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There have been moments when I’ve let a less-than-appropriate word slip in front of my child, and inevitably, she picks it up. This leads to the familiar conversation about the difference between adult words and kid words. She understands. When I came across the headline stating, “Matt Damon credits his daughter for ending his use of the f-slur,” my eyes practically rolled out of my head. Honestly, that headline should have read, “Matt Damon Apologizes for His Homophobic Language.” It’s 2021—what’s going on, Matt?
As a member of the queer community, my frustration only grew upon reading the article. Matt claims that his shift in language is due to recognizing “changes in modern masculinity.” But really, what does that even mean? Does it imply that everyone deserves respect, including gay men who have faced years of derogatory language, particularly the word ‘f•ggot’? We shouldn’t sugarcoat hate to spare anyone’s feelings; words carry weight, and we don’t need our children to teach us that slurs are unacceptable.
Absolutely, Matt Damon should set an example for his four daughters. As their father, he undoubtedly influences them, just as he was influenced by his own upbringing. We are shaped by our surroundings. However, as individuals with our own understanding (just like Matt’s insightful daughter), we can either perpetuate harmful language or choose to correct it. Matt isn’t alone in this; think back to when Kevin Hart stepped down from hosting the Oscars after past homophobic tweets resurfaced. Since then, he’s worked to repair his relationship with the LGBTQ community, even facing backlash for his comments regarding Lil Nas X’s coming out.
Matt recounted a moment when his daughter challenged him on using the f-slur at the dinner table. He noted that his “joke” using that slur was a line from his 2003 film “Stuck On You.” His daughter left the table to write him a letter requesting he “retire” the word. It’s astonishing that it took him twenty years and four daughters to realize the impact of his words, particularly in his own home. He had to have known that this word was offensive. I generally believe people are good until they prove otherwise. I don’t think Matt Damon is inherently a bad person, but he is certainly a product of his environment.
We can always learn from our children, and they can learn from us as well. If I decide to stop using the word “shit” around my child, does that mean I won’t use it when I forget my mask in the car? We must not allow society to think that Matt Damon will truly stop using that offensive slur; he alone can hold himself accountable in 2021, and social media can’t do it all.
After the backlash, Matt attempted to clarify his statements to preserve his image. “I have never called anyone ‘f****t’ in my personal life, and this conversation with my daughter was not a personal awakening. I do not use slurs of any kind,” he stated. This statement seems inconsistent with his earlier remarks, but alright.
He continued, “I explained that that word was used constantly and casually and was even a line of dialogue in a movie of mine as recently as 2003; she expressed disbelief that there was ever a time when that word was used without thought.” He praised her for being articulate about the pain that word could cause within the LGBTQ+ community, regardless of its cultural normalization. “To be as clear as I can be, I stand with the LGBTQ+ community,” he added.
People will always be people, and hate will remain in our society. We should strive to hold each other accountable and speak out against discrimination. Advocating for marginalized communities, including the LGBTQ+ community, is something we can do every day. While there’s much beyond our control, we can influence what we teach our children and be mindful of the messages they absorb.
For more insights on the journey of parenthood and LGBTQ issues, check out this other blog post. Additionally, to learn more about the process of home insemination, visit this resource. You can also explore Wikipedia’s article for a comprehensive overview of artificial insemination.
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In summary, Matt Damon’s recent comments regarding his use of a homophobic slur highlight the ongoing need for accountability in language, especially as it relates to parenting and societal norms. His daughter’s challenge serves as a reminder that we can always grow, regardless of age.
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