Wypipo is the new Cracker. It's divisive and clearly not in the spirit of Democratic values.

[elehhhhna]

Namecalling each other used to be a violation of the tos.




Fwiw I'm multiracial.

[bettyellen]

1. It's a humorous way to callout everyday racism. It's not used in a cruel

way at all, I think people (maybe ignorantly) are projecting their shit on it.

[WillowTree]

29. You know what everyone else's motivations are?

Quite a talent.

[bettyellen]

166. Because I know about Black Twitter and it was a thing, less so now, but....

I’m under the impression that many of the people super upset about it aren’t following any tweeters of color or they’d know better. You guys don’t understand, you assume a lot however- all of it bad.

[procon]

33. Do the people on the receiving end on the name calling also laugh at the

"humor" and agree that race based insults are really not "used in a cruel way at all"?

How does that same logic work for other races and ethnic groups?

[bettyellen]

167. I've never once seen anyone "receive" wypipo as an epithet- citation please?

I’m shocked at what people are assuming here.

[elehhhhna]

192. And who was running tons of fake blm social media and making these mes? Fucking russia. Guess why?

Divide and conquer.

don't be a tool.

[EffieBlack]

198. No, "Wypipo" is not the slang equivalent to "nigger."

Among other things, “Wypipo” doesn’t need a euphemism because it is so laden with an ugly and violent history and meaning that it’s often considered too foul and offensive to say out loud or even spell out in print.

[gollygee]

202. "The swamps of black twitter"

Hmmm that tells me everything I need to know about the person who claims that definition.

[sharedvalues]

114. Issue is that any white person can be insulted.

The term is clearly an insult, and it sounds enough like “white people” that lots of constructive Dem white people hear it and think “are they insulting me?”.


Just based on the last few weeks we can see many threads, here on DU, written by Dems, take offense on both sides of the issue. By definition, that’s a divisive issue. So why not, for the benefit of all and the sake of Dem unity, use other words instead?

[BlueWI]

144. What?? You went there and used plain and unassailable logic

in the midst of condescending racially charged pot-stirring!

OK- just want to make sure you know that I agree 100% with your post. Most certainly, we should let common courtesy guide us in addressing topics that have a great deal of nuance and are emotionally charged. Who knew that this simple point would have such limited buy-in, given our need to maximize our effectiveness for the fall election?

[EffieBlack]

156. Because we can't have any disagreements on DU -

But as far as I can tell, the "divisiveness" is mostly between white folk. Most black folk on DU seem to be fine with the word and a whole lot of white folk are also fine with it while a minority of white people don't like it.

Maybe y'allwhite people should get together and work it out amongst yourselves whether it's ok for black people to use the term "wypipol?"

In the meantime, other DUers can go on about our business discussing all manner of issues that people are disagreeing about - which I'm sure is fine since the only discussions that are "divisive" because people on DU disagree about them are those that deal with race. Otherwise, DU is a rockem sockem ring and no one seems to mind at all.

[Beartracks]

160. Race isn't the only divisive thread topic. Try...

... dropping "Bernie" into a subject line.



=========

[sheshe2]

159. Are those your shoes, a Democrat's shoes?

The term is clearly an insult, and it sounds enough like “white people” that lots of constructive Dem white people hear it and think “are they insulting me?”.

I think not, so it is not about you. Not your shoes. Not about you.

[EffieBlack]

161. Smh

[sheshe2]

163. Ummhmm.

If I might add.

Wypipo. Wypipo. Wypipo.

Signed. Sealed and delivered from a white person.

[Eliot Rosewater]

215. And these our are ALLIES?

[Gothmog]

220. I agree with your analysis

[bettyellen]

168. Clearly it's not an epithet people throw around. Does anyone here have context?!? Anyone angry? No.

[lark]

213. Most people don't think what they say is cruel.

It's always just a joke when it's someone else, but when it's you or when you don't even know WTF it means but it sounds derisive an dismissive, it's not so great.. You are saying WYPIPO are racist, but I saw another post where the person said WYPIPO are not necessarily racist. So using an undefined yet dismissive term that could apply to anyone white you want to demean, regardless of who they are or what they believe and do, doesn't sound funny to me.

[bettyellen]

214. It's literally used as a tag used when someone does or says something kinda racist- usually clueless

And not horrible or I think a stronger word would be used. It goes like, describe clueless microagression or some such, ugh Wypipo, ha ha !

That a white person in confusion over this could be upset.... that’s really not a good reason to want to police other people speech, is it? And that’s a hell of a metaphor for what’s been happening to the black community. White people get confused and nervous, so they call for the PTB to make it stop without even knowing what it is. That’s not how shit should work.
If people are confused and nervous, they should get informed before assuming the worst.

[lark]

233. I've asked 5 times and never got a solid answer before now.

The 1st person to define this said it was a racist white person who treats animals better than people of color. When there was push back from animal lovers, she/he said well not necessarily either one of those, so I have been confused by that ever since. I get and totally understand the definition you gave, so am no longer confused. Everyone should also be careful of the words they use. I still see no benefit to creating a new word to disparage people by race, but your choice.

[bettyellen]

234. I think the animal lover crap came from trolls hoping they could start a war....

Becasue it’s much more closely related to the type of people that call cops on POC for no real reason- those who are unreasonably fearful and ignorant. And without fail, it was used to mock shitty behavior and nothing more. I see a lot of people want no tolerance or leeway given to these discussions, they didn’t like talk of privilege and mocked micro-aggressions. I don’t use the term, but I follow a lot of diverse Twitterers and it’s never used in an angry denigrating personal way- the tone is more like oh shit not this again. If someone is out and out showing obvious bigotry, it’s usually going to get a harsher reaction than Wypipo.

[lark]

235. OK, I thought I had it and now it's unclear again.

White people who call cops on POC for no real reason aren't clueless, they are actively harming others for no reason other than their skin color, which is the definition of racism. So, again, what's the difference between WYPIPO and racists? I have never heard or seen this word used anywhere other than here and I visit lots of sites and read extensively every day. If I do hear it used, guess I'll just have to deduce what the person means from the situation and context.

[bettyellen]

236. I'd say that it's usually used in less high-stakes circumstances than calling the cops-

And you’re right, that’s a slippery slope. In a lot of cases average people will defend people for calling the police (or manager, etc, who then might call the police) , refusing to acknowledge the danger it places POC in.
I’d say it would be used to describe people who defend that shit, those who are complicit in smaller ways in defending bigots by giving them “the benefit of the doubt” which sadly, is people everywhere.

[gollygee]

2. Hmm name calling means calling a person a name

So if someone called you personally that, it would be name calling. Someone could say, "I don't like jerks." Someone could not say, "You are a jerk." Well they could, but they'd take their chances with a jury.

[flotsam]

6. it is not "just a name"-it is a name based on race

and those names are banned here if they apply to any other race whether black or hispanic or asian even if you find humor in using them. I have no idea why some think it is acceptable.

[gollygee]

8. What?

I said it isn't name calling. Name calling means calling a person a name, not just using a word in discussion.

And yes, it would be different if it were used to refer to someone not at the top of the racial caste system.

[wasupaloopa]

34. Are you saying a double standard is permissible?

[gollygee]

45. It isn't a double standard

they are two different things due to context.

CONTEXT

It's a useful concept.

[whathehell]

90. What "context"?

White people are too "privileged" to feel marginalized or insulted?

[EffieBlack]

103. You can't be this clueless

[Eliot Rosewater]

217. Wanna bet!

[NCTraveler]

195. Not far enough under the radar.

Very transparent.

