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Stop Complaining About the N-Word
Or N---a. Same difference.
Seriously. I am sick of it. You should be too.
I have a secret to share with you people. Yes, all you people. All you White people, Black people, Latino people, Asian people and any other “you people” who have heard the word, used the word, don’t like the word, or could care less. Ready? Here goes.
Words don’t disappear. Especially words like nigger and its 1st cousin, nigga. It’s one of the few things capable of being buried alive, stay buried, but keep living. Some Black people will never stop using the n-word. And yes, there will be always be some non-Black people will be bold enough to say it to a Black person with -er on the end. Some White people will keep using the n-word. Ethnic and racial minorities will also keep using the n-word. Rich people and poor people too. At this point in the life of the n-word, it is irrelevant whether people should use it, have “permission” to use it, who started using it first, or whether it has an “a” or an “er” on the end.The n-word ain’t goin nowhere. Here are a few reasons why.
Some people still act like n—as.
**gasp** I have heard plenty of Black people who say they don’t use the word make exceptions for certain types of people. And nope, they don’t necessarily have to be Black. Don’t act like I’m making this up. Over time, some have accepted this version of the word as a way to describe an uncouth man, woman, or group thereof. There is no all-inclusive checklist of characteristics that make a person worthy of such a label, but I’ll give you some examples. It’s like one of those “you know it when you see it” type things.
- When you are in a quiet place and someone is being loud, rowdy, boisterous, etc. See, e.g., someone listening to music on a bus through a cellphone’s speaker phone.
- Someone who carries him or herself in a less than presentable way.
- Ignorance in any shape or form.
- Any type of action or behavior that is inappropriate for the setting or environment. For example, bringing tupperware to a restaurant (usually a buffet) and carrying enough food to feed a family of 5 for a few days. (No, this is not okay because your mother did it.)
When you observe any of the above, of course you shouldn’t go around hollering the n-word all willy nilly. You could get beat down for that. I’m just saying the word has probably crossed your mind in one of the follow forms: “Always gotta be a n—a acting like that”; “Damn, n—as can’t (n)ever act right”; or simply, “N—as.” I’m not saying it’s right or wrong. I’m just saying.
Some people still think of us as n—ers.
I don’t need to say much more about that. Racism is alive, well fed, and probably more visible that it’s ever been in our life time. And yes, that is despite the “progress” we have made.
Some people don’t understand the difference.
These people, regardless of race, don’t get why people want to use words that causes so many problems. In their minds, it’s not worth all the confusion. Like the NAACP, they think both versions of the word should be buried alive. **looks for shovel**
Some people understand the difference but don’t care either way.
There are three types of people who fall into this category:
- White people (like Dr. Laura Schlessinger) who may or may not be racist, but understand the historical significance of the word and know the difference between nigger and nigga. They may say “nigger” in a conversation and will be confused when people are caught off guard or offended.
- White people (like Dr. Schlessinger) who may or may not be racist, but understand the historical significance of the word and know the difference between nigger and nigga. These people never think about using the word. Even if they think about using it, they never say it aloud, unless you catch them rhyming along to some catchy hip-hop tune. o_O
- Black people who don’t get offended when people say either form of the word. But these people usually consider the context. For example, there is a difference between someone calling you a nigger, a nigga, and simply saying the word nigger.
In my opinion, people should spend more time focusing on the context and not the n-word itself. The sentiment behind the word matters more than the word alone. I listened to Dr. Schlessinger’s segment. Yes, I cringed when she used the n-word more than she probably should have. But I also understood what she was trying to say. I think. Either way, if you really listened to her comments, her usage of the n-word was the least offensive part of it. Click here for the full transcript and audio. It’s worth the read and listen.
What do you think about the n-word? Do you get offended when you hear it? Do you use it? Why or why not? Should Black people embrace the word or should we stop using it? Should people get over the distinctions? Why can some people use the word and not others? Why do we care so much? Should someone lose his or her job for using the word? Does it depend on which one? Does context matter? Share your thoughts. And then vote for us.
Standing on the grave of the N-word,
28 Responses to “Stop Complaining About the N-Word”
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When my crystal colored associates use that word I know where they stand and act accordingly. It’s the one that say African Americans in public while putting keep niggas out of school/work/goverment etc rules that gives me pause. It’s not politically correct for them to say niggas so they
use school/business/work enviroment to prove to you what they secrectly believe.
