Black slang

I've hear black people call each other "bro" in american movies but is this word only used by black and not whites?
Do black people take it as insulting if a white guy calls them bro? it's always awkward not to know these details.

What I noticed while I lived in USA is that they felt awkward being called “bro” by someone who was not really a close friend; other than that, youngsters called each other “bro” regardless of their skin color. :)

The situation might be different in other English speaking countries, though.

"Bro" is widely used by people of different ethnicities. The only context in which it may not be well received is if a particular black individual takes offense when a non-black calls him "bro", and I can't speak on the frequency with which this happens. I suspect, however, that it happens less and less.

I hear this term used more with skaters and surfers, not black people. There are very few black skaters/surfers.
It is really more of a term you would use with close friends, and if you are comfortable with it, use it...hopefully yoour friends would tell you if they don't like being called 'bro'!

Hebe and elmeromero are correct in saying that it is used by many ethnicities but that when used by a non-black to a black there may be offense if they are not friends but I don't think it happens often nowadays either.

Back in the 80's "bro" was used more often to refer to African-Americans. Bros and Sisters were black guys and girls.

It is now used more by surfers, frat guys, and people mocking surfers and frat guys.

other terms are

brah
broham
dude-bro

and a load of other silly stuff


There is a different word that is used among African-Americans that will cause offense if used by the wrong person. I suggest that NOBODY use this word.

bro is a very commomly used slang term nowadays.
it's mostly used in the streets/home/neighborhood with your friends, you will not find any (although i'm sure there are) suits using the term.
the one time you dont want to use it is when talking to a stanger or getting into an argument with a stranger. using the term then can get you in deep........trouble!
hope that helps
dragona