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odin-lang / Odin

Odin Programming Language
https://odin-lang.org
BSD 3-Clause "New" or "Revised" License
6.66k stars 584 forks source link

Consider a new name for the language and Project #3185

Closed Joebeazelman closed 7 months ago

Joebeazelman commented 7 months ago

I presume the creators of Odin are well meaning individuals who are unaware of the ugly connotations behind the programming language's name.

Although Odin is a deity in Norse mythology, it's been co-opted by white supremacists to represent their despicable ideology of racial purity as well as the extermination and subjugation of non-Caucasian races.

Some may argue that there's nothing inherently objectionable about Odin as a mythological figure, arguing it's unfair to give hate groups exclusivity over the name and its meaning. While they are indeed correct, the same argument isn't acceptable for the swastika, a graphic symbol with positive meanings used for thousands of years by cultures throughout the world, including Eurasia, Americas, and Africa, yet carries a heavy stigma in the western world.

Changing the name now, will be far easier than changing it later. It may also increase the momentum for the language, since the name maybe offensive or alienating to would-be users and contributors.

Joebeazelman commented 7 months ago

Wow! I'm shocked by the instant dismissal. I would have at least expected a thoughtful response.