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BLaCk Bruce WaYnE Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 9:52 am
“my crystal colored associates” Lmao
I’m jackin this one for future use…..LOLOL !!
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When I was younger, nigga/er = fighting word(s)
But now I always look at the context, although sometimes when someone who has a little less melanin in their skin says it, it stops me for a second and I think “What did they just say?”.
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I have mixed feelings about the word. I don’t use it in my everyday vocab, but if someone is acting like a n***a, I might. I hear it often, but it doesn’t bother me. I agree that the context should be paid attention as well. It’s similar to two female friends who might call each other b*tch or hoe playfully (I don’t do that but some do) but will try to beat a man that calls them one.
I had a Japanese friend say it once, it wasn’t directed toward anyone in particular but she said it. I didn’t get angry. But I did give her the very serious face and advised her very nicely to never say it again in my presence or in the presence of any other black person, because they might not be as nice as I am. In that situation I felt she was naive and didn’t know any better, so I let it go.
It’s just one of those things*shrug*
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I use it sometimes..but, I say “ninja” in the place of it..but, you will never hear me saying the word itself. Some of my friends use it..and its used to show brotherhood..I get all that….but, the word still carries alot of negative energy and connotation..so, this word is never going to just become mainstream in its usage…and it shouldn’t….alot of people from my grandmother’s era and such and people before us…endured alot in the face of this word…and suffered indignities unimagined being called this word..so, we must never forget..so, I would never tell someone to stop complaining about the n word…because people have the right to feel how they feel.
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BP Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 3:54 pm
Cosign. It amazes me QueenT how much we think alike. I wasn’t born in this country but I can still see how the word carries negative connotations so I don’t use it. I wouldn’t want to offend anyone.
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The “N” word in any form is tricky. I do think today we give too much meaning to the word itself because of the history of the word and don’t pay attention to the context.
Ideally, I don’t think the word should be used, but in reality “N___as” do exist, despite race.
Looking at the context of how it is said & why may do us all better than getting emotional and bent out of shape because the word is used.
Great Post!
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I’m always a bit on the fence with this one. It is a dangerous word no matter how sliced and diced. As a Latina who also identifies racially as a Black woman, I am very aware that people are not fully convinced of that identification and quite frankly I cannot give each person unclear about the impact of the slave trade on the Spanish speaking Caribbean a full blown history lesson…I digress.
I struggle with how it is often used by people that would quickly check out of a racially charged conversation with the cop out of “well…I’m not Black so this (doesn’t apply to me/ does not concern me..”. If each person using also knew the hate filled history of the word “nigger” then it would be different.
My take is that some people need to work on diversify their vocabulary and learn additional ways to describe behavior that is uncouth or “out of pocket”. Context matters and I really think that any semblance of the word does not have a solid place in certain settings…Timing and context are everything.
My few cents…
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QueenT Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 9:45 am
I agree. The N word is a derivative of the spanish word ne-gro….which simply means BLACK…it didn’t take on a negative connotation until slavery..so, when you say someone is acting like a N word…you are basically saying the person is acting BLACK..which makes no sense..Find another word..there are soo many other words you can use.
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Miss Jenkins Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 9:56 am
That’s very true. However, my point is that people who use the N word in that way are not going to stop. If they haven’t by now, when will they ever? If the NAACP “burial” didn’t stop, what will, besides a personal decision? I’m just saying that Black people and organizations getting people fired, etc won’t stop the problem. If anything, it should prompt more candid conversations about race, not the origin of the word. We where the word derived from. What we don’t know, often times, is the root of our biases. Let’s talk about that.
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Exceptional Post!
“In my opinion, people should spend more time focusing on the context and not the n-word itself.”
CO-SIGN!!
This is how I felt when Senator Harry Reid used the phrase “negro”. I felt like people focused way too much on his usage of this word rather than the full and complete context in which he used it. Actually, his usage of the word “negro” didn’t bother me it was more so his reference to Obama & his “light-skin” being favorable to him winning the presidency (Although I think this is very true but it cemented by thoughts on how some whites view dark vs. light skin). It was clearly a bigger statement than the usage of the word “negro”.
I feel black people want to jump & pounce on anyone who isn’t black that is using the word (or its cousin). Trust me, I have heard just as worse things said without using the N-word which involve vernacular to describe blacks in a negative tone.
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I’m more concerned with context like you stated.
-Do I use it? yes.
