N-word, b-word controversy
Alesha Bailey/Staff Reporter
Issue date: 11/19/09 Section: Minority Today
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Robert Jones, a senior biological science major, hosted the lecture titled "The Development of the N-Word and the B-Word."
Jones said the two carry an abundance of weight and baggage in the history and meaning.
"The n-word was used during slavery and Civil Rights movements describing African-Americans as lazy, stupid, dirty (and) worthless," he said.
Jones said the b-word is used as a slang term meaning a foul or lewd woman. These words are interpreted in the black pop culture and are used in casual conversations among peers.
Jones asked the audience what changes would occur if the black community went beyond conversation.
"Are we going to transform the meaning of these words, by making the words socially accepted," he asked.
Jessica White, a senior English major, said rappers like Nicki Minaj and Trina put a positive spin on the words.
"I don't have a problem with it," she said.
White said her definition of the n-word is a black person, not someone who is bad or ignorant.
Elizabeth Smith, a junior biological science major, disagreed with redefining the words.
"I find them offensive because through slavery, these words have carried a bad stigma for women and African-Americans," Smith said.
Smith said minorities should not find these words acceptable if the definition is intended to be offensive.
"The lectures are helpful, but more action needs to be done that requires a change in attitude toward these words," she said.
Gary Pearson, a senior political science major, said black families could help females disassociate from the b-word.
Pearson said a girl is not going to accept persecution if she were to be told by her father that she's beautiful.
"She will have more respect for herself already," he said. The usage of the n-word and the b-word is still opened for discussion.
Alesha Bailey can be reached at 581-7942 or ambailey2@eiu.edu.
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