[
Views
]
[
Top Five Views
]
[
Blog Roll
]
Discuss:
Who Died and Made Tavis King?
Member Comments
-
- Reply
- Report Abuse
Posted By:
sheilabb at 11/08/2008 9:20:00 PM
Comment:
IT'S UNFORTUNATE THAT MANY BLACK MEN ARE EVNOUS OF EACH OTHER, AND TRAIS SJMILEY IS ONE OF THEM. MY GRANDMOTHR ALWAYS SAID, "IF YOU CAN'T SAY ANTHING GOOD, DON'T SAY ANTHING AT ALL" . GOD IS LOVE AND MR .SMILEY SHOWS NONE IWITH HIS NEGATIVE STUPID COMMENTS. HE HAS COME TO WHERE HE IS AND INSTEAD OF HIM BEING GRATEFUL TO GOD, HE MAKES ALL KIND OF NEGATIVE AND ENVIOUS COMMENTS. MR. TRAVIS, "DON'T HATE, PARTICIPATE? AND STOP SHOWNG YOUR INTELECTUAL IGNORANCE.WHISH IS BIAS TO THE CORE. I WILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS BECAUSE ONLY GOD CAN CLEAR A MESSED UP AND CLOGGED MIND AS YOURS. PRESIDENT OBAMA BEAT ALL ODDS AND FOR ANY ONE TO TAKE THAT LIGHTLY IS A FOOL.
BERTHA BANKS
sheila.bb@sbcglobal.net -
Posted By:
bj at 07/08/2008 11:17:26 AM
Comment:
GOD, Yahweh, is leading Tavis Smiley!-
Posted By:
sheilabb at 11/08/2008 9:25:05 PM
Comment:
NOW I UNDERSTAND YOU. HOWEVER, THE DAY WILL COME WHEN EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW AND EVERY TONGUE SHALL CONFESS. I WILL CONTINUE TO PRAY FOR YOU.
-
-
Posted By:
bj at 07/08/2008 11:14:01 AM
Comment:
Tavis Smiley is trying to have us take a real good liook at Barack Obman. What can he do for our country, that the others could not do? What is he going to bring to the table. If he wants to win, he must give us more information. -
Posted By:
bj at 07/08/2008 11:09:25 AM
Comment:
To whom it may concern. We must ask Barack Obmam what can he do to change things in the United States. He stated, I'm asking you to believe...I say, in what? That is the question. TELL US SOME OF YOUR PLANS you have thought of to make our country better, Barack Obmam. -
Posted By:
bj at 07/08/2008 11:07:56 AM
Comment:
Tavis, We must ask Barack Obmam what can he do to change things in the United States. He stated, I'm asking you to believe...I say, in what? That is the question. TELL US SOME OF YOUR PLANS you have thought of to make our country better, Barack Obmam. -
Posted By:
Teflon Allen at 04/15/2008 2:34:02 PM
Comment:
Malcolm X was killed by his own folks,Tavis is a smart guy and knows that Obama announcing his Candidacy on his "show" is political suicide,also participating with all those militant ideas is tantamount to dystopia.Travis knows all of that,so what is his real agenda?. I guess being the black pope is the highest honor a black man with a closed mind can get,so Tavis cannot stand the Idea of a transcendent figure who is black.This is analogous to Isiah Thomas clearly hating on MJ just because MJ was king of his home town.Tavis did not fathom this day just like all of us,but feels entitled to something which is not in the interest of anybody but Tavis.MLK had a lot of black ministers hating on him openly,louise Farrakah hated malcolm X but genuine greatness always prevails.But to Tavis' detriment and to the benefit of black people it shows we have different opinions and have the balls to express them.Well Bob Johnson and Tavis have something they passionately agree on which is "hate Obama.".
please don't fire back saying I'm not talking about the issues,I follow Obama closely and if you are not paying attention you would not understand it.If he talks about education,health care,justice,Tuition,Jobs,Unity, are those not Black,White,Hispanic,e.t.c issues?.Black people need to rise above that bickering to achieve greatness,yes I am black,rich, came from nothing to something and help people realize their dreams also.We are 13% of the population,so common sense will tell anybody that you can never be a black president and Tavis knows that.I have a lot of respect for him but his agenda is irrelevant to Obama and all this self appointed Kings feel threatened just the same way the religious right feels threatened because they hate mccain but he won the republican nomination.So on the contrary I am happy Tavis and his cronies' green eyes came out,it is a good thing for Barack,because it makes the non-black electorate feel comfortable.Trust me he needs this even though that was not Tavis and his cronies' intention.At the end of the day "what's going to be is going to be regardless",we just have to believe what MLK said he's been to the mountain top and back,it's our turn to get there!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Teflon Allen -
Posted By:
Drawde5 at 04/11/2008 10:15:53 PM
Comment:
This is a hard one. This, all or nothing attitude by Tavis Smiley is disappointing, and I???m sure that upset many people. Michele Obama is an accomplished and able spokeswoman on behalf of her husband's candidacy, and to dismiss the offer is more than a little egotistical on the part of Mr. Smiley. Make what he will of the matter of the Senator not appearing, but turning down Mrs Obama, was petulant, in my opinion.
