11 Nov 2013 Hail to the Redskins
It used to be that the word “queer” was considered an epithet — an insult.
A “q-word,” if you will.
Nowadays, however, the rulers of political correctness inform us that it is all about context:
“It’s true that for many years lots of people were called ‘queer’ and it was a derogatory term and they find it offensive, but there’s definitely a younger generation that is trying to reform the term and give it new meaning,” Fuller said.
That’s the stance Colorado College is taking. They [sic] say the term was added to be more inclusive. Students with the Office of Minority and International Students agree. Student Marley Jamason says the term “queer” is changing.
“Colorado College is making an effort to be inclusive,” Jamason said. “‘Queer’ is an umbrella term that encompasses a whole range of identities.”
Though not in every situation, both Jamason and Fuller agree it’s important to look at the big picture.
“It’s important to look at context when the term is being used. If somebody is screaming it at you on the street … they mean to offend you and that’s probably not a good thing, ” Fuller said. “But if someone is using it to identify themselves because that’s what they feel good about, then we support that.”
If that’s true, then why isn’t it a good thing when fans of Washington D.C.’s NFL team sing “Hail to the Redskins?”