The RuPaul Drag T*Word Controversy

[candy_coated_bitch]

Originally Posted by Medusa

Now, caveat the fuck out of all of that by adding that Rupaul clearly has a responsibility to his community and the use of the T-word. I think if he wants to be accessible to Transfolks that he needs to listen to the concerns of the folks telling him that the use of the T-word hurts them. Whether or not he actually chooses to do anything about it might be up for discussion.

<snip> My response: I'm going to play devil's advocate here for a second. DOES RuPaul really have a responsibility to his community regarding whether or not he calls himself a tranny? Even if publicly? Do you feel you owe a responsibility to your community (whatever that may be) when you call yourself a dyke or a faggot or a honky or a fatass or a cunt? I feel very similarly to you when it comes to reclaimed language and my right to call myself pretty much anything I want.

I think RuPaul is being pretty in your face with his responses to this issue, and I actually think it's a good thing that he is pushing the envelope. I think he is being deliberate. RuPaul isn't an activist he's a performer, an artist, an entertainer. I'm not sure he is obligated to be ANYTHING just by virtue of being famous.

With that being said--I also don't think the other side of the argument shouldn't be heard, or that transwomen shouldn't be listened to when they talk about their feelings regarding the word tranny. That shit is real. However, should this mean someone should stop doing what they are doing because it hurts others? /end response

Which leads me to ask folks this: Does the performance of art or the use of offensive terminology in artistic performances change your views at all about what words are allowed or not?

My response: For me, yes it does. I will state up front that I am a pretty in your face kind of person, I see the value in pushing the envelope, and I believe that when something makes people uncomfortable it's an opportunity for growth an understanding. I LOVE art that challenges me, and I strive to be that sort of artist. I think if there is some purpose in using a word generally seen as offensive in a work of art, be it performance art or otherwise--I am not against that. But as in all things, there are lines. I am not the arbiter of where that line is--but I know for me what comes across as brilliant and challenging as opposed to gratuitous. It also depends on the artist, the intended audience, the situation. And generally a matter of taste.

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