That said: Mr. Smiley is bending over backward to be a fair arbiter of the candidates, and to bring pressing societal issues before the black public. These forums can bring a sense of unity, common purpose, and power towards solving problems. It???s also difficult for me to accept the attitude of some black people that we can???t dialog in a respectful way that allows for honest disagreement on issues and candidates - whether one is black, or not.
He should understand the Senator is not trying to run as a Black Candidate, kowtowing to any single group. However, the Senator should understand that he shouldn???t take our votes for granted, if those are the circumstances he wants foster. Senator Obama, should have done the daring thing and appeared, however it would have been perceived by the larger white community, and answered honestly the issues TS wanted him to address. WE need to hear his answers on the issues as it relates to black people. I don???t want to vote for a counterfeit, black or white.
I don???t think we would have liked all of his answers. I don???t think he wants to coddle black voters with platitudes. I???m thinking of honesty of Bill Cosby when I say that. Obama doesn???t want to risk alienating anyone, he is a politician after all, and he???s avoiding whatever issues he can. Some of us would have loved his answers.
BTW, those panel discussions could be a lot more substantive if Tavis would ask a succinct question rather than the lofty, overly-nuanced statements that pass for questions. And, expect the same in return from the panel members! They get a 5 minute introduction explaining their bona fides, and then get 10 minutes of "Thank you, Brother Tavis!"
I love the Brother, and I will continue to watch his program(s), though I probably won???t vote for Clinton. -
Posted By:
Drawde5 at 04/11/2008 10:14:54 PM
Comment:
This is a hard one. This all or nothing attitude by Tavis Smiley is disappointing, and I???m sure that upset many people. Michele Obama is an accomplished and able spokeswoman on behalf of her husband's candidacy, and to dismiss the offer is more than a little egotistical on the part of Mr. Smiley. Make what he will of the matter of the Senator not appearing, but turning down Mrs Obama, was petulant, in my opinion.
That said: Mr. Smiley is bending over backward to be a fair arbiter of the candidates, and to bring pressing societal issues before the black public. These forums can bring a sense of unity, common purpose, and power towards solving problems. It???s also difficult for me to accept the attitude of some black people that we can???t dialog in a respectful way that allows for honest disagreement on issues and candidates - whether one is black, or not.
He should understand the Senator is not trying to run as a Black Candidate, kowtowing to any single group. However, the Senator should understand that he shouldn???t take our votes for granted, if those are the circumstances he wants foster. Senator Obama, should have done the daring thing and appeared, however it would have been perceived by the larger white community, and answered honestly the issues TS wanted him to address. WE need to hear his answers on the issues as it relates to black people. I don???t want to vote for a counterfeit, black or white.
I don???t think we would have liked all of his answers. I don???t think he wants to coddle black voters with platitudes. I???m thinking of honesty of Bill Cosby when I say that. Obama doesn???t want to risk alienating anyone, he is a politician after all, and he???s avoiding whatever issues he can. Some of us would have loved his answers.
BTW, those panel discussions could be a lot more substantive if Tavis would ask a succinct question rather than the lofty, overly-nuanced statements that pass for questions. And, expect the same in return from the panel members! They get a 5 minute introduction explaining their bona fides, and then get 10 minutes of "Thank you, Brother Tavis!"
I love the Brother, and I will continue to watch his program(s), though I probably won???t vote for Clinton. -
Posted By:
lephant95 at 04/11/2008 4:44:17 PM
Comment:
Thank you Dr. Harris-Lacewell!