[wasupaloopa]

139. We need folks like you to make a list

of the ideas you have on the racist issue.

Your ideas on what is permissible and what isn’t.

See we all don’t get your way if thinking.

[gollygee]

140. You could see if there's a sociology class at a local university. nt

[Rhiannon12866]

11. And there are derogatory names that are unacceptable here

Whether you are actually calling someone else that name or not.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

12. It's acceptable precisely because it's a term, which by DEFINITION doesnt apply to ALL white people.

Wypipo refers to those who, quite frankly, are an EMBARRASSMENT to non-wypipos - we who wouldn't so much as even THINK to call the cops on black folks enjoying a family BBQ, taking a nap, etc - and wypipos DESERVE to be called the fuck out!!

[mythology]

17. Think how that would sound if you switched the racial slur

To one against anybody else. If you aren't that type of black person, a white person using the n word wouldn't be offensive right?

The lengths people will go in order to excuse poor behavior is astounding. Bigotry is bigotry.

[EffieBlack]

23. Other than a few comedians, you'd be hard-pressed to find many black people who would patiently

try to explain to other black people what the n-word means and why it’s not a slur, much less say they aren’t the least bit offended by it.

So, no. For many reasons, including this one, switching the “nigger” for “Wypipo” doesn’t work. The words aren’t comparable in any way and the continued insistence of some white people to equate them is tone-deaf and obnoxious.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

26. You actually made my point, thanks... the n-word was created, and is still used, as a racist

dehumanizing slur intended to demean an ENTIRE RACE OF PEOPLE, thus, distinguishing that disgusting, hateful word from "wypipo," which is NON-offensive, at least to NON-wypipo.

[elehhhhna]

201. Exactly what suburban chicagoans say about the n word.

Thanks for proving my point.

[whathehell]

84. Yes it is

and this is becoming quite divisivive.

[EffieBlack]

104. How is the word "wypipo" "divisive?"

Who is it dividing you from? Is it changing your opinion, perspective, behavior or vote in any way? If so, how?

[sharedvalues]

118. You can see it just in posts on DU

In this thread and in many threads about “w*****po” ver the last few weeks. It stirs up emotions both pro and con and gets people arguing.

That’s the definition of divisive.

If we want to win elections we must unify over shared concerns and issues.

[EffieBlack]

134. People disagreeing or even complaining about something doesn't make it divisive

Hell, by that standard EVERY topic on DU is divisive since there are few things discussed here that everyone agrees with.

That's NOT the definition of divisive.

Please answer my question. How has seeing anyone on DU use the word "wypipo" divided YOU from anyone? Who did it divide you from? What is the result? How has it changed your opinion, perspective or behavior?

If you can't or won't answer, please spare us the "divisive divisive divisive" mantra since it's little more than a buzzword that simply means "I don't like what you said so you must stop saying it."

[sharedvalues]

138. "W*****po" causes arguments on DU

And so it has changed the behavior of everyone who participates in threads, regardless of whether the thread is pro-“w*****po” or anti-“w*****po”.

It causes arguments. And aggressive words. And makes people angry - at OTHER DEMOCRATS. As you can see ample evidence of in this thread.

And it is responsible for many threads. Argument threads. Most threads at DU are NOT argument threads.

No one can stop people from using terms that divide Democrats. Everyone has to make their own decisions.

[gollygee]

142. So do discussions of how to fry chicken.

People argue about everything here but it's only when race is involved that the arguments suddenly become an issue, and somehow EVERY SINGLE TIME the answer that people come up with is to center the feelings of white people.

[sharedvalues]

143. Wow.

No need to repeat what was said above.

I hope you have a very nice evening.

[EffieBlack]

155. Bingo!

Black DUer: "Wypipo"

A Few White DUers: "THAT'S OFFENSIVE TO WHITE PEOPLE! STOP saying it!

A Whole Lot of White DUers: "No, it's not offensive to all white people. It doesn't bother me at all. I think it's funny and appropriate."

A Few White DUesr: "IT'S DIVISIVE! IT SHOULD NEVER BE SAID!!!"

Black DUer: "White privilege is a thing in America.""

A Few White DUers: "NO, IT'S NOT! Stop saying that! You're being divisive!!!""

A Whole Lot of White Duers: "No. It's true. White privilege is a thing.""

A Few White DUers: "STOP SAYING THAT!!! It's insulting and offensive and it's divisive. You're playing into Trump's hands!!!""

Black DUer: "But it IS a thing. I've experienced it myself my whole life. Let me give you some examples.""

A Few White DUers: "Well, whoop-dee-doo. Those examples don't mean anything. I know a white person who got hit by a car and died. Where was HIS white privilege?! You are being divisive. Stop making everything about race.! YOU'RE making racism worse!"

Black Duer: "You know, I'm really tired of you telling me I don't know what I'm talking about and dismissing my experiences. And it's really offensive and insulting for you to blame ME for making racism worse.""

A Few White DUers: There you go again being divisive. STOP BEING SO DAMNED SENSITIVE AND WHINING AND ACCUSING WHITE PEOPLE OF BEING RACIST! If you weren't so sensitive about everything and didn't complain so much whenever someone says something that you don't think is perfect, which is the same as calling them a racist, we'd all be much better off."

[Skidmore]

209. You distilled the issue

to its core. I am a white person married to a black man and we have mixed racial extended families on both sides. White privilege is something we deal with frequently in the greater community and sometimes with certain family members. It is real as are the set of behaviors and mindset described the category "Wypipo." The people in that group consistently see themselves as enlightened beyond reproach while remaining oblivious as to how some of their actions and assumption actually deliver some of the little knicks in racism by a thousand cuts.

The discomfort engendered by having wypipo as a descriptor of behavior and assumptions should prompt introspection with a desire to understand and engage in dialogue for change. The descriptor is a mere shade of those labels and assumptions directed toward black people everyday, sometimes acted on with violence. Examination of our individual understandings of what equality means and who we deem worthy of equal treatment is at the heart of this.

[bettyellen]

165. BINGO!

[EffieBlack]

148. "Causing arguments on DU?!?!"

Oh come on - you are starting to make me suspect that you are a parody account. Because no serious person would actually say that something shouldn't be discussed or mentioned because it "causes arguments on DU."

But you still haven't answered my questions. Your continued refusal to answer the questions answers them - and not to your advantage. But I'll try again.

Who does the term "wypipo" divide you from? I use the term and I can't get you away from me, so clearly it hasn't divided you from me. Has the fact that someone uses the word "wypipo" changed your opinion, perspective or behavior about anything related to race? If so, how? Has it reduced your commitment to or interest in fighting for civil rights? If so, how?

[sheshe2]

162. It hasn't changed my behavior or opinion.

sharedvalues (4,529 posts)
138. "W*****po" causes arguments on DU

And so it has changed the behavior of everyone who participates in threads, regardless of whether the thread is pro-“w*****po” or anti-“w*****po”.

It causes arguments. And aggressive words. And makes people angry - at OTHER DEMOCRATS. As you can see ample evidence of in this thread.


I am very sorry that talking about racism causes you angst. It will be okay, sharedvalues you can handle this. It is well past time for a change.

[elehhhhna]

188. The argument that "I don't mean YOU, of course" is as old as time

And a poor argument, at that.

If I say "Many kneegrows/ Mex13icans/ Oldassuselesseaters/ are stupid and don't vote!" And " hey but no offense, if you're offended you're the problem, I just mean the stupid nonvoting ones! " will I be rightfully alerted on? Booted from DU?

Trolling is trolling

Wth.

