Personally, I don't use the word whether the "a" form or the "er" form. Though I have the leeway to use it based on my race but I choose not to say it; that way nobody would think it's his/her right to use it against me.

Much obliged AAW...I'm just about there myself, too.

Hi there SjP, {waves}

Thanks for writing about this. I don't like the N-word and frankly, it was never EVER used in my household when I was a child by EITHER Mom or Dad. Ever...

I got to college and black people were using it and thinking that was a hip thing and I started doing it too. In my 20s, I became uncomfortable with hearing it and even speaking it.

I do believe that black folks can come up with a term of endearment that does not have a historical association that is degrading and insulting to ALL those who came before us.

Thanks for letting me blow my trumpet!

(smiles)
Lisa

SjP,

We really need to get this worked out of our mouths and as an identity marker.

The double standard that is often associated with the use of the N Word, is no longer a debate in my mind.

It is a racist term. No matter who uses it! And until we really put a national push on to forward that idea, it will continue to be like an Albatross hanging around out necks.

After writing this post, reading your comments, and looking at my WW post - Richard Pryor's commentary on the use of the n-word keeps ringing in my mind. If you recall, he talked about a trip to Africa where he didn't see "no niggas". That was a profound revelation to him and as a result he vowed to stop using the n-word.

I believe that I have been operating on a double-standard here. I'm equating this to when I hear Black women refer to themselves as b*tch in a would-be endearing manner. When I hear this - it really makes me shudder. So, I ask myself - shouldn't I shudder when the n-word is used in this manner? What's the difference? None...

Much obliged...ya'll are really helping me with this one!

SjP

I don't use it, anymore. My husband and I stopped 5 or 6 years ago, but I don't know that it shouldn't be used at all. I feel both sides of the argument and I just haven't made up my mind. I definitely think as an extension of art, it can be used, but art is relative, and then the argument becomes what constitutes art.

I have been against it for years and continue my own cause to keep that word out of the mouths, books, and thoughts of all. It is degrading, in whatever context it is used. Some say it is a term of endearment when used between two Black souls. I say not. Peace.

@ Mrs. G & BlackStar - my best half and I had a discussion about this last night. We have both pledged to stop using it. I got it now...took me a while...but I got it!