When will people stop taking it personal? The man is trying to win an election. He has decissions to make. Either trust him or don't. He'll still be a part of my community after the election; working just as hard for all of us either way. Win or loose ... Hillary won't be making it to revival any time soon after November 08! We'll be hard pressed to even get her to entertain a conversation with any brown person ... even those good old Friend's of Bill- Tavis! -
Posted By:
DownHome at 04/11/2008 3:38:17 PM
Comment:
Well Tavis, you quit Joyner show today because you could not stand being criticized for your anti Obama stance. Its a shame Tavis. Rent a backbone brother. Strangely enough, Obama would likely embrace you and you could potentially get bigger and more successful by a relationship with him than you ever could by yourself. Your hating and jeolosy may be your downfall. Being on Obama's good side and getting his support one day will be like getting Oprah's endorsement. Its like money in the bank. Don't act like that is not really where you are coming from. Unfortunately, you could make big bucks and keep your supposed pro black persona by not being envious of the best, most qualified candiate and best positioned to actually be a true contender, who happens to be black that history have ever seen. I am disappointed in you. I guess you won't be at the inauguration. -
Posted By:
DownHome at 04/11/2008 3:15:38 PM
Comment:
Well, Lesleyvi, you got your wish because Tavis couldn't take the heat for his anti stance and quit the Tom Joyner Show just this morning. The crab mentality is a remnant of slavery and sometimes we don't even know when we have it. It would be fun to see how critical Tavis is and has been of other presidential candidates. Someone should ask him if he would have turned down Bill Clinton if Hillary offered him in her place at the "Union" event. I would so respect Tavis if he had some real criticisms, articulated them and sought response from Obama or his campaign. This should be done with all campaigns, actually. I can think of several times when I didn't care for Obama's response to a situation. One thing black people should remember when Obama becomes President, he is president of the USA. If he is able to accomplish what he says he wants to do for the middle class and underpriviledged, he will be helping blacks alot. For blacks to expect him to to show up for black event is forgetting that being the "black" candidate would have kept him from getting as far as he has gotten in this process. What about his history and the choices he 's made in his early career, the work he's done as a politician , the wife he chose and the church he chose? Doesn't that show how he identifies? It would be one thing if Tavis was being critical of what appeared to be anti-black positions Obama has taken but that is not the case. Or if Obama was a Clarence Thomas type. I always thought Tavis was smart but I am disappointed in the lack of substance in his criticism. It does appear that we are dealing with plain old, garden variety, slavery based, crab-in -the-barrel type jeolosy. Obama is not only "out-the-park" smart and among the world's most highly educated, well liked by all kinds of people, an awesome speaker, a gentleman, a statesman and getting more handsome and sexy by the day, but I am beleiving what he says when he says he wants to bring about change which I think black folks will ultimately benefit from. Tavis is so business being pro Clinton, he should look into the Bill Clinton policies that truly hurt blacks and the attitude taken in this campaign that is anti black. What's amazing is that if Tavis comes off his high horse after the dust settles, Obama will probably embrace him. I am sure that Obama is not interested being at odds with Tavis but he is also probably not preoccupied with Tavis temper tantrum. Tavis is acting like a woman who goes out and talk negatively about her man because he is working for their betterment but misses an event in which she want him to meet her girlfriends. With all his supposed politcal savvy, I am so surprised at his weakness and lack of substance on this issue. -
Posted By:
qdog112 at 04/11/2008 8:24:09 AM
Comment:
Tavis provides a well needed service, but when faced with turbulence, he parachutes to calmer sky. The title here is a little tough. I think he may have not had his finger on the pulse as much as he thought. I also believe it has become personal and a real journalist tries not to let that happen. One problem is that people do listen to him and what he says is seriously scrutinized. I still remember him telling blacks not to vote in 2004 because he felt we were being taken for granted at the same time Tom Joyner was running a voter registration campaign. That was irresponsible. He should man up and not go away when the going gets tough. -
Posted By:
lesleyvi at 04/08/2008 9:18:35 AM
Comment:
It is more than apparent from Tavis Smiley's comments on the Tom Joyner Morning show that he is not for Senator Barack Obama. The latest is because he didn't go to Memphis for the MLK commemoration. We all know that Senator is running not for the President of Black people, but for all poeple. He is going to make decisions that are not popluar, which is something that Tavis likes to say of the things that he himself says (not popular). Is it jealousy? I think it goes back to the old saying of "crabs in a barrel" mentality and as much as he likes to make people think he loves black people, he is only thinking about himeself. I have purchased 2 of his books, but I will not buy another book because I think he is blatently against Barack for no good reason, other than he wishes it were him. He never fails to point out when Barack makes what he feels is a mistep. Shame on you Tavis. Go away. I am almost not going to listen to Tom Joyner morning show because of you. -
Posted By:
nia19 at 03/31/2008 1:14:53 PM
Comment:
Sweems
I think that Tavis is just jealous. I feel that Tavis and his friends should not stand around and vilify Obama just because he couldn't make it to their "very important meeting". They do not understand the gravity behind Obama winning Texas. Obama has opened fledgling doors for people of color, and they should be happy to have a sagacious man like him to stand up for black people. There will be other meeting but there will be only one chance for him to make history. Travis needs to chill out and think about whats really bothering him. Lol -
