Words have meanings. Words convey thoughts and ideas. Words are powerful. We use words to argue, cajole, intimidate, and express love.
When I, as a Caucasian, use the N-word in the context that represents belittlement, oppression, and hatred, that lowers me to a level I don't want to be at.
If Blacks want to use that word to represent a portion of their population, hey, that's no skin off my nose. As the guy in the video states, there are "******s" and there are Blacks. And they know who they are.
I've got no dog in that fight. I don't need to get mixed up in that particular discussion. Ergo, I have no business using that word.
If the word weren't so inflammatory, maybe it would be a different thing altogether. But it is. The word represents everything that tears people down and serves no useful purpose.
So why use it? Just to prove a point? That the word, when used in the context in which it's often used - to insult, aggravate and cause problems - simply can be used when another word that doesn't cause so much grief and ill feeling can be used instead? Makes no sense to me.
Catmtrods calls it censorship when arguments are raised against using the word. I call avoiding use of that particular word simply good sense. Our language is rich enough without resorting to deliberate attempts to inflame and incite negative reactions.
Unless, of course, inciting anger and negative reactions is our goal to begin with. Then, I suppose, using the N-word is the thing to do.
For one, I won't use it.