[bettyellen]

216. It is literally used as a tag to describe incidents of problematic behavior

That is how it always has been used on Twitter. Usually when something is in the clueless casual or microagression kind of way, where bigot would seem to harsh. It’s attached to the behavior described, not to any group, and it’s an in-joke, not used for trolling those people.

You are completely off base. Sorry. But reading these shitty assumptions is really getting to me.

[Lucky Luciano]

3. Meh. Wypipo doesn't affect me at all. I'm white and still feel pretty privileged. nt

[bettyellen]

170. Me neither. And I get why POC need a humorous shorthand to talk about experiences w the clueless

Bigots or bigot-adjacent. The tweets are harmless- what they’re talking about, is the real problem.

[Caliman73]

4. It actually isn't.

Cracker is a word that was created by White people to demean certain other White people of lower economic status. It was perhaps picked up and used by Black people and other people of color to describe a certain segment of White people but it was not invented by Black people as a racial slur.

Wypipo appears to be a word that has been used among Black people to denote a certain set of behaviors and attitudes within a segment of White society to express frustration internally. It was shared at DU, I believe to start a discussion on White Privilege but quickly became and instrument of the Black oppressor meant to completely divide and destroy the Democratic party, as if Black people have anywhere near that kind of social power.

Any name that is directed specifically at another DU member is a violation of TOS. Using a word in discussion, not directed at anyone is not.

[elehhhhna]

18. Okay. Post a general statement about some group using an epithet. Go ahead. I'll wait.

[fishwax]

65. but wypipo isn't "a general statement about some group using an epithet"

It's a specific term about a set of behaviors, not a general statement about a group of people.

[elehhhhna]

193. so blkpipo is now acceptable under the same bullshit explaination?

No. Fuck that.

[EffieBlack]

199. It's not "blkpipo." It's "blahpipo."

And I don’t have a problem with it.

[elehhhhna]

206. You are the decider then? Got it.

[EffieBlack]

207. Lol. Well, you asked

Don’t get snarky when you get an answer ...

[betsuni]

210. This is getting really weird.

I don't feel safe. Should I call someone?

[Eliot Rosewater]

223. The gnashing of teeth over this after 200 years of lynching, the N word,

Jim Crow and continued hostile actions by police and the public against black people for being black.

amazing..such madness

[betsuni]

212. I wonder why you're so upset.

[fishwax]

218. I don't see the two as equivalent, given

that white folks and black folks don't occupy equivalent space or status in a culture organized around white supremacy.

[Caliman73]

149. Why would I do that?

Why would you encourage people to use epithets against groups of people? I am not understanding the point of this particular response nor am I understanding the point of this thread in general. I understand that you feel what Wypipo is some kind of horrible epithet, but I just explained why it really isn't.

I actually agree that is is a bit silly and I can understand how some people would take offense. I just disagree that it has any kind of social power to do any damage like other words have historically, when wielded by people with actual social, legal, and political power.

[EffieBlack]

30. You are so awesome!

[kcr]

5. Fwiw I'm white and think people who get their undies in a twist

over wypipo prove the point of wypipo. I predicted an upsurge with the Roseanne firing.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

13. Exactly! Ironically, it's like a litmus test

[brush]

80. Right on point. Rosanne and her ilk epitimizes what wypipo means. Anyone else...

who has no use or time for Barr and her racist antics are not wypipo.

That shouldn't be that hard to understand.

Why is this even a controversy on this site of enlightened progressives?

Isn't this a site of enlightened progressives?

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

137. Enlightened? You'd think so... guess not everyone.

[Gothmog]

221. I am also white and I agree with your analysis

[sheshe2]

7. I see no name calling of DUers.

I am white and it does not bother me, the shoe doesn't fit and I don't wear it, you should not either. That doesn't mean I am not learning more everyday.

[Eliot Rosewater]

224. God forbid some non POC might ask WHY the word is used and try to LEARN From that.

[sheshe2]

226. Yep.

[procon]

228. Your own personal experiences and perceptions are not a universal truth.

Everyone brings their own individual opposing opinions and views to the table. Those different perspectives are no less relative than your own. It should not come as any surprize to find other people who don't agree with the notion that racial taunts are an acceptable method of promoting equality. Certainly you are entitled to hold and defend that unique view, but it isn't a stance shared by everyone.

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

9. Puhhleease... nice try!!

[flamin lib]

10. My problem with the term is that it smacks of 'ebonics' and

a dialect of the uneducated. It gives those being referred to permission to ignore the message.

Yes I'm white. Yes I grew up in a grossly bigoted home. Yes I don't speak with some family members. I also have educational background in linguistics so I understand true dialects AND the way they are perceived as well as denigrated.

Use of the slang term serves poorly.

[Go Vols]

55. +1

[MichMan]

62. Sounds like something a toddler would say

My impression is that people that enjoy using it for humor are being juvenile and immature

[Crunchy Frog]

174. Yup.

Actually reminds me of my sons when they were littler, making "pee-pee poopee" jokes. That's actually what pops into my head when I see that word here.

I think I may have just branded myself here as some sort of Roseanne loving, closet Trumper.

[bettyellen]

219. It's realy an in-group joke, so no, it works fine. There was never a good word to describe

The kind of person whose actions the tag gets attached to- Microagressor! Would be kinda ridiculous, I think. Language evolves and grows, and they can’t all be variants of “cool” becasue that would make you happier.

[flamin lib]

230. Okay. It just seems to used by some as a slur (to deserving

individuals). In that context it doesn't serve well for two reasons, the first of which I alluded to and the second is that there simply isn't a word new or old that has the context necessary to shame or hurt white people. Particularly the people most in need of shaming. What could be said to me that could approach 'boy' for a black man? It's part of white privilege.

In an in-group setting I can see exactly what you mean, but DU at large isn't part of the inside joke so us white folks don't get it, it's wasted on us.

But as you say language, in particularl the American version of English, evolves. As whiteness subsides from majority status there will no doubt be lots of new words like wypipo. Maybe someday one will bite as hurtfully as 'boy'. Meanwhile we're left with bigot, racist and my personal favorite 'ignorant motherfucker'.

Thanks for the explanation, it makes perfect sense.

[bettyellen]

231. You're most welcome. And I'd like to point out it was only brought here by way of people angry

Becasue they made assumptions and are not familiar w black Twitter or it’s usage at all. And their first reaction is to condemn it and call in the word police. That should be food for thought. I’m super happy you heard me out.

[Codeine]

14. Wypipo doesn't affect me in the slightest.

It’s a goofy term that will fade away if the wypipo in question quit whining about it.

Remember when it was a big thing to call ISIS “Daesh”? Yeah, it was a dumb little fad that lasted about a month. The shelf life of “wypipo” would have been similarly short if everyone quit pretending to be offended by it.

Seriously; if you’re white you aren’t truly impacted by this kind of thing. To pretend otherwise is infantile.

[vercetti2021]

15. I don't care

I'm vampire white and I can care less about a slur against me

[GulfCoast66]

16. Cracker is not a term I heard in Louisiana

But I have been in Florida for 31 years so am familiar with it.

In Louisiana the names for poor whites were coonass, redneck and white trash depending on the part of the state you were from. My grandmother was Cajun and grandfather from rural Alabama so I got them all.

None of them bother me since none of the have ever carried the sense of implied violence that racial epithets in the south did.

Hell, I call myself redneck when I fix something in a creative manner using unexpected items.

The names I might be called are not part of a multiple hundreds of years effort to keep my kind oppressed. They are just regular insults like asshole and dick head.

[Marcuse]

36. Atlanta Black Crackers 1919-1949

[GulfCoast66]

39. Who knew!

The multi generation Florida natives all swear the term Cracker was about the short whips the early cowboys always used and were constantly ‘cracking’ to round up their free range cattle.