Posted By:
Redbonediva at 03/20/2008 1:14:03 AM
Comment:
Well said! I agree Michelle will be excellent at the State of the Black Union. THe Lady is smart and nothing but classy. SHe will be welcomed in any event that I choose to attend. These two people are icons for Black America but they are in a race for ALL Americans. Chill out Tavis I never expected you to clown like that. MIchelle as just as much intelligence as you do if not more. This is truly a woman with the First Lady qualities that makes me proud as a sister. She is ours, and a stong presence. Se can not be mistaken for mixed because she is to high yellow like myself. She is smart and the girl is fine. I gott to give her props on that too. You are missing out by not having MIchelle there. Next time I hear you on Tom Joyner I will have to put a CD in. I was in love with Bill Clinton as a president but her tactics on my people (obama) she lost my vote and thousands of others. Bill did fine as the "first black president" but we got the real deal and they are playing dirty. Does her and Bill even got to church? The thought of them bringin Pastor Wright in was ridiculous. I have sat under his teachings and we are sister churches and he was right. Hillary does not know the plight of the black people anjd she has never been called the N word. The Obamas make me proud. Grow up Tavis! -
Posted By:
vubolds at 03/18/2008 8:41:07 PM
Comment:
I am so glad that someone started this, it is amazing to me that our voting for our own, has to be disected....whites have voted for their own, for 200+ years and now we say we cannot relate to Obama? Please, just everyone, please research our history--and please those Black Democrates that have to vote for Hillary...did you truly listen to her comment: "WE" are proud of both Barack and Jesse"........who the heck is the "WE" that she was talking about? Have we not seen her blink her eyes everytime she speaks about blacks and Barack in general and not at any other time? Have we not watched her attacks throughout this campaign? I question Tavis and the rest who have shouted since their first time on T.V....wanting to see us move ahead and when we do want to stagger the first person that can take us to another level...it is unreal...not because he is black, because he is Universal....he brings all of our worlds together--coming from a white woman and a black man...he has one white grandmother and one black and the black one in Africa...how much more can one bring to the table....? He even encompasses Hawaii....come on Tavis, come on Black voters for Hillary...come on she's had to defend our first black president Brother Bill twice in her campaign...some of us realized that Barack actually is a man of color that has experienced the life of a black person living in America...Hello, Hillary nor Bill have.
Ulius in Ohio (the let down state--the capital of West Virginia) -
Posted By:
Moxie_Nouveaux at 03/14/2008 11:29:26 AM
Comment:
This is the most childish post/comments I've ever seen. I agree with Tonisworld, calliegirl and Siffy40. Supposed, seemingly intelligent GROWN ADULTS (and I used that word very loosely) people resorting to name-calling and who's-better-than-who crap -- for goodness sake, GROW UP!!!!!!!!!! I thought I left high-school 20 years ago!
Note to Ms. Harris-Lacewell, if you are so discouraged about Tavis and what you THINK his views are, go and do an in-depth interview with him, get his side of the story (not continuously posting your personal opinions/biases/campaignings), post it on this site, and let the readers decide for themselves.
This is why I've always hated commentaries, whether it be in newspapers, on television or the internet. Anyone can put their own spin on anything without giving hardcore facts, which is why I don't trust much of what I read and hear nowadays. Pitiful. -
Posted By:
mlicks40@bellsouth.net at 03/13/2008 3:59:29 PM
Comment:
Hi Melissa,
I agree with you hold heartedly. I am a big Tom Joyner fan thus I am (was) a huge Tavis fan however, Tavis has really disappointed me this year. I seriously would not continue to listen to the station if it weren't for Tom because one the negative remarks that Kathy Hughes made at the beginning of the campaign and now because of Tavis. Tavis over the years through his books, commentaries, the Summit and many other ways has inspired and enlightened many of us and I appauld him for that. He has never said which candidate he endorses and if he does endorse Obama he has a really strange way of showing it. It is almost like the parent that says that this will hurt me more than it hurts you when they are getting ready to beat their child. The only thing that I keep in mind is that Tavis is on the Tom Joyner show because of Bill Clinton so I am sure that there is some allegiance there. People have to do what they think is right in life but that does not give them the right to make a person especially a person with a viable chance of becoming our next President stop in his tracks because your Summit is important to you. Maybe Obama would have liked Tavis to be in Texas and Ohio like many others that have put their important positions on hold to help make something happen that many of us never thought we would live to see. I am not talking about a person that does not define what we would like most people to admire not only in a black man but a man. He is intelligent, well versed, cares about ALL people, obviously well groomed (look how he treats Michelle and his opponent Hillary whenever on stage together)and has enough experience to be President and many other great things in America and all over the world. I think what many people tend to forget is what the prerequisite is to become the President. If it were all this experience that they are talking about most of our past Presidents would not have made it but somehow we are stilll here the most powerful country in the world. We have to remember this system is set up as a checks and balance system and we will not let anyone run it totally into the ground (well Bush did try). Thank you for this article.
