I've been hearing that the N word is no longer allowed in New York. Is this true? Personally, I don't use the word, but isn't it wrong to restrict what we say? What will they do to people if it's said? What do you think about this law? If they start here, do you think there will be more restrictions on words?
2007-02-28 00:59:23 · 6 answers · asked by closetmeateater 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
It's a voluntary resolution asking people to refrain from using it. The point is that, in particular communities, it has become a commonplace term, and people need to think about it and its hateful history. There's no punishment (except maybe the evil looks from people around you... peer pressure, baby.)
(And a statute actually banning the use of the word would certainly be deemed unconstitutional as a content-based regulation on speech without a compelling governmental interest.)
It's not censorship -- it's a campaign. just like saying "I can't stop you from burning the flag, but I just don't want you to do it."
I agree, though, that having the GOVERNMENT sponsor this PC legislation is perhaps a little dicey, as then we can say "oh, now you shouldn't say A** on TV, or fart on the radio..." and then we're like Singapore. The First Amendment is very important, and sometimes those words are exactly what one needs to say to make a very important point.
So I say -- hurrah for the activists who want to make change (like convincing rap artists to stop using the word and to remind people what the word means), but I'd be apprehensive about the city counsel's resolution.
http://www.nytimes.com/aponline/us/AP-Racial-Slur.html
2007-02-28 01:06:48 · answer #1 · answered by Perdendosi 7 · 6⤊ 0⤋
In public, there is no need to say or hear the N word, much like the F word, S word, and any other word that is inappropriate for public. I however, use these words everyday in normal conversation with people, but I don't use them in a manner where innocent bystanders can hear my conversation. That’s just common courtesy. I think it should be against the law to use these words loudly, I also think loud idiots on cell phones should be shot.
2007-02-28 09:09:58 · answer #2 · answered by adamtosman 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I think you have over reacted. It isn't being outlawed - you can still say it but it is suggested by black leaders, and mostly to young black guys, to refrain from saying it. As to what they will do, they will say, "Tsk, tsk." and look upset.
No one, except yahoo, of course, can restrict the use of the word "that starts with n". It's a dangerous word for white folks to utter but blacks can use it at will. No problem there, either. A rather distasteful word.
2007-02-28 09:20:54 · answer #3 · answered by iwasnotanazipolka 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's kind of crazy that they would restrict use of this word. But, they've also restricted it in Texas. The penalty here is a ticket. The word is prohibited in public because it's considered profanity. If you use swear or curse publicly you can be ticketed because its disturbing the peace. That's the charge!
2007-02-28 09:11:35 · answer #4 · answered by none 2 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The resolution of the coty council. It's an expression of disapproval by the local government.
It does not have the force of law.
It's not a crime, but a moral wrong, to use the term.
2007-02-28 09:26:57 · answer #5 · answered by American citizen and taxpayer 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
If your serious thats f*cked up. and scary.
2007-02-28 09:05:03 · answer #6 · answered by ROCKET 3 · 1⤊ 1⤋