"Abo" is a racist word! Don't say it, use it or think it!

**BitterSweet** · 17-02-2010 10:37

I come across a group on facebook called "Abo" is a racist word! Don't say it, use it or think it!.

So what do you think? Do you think it is a racist word?

Whilst I do not use the word I have never thought of it being a racist word. Just the word shortened. I am not a racist, I am simply after your opinion on what you think about it.

**BigRedV** · 17-02-2010 10:39

Abo (I don't even like typing the word) is extremely racist. Sure, it might seem like just a shortened word to some, but it has been used in a negative way in the past and it is offensive.

I work with a lot of Aboriginal children and adults too and they find this word racist and would not like being called "abo".

**PeppaH** · 17-02-2010 10:42

To me, no its not a racist word. I only type it not say it. I type it because its easier than trying to spell the whole word and Im sorry but its just to hard for me to write it. Dont like that I type it, stiff.

**delirium** · 17-02-2010 10:44

Yes I think it is. That word has very negative connotations and I hate it being used.

**Bron** · 17-02-2010 10:45

Yes. It is without doubt a racist word. I prefer to use "Indigenous Australians" anyway.

**crazymuma** · 17-02-2010 10:48

Go and ask any aboriginal person what they think and you will get your answer - it is definelty one of the most racist words used.

If anyone dared call my kids "abos" look out - this momma would flip.

There are much more appropriate words to use - aboriginal, indigenous, murri, koori etc etc

**MummaBear03** · 17-02-2010 10:51

Depends who's saying it and how it's said. My neighbours talking about "the abo down the road" will mean it in a racist, hateful way. My friend saying it will simply be talking about her family and will mean it in a loving way. I don't know, haven't used the word myself, but it's like any word really. Anything at all can be used in a hateful, offensive manner. It would depend entirely on how it's used, the tone, who is saying it, all sorts of things.