Go Obama,
Shauna -
Posted By:
missymo at 03/11/2008 2:12:46 PM
Comment:
I think the article is pretty interesting (somewhat). Honestly, I think Tavis should do his job at whatever he does and he should leave Obama alone. Yeah maybe one day Obama would stop by the SOTBU, but right now it's not his main focus at the moment. Also, in the 4th paragraph, I sensed a bit of discrimination of Tavis towards Obama. So personally, Tavis should mind in his own business and do what he do. -
Posted By:
quillab77 at 03/09/2008 3:51:38 AM
Comment:
Sad!! -
Posted By:
Democrat411 at 03/07/2008 12:11:05 PM
Comment:
I think Tavis needs a wake-up call. I think his head got too big and forgot who he was. I am offended at Tavis comments because he eludes to the fact that we as African Americans can not think for ourselves and can only follow the color "Black." Tavis does not speak for African American and it's time that he stop riding that notion to the bank, and I mean literally to the bank. I also do not believe that he or his family received any death threats. I think this is just another way of Tavis seeking sympathy and getting in the spotlight. If it is true, than step away from the issue and keep your mouth shut.. I think you (Tavis) have loss your voice in the mist of helping Clinton find hers. -
Posted By:
abryant28 at 03/05/2008 6:56:08 PM
Comment:
Say what you want tavis you are one man who speaks for one man, Lets not forget you are no better, and that goes for any panel you assemble. -
Posted By:
tonisworld at 03/04/2008 9:58:06 PM
Comment:
i can't believe how many seemingly intelligent people have become so heated by a story they have not taken the time to validate. Listening to a "reliable" source and taking it for gospel is a major brainwashing tactic. This article was based on opinon, not fact. Before you player hate on Tavis, listen to what he has to say on BlackAmericaWeb.com, Tavis Speaks 2.14.08. According to him, no letter arrived at his office offering Michele to speak. In fact, if you listen to the entire discussion, you will see that Tavis only has love for Brother Obama. Seek the truth for yourself and THEN make your own independent decision. We need to show love and respect to each other. The time is should be long gone for dissin' and playa hating in our collective community. -
Posted By:
kurvball at 03/04/2008 6:26:56 PM
Comment:
It started out good years ago, but the SOTBU simposium seems to have lost is objectivity. Some of the speakers were grandstanding in search of praise, while some merely spoke their minds. I was disappoint in Tavis for a couple of reasons, and the crabs were too. After watching the show all day, i was pleased that Sen. Obama did not attend. Any white person that found themselves wanting to support Sen. Obama but felt a little uneasy voting for a black american, watching the SOTBU to learn what black america is all about got the wrong idea. Or did they? While some were enlightening, others were disappointing. Dr. King would not have approved. -
Posted By:
sidneystubbs at 03/04/2008 1:17:46 PM
Comment:
Tavis, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and others, are all relics of the past. This is the Obama generation, and Tavis and others better wake up and smell the coffee. I understand the black movement and the black struggle in the United States, but it is time that American blacks move beyond that. Tavis and others must stop promoting themselves at the expense of others. -
Posted By:
sidneystubbs at 03/04/2008 1:12:25 PM
Comment:
Tavis, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson , and others are all relics of the past who should really fade into the background. Obama has far more important things to do, such as winning his Party's nomination. Sidney M. Stubbs, Cantab., JP. -
Posted By:
Drew at 03/04/2008 3:18:35 AM
Comment:
i fully concur with your article. I read that Michelle Obama would have appeared. However, that was not good enough for Tavis Smiley. i respect him but he needs to look into the mirror. THERE IS A TIME AND PLACE FOR EVERYTHING AND MANY PATHS TO BRING OUR ISSUES INTO THE LIGHT. TAVIS HAS HIS WAY OF GOING ABOUT IT AND OBAMA HAS HIS. I am sure that Hillary Clinton is enjoying this spectacle. She had to be disappointed that Minister Farrakhan and Obama was not in attendance. Ask Tavis if he knows the ways of a snake!-
Posted By:
tonisworld at 03/04/2008 9:49:17 PM
Comment:
I can't believe how many seemingly intelligent people have made a firm decision on what Tavis did or did not do and why he did it from reading one article and not seeking out the truth for themselves. You have fallen for one of the main tactics of brainwashing. Someone "reliable" writes something and you accept as total truth wilthout validation. There are other first-hand sources, e.g. Tavis himself, who state that no letter was received at his office offering Michele to speak in place of Barack. In fact, in the same discussion (check out Tavis Speaks BlackAmericaWeb.com 2/14/08) and listen to the situation according to Tavis. If you listen to the end, you will see that Tavis only has love and respect for Brother Obama. It appears to be those who have read a colored tale and run with it like the cat chasing its tale - going nowhere, just getting dizzy. DON'T DRINK THE JUICE BROTHERS AND SISTERS. SEEK THE TRUTH FOR YOURSELVES. We should spend our time showing love - not hate.
