They're way late to the party, I knew people using the term for themselves back in the late eighties and early nineties. It was often controversial, obviously (and still is); but as one guy explained his choice "there's no power in a casually used word".
Which, dubious phrasing aside, he had a point. Once a word ceases to be hidden away, or exclusively used as a slur, it has less ability to shock or otherwise draw attention. It can backfire for sure though.
6 Comments
southsamurai@sh.itjust.works · 20 pts · 331d
They're way late to the party, I knew people using the term for themselves back in the late eighties and early nineties. It was often controversial, obviously (and still is); but as one guy explained his choice "there's no power in a casually used word".
Which, dubious phrasing aside, he had a point. Once a word ceases to be hidden away, or exclusively used as a slur, it has less ability to shock or otherwise draw attention. It can backfire for sure though.
shalafi@lemmy.world · 2 pts · 330d
Same experience. Thought it was weird when it seemed to become a slur overnight.
BananaOnionJuice@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 10 pts · 331d
It's only a term of affection when it's spoken in your best impression of an old preacher.
CognitiveBehavioralDuctTape@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 6 pts · 331d
Isn't it already?
abbiistabbii@lemmy.blahaj.zone · 5 pts · 331d
I mean this song blew up on Gay Tumblr.
Stamets@lemmy.dbzer0.com · 1 pts · 331d
I forgot about the slur song!