Class discusses use of racial slur

After Gigi Marino, an instructor of English, sent an ethnically offensive joke to her mostly white English 421 (Advanced Expository Writing) class, she invited five African-American students to participate in a discussion about derogatory words. Marino's students had first discussed offensive words after she sent the E-mail to facilitate in-class debate.

"I think in terms of questioning our assumptions, we got a lot done," Marino said. "I think talking about race in an honest way is important."

"I don't feel comfortable saying that with (just) anyone, with acquaintances," he said.

Some students in the class said they were offended by the use of the word in any context -- even in a friendly manner. The feelings of the panel were also mixed on the use of the word and in what context it could be used.

"I personally don't use the word at all," said Nyota Wright (junior-advertising). "It just has too many negative connotations."

However, Wright uses a derogatory word for women as a term of endearment to her friends, said Nikeeya James (junior-management science and information systems). Wright said she sees a difference between the two words. While one word literally means "a female dog," the other originated as a derogatory term for African Americans, she explained.

The context of when such words are used can change the meanings of the words, James said. Even the spelling and pronunciation of the word can change how people interpret it.

But some people use the words in a joking manner to hide true prejudices, one student said.

"When people are telling racist jokes and then say they're not racist, it's still racist," said Eva Wallace (junior-English). "Humor can be used to perpetuate stereotypes."

The discussion turned toward all racial descriptions. Mursalata Muhammad (graduate-English), who moderated the discussion, pointed out that the political correctness of descriptions such as colored, black and African-American have changed during time.

"If I had to label myself in two words, I might as well call myself Remick Benice all the . . . time," said Benice (junior-marketing and international business).

The discussion helped all participants see different views, several students noted.

"This is the first time I used this word this many times in a mixed group," Muhammad said.