The term refers to the unmuted, emphasized pronunciation of the “r” at the end of certain words, particularly the slur beginning with “n,” by individuals who are not Black. The use of the slur is considered deeply offensive due to its historical association with racial discrimination and violence against Black people. The addition of a strongly pronounced “r” amplifies the offensiveness. As an example, consider the difference between a muted or absent “r” in casual speech and a deliberate, forceful enunciation of the “r” in the slur.
The impact of this usage is significant, as it perpetuates a history of racial hatred and reinforces power imbalances. Its utterance, especially in a public forum like TikTok, normalizes and disseminates harmful stereotypes, causing pain and trauma to Black individuals and communities. Understanding the historical context of racial slurs is crucial to recognizing the profound harm they inflict and fostering a more respectful and inclusive online environment.