They do not see it in a racial prism, but then again, they are white and their place in the racial pyramid was assumed.

[Marcuse]

72. Nm

[EffieBlack]

19. Oh, come on. Not THIS shit again!

Just joking. I thought it would be fun to say that since someone always says it to me whenever *I* bring up these things ...

[ismnotwasm]

20. Right? I feel like posting this over and over again

&feature=share

[Docreed2003]

42. Such a great sketch!! Still applicable!

[grantcart]

22. Why effie you know we been sufferin with this wypipo for 3-4 weeks now. How long we have to suffer?

[sheshe2]

28. How long, I feel...

[fleabiscuit]

58. +1

[grantcart]

21. it is not a slur it is a Portmanteau with a slightly humorous twist

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portmanteau

like the words "information, commercial" combine to make infomercial

In this case Wypipo combines two non malicious words to indicate a particular type of person who is white and consumed with questions of race, even, for example, someone who overly protests that they are not racist but are very concerned about the use of a word like wypipo because it must be reverse racism.

For example

Only a real wypipo worries about being called a wypipo, a regular dude would just laugh it off


It can be used as a slur in a derivative term when combined with a particularly egregious adjective, for example;

That mofo wypipo won't stop complaining about the use of the word 'wypipo' even though we only had it about 4 months and they been using the n word for 400 years.

[GulfCoast66]

40. A Portmanteau with a slightly humorous twist! Help!

I am stuck in a Monte Python skit and can’t get out!!

[grantcart]

64. Well the Spanish Inquisition isn't coming to help you out.

[GulfCoast66]

69. First you get Python in my head...

Now Mel Brooks completed with the ear worm song!

[mr_lebowski]

145. Who would expect it, after all? (nt)

[whathehell]

194. Lol..

You MUST be kidding us.

[philly_bob]

24. I agree with OP. At first, I didn't object,

but the more I hear it and recognize the self-righteous, taunting undertones, the more I object.

You don't want to lead with WYPIPO in the 2018 elections.

[sheshe2]

37. "You don't want to lead with WYPIPO in the 2018 elections."

I agree. I want us to lead with our base and from what I am seeing, that is black women. They are running. Winning. Voting in record numbers.

[philly_bob]

53. I was unclear.

I should have said "You don't want to lead with using the term WYPIPO in the 2018 elections.

Do you think Democratic campaign materials for 2018 should use the term WYPIPO?

[sheshe2]

61. Well I guess you were very unclear.

Thanks for the clarification.

philly_bob
53. I was unclear.

I should have said "You don't want to lead with using the term WYPIPO in the 2018 elections.

Do you think Democratic campaign materials for 2018 should use the term WYPIPO?

Why on earth would we lead with that term??? We will lead with our platform which includes all peoples. It will be up to wypipo to follow us or follow trump which they always do. Wypipo are trumpers...sad some don't get that.

[sharedvalues]

74. W**** are Trumpers: then say trumpers.

The problem is the word stems from “white people”. Many white people are minority allies, like many white people at DU.

The democrats are a coalition party. A party of Americans. Black, white, Hispanic and every other race. We welcome diversity.


Race-based nicknames are not ideal. Because some of the race are Dems and some are Republicans.

Constructive criticism is specific.

[G_j]

135. I believe that to be quite logical

Is that you Spock?

[gollygee]

54. +1 !!

And I love the comment that it is "not in keeping with Democratic values" or whatever claptrap that was. African Americans made the term and vote overwhelmingly Democratic, and the majority of white people vote Republican. I don't see how white people can tell people who vote overwhelmingly Democratic what "Democratic values" are anyway.

"Wypipo" is like poking a stick at racism, which is very much in keeping with Democratic values.

[sheshe2]

73. ;)

I don't see how white people can tell people who vote overwhelmingly Democratic what "Democratic values" are anyway.

Yup. Take Roy Moore for example for those that seem to not understand 'wypipo'. The wypipo, with donnnies blessings voted for a raciest alleged pedophile. They seem to take offense about a term targeted to the likes of Roy's supporters. I have no clue why they object so strongly. Black women came out against him 98% black men right behind.

Where were the white people?

"Wypipo" is like poking a stick at racism, which is very much in keeping with Democratic values.

This.

[mr_lebowski]

154. Forgive me, but if I may ...

Taken 'on it's face', it's pretty clear that the term 'wypipo' ... is a shortened reference to 'White People'.

Are we in agreement on the most basic fact of the situation here?

Unfortunately, the reality of the USA in the current moment is ... a hell of a lot of people are pretty freaking uninformed, and pretty susceptible to divisive propaganda.

Are we in agreement on that point as well?

The only 'point' I'm getting at here is that expecting basically everyone to just kinda know that 'wypipo' has a particular meaning with regards to a 'subset of the race of white people who think a certain way' (as is being argued above by some of our AA friends here, upthread), is somewhat of a stretch. I'm not saying that I doubt that 'wypipo' means what Effie and others say it means in the minority community, mind you.

What I am saying though is that 'people', overall in this country ... they know SFA.

If Faux decides to redefine 'wypipo' to connote a denigrating term that 'minorities' use for ALL whites? That's what it will 'come to mean' ... an example how 'they' are 'racist' against 'us'.

This can easily happen, despite facts, despite reality.

That possibility should not be overlooked.

[sheshe2]

173. Okay

mr_lebowski (2,692 posts)
154. Forgive me, but if I may …

Taken 'on it's face', it's pretty clear that the term 'wypipo' ... is a shortened reference to 'White People'.

Are we in agreement on the most basic fact of the situation here?

Sure. I forgive you...

Unfortunately, the reality of the USA in the current moment is ... a hell of a lot of people are pretty freaking uninformed, and pretty susceptible to divisive propaganda.

Are we in agreement on that point as well?

I totally agree that "people are pretty freaking uninformed, and pretty susceptible to divisive propaganda." Not you of course, just other people, wypipo.

The only 'point' I'm getting at here is that expecting basically everyone to just kinda know that 'wypipo' has a particular meaning with regards to a 'subset of the race of white people who think a certain way' (as is being argued above by some of our AA friends here, upthread), is somewhat of a stretch. I'm not saying that I doubt that 'wypipo' means what Effie and others say it means in the minority community, mind you.

Hmmm. "'wypipo' has a particular meaning with regards to a 'subset of the race of white people who think a certain way'.... is somewhat of a stretch."
https://mcavoys.tumblr.com/post/114969496620


Bend and stretch reach for the sky

Lol~

What I am saying though is that 'people', overall in this country ... they know SFA.

If Faux decides to redefine 'wypipo' to connote a denigrating term that 'minorities' use for ALL whites? That's what it will 'come to mean' ... an example how 'they' are 'racist' against 'us'.

This can easily happen, despite facts, despite reality.

Faux!!!! might use this? Are you saying that they will say blacks using the term 'wypipo' are racists? Blacks can be bigots, never racist.


4 ‘Reverse Racism’ Myths That Need To Stop




https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/reverse-racism-isnt-a-thing_us_55d60a91e4b07addcb45da97

[mr_lebowski]

175. Obviously, we can't have a civil discussion no matter much I assured you I'm completely on your side

All I'm pointing out here is a potential harmful outcome of 'embracing' the term, one which I don't wish to see occur.

But hey, I'm 'wypipo', so ... my motives are clearly suspect by nature, in fact, worthy of ridiculing videos in retort.

BTW, nice 'selective editing' on your part, leaving out where I said "expecting basically everyone to just kinda know that ... " as an obviously important prelude to what followed ... was clever. Kudos on that.

