Ms.Sanon The N Word Controversy In todays modern day society, the term Nigger and or Nigga are the terms predominately used, to identify and describe African Americans. Not only are these terms derogatory and offensive, but they are also full of hate and shame. There are three ways the word nigga is used today; it can be perceived at as a term of endearment amongst African Americans, a derogatory term amongst Caucasians or any other race and it can be defined as flat out, ignorant according to Websters dictionary. Now that leaves me with a dilemma, It can be used in a positive way to express love, yet, it can also be used in a negative way to express hate towards African Americans ethnic backgrounds and family roots through verbal abuse. Therefore I am not in agreement with the use of the term Nigger or Nigga. far too many African Americans were
subjected to inhumane treatment such as brutal gruesome beatings, racism, political injustices and most importantly alienation from their self-worth, homelands and Identities. In short, even in todays society the word nigger still lives on as a derogatory term, but for the most part its only that way amongst the older generation of African Americans. What makes the younger generation of African Americans think they can reclaim a term that carries more negatives than positives? A question often asked by the older generation of African Americans. It could be because they are not fully aware of the overall history of the term, they could have friends who support the use of the word or it could very well be the music the youth listens to that makes such a big impact on them and society. For Example African American rap artist YG produced a song called, My Nigga and throughout the lyrics of the song he uses the word nigga 106 times, While at the same time using different adjectives to describe niggas as friends and foes. Now hypothetically
speaking, Say a Caucasian or person of any other race who knew their history were to listen to this song. They would be instantly hypnotized, due to the repetitious use of the term. This would then cause them to question whether or not African Americans accept the term for its true meaning. Therefore, confusing people by making them think it would be okay to refer to African Americans or people of color as niggers and or niggas, and also make our ancestors hardships and struggle seem pointless. Ultimately, the younger generation is being influenced through society. I say this simply because our government is still severely hurt after investing in wars instead of the people of America, and as a result of Congresss ignorance towards African Americans and many other races we must all now suffer. Due to the fact U.S. Congress permitted and still permits unjust enrichment. Allowing the Ku Klux Klan of white supremacist to perform racist hateful attacks such as Tar and Feathering(when an african has molten hot tar poured on them followed by pillow feathers) and Curb
Stomping(when an african is forced to bite the sidewalk curb as he prepares to have his head split) on African American citizens who were minding their business. At worst, integrated couples were to be separated from their children causing the children of these now broken families to grow up with emptiness and hate in their hearts.