Language Awareness: The N-word in African American History - Assignment Example

LangRendering the word impotent through hip-hop and art may have minimized the effect it has on the community, but only when used in a unique context (Asim, 2007). For the word to have no sting, it has to be used in the scope of a black-only community, or a neutral community with a mutual understanding on the terms. Spoken word has factors such as emotion and gestures. The word is important in history and degrading its meaning will blur its significance (Asim, 2007). It is a negative word and should be left at that, as it has a significance that should not be forgotten.

Since the true meaning of the term is founded in racism, it should not be plucked from its role and meaning, in an effort to render it impotent. Suppressing the word and restraining it in the confines of racist conduct continues to give the word social significance and a place in history from which today’s generation can learn of the progress made by society (Asim, 2007). Although efforts of making the term impotent have been made by various entities, due to the historical significance of the word, such efforts remain unsuccessful.