Friday, January 7, 2011

Roger Ebert Apologizes For Using N-Word In Tweet

"Roger Ebert apologized Thursday after facing heated criticism for using the n-word in a tweet on Wednesday.
The famed film critic used the word in a Wednesday tweet that linked to a story about the removal of the n-word from a recent version of "Huckleberry Finn." The word has been replaced by "slave," a fact Ebert referenced in the tweet (edited screengrab below):

"I'd rather be called an n-word than a slave"

This is ridiculous­. I see no reason why Ebert should apologize. It is time to FREE THE WORD! Set it free. It is just a word when there is no vile impetus behind it. See to the people who misuse the word. Words only carry the power of the reader, the utterer, and the interprete­r.

Words can't harm. How the word is used can harm, and after all, you can't tell "the word" it hurt your feelings. Those who give life to the word, not only the ones who tremble, or get angry, hurt, or fearful at the mention of it, need look no further than to the individual who brought it to life, and the context in which it was used.

I don't know if I agree with Ebert regarding his preference as to what he would prefer to be called. Personally­, I go with "neither". Huckleberr­y Finn started this discussion­, which led Ebert to have an opinion. Shouldn't we be mad at him too?
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1 comment:

  1. UnknownJanuary 7, 2011 at 1:18 PM

    I agree! The argument on "the word" is old and played out. Stop giving the word strength. This is equivalant to Jewish people tossing a yellow Star of David around, at each other, like it was ninja star. But then, at the same time, wear it as a gold chain and dare someone to acknowledge it. And having to apologize for buying the same chain. Give me a break!

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