The Stream

The “N” word

The Stream speaks with Cornel West about language, race, and racism in the US.

Have African-Americans reclaimed racist language? The “N” word has always been associated with the crimes of slavery, but today with the influence of the hip-hop industry it has evolved into a term of endearment used within the community. However, debate continues, as many fear this is disconnecting black youth from their history and making the word acceptable. Join the conversation with Dr. Cornel West.

In this episode of The Stream, we speak to:

Cornel West, @CornelWest
Philosopher and academic
cornelwest.com

Mychal Denzel Smith, @mychalsmith
Author, contributor for The Nation
mychaldenzelsmith.com

Akiba Solomon, @colorlines
Managing editor, Colorlines

Raquel Cepeda, @RaquelCepeda
Author, documentary filmmaker
djalirancher.com

Tim Wise, @timjacobwise
Author, Dear White America: Letter to a new minority
timwise.org

What do you think? Let us know in the comments below.