Thug is the new Nigg**!!

[guillaumeb]

323. "thug" is also used in the phrase "union thugs" by many on the right.

When you see a group of union workers picketing, the phrase "union thugs" is often used to describe average working people trying to stand up for themselves. I have read the phrase numerous times in opinion pieces by right wing mouthpieces. So thugs does have a long history of being used, and never in a good way. Like nigg**, thug is never intended as a compliment.

I also agree with some here that keeping up with "dog-whistle" words and phrases can be a challenge. I remember the first time I heard the word "Canadian" used as slang for black person. I was in a meeting at work and a co-worker talked about the new "Canadian" who had been hired. I asked where exactly she was from. (Province, that is.) He looked at me and said she was "Canadian", with more emphasis. I asked again and he explained that she was from Chicago, not Canada. She was a black female, by the way.

Amazing how racists have to invent new code words to say the same crude racial nonsense.

Great post bravenak