Dr. Luara AKA Michael Richards

In the case of Laura Schlessinger’s use of the “N” word, what we’re beginning to see in America is a growing number of Whites who don’t feel particularly connected to the plight of African Americans, who don’t feel necessarily racist, or who have African American friends and family, so it becomes very difficult for them to understand what they see as a double standard, that is, how it is alright for one race to use the “N” word but not another. In a sense, they truly see a homogeneous America where everyone is equal, and therefore, they struggle with this issue. At least, that’s their argument.

I don’t know whether Laura, like Seinfeld’s Michael Richards, is a racist, but I can say that flaunting the “N” word in the ear of an African American female caller, did show her lack of sensitivity to the issue. To say the least, she’s got a lot of ‘splaining to do.

What I am afraid will happen in this case, however, are many jumping on Laura’s rant as proof positive that racism is still the sole determining factor keeping many Blacks disadvantaged. Unable to see beyond race, many in these Black communities are completely unaware of an even larger problem, disparities between class.

However, what is perceived as a double standard is merely an issue of identity. Some African Americans use the word as a gesture to identify with one another. Although I have a hard time accepting it, and I believe that Blacks should not be degrading each other with a word whose socio-historical significance has been one of degradation and humiliation, I have come to understand it slightly: to own it and have power over it.