So, you go head on wit yo powerful message sayin 'wypipo' REALLY just means 'ONLY the dickhead white people' ... and let me know how that works out for you.

[sharedvalues]

75. "Majority of white people vote Republican"????!!

That’s an anti-Democratic sentiment. Dems are a coalition party. If someone were to attack white people because a majority of them vote Republican, that would be a serious problem for Democrats.


Democrats welcome all races in their tent. The issue is with Republicans, not white people. If we don’t recognize that, we lose at the polls. It’s that simple.

[gollygee]

78. It isn't an anti-Democratic sentiment

it's reality.

People of color, particularly African Americans, WAY vote for Democrats. Yet we feel like we should cater to white people and not them. Weird.

[sharedvalues]

83. "Majority of white people vote Republican" means the term is an insult

You said w*****po is meant as a pejorative. That’s what the voting comment implies - it’s ok to use the (insulting) term for white people because most of them are Republicans anyway.

Im not objecting to your statistics. I’m objecting to you feeling it’s ok to use a slightly pejorative term for white people because most white people are Republicans and thus deserving of scorn.

Let’s unify here at DU. We have much more in common about values and ethics than things that differ.

I have not recently seen an issue so divisive as wy****po. Aggressive threads on both sides of this racial issue have cropped up.

That’s what Republicans want - for Dems to fight internally over race. None of us should want to do things that help the GOP.

[gollygee]

85. We don't have to fight on race

We could all fight against it.

I'm not turning my eye away from it.

[sharedvalues]

89. I am with you

I am fighting hard against racism, with you and most of the Democratic Party.

So in the spirit of harmony, because people are taking offense here on DU to this term, can we please consider not using it?

[gollygee]

91. We don't own the term

and we don't get to decide what term an oppressed group of people are using to mentally deal with their oppression. It isn't up to you or me. Get over yourself.

[sharedvalues]

93. No, we do own our words, and we do get to urge constructiveness

Here at DU, and in any community, we can together insist on constructiveness and civility.

Based merely on the discussion here in this thread, it’s clear the term is not constructive.

People can express their ideas without using a divisive term. Let’s hope they do that.

[gollygee]

96. DU will hopefully be at least somewhat friendly to people of color

and people of color created this term to help them deal with the oppression they face. It is divisive to try to patrol the language they use as they navigate this racist world.

[sharedvalues]

99. It's about EVERYONE. Black and white.

This is a unity party.
White people AND black people (and other races) must work TOGETHER. Which means each must avoid insulting the other.

If we want the Democrats to win elections, both white and black people must listen to each other and avoid offensive words. All of us must do that here on DU.

[gollygee]

107. White people need to stop centering white people in every situation

African Americans created a term to help them discuss something they deal with as they live with oppression in our racist society. It is not insulting for them to use language they need to use as they navigate racism. And use of the word "wypipo" on DU has diddly to do with any election results, past or future.

[EffieBlack]

112. People on DU constantly offend me and other POC. But when we point it out, we're told WE'RE being

divisive and that we should stop being so sensitive and try harder to get along because we all need to stick together because Trump, blah blah blah.

But the second someone says something that a small handful of white people claim to be offensive, we're told - again - that WE'RE being divisive and that we should "in the spirit of harmony" refrain from saying anything that people (i.e., white people) find offensive.

Apparently, no matter what, WE'RE the problem and WE need to go out of OUR way to make sure that WE don't cause any "divisiveness."

I call bullshit on that. If you're so worried about fighting racism and keeping a spirit of harmony, I suggest you either stop telling people of color and our allies to behave ourselves OR you should step up and push back on ANYTHING that causes offense on DU, even when it's black people being offended by the comments and behavior of white people.

[sharedvalues]

116. Let's go kneel together at an anthem - shoulder to shoulder

I will go to a sporting event of your choice (subject to travel) and kneel right next to you during the anthem. Let’s set it up.



(Re divisiveness: it’s the term “w*****po” that seems to evoke these strong divisive feelings, as we can see from this thread and the past few weeks. It’s not everything people say. I too call bullshit on racism and I too think that you and I should both push back on things that divide democrats or hurt anyone - black and white alike.)

[gollygee]

117. Telling people of color how and when they are allowed to protest isn't an improvement upon

telling them they shouldn't protest at all.

[sharedvalues]

119. No, offering to join a protest

This is an inclusive offer, made to extend an offer to join a protest to demonstrate unity. The offer says nothing about allowances about this kind of protest or others.

[gollygee]

120. The term "wypipo" is a protest against racism

"Don't say 'wypipo' and I will do a different protest with you" isn't good. People who are oppressed get to choose their method they use to fight that oppression. Nobody is getting actually hurt by the word "wypipo." It's OK for people to use that word as they deal with racism in our society, and nobody needs your permission.

[sharedvalues]

123. That's a distortion. "W*****po" is divisive

You keep distorting my words.
In no way is any protest contingent on doing anything.

I’m just making an offer: let’s kneel together to demonstrate Dem unity. I’d love to have you join too. We should all join and kneel together at every anthem to stand against minority oppression in america.

Such kneeling is unlinked to any use of words. That discussion is entirely separate. I’d like you to stop using a term that DUers feel insulted by, but if you don’t I’ll still go kneel with you. Or go to another protest with you of your choice.

[gollygee]

129. "Wypipo" is only divisive in the opinion of a small number of people

but you are choosing to center the feelings of that small number of people over the feelings of African American DUers.

[EffieBlack]

130. Thanks, but you and I meeting up to kneel at a sporting event is not what I'm going for. I have

other ways to make a difference.

I'm not sure why you keep suggesting this (or haven't inferred from my silence that it's not something I'm interested in doing). Perhaps you could go to a sporting event in your town and kneel there. That would have some impact in your community.

I look forward to seeing you step in to vigorously defend the next - and the next and the next - person of color who is insulted by a white DUer, who is told that their experience doesn't count, who is accused of "whining," "race-baiting," "bringing up THIS shit again," "making everything about race," being "divisive" or any of the numerous other ways we are consistently offended on DU because we're speaking our truth. THAT would go much further than you complaining about the term "wypipo" - which white people can't even agree on whether it's offensive or not - or you and me kneeling together at a game somewhere in the country.

[sharedvalues]

133. Because it's a way for Dems to show unity

Public protests - showing up - and doing so TOGETHER - make a difference. Togetherness and unity is important. And you should know that I support your goals and ideas even if I sometimes think a tactic or two can be counterproductive.

That’s why I’m offering to do a public protest with you. Side by side with you. Because I support the issues you care about. If you have another type of public protest you would prefer, I’d do that too. We’re on the same side here.

[EffieBlack]

136. The only way for us to show unity is for you to show up in my town & hook up with me for a kneel-in?

Really?

Let me make this plain. I am not interested in doing a public protest with you. Please stop asking. Thank you.

You don't know any black people in your own community that you could do a side-by-side public protest with? If not, perhaps you should start there?

[sharedvalues]

141. Dems need to unify.

I do do such local protests, of course.

I won’t further engage except to say my post does not contain the word ‘only’, and so I’m not sure why you used it.

[gollygee]

81. Also

I promise you we will not win any votes trying to out-white the Republican Party. We can't cater to white people better than they can.

How about trying to fight racism? That's literally the only thing keeping them winning. Fighting against racism = fighting against the GOP.

[sharedvalues]

95. Lets fight racism AND embrace the Dem "big tent"

The democrats absolutely do need both white people and black people to win. Lots of votes in PA and VA and many states and many cites come from progressive white people horrified by racism and the GOP.