-
-
Posted By:
Andre747 at 03/01/2008 2:48:35 PM
Comment:
When you vote for any of the top tier corporate candidates, you vote against yourself and humanity. However, in choosing the lesser evil
Mr. Obama appears to be the most viable choice. We do love our preachers. Analyze what they (corporate candidates) don't talk about and you'll understand how controlled they really are.
Peace -
Posted By:
Clotilde at 02/29/2008 4:56:49 PM
Comment:
I agree. -
Posted By:
calliegirl at 02/29/2008 12:59:49 AM
Comment:
Who died and made Tavis king? I guess the same question could be asked about Barack Obama. Only I can't really hold Sen. Obama responsible for the level of hostility being perpetrated in his name.
Black people are not a monolith! We are not all the same! We have a right to be different! We should be treated as equals! How long have we rightfully been making those statements? I guess some of us just left off the word "except." We are not a monolith, except when a Black man is running for president and we want so badly to win that we're willing to vilify anybody who disagrees with us no matter how hard they've worked to be with us and for us in the past.
We are and should be treated as equals except if you support Hillary Clinton over Barak Obama and then my dear you are a traitor to your race, a honky-lover, a tom. What sheer and utter nonsense.
If we want to be political equals in this country, we would get ourselves informed, know the issues, be pragmatic and practical and learn to disagree based on fact rather than on emotion and on the forward that showed up in our e-mail this morning filled with silly invectives about people whose hearts we know and have always known.
Who died and made Tavis King? Nobody. But somebody died, a lot of somebodies died, so we would have an equal opportunity to make informed choices and to respectfully disagree.
Black people are not a monolith! We are not all the same! We have a right to be different! We should be treated as equals! How long have we rightfully been making those statements. I guess some of us just left off the word "except." We are not a monolith, except when a Black man is running for president and we want so badly to win that we're willing to vilify anybody who disagrees with us no matter how hard they've worked to be with and for us.
We are and should be treated as equals unless you support Hillary Clinton over Barak Obama and then my dear you a traitor to your race, a honky-lover, a tom. What sheer and utter nonsense.
If we want to be political equals in this country, we would get ourselves informed, know the issues, be pragmatic and practical and learn to disagree based on fact rather than on the forward that showed up in our email this morning filled with silly invectives about people whose hearts we know. -
Posted By:
SIFFY40 at 02/28/2008 6:58:30 PM
Comment:
DONT DRINK THE KOOL AID
I am shocked and appalled by some of the comments on here. Is Tavis jealous?This is not high school. A house divided against itself cannot stand. Just because someone criticizes Barack does not mean there is something wrong with them. Last I checked this is America, right? We cant criticize him cause he is black?We should be able to discuss or oppose any candidate without being disrespected or disregarded. It is one thing to support a candidate, but it is whole another thing to blindly follow someone without question.. Remember Jim Jones and Guyana... We cannot give a pass to Barack for not showing up at the Black State of the Union. Had he been white, we would have thrown a fit. He cannot take the time out for the people who have put him where he is now?He is too busy for his constituents?? What does that say?It is our job as voters to question any candidates motives, character,and beliefs whether they are black, white, green, red etc. The problem is not Tavis, the problem is us(black folks) and our blind loyalty to someone because they are black. And yes most of you will not admit it.You need to ask yourselves: Who was the last black man the media blindly supported like Barack, especially CNN..Micheal Jordan, Micheal Jackson, Micheal VIck, Kobe Bryant, OJ..Do we bother to think of the motive? McCain can easily beat Barack because they have dug up all the dirt they can on Hillary. If Barack gets the nomination, what do you think the Republicans are going to do? They are going to launch their usual smear campaigns and we cannot complain and say it is about race. Why do you think Republicans are voting for Barack in the primary? they are switching parties just to vote in the primaries. Do you really think that is because they like him? No they are going to switch back in November once he gets the nomination. Remember School Daze...WAKE UP, WAKE UP. We are bing run amuck, hoodwinked, bamboozled. -
Posted By:
SIFFY40 at 02/28/2008 6:37:59 PM
Comment:
DONT DRINK THE KOOL AID
