ajcjobs > BlogBreak > Archives > 2008 > July > 23
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Are racial slurs in the workplace ever acceptable?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Don Imus was fired in 2007 for making racial comments on the air. Interestingly, he is back on the air and he makes about $15 million dollars more annually than he did before he was fired. He has diversified his new show, which I find to be interesting. As they say, bad press is better than no press.
Recently, Jessie Jackson was caught using the “N” word, which drew a lot of criticism from both whites and blacks. This has sparked a debate on the use of racial slurs within one’s own race. Is it okay for people to talk about their own race in a degrading way?
I personally don’t think so.
Growing up in the 50’s and 60’s, it was a major break through to be referred to as black or African-American. I am grateful for the accomplishment.
However, some people have not grown, and that includes those who are supposed to be leaders, e.g. Jessie Jackson. I can not believe someone who is in such a high-profile position and someone who is called Reverend would actually say something like that.
I dislike any type of racial slur, and feel that they should not be used in the workplace.
What are your feelings about racial slurs and jokes on the job? Is it acceptable for African-American employees to use racially-motivated slang that is frequently used in pop culture but unacceptable if other races use the same language?
