Ethnically Speaking by Larry Meeks

Dear Larry: I am a member of a Civil War re-enacting club, and I have a rather bothersome situation. The problem concerns an enthusiastically outspoken fellow who is one of the officers of our Yankee unit. He has proved himself to be friendly and helpful. He also has a great sense of humor with his blunt way of speaking. However, I have difficulty accepting his occasional use of the N-word. He uses it in my presence plus in the presence of those who patronize our public events.

As a dedicated history buff, he insists he is using that word only as it appears in authentic Civil War quotations. He says he uses it in order to teach others. I am convinced he is not actually racist. However, in my opinion, he is risking the reputation of the club by giving the impression we are racist by using this exceptionally vulgar word.

As a history buff myself, I understand the necessity to "tell it like it really was." I also understand there are some very profane aspects to historical lessons that should not be ignored. With that said, I feel that our informal family atmosphere would be better served if we did not use such an offensive word.

I have asked him nicely not to use the term in front of our visitors or me. I suggested that he use "Negro" instead of the N-word. His reaction was kind of ugly. He said I accused him of being racist, and he found my request highly insulting. I think it is a waste of time trying to change him, but I wonder how you would approach this problem. — Woody

Dear Woody: I am also a history buff and want my information to be historically accurate. This also applies to re-enactments, as much as is practical.

When one is doing re-enactments, one must consider the audience.

Your friend needs to understand that history in a book is different when it is portrayed in a live demonstration. For example, if the audience is very young, it is not prudent to simulate the goriness of battle in such a way that would scare the little ones or make them sick. It is also not prudent to use words that convey the wrong message.

When the N-word was used during the Civil War, it was not a word that ignited the passions, as we know it does today. Today that word labels the user a bigot. This was not the same back then. Also, every Yankee did not use the N-word. Your friend could use the term "Negro" just as easily, as you suggested, and be historically accurate.

It is my opinion your friend wants to use the word for the shock value and is only using history as an excuse.

As an approach, I would show your friend this column, and tell him I said he is making a mistake trying to foster hate in the name of history.

Dear Larry: I have been a reader of your column for many years and want you to know what an impact you have had on my family and me.

Because of your writings, we have stopped using the N-word and other hurtful language. As you suggested, we now start the day with a family meal and do the same at night. This simple act has changed the way we communicate. Every time we sit down to eat, each of us must say one thing we are thankful for and one new thing in our lives. It is amazing how much information I learned about my children and wife.

Please keep up the good work. — Marty

Dear Marty: Thank you for the upper. I am sure many other readers will benefit from your letter.

To find out more about Larry G. Meeks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

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