should we reclaim the word 'faggot'?

[Behind the Aegis]

12. I see no reason to reclaim "faggot." It was never ours.

Therefore, how can we "reclaim" it? Though, I have seen those who do try to make it "our" word, the use means "subservient" and usually to a heterosexual. Using it among a select group of friends, in privacy, is acceptable to me, even the negative side of it.

"Queer" is a different word to me. I see the negative side to it. It has been used against me and several of my friends. But, I also know it has been used as a term of empowerment. I can see that side too. "Queer" means "different, odd." For some in our community, our "oddness/differentness" is important to their identity. In more certain social situations, would I find its use to be acceptable, as opposed to 'faggot.'

"Gay" is not a problem word, except how it is being appropriated by some for negative uses, which really pisses me off. 'Gay' is much more positive and can be quite inclusive.