The Democrats- and the country- need white people and black people to work together. This country has had a history of oppressing black people. Democrats want to improve this! Dividing democrats only helps the party of racism: the GOP.

[gollygee]

97. White people who are not racist

are not going to stop voting for Democrats because of the word "wypipo."

[Iggo]

151. This.

[ck4829]

184. I'm white and I'm still going to vote Democratic like I always do

And I also encourage the frequent usage of the term "wypipo" to describe people like the ones doing the antagonizing here...

https://www.vox.com/first-person/2018/5/30/17406092/race-911-white-lady-calls-police-on-black-family-bbq-oakland

I'm of the white people against wypipo.

[bettyellen]

169. Hells yes.

[tonedevil]

25. When BBQ Becky...

calls to report rogue charcoal use in the park barbeque area what else am I going to say as I slap my palm to my forehead making a statement of exasperation?

[wellst0nev0ter]

27. Chrissakes, this again.

Roughtly 36 million wypipo voted for the orange clown. That's why they are called "why, people?"

[whathehell]

200. Your exasperation is duly noted..

but not understood, at least by this poster, since "wypipo" is now being defined differently than "why people".

[wellst0nev0ter]

225. At first it's a Twitter abbreviation of "white people"

but it took on a life of its own on online black spaces. Now whites are saying the term is racist without addressing the issues that word is highlighting, which is simply a bad faith move on the part of whites however you look at it.

[wasupaloopa]

31. Last week it was posted that if you don't like wypipo OP's don't reply.

Last edited Wed May 30, 2018, 09:45 PM - Edit history (1)

I thought that was weird but I now think wypipo OP’s are popular to many DUers
and used to get lot’s of recs and mutual support.

So now I think it is better to stay out of wypipo threads meant to inform you about white people’s actions if you don’t like the term.

Since the people replying to those OP’s overwhelmingly agree with the them, they attack anyone who disagrees and point out that those who disagree are lacking in some way thus the disagreement. (This was done up thread by one splainin to you )


Hide the wypipo threads if you don’t like them or ignore the author of the OP.

Those threads are not very informational, since we all know what they are about, but rather are snares for people like you. They fulfill a need to attack. They are what I call self righteous group think which happens a lot on DU.

[guillaumeb]

32. Is it shorthand for something?

[Bok_Tukalo]

35. It's a race based pejorative used by bigots

Pretty straight forward

[sheshe2]

38. So you are calling all DUers bigots that post about "wypipo'?

Bok_Tukalo
35. It's a race based pejorative used by bigots

Pretty straight forward

I have posted about it. Are you calling me a bigot?

[guillaumeb]

41. After reading the comments here and elsewhere,

I disagree. It may not be useful in an actual debate, but I see no insult in it.

[sheshe2]

43. Thank you.

[guillaumeb]

44. My opinion.

None of my ancestors were slaves.

None of my ancestors were kidnapped from their homes and brought here naked in chains.

None of my ancestors were forced to give up their religion, their language, their heritage, their very names.

[Bok_Tukalo]

46. I have seen it's use in places other than this.

It is deliberate, it is race based, and it is an epithet.

There is an attempt to make a racial pejorative acceptable here; to mainstream bigotry. I am opposed to that.

[guillaumeb]

49. I understand your concern,

but is it designed to categorize all of a group, or some?

[Bok_Tukalo]

52. It is designed as a racial epithet

You can use it against any white person, or group of white people, you wish to denigrate, malign, or ridicule. Even those who simply object to its use. Especially white people who object to its use (the childish Catch-22).

[sharedvalues]

106. That's been admitted by posters above - it's an insult

[sheshe2]

50. No.

It is not.

Bok_Tukalo
46. I have seen it's use in placed other than this.

It is deliberate, it is race based, and it is a epithet.

You are taking the word far to seriously. Why is that?

[grantcart]

68. there is nothing pejorative about it and it isn't race based

It is a humorous reference without invective referring to a particular group of people who are white and completely clueless about how race affects people.

It isn't about all whites just those that are particularly sensitive about particular things.

In my family when the rest of the family want to make a humorous point at Dad's expense they might ask "well what does the wypipo think?"

Since you seem to have some expertise in the area can you show a reference to an actual exchange captured in the media where this terrible race based pejorative was used by 'bigots'?

Just one?

And no I am not talking about its reference in a satirical way in a humorous column.

[TCJ70]

70. It's literally a somewhat phonetic spelling of 'white people". How is that NOT race based? N/t

[grantcart]

158. Because it isn't applied to all wite people

It is applied to a set of behavior that a particular group.

For example wypipo hate the movie Black Panther but white audiences enjoyed it a great deal and it's huge box office take derived from an enthusiastic response from a movie going audience that is predominately white, even though wypipo didn't like that

Beyond that there is no invective.

Finally it's confirming nature is that it applies basically only to those that imagine that it is a slur. Fundamentally it is a Rorschach test. If you see it as a racial slur then you generally fit the definition.

This is not a slur that is organically used by any particular group in common usage. If you Google it you will see some humorous blogs using it but no collection of videos with people shouting "get your hands off me you dirty wypipo". In fact on the first two pages of my Google search almost half of the links refer to threads at DU.

[TCJ70]

182. Imagine, if you will, a word that is only used to describe people of one non-white skin color...

...Not all of them of course just some...that has all sorts of negative connotations attached to it...that is used solely to degrade, insult, and shut down people of that particular non-white skin color. If you were to use a word like that on this site it would not be tolerated as it shouldn't be.

Oh wait. Words like that DO exist. And they AREN'T tolerated on this site. As they shouldn't be. Except in this case.

Finally it's confirming nature is that it applies basically only to those that imagine that it is a slur. Fundamentally it is a Rorschach test. If you see it as a racial slur then you generally fit the definition.

The fact that according to you we can't even discuss it because anyone who disagrees is automatically labelled with the word itself is evidence of the problems with the word. You can't see any disagreement because anyone who does is automatically a racist bigot in your mind and you would NEVER want to agree with them, right? That's bullshit logic if you can call it logic at all.

The fact that it isn't widespread doesn't matter. Words have meaning regardless of how many people use them. Maybe this is just a DU culture issue, then? Do we tolerate race based insults on this site? Is that acceptable now? I don't think so.

[pnwmom]

110. Ugh. No, it isn't. n/t

[InAbLuEsTaTe]

147. Nope, it's a term used to describe a particular type of bigot.

[sharedvalues]

76. It's a race based pejorative.

[Dr Hobbitstein]

47. One thing is for sure: wypipo are fucking sensitive. nt

[Bok_Tukalo]

48. The inevitable tautology.

<OPE>

[Dr Hobbitstein]

51. Poor oppressed wypipo. nt

[sheshe2]

94. Lol....nt

[sharedvalues]

77. Above someone said that only Republicans are w****po

So can DU members be w*****po or not?

If it’s a slur only used for Republicans, that’s one thing.

If it’s a term used for all white people, including Dems, it better not be a slur.



Personally I think one should take seriously the feelings of people on DU who feel insulted by the term, or feel it makes them feel divided from other DU members.

We can focus on issues and Black issues without using terms that some feel denigrate others.

We need to focus on SHARED issues and values if we want to fix the country.

[Dr Hobbitstein]

100. Yes, those poor wypipo's feelings could be hurt. The horror. nt

[njhoneybadger]

153. Lol, not all of us. Being upset about wypipo is so foreign to me I feel like I'm from another planet

[LuvLoogie]

56. Remember the "wrecka stow" scene in Under the Cherry Moon?

Where Prince teases Kristin Thomas...

