50guy

You can call yourself anything you like. I have a problem with non-natives using these names, just as I have a problem with non-blacks using the N word. When blacks use it with each other, it's a form of empowerment - diffuses the pain of the word. When non-blacks use the term, it's merely a reminder of the years of abuse they've received over the years. Does nothing to heal the wounds we've inflicted on each other - just keeps on scratching at them.

Yes, I know racism VERY well. I've been called names, had my life threatened, and extended family in Arkansas disowned me for marrying a black man. I have a biracial son from my first marriage. I had to raise my son in a predominantly white and racist neighborhood, and he had to endure horrible racism here. Like the native students, it interfered with his schoolwork because he was constantly ridiculed by students and teachers alike because of his race.

If his school had a Little Black Sambo as a mascot or called themselves "Fighting Ni**ers," the ridicule and discrimination he received would have been that much worse. Sports was a way for him to get away from all the pressures from school and life - I'm thankful his team was named after an animal.