To use or not to use – that has always been the question when tackling the validity of the word ‘Negro’ which when translated describes dark-skinned natives of Africa or the black race. Of course the derivative of that word evokes a sentiment that is not particularly respectful or endearing.
So there is no question that if there is any way to avoid usage, it might be best to find other alternatives. But the U.S. Army doesn’t seem to find anything fundamentally wrong with one of their own being referred to as “Negro” – this according to recently published regulatory itinerary under the code AR 600-20.
So basically no laws will be broken and no punishment implemented if an officer is described as the more acceptable form of the “N” word because it falls under the category of ethnicity. The document reads, “A person having origins in any of the black racial groups of Africa. Terms such as “Haitian” or “Negro” can be used in addition to “Black” or “African-American”.
When asked about the legitimacy of the Army’s regulation around the inclusion of “Negro”, an official explained that it was merely a protocol to ensure that African-Americans have the option to choose however the wish to identify themselves.
But a spokesperson for the Army verified that the section of the document in question is outdated and is currently undergoing revision. He also re-enforced The Army’s overall adherence to maintaining cultural tolerance without any allowance for discriminatory practices.
Either way, it may be a good idea to nix the “N” word entirely considering the negative connotation assigned to it.