[MariaCSR]

57. HAHAHAHAHAHAHA

[EffieBlack]

59. PERFECT!!!

[betsuni]

180. Because of that movie I haven't been able to pronounce "record store" correctly for decades.

I also say "likkastow." THANKS, PRINCE!

[George II]

60. I don't have a problem with that word, and I'm a "Wyperson". Its more of a colloquialism....

....than "namecalling", a takeoff of a pronunciation.

Here's how it goes:

"Wy" = "white"
"pipo" = "people"

Put them both together and what do you have?

[EffieBlack]

66. Awreckastow?

[George II]

67. Touche!

[sharedvalues]

79. But many say it's meant for white Republicans

So which is it? All white people or only white republicans (ie it’s a pejorative)?


The mere fact this confusion exists should persuade people that care about Democratic unity to stop using it.

[gollygee]

82. It's for any white people who are racist - often racist white people who think they aren't racist

Which is very often Republicans although I don't imagine it has to be limited to them. It probably hurts people of color more when it's a Democrat doing it. Democrats who are racist should be poked at too. Racism is not OK no matter who does it.

[sharedvalues]

86. So you admit it's an insult

In other posts people are pointing out that the closeness to “white people” confuses many and makes it seems this insult applies to all white people.

This very confusion is a reason to stop using it.

[gollygee]

87. It's an insult against racist white people

If you're confused, don't use it.

[sharedvalues]

92. Non racists think it applies to them

A big part of the problem with w*****po is that it clearly derives from “white people” so even non racists take offense. As you said, it’s often used as an insult.

So this very confusion is a reason for us to stop using it here on DU.

Sadly, the term (for the reasons above) is the definition of divisive

[gollygee]

98. Racist white people should be insulted

and people who are confused can learn about it more to ease their confusion, and stop centering themselves and expecting everyone to center them in every situation.

[sharedvalues]

105. Problem is NON racist, Dem white people are insulted

As seen by this thread, there is a ton of confusion about the term.

I think we now clearly recognize that the term is an insult.

Why would anyone want to use a term that Democrats are getting insulted by? If people mean “racists” or “GOP white racists” let’s use that term.


Clearly people at DU are getting insulted. We can’t afford to use divisive terms like this if we expect to unify as Dems and win elections.

[gollygee]

108. They don't need to be insulted. They need to work on that if they are. nt

[sharedvalues]

111. They ARE insulted

With great respect, I’ll say no one gets to tell others not to be insulted.

Moreover, the people insulted are the ones who hear the term for the first time used as an insult, and think “w****po sounds like white people, do they mean me??” That’s not the feeling an inclusive party and inclusive people should choose to invoke.
Let’s try together to work together.

[gollygee]

113. Then let's work together to fight racism

and let's stop centering the delicate feelings of the most absolute most sensitive white people every single time someone feels insulted. People of color are part of this party too. The Democratic Party is the party of anti-racism. The GOP is the party that makes sure white people never have to feel bad.

[sharedvalues]

115. But DU people feel insulted. Otherwise +1

I get why people want to use w*****po as a shorthand. But based on just this thread many DU posters - not just GOP white people - feel insulted by it.

[procon]

229. It's a race base slur tacked onto an important national issue.

What's the payoff in using racial put-downs? It provides no solutions, offers nothing and serves no purpose other than to create strife and suspicion and stir up retaliation and more discrimination. What other goal is there?

[sheshe2]

102. Well. I am white.

sharedvalues (4,509 posts)
92. Non racists think it applies to them

A big part of the problem with w*****po is that it clearly derives from “white people” so even non racists take offense. As you said, it’s often used as an insult.

I find no offense. Why do they find offense? Curious here. It is not an insult.

[sharedvalues]

109. If some do take offense we should take it seriously.

If people in good faith take offense- and I think we have ample evidence they do from threads like this - why not just use other terms instead?

The word has clearly become a flashpoint and stirs emotions.

I’m for a united DU and united Dem party, respecting all members of the Dem big tent and working together.

[sheshe2]

121. What do we do when...

sharedvalues
109. If some do take offense we should take it seriously.

If people in good faith take offense- and I think we have ample evidence they do from threads like this - why not just use other terms instead?

What do we do when POC take offense to your denial of the term 'wypipo'. It is clearly stated that it is not an insult, just a black derivative of white people. How the hell has this become such an uproar? It would be amusing if it wasn't so sad. People need to get a grip. Their fragility is on display.


The word has clearly become a flashpoint and stirs emotions.

I would have hoped for more stirred emmotions over the deaths of black men, women and children by cop. Funny never see the outrage there.

[sharedvalues]

124. Don't commingle them. We should do BOTH!

We should all be - and I am - outraged at many deaths of black men women and children by cop.

We can do both - be outraged and stop using “wy****po”. In fact, using “wy****po” actually HURTS the fight against racist violence, because it turns off progressive white people who would fight for it.

We all need allies, white and black. This is a TEAM. We need to work together. Using insulting terms isn’t helpful.

We need to talk about race and be outraged about crimes. But we must do so in ways that are constructive.

[gollygee]

127. White people who would choose not to fight racism over the term "wypipo"

are the type of people the term "wypipo" refers to, and are not at all progressive. They are certainly not allies of any progressive group, and particularly not of people of color.

[sheshe2]

150. "sharedvalues 124. Don't commingle them. We should do BOTH!"

We should all be - and I am - outraged at many deaths of black men women and children by cop.

We can do both - be outraged and stop using “wy****po”. In fact, using “wy****po” actually HURTS the fight against racist violence, because it turns off progressive white people who would fight for it.

The term wypipo has nothing to do with the deaths. Hmm, sounds to me like you are outraged by a word and now as a progressive will refuse to fight for black peoples rights because a 'word' turns off progressives. Do I have that correct? So...we stop saying the word you will fight for their rights, we continue with the word you abandon them. Did I get that all down correctly? Do what we say or we pull all support. Sit down. Shut up. Back of the bus.

We all need allies, white and black. This is a TEAM. We need to work together. Using insulting terms isn’t helpful.

This team? Your terms do not make a team. It is divisive at best.

[missingthebigdog]

176. How far should we go with that?

Are you really advocating for limiting speech based upon the fact that "people in good faith take offense?"

Do you understand how easy it is to marginalize people by taking language away? Especially when it is done ostensibly for the good of everyone, as you suggest here. You want to "unite" DU by alienating one group to appease the other.

My suggestion? Words only have the power we give them. Choose not to be offended.

[EffieBlack]

122. Bottom line

Some white people find it offensive because they think "wypipo" means "white people" and they deeply resent ever being referred to as white people, having been conditioned to believe that, while it's perfectly normal for various groups to be labeled with group identifiers - e.g., black or Hispanic or Asian or women or LGBTQ, etc., - white people are just "people," not agroup - they're just people - and therefore, referring to them as such is an insult.

It's very simple.

A white friend of mine was house-hunting and asked the realtor about a certain community.

"You don't want to live there. It's too ethnic," the realtor said.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"I can't really say - I could lose my license. Let's just say it's too 'Urban.'"

"What's wrong with that?"

"I don't think it's good for any neighborhood to have too high a concentration of any one group. That's why I like Bentley. It doesn't have a high concentration of anyone. It's mostly white.""

[sharedvalues]

126. They take offense because it's an insult

Several posters above admit they use the term as an insult. It’s a pejorative term.

[gollygee]

128. An insult against racists. nt

[sharedvalues]

131. An insult that DUers take offense to.

Because it’s used as an insult, and it sounds like “white people”, so naturally at first glance it seems like an insult against all white people.

Shouldn’t we try to drop the word if we know DUers and Dems are taking offense?

