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Why the N-word is so toxic

Mar 23, 2022
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ANECDOTE

N-word's Toxicity

  • Gene Demby recalls a linguist saying the N-word was historically venomous, even among slave owners.
  • Its unique taboo status might be why it persisted while other slurs faded.
INSIGHT

Evergreen Conversation

  • People question why some still use the N-word despite knowing its offensiveness.
  • Also, they wonder why Black people react strongly to its use by non-Black people.
ADVICE

N-word Use

  • Randall Kennedy believes anyone should be able to use the N-word non-racially.
  • He cites Black figures like James Baldwin and Toni Morrison who used the word.
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