Today whilst browsing the web, the following clip popped up:
http://www.tv3.co.nz/7-DAYS-We-Have-The-Most-Racist-Rivers-In-The-World/tabid/5390/articleID/127584/MCat/2901/Default.aspx?ref=social
I thought it was a great example of using comedy to broach contentious issues and publicly contest regressive opinions. The story was about the three landmarks in Canterbury, inappropriately named Niggerhead, Nigger Hill and Nigger Stream. Even writing those makes me want to barf, yet there are some in the country who see no issue at all with the names! These fine citizens obviously recognise the etymology of the words, yet somehow believe the name of a place or a thing is more sacred that the sensibilities of people of colour. If you are fine with having a racial slur on our map, perhaps consider first the history behind the word, the pain and offence it causes (regardless of intention), and how your feelings would differ if we renamed Hamilton Crackerhill. :)
Sources:
http://www.stuff.co.nz/the-press/news/73318252/South-Island-N-word-place-names-could-be-wiped-from-the-map
I completely agree with you. Can't believe that there were 61% of objections to changing these disgusting names. I feel as if these landmark names were racist to a majority group there would be more of an uproar and debate of changing the names immediately.
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