Too PC when it comes to language?

[scottcsmith]

My wife and I are both liberal Democrats, although she's actually more to the left than I am (I think she'd call herself a Socialist).

We don't talk a lot of politics at home. If anyone brings up a subject, it's usually me.

My wife has a 15-year-old, and I've noticed that he uses the word "nigger" a lot. The context is (supposedly) that he's imitating someone when he says it. Here's an example: a report on the news about illegal immigrants, and my step-son says something like (and he's apparently doing an impression of someone) "We can't let all them niggers across the border." I guess he's imitating, I dunno, a racist? And when he said it, I looked at my wife and said, "Are we now allowing him to use racial epithets in the house?" My wife kind of squirmed and said no, but that it was okay in the context he was using it. I didn't want to get into an argument, but to me, using racial epithets -- even when you are joking -- is not cool. Maybe I'm being a little too sensitive on the subject (I'm Jewish, and know that Jews are the target of epithets as well), what do you think? Is this a case of "lighten up"? I don't think it's right, but as step-dad, my role is limited as far as discipline goes.

[Kamika]

1. is he black?

its kinda ok in that case

[SOteric]

2. I'd agree with you that it's offensive in almost every context,

coming from a white guy. Regardless of the quote, regardless of the imitation. If your step son were specifically engaged in an intellectual discussion of whether the word should be used, or if he were debating the banning of works that include the word, those might be some acceptable uses for the word in the home.

Your levels of discipline may be limited for your stepson, but your right to have your beliefs and sentiments respected in your home by all those who live there should not be.

If you feel offended by the usage of the word, you have every right, and a personal obligation of integrity to request it be banned from casual conversation in your home.

[La_Serpiente]

3. I would tell him to cut it out

He is probably picking it up from school and maybe television. I am a teenager (19 years old) and the word "nigga" has become more commonplace now amongst youngsters. I have a hunch why they do it, but I don't know if it is the principal reason.

He may think it is funny, but it would be a real mistake of him saying it out in the public around other minorities. Heck, I wouldn't be suprised if a black person beat the crap out of him because of it. He puts himself in danger if he continues this behaviour.

[Landlord]

5. Advice

When I was in the U.S.M.C. there was an old graffiti on a truck that said,'New York nigger ain't shit, Kansas City, Missouri #1.'
Young men often say things that they are later ashamed of. I would state that in your presence such behaviour will not be tolerated. There is a double standered though in this word's usage.

[BiggJawn]

4. He's "imitaing someone"? Who, Emminem?

You and his mother need to have a little talk. I know you can't do anything in the discipline department (I had step-sons, too)But you shouldn't have to put up with that shit under a roof you help pay for.

Tell "Lil' Mistah Allhard N. Shyt" when he gets his own crib he can "Niggahz" until he's hoarse.Until then.....