-Do I get offended? depends on the context.
-Should Black people embrace the word or should we stop using it? depends on the black person. I prob should stop using it but I admit I use it like I use most curse words.
-Should someone lose his or her job for using the word? if its a non black person using it towards a black person as a racial slur, then yes. or at least some sort of reprimand.
I can’t even begin to explain why we care so much but to simplify it: because it can be extremely hurtful.
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Streetz Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 5:29 pm
Cosign this entire post!
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::ahem::
I, had to say, a double ivy graduate use the n-word and all its variations, regularly. I have an extensive vocabulary which I use in conjunction with the n-word.
I, had to say, am a hypocrite. Because I definitely cringe when I hear anyone who is not Black say it, and yep that includes Latino people. I understand the whole context argument but for me its about my twisted concept of “privilege”. Yea, I know I sound like an idiot but, it’s my privilege and not yours.
2520s get so riled up when you tell them that they can’t use that word, and then you want to tell me that I can’t use it, gtfoh with that mess. As Bobby Brown says “its my prerogative” ::cues the Bobby Brown dance::
Latino people I struggle with the jump in jump out mentality, so for me jump the hell out of the privilege circle you cant use it in my book! I dont use sp*c so show me some cot damn respect!
Asians/South Pacific – just say no.
I ain’t gonna march if people of other races use it but I will mark it down and judge you on it internally and on a PMS day externally.
ok I think I sound ignorant enough now so I’ll just stop here
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Miss Jenkins Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 11:09 am
I think this is the way many people feel, but don’t want to say. I know I feel this way sometimes. Thanks for being honest.
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i use the word. i try not to make it a habit. i call my boys the n word sometimes. i don’t get offended when a man calls me that. if a white person were to call me that to my face then i would be highly offended. also, i don’t like for women to call me the n word. that is offensive to me. just like how some women will call her girl a b*tch but will be ready to break bottles when a man calls her one.
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Seattle Washington Reply:
August 23rd, 2010 at 2:38 pm
I’m not sure I’d get offended, but I definitely pause when women say it. It shouldn’t bother me, but for some reason it does. Just seems like the most unladylike thing to do besides popping your gum.
::shudders::
It’s like nails on a chalkboard.
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I use the word, yes I do..
I use the word, how bout you..
(sorry, I had to..)
I’ve done a good job at removing cuss words from my vocabulary.. N***a is the next one to go. There’s too much “is it, isn’t it.. how’d you mean that!? i’ll eff you up” surrounding it. Now, in my circle of people, we all understand how it’s said, but I’d rather not deal with having to explain the distinctions. This might be a little difficult as my mother and I call each other this (and more) at times.
#ThatIsAll
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I do not use any variation of the word in my everyday conversation. I only utter it for demonstrative purposes. In Dr. Laura’s rant she appeared to be using it for demonstrative purposes as well, but the context of what she was saying was actually the disturbing part for me. She told the caller that because black people on HBO use the word that she shouldn’t be sensitive when her white husband’s friends and relatives call her that or make other racial comments. She went on to say that she shouldn’t have married interracially if she is that sensitive. Does that mean that if we venture outside our own neighborhoods for other things (i.e. work, education, etc.) that we should be accepting of racist remarks directed toward us?
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*slow clap*
I like this.
I don’t get extra offended when called the any form of the “N-word.” I might be offended, but as equally offended as being called the “B-word” or “A-word” or any other word that someone uses to try to gain control over me or hurt me.
I use the word, when singing a song. It’s just not in my vocab. Though I would be more inclined to use it with someone who uses it regularly. Doesn’t mean I will though.
Should Black people embrace the word or should we stop using it?
I don’t think there should be any type of extra effort in either direction.
People should loose their job for ANYTHING used in a racial or sexist context, period. It’s not about the word. It’s about the context and overall behavior. It’s about respect.
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i responded early but my internet gave out and so the comment was lost but i try to refrain from using it but i have occasional slip ups (i stay in Brooklyn, i see such behavior ALL THE TIME)! I hate when Kids say it (HS & below) because i don’t feel like they know or care about the history behind the word.
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o_O
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Ummm… Here’s the thing about the N- word… its sorta like throwing up signs in a Sorority or speaking an indigenous language of the amazonian gods; The whole world looks at it one way, but the people in your circle are the only one’s allowed to use it. Why? Because it means something special for your organization. And while some people in the org will choose to use it, others won’t BUT they have that prerogative.
