it's 2021 but apparently some people are still out of the loop so

do not use the term "fren"

here's a good place to start on why
https://www.reddit.com/r/OutOfTheLoop/comments/c2znoq/what_is_rfrenworld_and_why_did_it_get_banned/

it's a nazi/alt-right dogwhistle and i don't wanna see it. do not use it in any context. don't just stop using it around me but continue using it around others. just don't use it at all. if you hear someone else say it tell them to stop too. if they refuse to stop even after you have informed them then that should be raising some serious red flags

i am going to be implementing a block on sight no questions asked policy going forward

@haskal did they originate the shortening, or are they one of many unrelated groups who picked it up?

nazis trying to make inoffensive words offensive so people look ridiculous calling them out and/or so blanket bans catch random innocent people is /exactly their tactic/ and I refuse to play their game by their rules

@lioness @haskal i agree there. it's probably a bad idea to abandon words or symbols claimed by fascists if they haven't been involved in massive harm done to minorities. i'd never try to argue for the reclaiming of the svastika or other nazi symbolism because that has been historically involved in much material harm (although "degenerate" is being reclaimed i guess)

but not saying "fren" because of one subreddit? not a good tactic. would indeed be playing by their rules.