I am shocked and appalled by some of the comments on here. Is Tavis jealous?This is not high school. A house divided against itself cannot stand. Just because someone criticizes Barack does not mean there is something wrong with them. Last I checked this is America, right? We cant criticize him cause he is black?We should be able to discuss or oppose any candidate without being disrespected or disregarded. It is one thing to support a candidate, but it is whole another thing to blindly follow someone without question.. Remember Jim Jones and Guyana... We cannot give a pass to Barack for not showing up at the Black State of the Union. Had he been white, we would have thrown a fit. He cannot take the time out for the people who have put him where he is now?He is too busy for his constituents?? What does that say?It is our job as voters to question any candidates motives, character,and beliefs whether they are black, white, green, red etc. The problem is not Tavis, the problem is us(black folks) and our blind loyalty to someone because they are black. And yes most of you will not admit it.You need to ask yourselves: Who was the last black man the media blindly supported like Barack, especially CNN..Micheal Jordan, Micheal Jackson, Micheal VIck, Kobe Bryant, OJ..Do we bother to think of the motive? McCain can easily beat Barack because they have dug up all the dirt they can on Hillary. If Barack gets the nomination, what do you think the Republicans are going to do? They are going to launch their usual smear campaigns and we cannot complain and say it is about race. Why do you think Republicans are voting for Barack in the primary? they are switching parties just to vote in the primaries. Do you really think that is because they like him? No they are going to switch back in November once he gets the nomination. Remember School Daze...WAKE UP, WAKE UP. We are bing run amuck, hoodwinked, bamboozled. -
Posted By:
tookie at 02/28/2008 5:57:04 PM
Comment:
Once again, Professor Harris-Lacewell has been on time with her critique of Tavis Smiley's upset over Sen. Obama's decision to have his wife attend the State of the Black Union program. The SBU gathering is worthwhile, but Obama is attempting a bloodless revolution in bringing together long-divided segments of the American population to address the quagmire of issues created by both parties over the last 20 years. To achieve this, he must walk a tightrope that may from time to time disappoint some of we more "militant" blacks who are not running for office and certainly not for the presidency. If elected, he will certainly do more than Democratic Party predecessors who could not have won without black votes, but once in office neither acknowledged our contributions, nor awarded us with more than token political appointments. Sen. Obama's campaign, really a movement, has plenty of opponents. Well known and respected blacks like Mr. Tavis should be on his side, not standin in his way.
Derrick Bell -
Posted By:
tookie at 02/28/2008 5:43:28 PM
Comment:
Again Professor Harris-Lacewell has been right on time and on point with her comments about Obama's priority this year. He is walking a tight rope to gain the nomination and the miracle of election in November. In the process, he may be less "militant" in some of his comments than those of us not trying to create a broad coalition of voters that no one before him has been able to bring together for more than a hot moment. Even with these disappointments, he has been more outspoken about the hopes and needs of people of color than his Democratic predecessors, and if he gains the White House will almost certainly be more responsive to our needs that those who won with our votes and then neither acknowledged those votes nor rewarded, save for a few token positions, the voters. Obama has plenty of enemies. He should have Tavis and other well known blacks on his side, not in his way.
Derrick Bell -
Posted By:
ExodusWill at 02/28/2008 4:21:35 PM
Comment:
Not only is it the old adage that Tavis is jealous, he is also hurt, you never know Obama may have not asked him to work on his campaign. You just never know....Well put however. Well Put -
Posted By:
SIFFY40 at 02/28/2008 3:07:11 PM
Comment:
DONT DRINK THE KOOL AID
I am shocked and appalled by some of the comments on here. Is Tavis jealous?This is not high school. A house divided against itself cannot stand. Just because someone criticizes Barack does not mean there is something wrong with them. Last I checked this is America, right? We cant criticize him cause he is black?We should be able to discuss or oppose any candidate without being disrespected or disregarded. It is one thing to support a candidate, but it is whole another thing to blindly follow someone without question.. Remember Jim Jones and Guyana... We cannot give a pass to Barack for not showing up at the Black State of the Union. Had he been white, we would have thrown a fit. He cannot take the time out for the people who have put him where he is now?He is too busy for his constituents?? What does that say?It is our job as voters to question any candidates motives, character,and beliefs whether they are black, white, green, red etc. The problem is not Tavis, the problem is us(black folks) and our blind loyalty to someone because they are black. And yes most of you will not admit it.You need to ask yourselves: Who was the last black man the media blindly supported like Barack, especially CNN..Micheal Jordan, Micheal Jackson, Micheal VIck, Kobe Bryant, OJ..Do we bother to think of the motive? McCain can easily beat Barack because they have dug up all the dirt they can on Hillary. If Barack gets the nomination, what do you think the Republicans are going to do? They are going to launch their usual smear campaigns and we cannot complain and say it is about race. Why do you think Republicans are voting for Barack in the primary? they are switching parties just to vote in the primaries. Do you really think that is because they like him? No they are going to switch back in November once he gets the nomination. Remember School Daze...WAKE UP, WAKE UP. We are being run amuck, hoodwinked, bamboozled. -
Posted By:
SIFFY40 at 02/28/2008 3:06:16 PM
Comment:
DONT DRINK THE KOOL AID
