did not survive in M.E.

The one word is Latin in origin, the other word (probably) Germanic - and ne'er the twain meanings shall meet.

Both the word "******" and the word "negro" have the same root - a Romance word meaning "black". Neither has any relation to the word "niggard", save for any crafted in the minds of those who don't know better ((in)famously, a DC staffer was fired for using the word "niggardly"...).

The "harmless origins" alluded to by the author of the post (Rotovia) are indeed the Latin roots above - regardless of which, any American should be able to relate that the word has indeed been used to symbolize oppression - setting the grounds for his very thesis.

Opression ?! Are you out of your damn mind ? Most Rap music has the word in it and most rappers are black ? Now America is also guilty of black Rappers singing to black teenagers as oppresion, making more money then even that fake TD Jakes while at it ?

Want to know where race hate comes from now ? It aint the majority of whites. Other side of the coin.

A word is not simply a combination of letters that mean something. A word is a thought that can be communicated - in that word the person communiates their thought and associated emotions to the listener. People also think in words, and it is very difficult to think of somehing if there is no word for the thing being thought of. This idea is explored in great detail in 1984 with the introduction of 'newspeak' to control the thoughts of the population by removing the tools (words) to think about things the 1984 Big Brother government did not want them to think about.
Words are almost a form of telepathy for in the syllables of a word a person can contain the emotions and complex meaning of whatever they are describing.

Take the words cat, house, run, walk, rape, murder, pedophile, flower, doctor.
Did you have the same emotional reaction to all of those? Generaly the only people who do are people with mental conditions - psychopaths, sociopaths and so on. ( i have read this in a couple of places but do not have a source handy)

The N-Word contains so much meaning, history and emotion. Some black people use the word frequently as a method to "take the word away from the white and make it our word". Which it may well be now as a non-black person cannot easily say the word in public, however I agree with the origional poster that the black people who use it have not thought of its effect and how it negatively contributes to society, to themselves and other black people and to race relations in general.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.


I can understand, at least sympathize, a little bit. I grew up in a Neighborhood that was primarily Irish-American. When people called each other "Micks" it was no big deal, but when someone who wasn't Irish-American or wasn't from the neighborhood used the term, it wasn't accepted.

What a double standard!! An ethnic slur is a ethnic slur, no matter who is slurring it.

N.B. I use the term Irish American because I have already have my posts jumped several times for saying I'm Irish.

Not to , in any way , take away from your argument (which I agree with) but I'm sure some people (not me) would be offended to hear the term "redneck". Alot of southerners consider that derogitory.

A good point...but remember, there are three types of redneck:

1) Those that don't care if they are called redneck because they earned the title by farming and tilling the land from sun-up to sun-down (hence their actually red necks).
2) Those who act (or appear to act) like country bumpkins and are labeled rednecks (this is the group that would be offended).
3) The trendy people who like to be country style, adopt the term redneck to themselves because they love country music, and the rebel flag (which I think is just as if not more offensive than the "N" word), and they watch NASCAR and have big belt buckles and love to say "Git 'er dun". Those people are just ridiculous.

So only 1 out of 3 people that fall into these categories would not like to be called redneck. They prefer the term "good ol' boys". Which is sad because that has a different negative conotation altogether.

A good point...but remember, there are three types of redneck:

1) Those that don't care if they are called redneck because they earned the title by farming and tilling the land from sun-up to sun-down (hence their actually red necks).
2) Those who act (or appear to act) like country bumpkins and are labeled rednecks (this is the group that would be offended).
3) The trendy people who like to be country style, adopt the term redneck to themselves because they love country music, and the rebel flag (which I think is just as if not more offensive than the "N" word), and they watch NASCAR and have big belt buckles and love to say "Git 'er dun". Those people are just ridiculous.

So only 1 out of 3 people that fall into these categories would not like to be called redneck. They prefer the term "good ol' boys". Which is sad because that has a different negative conotation altogether.
Oh? Care to explain to me why the term "good old boy" has a "negative connotation?"

Oh? Care to explain to me why the term "good old boy" has a "negative connotation?"

Because is indicates the institution of a sexist, elitist group that has more control than it should and is generally racist. For example, "George Bush, Cheney and those guys, they're all good ol' boys, no point in trying to stop 'em."

You are aware that racial indetification based on pseudo-scientific physical characteristics has been out of common use since WWII, right?
What is your belief that you're black based on?

A word is not simply a combination of letters that mean something. A word is a thought that can be communicated - in that word the person communiates their thought and associated emotions to the listener. People also think in words, and it is very difficult to think of somehing if there is no word for the thing being thought of. This idea is explored in great detail in 1984 with the introduction of 'newspeak' to control the thoughts of the population by removing the tools (words) to think about things the 1984 Big Brother government did not want them to think about.
Words are almost a form of telepathy for in the syllables of a word a person can contain the emotions and complex meaning of whatever they are describing.

Take the words cat, house, run, walk, rape, murder, pedophile, flower, doctor.
Did you have the same emotional reaction to all of those? Generaly the only people who do are people with mental conditions - psychopaths, sociopaths and so on. ( i have read this in a couple of places but do not have a source handy)

The N-Word contains so much meaning, history and emotion. Some black people use the word frequently as a method to "take the word away from the white and make it our word". Which it may well be now as a non-black person cannot easily say the word in public, however I agree with the origional poster that the black people who use it have not thought of its effect and how it negatively contributes to society, to themselves and other black people and to race relations in general.

The way I see it, there's just too much meaning being assigned to this little six letter word. Is it a negative word? Sure is...and that's as far as it goes. Being called a ****** is just as bad as being called a fuckup, cocksucker, whore, queen, shiteater etc. etc. (and pardon my blatant usage of the French language). It's an insult, a jab at a person's race, and it can make a black man's blood boil. But some of you are acting like we should strike this word from existence. How many of you are even black? I'm talking from Africa, Haiti, Jamaica....how many here are black?

