Hip Hop Reader Chapter 2

Chapter 2 p 93 Rap’s Embrace of ‘Nigger” Fires Bitter Debate by Michel Marriott

I really enjoyed this article, especially the mention of Paul Mooney because earlier today in my Introduction to Black Studies course we mentioned him and watched a few of his videos. I think he puts a comical twist to the word “nigger” and its refreshing and interesting.

The article in its entirety was interesting as well. There were many different viewpoints about the use of the word that I had never considered before. I use the word as frequently as I want to because no one can tell me what to say when to say it. I believe that if black people can use the word, then so can I. I never once thought about the older people who were around and marched for the rights they own now. I only thought, ‘hey, no one will tell me what to say because I am white’.

I don’t think that saying “nigger” over and over will strip it of its racial connotation, like many of the rappers and other people who supported that movement. I do believe that the continuous use of the word will desensitize it and allow for les fights over who said the word and why, and less stress and focus on the “racist” aspect.