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Fact check: What's a wigger

Checked on June 24, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, "wigger" is a highly derogatory slang term that combines "white" and the n-word, referring to white people who adopt mannerisms, language, and fashion associated with African-American culture, particularly hip-hop culture [1] [2] [3]. The term describes white teenagers and young adults who emulate black street style, wearing baggy clothes, listening to hip-hop and rap music, and adopting what they perceive as African-American cultural practices [4].

Real-world incidents demonstrate the offensive nature of this term. A federal class action lawsuit was filed by a black student against a Minnesota school district for allowing "Wigger Days" during homecoming week, where white students mimicked black culture, causing the plaintiff extreme emotional distress [5] [3]. Similarly, students from a San Francisco Catholic high school were suspended for participating in a "wigger party" [2] [6].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The analyses reveal important context about cultural appropriation versus cultural appreciation. While some view this phenomenon as a sign of cultural cross-over, many black Americans are uncertain or offended by white people adopting stereotypical representations of African-American culture [4].

The legal implications of using this term are significant, as demonstrated by the Minnesota lawsuit where the school's "deliberate indifference to the harm caused by this event was illegal" [5]. This shows that institutions can face legal consequences for allowing or endorsing such behavior.

The term represents racial stereotyping rather than genuine cultural appreciation, as it involves white people adopting what they perceive as "black" mannerisms and clothing styles, often reducing complex African-American culture to superficial stereotypes [2] [3].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question "What's a wigger" appears to be a straightforward definitional inquiry without inherent bias. However, the question itself involves a racial slur that many would find offensive. The question doesn't acknowledge the derogatory nature of the term or its potential to cause harm.

The framing lacks context about the term's offensive nature and doesn't indicate awareness that this is considered hate speech by many. Anyone asking this question should understand that the term is widely considered racist and inappropriate in most contexts, as evidenced by the legal actions and institutional responses documented in the sources [5] [2] [3] [6].

Want to dive deeper?
What is the origin of the term 'wigger'?
How is the term 'wigger' perceived in different cultural contexts?
What are the implications of using the term 'wigger' in modern language?
How does the term 'wigger' relate to issues of cultural appropriation?
What are the differences between the term 'wigger' and other slang terms for similar concepts?