By Derrick Ford


Class of 2008


People are increasingly disgusted over the use of the n-word. Why can’t we separate the word from our vocabulary and start a new trend like North Mecklenburg High and use “young brotha”?

I’m not the only one who thinks this. I sat down with English teacher Rashele McConnell, and we had a heated interview session. She has had experience using the n-word, but only in an intellectual manner.

SWO: As an African American woman, how do you feel about the usage of the n-word?

McConnell: I find it to be completely offensive and it is a word that has been used to disrespect the black community for centuries.

SWO: How does music play a major role in the n-word?

McConnell: Artists who use the n-word have taken it and tried to glamorize it, which is not acceptable. It is degrading to the African American community. Many would not be prone to use the word, or many other words, if it is used so heavily in music. However, music only plays a role; it is not the complete source of the word and its prevalence in our society. People may talk like that at home, but when you started hearing it in music lyrics, that’s when the masses thought it was an acceptable word to use, openly.

SWO: Have you ever allowed the “N” word into your vocabulary? Why do you feel you use this particular word?

McConnell: Honestly, yes, I have used the word, so there have been times when I “disrespected” a group of people. However, if I say a person is behaving in a “n**ggerish” way, essentially, that person is being ignorant.

SWO: What do you think about African American men and women that use the n-word?

McConnell: For some reason the African American community believes that it’s okay for ‘us’ to use the word because of the meaning behind it. However, if whites or other groups use it, it is meant for degradation and its context is meant differently.

SWO: Why do you feel the n-word should not be used anymore?

McConnell: The word is offensive. You cannot make people stop using the word in their own social circles, but it cannot continue to be used in an open setting (on the radio, news programming, school, etc.)

SWO: How do you feel about the history behind the word?

McConnell: According the dictionary, the word means ignorant. Whites took that word and used it to oppress the African American as a means to make him inferior. The black community has taken the word and somehow made themselves believe that this word is true.