Again, I apologize for the aggressiveness in tone, but this has been weighting on me too much lately. No specific instance provoked this post, it was more or less a chain or events that led to this. I understand that the first amendment allows for freedom of speech and that's great (I'll get to the flip side of that coin later) but if you know me personally then understand that everytime you say it, even if I don't verbalize my personal afflictions, I cringe on the inside.
Among excuses for validating the use of the N-word, one very common point I heard is "I said -ah not -er."
Even though this could suffice for you, it surely doesn't for me. I'll tell you why. I have a different theory on why there is an alternative spelling to begin with. The perfect example comes from my Illinois roommate (shoutout to lteezy). After introducing myself to his parents, I realized there can be a harsh different in the way we hear and speak relative to locations. To make it short and simple, I think the variation of spelling is a derivative of the different in pronunciation between Northern and Southern territories. This could be completely wrong, but it's just my theory.
You argument could be "Well black people use it as a term of endearment, why can't I?
So at this point I need you to make a decision before you continue reading. It helps further down the road when you help to validate my point.
So another word that's just almost just as infamous and alike in misuse is the B-word. I hate this word almost as equally; as I should because it has the same implications.
Some people hate it/ others embrace it.
Mainstream entertainment has made it a term of "endearment"
"If they use it why can't I?"
So I pose this question: you're shopping with you mom and I show up. "What's up my b#&kh" I say to your mom but I changed the spelling from -tch to -tkh that makes it acceptable right?
Take a second to reconsider before you think changing the spelling rectifies something.
Share This Article
