White students attending the First Academy in Orlando, Florida, have come under fire for a public debate regarding the proper use of the word “nigger.” The conversation took place on the popular photo network Instagram and was started by user “oliviaduncanyounot.” The account has since been removed.
The original post asked fans if “nigger” or “nigga” was the correct term. Readers were asked to “like” for the first choice and to leave a comment for the second choice. Those who responded provided a variety of answers but most agreed that “nigga” is the modern and correct term.
No one who participated in the discussion mentioned racism or the fact that both words are considered to be disrespectful. There is speculation that the group of white students had only experienced African-American culture through popular media and not direct exposure.
The conversation was disturbing for many to read in light of escalating racial tensions in America. A recent survey indicated that one third of millennials think blacks are lazy and unmotivated, which has contributed to their level of poverty. One fourth believe black people are less intelligent and should not marry outside their race. It is clear that more education and compassion is needed in the area of equality.