Ganonsyoni wrote:Pantuxia wrote:What?
That words don't have meaning and you are free to say as you please. This ignores the fact that there are consequences to using certain language. Let's use the n-word for example. That word has been used by white people to denigrate black/african americans as subhuman and dates back to when they were in chains. That word has a seriously oppressive charge to it for all black/african americans to this day because of the continuous oppression of their race and is the worse term to call them as it is basically calling them subhuman. if you called a black/african american that, don't expect to get out unscathed.
And no "deal with it" is not an excuse. "Deal with it" implies its the fault of the victim for getting twisted about a word when in fact its the speaker for using such a horribly charged word in the first place.
Word have meaning and words have history. That means words can be oppressive. From the n-word to all other terms used to belittle people for things they cannot control.
So you should censor those who don't agree with you? Or who hurt your feelings? I understand that the word in question has negatives connatations to it, but not only can it be used jokingly, it's also their right as free human beings to say what they want.