by H. Lewis Smith
The enslaved Black was stripped of his heritage so that no parts of his ingenious, dignified, self-reliant, culturally-aware and proud African background could influence his life in America. His personality, behavior, and self-image were re-shaped exclusively by the unique form of American slavery. This system of degradation birthed the exact opposite… Continue reading
Beneath the Spin * Eric L. Wattree
Eric L. Wattree
Every since I wrote the column “Crabs in a Barrel,” the gross hypocrisy of South Carolina State Senator, Rev. Darrell Jackson, has lingered with me. In that column… Continue reading
by H. Lewis Smith
The image of those who bows down to using the n-word
This is the fourth of a six part series of N-word History 101, whereas the purpose and intent is hopefully, to initiate the process of undoing or reversing ideas and concepts—relative to the use of the n-word (n**ger/n**ga)—that… Continue reading
There is nothing cool or chic about the n-word
by H. Lewis Smith
In today’s contemporary times, perhaps it could be said that the n-word is just simply another racial slur or derogatory word. But it is not the contemporary definition of the word which is so controversial; it’s the [historical] baggage that… Continue reading
by H. Lewis Smith
Chris Rock
N-word History 101 Part II – Defining the N-word: If you listen to one of black comedian Chris Rock’s shows entitled “Black People vs. N**gers,” he associates the n-word with certain types of black people with everything negative like dishonesty, distrust, laziness, and ignorance, reinforcing the historical… Continue reading
by H. Lewis Smith
Embracing the N-word
Why do some Black African Americans use the n-word? N-word History 101 – Pt. 1: Many rap artists like Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Soulja Boy and a host of others use the word in their music to supposedly entertain their audiences. Their songs may seem harmless because… Continue reading