This article is to clear up a few things in regards to the use of derogatory terms by the untargeted party.

1. If you are not black, do not use the N-word.

2. If you do not identify LGBTQ+, do not use the terms faggot, fag, dyke etc.

3. If you are not Hispanic/Latinx, do not use the term spic.

4. Do use the term retarded to describe an action you see as stupid or idiotic.

I often hear people say things like, "No one should be using that word!" However, if a group of people who have been targeted by the use of a hurtful derogatory term for many years wish to take back the term and make it their own, you do not get to have a problem with that. Taking a word back into a community such as the black or LGBTQ+ communities may often empower the group. If you do not understand how this is possible, let me explain; if you have been using a word casually with your fellow community members for your entire life and then someone from outside of your community calls you that name, you will not be phased, hurt or embarrassed by it. This fact does not make it okay for a non-community member to make use of that word when speaking to or about the community or individual.

Though hip hop, rap and pop culture make casual use of many derogatory terms, please do not feel that you may now use them because your favorite rapper, singer or artist does, especially if that artist is misusing the word in the first place. Examples of misuse in hip hop or rap include a heterosexual artist using the term "fag" in a song, or a Latinx artist using the N-word. Many people feel that because they are friends with members of certain communities that they may use the term as their own as well. This is a wrong assumption based on ignorance. The use of these terms comes from the oppression of a people based on sexual orientation or race (in many cases but not all). You may not use the term because you have not been oppressed by the term. If you have not been oppressed by it, you do not get the opportunity to take it back as your own, as it was never used against you. I do not understand why you would want to share this oppression instead of being grateful that you have never been oppressed in this manner.

That being said, you may of course enjoy the music and lyrics brought to you by your favorite artists, but please recognize that just because you idolize someone who has every right to use a term does not mean you, too, may use it as your own or against someone else.