Because is indicates the institution of a sexist, elitist group that has more control than it should and is generally racist. For example, "George Bush, Cheney and those guys, they're all good ol' boys, no point in trying to stop 'em."

A good ol' boy is a traditional southerner...talks with a drawl in his voice, practices southern traditions. Maybe when you meet some you'll know what you're talking about.

Many formerly derogatory terms have lost power with time: kike, micky, spic, even jew. I suspect that one reason the N word continues to carry such power is its continued use by those against whom it has been directed.


Southpark has made the term "You stupid Jew" famous, i know tons of people that say that.

What do we need racial derogatory terms for? Everyone is equal to get a simple FU. Don't all people deserve such equal treatment? :)

Opression ?! Are you out of your damn mind ? Most Rap music has the word in it and most rappers are black ? Now America is also guilty of black Rappers singing to black teenagers as oppresion, making more money then even that fake TD Jakes while at it ?

Want to know where race hate comes from now ? It aint the majority of whites. Other side of the coin.

Do please notice that I was making no argument whatsoever (stating something very generally, sure - you yourself do far more of the same) - merely stating the facts of the matter in terms of linguistics, and the facts of the matter as to the author's thesis and intent (notice that I echoed the author in terms of language, in referring to what he seemed to intend), while invoking a bit of history (something you completely neglect by considering only very specific examples relating to the present day that stand on dubious ground, at best).

This will be a very large rant.

Well, let's start with the word "******" and its variants. This word was used by slave owners in a derogetory manner, when talking about their slaves and other people with darker skin. Because this word was commonly used in a derogatory manner, it should not be used in any way by any person who would like respect. And if you choose to say it, don't get mad when someone says it back to you. No matter what race they are.

Let's follow that with the word "cracker." I do not mean the snack food here. I mean the term used by slaves in a derogatory manner twords their owner, deriving from the owners 'cracking' the whip. THEY had every right to say that word. Slavery was wrong. However, as I have never owned a slave, and you have never been a slave, and neither of our families have owned slaves for over one hundred years, neither of us should say it. Unless you are talking about a snack food. That is fine.

The same goes for all other derogatory terms. I won't try to list all of them, because I don't know all of them and it would take too long.

Lastly, I will mention the phrase "African American." Unless you yourself were born, or have easily trasable heratage to Africa, do not use this term. I don't call myself "European American," do I?


As an afternote: Have you ever noticed how many caucasian never say "******," they allways say "the N-Word," but rap songs are being put out every day that include the word.
Wow. I just realised that I re-worded that last sentance to avoid using a specific describing word that describes most rappers.

[/RANT]


If you were offended by that, too bad! Everyone is entiled to their own oppinion. And as far as i know, that rant did not break any rules. If it did, any MODERATOR can telegram me. MODERATORS ONLY! I DO NOT WANT MY TELEGRAM BOX FILLING WITH "THAT WAS OFFENSIVE!" MESSAGES FROM EVERY USER IN THE GAME!

I'm Canadian, which means I don't fully understand race issues in America. Do you consider your skin colour to be one of your key attributes?
Same here. We´ve got a huge ammount of immigrants moving here, but they´re all finnish :p

I agree with you, Rotovia. In the same way, I don´t feel all too happy when I´m called... well, something demeaning about white people (I don't have a clue how to translate them into english, as I usually get insulted in swedish). Not the same thing, obviously, but still not good.
Then again, the fact that it is usually said to me by someone sounding like the godfather with a speach impediment (spelling?) makes it a bit easier to shake off.

I'm going to begin this thread by stating I'm black. Which will no doubt have a great deal to do with where I stand on this issue.

I find the word offencive no matter who uses it. I hold the veiw that black calling each other "Niggas" does not disempower the word "******", but rather disempower black people.

Irregardless of the word's harmless origions it stands for centuries of oppression and it is a word that any black person will tell you, cut through yoour soul like a dagger when you hear it.

I do not know how many other people out there have exprienced this, but I forget that I'm black half the time and only get reminded by hearing things like that word.

I personally do not think there is ever and appropriate tiem or use for the word.

Just my two cents.

I'm black as well and I agree 100% with what you have said.

What do we need racial derogatory terms for? Everyone is equal to get a simple FU. Don't all people deserve such equal treatment? :)
OK, FU ;)

i hate every race and creed equily

I'm so happy for you.

JihadOrange brought this to my attention:
Not only that, but it's continued use against black people. This momory is courtesy of a drunken redneck last thursday night.
Well, yes. I had thought that went without saying.

Something similar to this was floating around in my head, so I thought I'd bump it, very intelligent comment me thinks.
Thank you. :)

I really do not feel like prove my racial heritage, that and you scare me a little. :eek:
LOL! Fass, while not entirely what I would call "harmless," is one of those rare people who hide a relatively benign personality behind a somewhat abrasive approach to interpersonal communication. Sometimes you just have to dig to find the real Fass. :D

Im a Racist and Agree 100% with what you've said. :)

OK, FU ;)

Right back at you! :D See, just as insulting without bringing race into mix! It is all encompassing of all races!

FU's all round! :fluffle:

I command that all readers of this thread hereby travel to their nearest video rental emporium and purchase the use of the excellent moving picture "Undercover Brother".

I have spoken.

The problem is that because we can only understand most people as simple categories, words determine identity. If someone uses the wrong words to desribe you, they are establishing the wrong identity and giving you the wrong role in society.

which is why i find the words weirdo and freak worse than albino.