[gollygee]

132. Who is "we?"

People get to make their choices individually. I am not in a position to tell African American DUers what language they're allowed to use as they deal with oppression in our society. And this word is common among African Americans. They'd have to police themselves here specifically so as not to offend a small number of white DUers. I would never suggest they do that. I would rather see African American DUers feel comfortable here than center the feelings of those few white DUers who take offense to this word regardless of what it actually means.

[EffieBlack]

146. I find being called a race-baiter an insult. And that's directed specifically to me

But I'm not insulted in the least when someone uses the term "race-baiter" to describe other, non-specific people. And since white people are rarely, if ever called race-baiters or accused of race-baiting - that's a dog-whistle term for uppity black people - it's clearly a perjorative term based on people's race. But, although I find it offensive, I'm not personally insulted by it because I know it doesn't apply to me. I'd rather people not use the term, but if they do, it's no big deal to me. I'm certainly not going to jump up and down and make a production over it like I'm some little delicate snowflake whom everyone else must tiptoe around for fear that my fragile sensibilities might get jarred.

So, I'm just not impressed with the sudden concern about making sure that people on DU aren't offended or insulted in any way. This is really all about white people - some white people - i.e., "wypipo" - being pissed off that black people are poking fun at them.

[Tipperary]

177. It sounds like toddler speak to me.

[oberliner]

63. This will only lead to more threads using the word

(And already has)

[sheshe2]

125. ...

[tulipsandroses]

88. Cry me a river

I don't know where this is going - I know the term is used regularly by one of my favorite writers when he calls out the idiocy of white supremacy and white privilege. So all I have to say is
Call me when it gets you killed, locked up, keeps generations in poverty, bad schools, you get followed around the stores every day, you get denied access to quality healthcare, housing, quality food etc, etc

[sheshe2]

152. This.

Call me when it gets you killed, locked up, keeps generations in poverty, bad schools, you get followed around the stores every day, you get denied access to quality healthcare, housing, quality food etc, etc

Brava, I thank you, tulipsandroses.

Welcome to DU.

[kwassa]

101. Oh, bullshit. Much ado about nothing.

And when have white people cared about the word "cracker"?

[bdtrppr6]

157. Cracka, PLEEZE!!!

[tulipsandroses]

164. Here ya go Wypipo Explained

What next? Colonizer?

Wypipo Explained

[link:http://neguswhoread.com/wypipo-explained/|

All white people–to varying degrees–benefit from white privilege, and most white people refuse to acknowledge it–but wypipo get angry that the phrase even exists. Wypipo live under the comfortable delusion that we all live on an equal playing field. They believe the egocentric idea that success comes from hard work and ability alone, and that race doesn’t play any part in their success. White people use the aphorism that some people “were born on third base, and think they hit a triple,” but wypipo believe that anyone who doesn’t reach base must not be as good a hitter, or doesn’t practice hard enough.

Wypipo are pro-life when it comes to abortion, but cool with the death penalty and police brutality. Those wypipo will tell you that “pro-life” is just a term to describe the anti-abortion movement, that it has nothing to do with issues of police violence and capital punishment. But if you mention the movement that focuses on State violence against black bodies, they will quickly say, “but what about black on black crime?”

Wypipo are deathly worried about radical Islamic terroristm, but won’t acknowledge that the vast majority of terrorism in America comes from white people.

Wypipo believe kneeling during the national anthem is unpatriotic and disrespectful to the men and women who lost their lives defending this country. Yet they are cool with the Confederate flag, which actually represents an act of treason that killed almost as many Americans as all the other wars combined.
White people have all kinds of friends and associates. Wypipo know exactly how many black friends they have and can remember that one time in 1998 they spent an entire day with their Dominican co-worker.

[EffieBlack]

171. Excellent!

My favorite: There are some white people who believe in social justice causes, but wypipo need special names for themselves, like “allies” or “social justice warriors.”

And more:

But don’t you think the term is derogatory and kind of racist towards whites? No. It is derogatory towards wypipo. White people love to issue the caveat “not this white person,” and exclude themselves from any negativity. This is their perfect opportunity to do that. Plus it is a great lesson on white privilege.
...
The reason so many white people find the term “wypipo” objectionable is because they aren’t used to being lumped in with others simply because of the color of their skin. That is the privilege they live with every day. 97 percent of school shooters are white. White nationalist extremist have killed twice as any Americans as any other ideological group. Rapists and sexual assaulters are more likely to be white. Yet, a white male in a dark parking lot or unlit alley doesn’t engender nearly as much fear as a black male. That’s the immunity of whiteness.

[philly_bob]

172. The WYPIPO issue requires admins to take a stand.

A few intelligent and articulate posters are giving DU a hostile atmosphere, and having a rollicking good time doing it.

The identity politics involved was part of Trump victory in last election. We can't repeat the mistake.

[elehhhhna]

181. What do we call other sub groups of ethnicities that's okay here?

Are we calling Hispanic folk MS13ers? some are! What new cool derogatory name shall we call African Americans but excuse it by pointing out that some are asssholes?

This is Trumpesque troll bullshit yall.

[JustAnotherGen]

178. Can we write/say

White People? I mean we DO have our first "acknowledged as White" President.

Oh once again a black persons fault . . . Without Obama we wouldn't even be having this discussion.

[HopeAgain]

179. Is this still going on?

My official position: Whatever.

[LexVegas]

183. It's fairly obnoxious. nt

[LanternWaste]

186. I'm trying to feel divided or insulted or oppressed by its usage, but I just can't get there.

I'm trying to feel divided or insulted or oppressed by its usage, but I just can't get there. Maybe my soapbox is too simply short, or my cross too light to bear with valid complaint.

[Tarc]

187. The ones that scream "divisive!" are the ones that most need to hear it

Fwiw I'm multiracial.

And Ben Carson is black. That doesn't make the Republicans the party of persons of color, any more than it makes your point valid.

[elehhhhna]

190. Got it. So what color/racebased name are we using here for black people like Ben Carson and Sheriff

Dave?


Thanks in advance.

[marble falls]

196. wipipo has only been around for weeks or months and its causing so much psychic pain...

.... give me a break.


When its been around for a couple of hundred years and its kept people from voting, renting, working when its been scribbled on a placard around a lynch victims neck, get back to me.

[elehhhhna]

197. Are you fucking kidding me?

Whataboutism.

[marble falls]

204. Are you fucking kidding me?

A non responsive response.

wipipo isn't in the league of race hatred. Whining about wipipo trivializes hate speech. Being butt hurt about the use of wipipo is not being discriminated about. You are not a civil rights leader by going on about wipipo.

[Tarc]

208. Not sure what that really has to do with what we're talking about

But by all means, explain.

[NCTraveler]

189. Deep.

Thoughts and prayers to wypipo!

[Sunsky]

191. Yawn ))))

Here we go again... I'll now add wypipo to my list of ignored words. Wypipo are fucking racist and deserve all the names they're called.

[betsuni]

203. Suffice to say, is one of the words the Knights of Ni cannot hear.

WYPIPO. *puts hands over ears and staggers*

[kentuck]

211. Can't we all agree?

Wypipo suck?

[Eliot Rosewater]

222. Nope.

[easttexaslefty]

227. This is what we're arguing about now?

[GumboYaYa]

232. I have no problem with it.

Given the pervasive history of racism and sexism in our culture and the myriad of advantages I have received in life from being a white male, us wypipo should cut everyone else some slack and let them have some fun at our expense for once.

[fleabiscuit]

237. Just so everyone understands it's use...

Hillary is not Wypipo.

Some are. Carry on.