Derogatory labels are offensive words that can be reclaimed by a stigmatized group; however, the process of reclaiming can carry risks. In 2020, Black Lives Matter (BLM) protests took place around the world, reminding us about social inequalities and racism. Through these protests, we became particularly attentive to the language and labels we use. On July 29 th , BBC News aired a news report where the N-word was used. Thousands of complaints from viewers followed [i] . After an initial defense of the news report, the BBC director apologized and recognized the distress the N-word had caused...
"Academics cannot stay silent about anti-Black racism, nor can they remain silent in the face of racial violence and injustice. We need to engage in the critical work to dismantle anti-Black racism within ourselves, others, and in the system."
-Jeannette Mejia, University of Florida Counseling Psychology Doctoral Student
