Higher Learning with ZeldaSpeaks: Remembering Ancestors, Origins of "N" Word

On this Memorial Day we'll honor those ancestors who have made a difference in the world by the lives they lived. Many came through an era in which they faced hostility and persecution simply because they dared to be excellent. Legendary Heavyweight Champion Boxer Jack Johnson, falsley accused of a crime and stripped of his title, was recently issued a posthumous Presidential Pardon by President Donald Trump.  Jackie Robinson, who paved the way for Blacks in professional baseball, was recently commemorated on the anniversary of his birth.Both men have had movies made about their lives, and the courage with which they faced being called that "N" word. What are the origins of this racial insult? What irrational fears, resentments and hatred are whites holding in their hearts who spew out this word in the hopes of degrading a fellow human being? How do we get beyond the negative connotation of this word so that it no longer has the power to humiliate when hurled at us by others? Join us for Higher Learning with ZeldaSpeaks and call in with your comments, 515-605-9325. Press 1 to speak to the host.