When people outside of the org decide to use it… its a problem, in ANY context because you have not worked hard (translation:been hazed) to earn the rights to this word, IN ANY capacity. You do not come from the legacy that gives you a birthright to any of the organizational rights.
Now… should the NAACP make their focus the N word and not other ales of the black community, like… say… uh… educational inequity (read: trying to outsmart the Koreans)? NO!
All of this to say… no, we should NOT stop complaining about the use of the N- word because no other people will ever have any legitimate use of the word. But we should stop empowering others to feel like that one word can derail us from the things that are truly impeding Af Am progress.
Per the Boondocks, lets focus our nigga moments, not on the usage of the word “nigga”, but on the niggas being used to nullify OUR words (read: Schlessinger. Jesse Jackson. Bush. Bush. Etc.)
Amma
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See The media and record companies…from the 70′s blacksploitation movies until now…are allowing the word to be spread so that African people will continue to speak negatively about themselves…words have energy…and what is spewed into the universe has effect. Spew negativity, and you continue to feel negative, create negativity, which CAN lead to negative behavior, which CAN lead to negative results in…education, crime, incarceration, realtionships between men and women, family, work. This adds to the perpetuation of EUGENICS (if you don’t know look it up).
Who created the criteria that is quoted above about N-gas? Lazy, loud in public, not smart, inappropriate behavior? We were not the creators of the negative connotation, but we’ve embraced it and perpetuated it…
We don’t hear Chink when talking about the Chinese, we don’t hear Spic/Wetback when talking about Latinos, and we don’t hear Kikes when talking of the Jewish people. Do we hear any of it on records? On comedy central? Would they stand for it? NO… (Spike Lee had to write a NY Times editorial saying he was not anti-semetic, following his portrayal of jewish club owners in Mo’ Better Blues – rent it it you haven’t seen it – his finest work in my opinion).
See a black man hanging from a tree, or burned to a crisp in the old days…see a black man dragged from the back of truck or shot 41 times in these days? That’s real. That ain’t no rap song. That is what the N-word means. Those of you who call each other that…is that who you are?
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You are descendants of Kings, Queens, Scientists, Architects…the strongest of your ancestors survived the trip on slave ships to the “Old World”.
Every Brother aint a Brother, but it sure sounds better…every Sister aint a Sister but it sure sounds better…No matter what the context
Want an N word? How about Nubian? if you must have an N word…”The Nubians (????, Nuubi) are an ethnic group originally from northern Sudan, and Southern Egypt now inhabiting East Africa and some parts of Northeast Africa. The Nubian people in Sudan inhabit the region between Wadi Halfa in the north and Aldaba in the south. …”
Call him a King … call her a Queen …even about some negativity…it may even get you to stop and reconsider the negativity you are about to spew…
“Man, that King gets on my last ….” “That Queen is a pain in the ….”
when you hear yourself saying the positive it may remind you that the situation is best handled with thought and respect. You won’t be a sucker/sucka or a chump if you back off and reconsider. The person won’t be a N-ger/N-ga no matter what they’ve done.
Check it.
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Miss Jenkins Reply:
November 28th, 2010 at 10:02 pm
Well said. Very well said.
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Any person of “Black” or “African American” decent using the N word as a bridge word, term of endearment or insult, is a slave. A slave by definition has no control over his or her actions.To spread the infection of ignorance is tantamount to intellectual treason. Please read. I don’t mean books with brown girls sucking lollypops on the cover. I mean “REAL” books.No intelligent, rational, well read, adult goes around using the N word. Please fold up your tent and gain more knowledge of self before speaking to the masses. Your website is not funny, nor is it thought provoking.I challenge you to dispute me. Be warned though, your in the shallow……
“PUT THAT S@#T ON YO WALL”
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As a cracker-ass i have to say this, THANK YOU!
Short story: One day in Sociology class (this is in Olympia,WA by the way), a white girl was giving a speech about the use of the “n” word> I told her that her view on this was from a priviliged perspective, when those who grew up around black neighborhoods and had numerous friends that were black were often the ones who use it.
That same day, my room mate at the time, who is an ex-junkie who grew up on the streets of Oakland, used the “n” word and i told him about this. This is the guy who will scientifically explain why racism is complete bullshit, using the word which that same day, a white girl was complaining about. Funny thing is, this guy has probably shot dope with more black people then many reading this have even met.
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