Without reading any of the thread. Yes, black people can use the n-word and whites cannot without some heavier consequences than the black person who would have. This is neither surprising, nor even unjustifiable. I don't understand why anybody would be upset over it. Just don't use the word if you aren't willing to face the consequences of your action. It certainly isn't illegal to use.
Yes, but even black people face often negative consequences for using the word. Invertebrate racists, like ilaDY, are just looking for cover.