Why a black person can use the N word and is OK?

Answer 1

White people can say the "N" word if they please just as Blacks say it, but what some Whites really want to know is why when they use it, it is taken more offensively than when Blacks use it.

If one knows the history behind the "N" word then they'd know how white people called black people out of their names using this word to make them feel lesser than a human being. They'd know that Blacks then began to turn the word around to create a level of understanding between one another through their struggle.

They would also know that in terms of this understanding, a white person can never truly know what a black person is going through simply because they are not black, and will never have a fear that whilst doing something as simple as walking down a sidewalk, someone may call them the "N" word to remind them that many view their skin color in a manner that makes them lesser than a human being. Many blacks keep this in mind, and therefore continue to use the word to let one another know, they DO understand and won't ever pretend not to.

Additionally, what they are saying to each other is a different word with different spelling and is used in friendly exchanges usually between very close black friends. However, it is so very similar in sound to the offensive and derogatory "N" word, unless you are a part of the black ethnic culture, it is best to not use any words like that to be sure you avoid misunderstandings that result in hard feelings, disrespect for other cultures, insults, and potential altercations.

Answer 2

It is offensive for a white person to use it because for years, white people have used it and still do use it to purposefully be offensive and degrading. It is not and was not all white people who did this, but it was/is a vast many.

Answer 3

When a black person uses the "N" word, it is more than likely not to make another black person feel like an animal or evil creature because they, themselves are black. When someone non black uses it, they are more likely using it to make someone black feel like an animal because they are not black and probably feel they are superior in terms of race.

It should be noted that some blacks are looked down upon when they use the "N" word because they are, in fact, trying to make other blacks feel like they are not human and they may be self hating or in denial of their own heritage and background.

Answer 4

It's because, normally when it comes from a white person, it comes with disrespect. The same is not usually the case with blacks. Please see related questions.

Answer 5

Because it's a racial slur. All racial slurs are offensive.