New York City residents will be banned from using the slang words "bitch" and "ho," if some council members have their way.
Coun. Darlene Mealy of Brooklyn recently introduced a bill to prohibit the derogatory words, similar to a ban council passed earlier in the year on the use of the n-word, the New York Times reported.
"They buried the n-word, but what about the other words that really affect women, such as 'b' and 'ho'? That’s a vile attack on our womanhood," Mealy told the newspaper.
"In listening to my other colleagues, that they say that to their wives or their friends, we have gotten really complacent with it."
Zeroing in on the "b-word," as it is referred to in the legislation, Mealy said the term is hateful and deeply sexist and creates a "paradigm of shame and indignity."
The legislation was prompted by the use of the word in hip-hop music. Ten rappers were also cited in the legislation. It was introduced on July 25, and is expected to be discussed in September.
So far, 19 of the 51 council members have signed on to the proposed resolution.
Mealy acknowledged the bill cannot be enforced, saying it is meant to be more a symbolic gesture.
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