I am shocked and appalled by some of the comments on here. Is Tavis jealous?This is not high school. A house divided against itself cannot stand. Just because someone criticizes Barack does not mean there is something wrong with them. Last I checked this is America, right? We cant criticize him cause he is black?We should be able to discuss or oppose any candidate without being disrespected or disregarded. It is one thing to support a candidate, but it is whole another thing to blindly follow someone without question.. Remember Jim Jones and Guyana... We cannot give a pass to Barack for not showing up at the Black State of the Union. Had he been white, we would have thrown a fit. He cannot take the time out for the people who have put him where he is now?He is too busy for his constituents?? What does that say?It is our job as voters to question any candidates motives, character,and beliefs whether they are black, white, green, red etc. The problem is not Tavis, the problem is us(black folks) and our blind loyalty to someone because they are black. And yes most of you will not admit it.You need to ask yourselves: Who was the last black man the media blindly supported like Barack, especially CNN..Micheal Jordan, Micheal Jackson, Micheal VIck, Kobe Bryant, OJ..Do we bother to think of the motive? McCain can easily beat Barack because they have dug up all the dirt they can on Hillary. If Barack gets the nomination, what do you think the Republicans are going to do? They are going to launch their usual smear campaigns and we cannot complain and say it is about race. Why do you think Republicans are voting for Barack in the primary? they are switching parties just to vote in the primaries. Do you really think that is because they like him? No they are going to switch back in November once he gets the nomination. Remember School Daze...WAKE UP, WAKE UP. We are bing run amuck, hoodwinked, bamboozled. -
Posted By:
activenow at 02/28/2008 1:03:15 AM
Comment:
Thank you for saying everything that I would have loved to have said. Well written Mrs. Lacewell. -
Posted By:
Jackierere at 02/28/2008 12:18:33 AM
Comment:
YEAH TEAM!!! I agree so much with all that you said. I love Tavis and usually I agree with him but this ONE he is truly WAY OFF the mark. I am praying for all of us because the CRABS in the barrel has to stop. WE have larger issues and we have Detroit in turmoil because you can take the person out of the Ghetto but you can't take the Ghetto out of the person. Unfortunately Hillary and Bill have some Ghetto issues. I believe that Michelle and Barack will make America proud and free from scandals. I also believe that they will be an example of excellence and will continue raise us to a higher level as a people. Come on team we can agree to disagree and still drink coffee together at the end of the day. Tavis has been just a bit toooooooo harsh on this project. But he was also harsh on the Jena 6 asssistance. Tavis says Barack does not have the black experience so how does a person who attended IU have access to the Black experience. Hillary is NOT black and Barack is. Black experience versus Black? experience? NOOOOOOOO Way!!! Keep writing good comentaries. -
Posted By:
Renee at 02/27/2008 8:29:49 PM
Comment:
Enough said! I agree with Melissa Harris-Lacewell's comments wholeheartedly! -
Posted By:
Renee at 02/27/2008 8:28:32 PM
Comment:
Enough said! The article is right on, my sentiments exactly. -
Posted By:
Jacqui at 02/27/2008 7:56:25 PM
Comment:
Yes, right on! I was very disappointed with Tavist' response to the fact that Obama was not coming to his forum. I believe he let his ego get in the way of his usually"clear-headed" and "clear-eyed" perspective. I was disappointed at his position last year to Obama's choice of the forum date to announce his candidacy. Shame on you Tavist!!! Until we learn to support each other without going ballistic in public, we will continue to be on the bottom. I thought Tavist had more control than this. My hero has proved he too has feet of clay. -
Posted By:
saturner at 02/27/2008 10:55:58 AM
Comment:
Well put Melissa! And yes Tina Hampton, Tavis did have a temper tantrum. -
Posted By:
Kandu at 02/26/2008 12:39:36 PM
Comment:
Brother Tavis,
Thank you for your leadership Past and Present !!!
Sound's like you are taking this personaly. Please Don't !!!!!
Business is business, The future is our collectively.
Back off and seek the middle ground. And accept Michele for now.
Texas and Ohio are deal breakers.
your friends from Minnesota.
Sam Cooke
SamualCooke@hotmail.com -
Posted By:
whandy08 at 02/26/2008 12:21:02 PM
Comment:
After reading this article I was unaware of what happened. It bothers me that someone in the public eye such as Tavis Smiley, Bob Johnson etc would take a stab at Senator Obama for making a decision of where he should be. I think somel have forgotten that he is running for the President of United States and as someone posted not the President of Black America. We are still fighting the flex of injustice, sterotyping, degrading of our people and our entertainment industry degrading our women. MArtin Luther King Jr said it best," Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." If we want to talk about our race we need to bind together instead of fighting against each other. Barack has presented himself to the country as someone who is confident enough to go after what he wants. I think it was a put down to all women that Tavis Smiley and SOBTU would not accept Baracks wife in place of him. She is an intelligent woman, speaks well, she knows her husbands forum but yet can't be recognized and accepted by our own. Mr. Smiley and the SOTBU you have disappointed me. Have you forgotten where you came from and who got you their? Have you forgotten what MLK fought for? What have you given back to the community? I know a non-profit organization that asked you come speak for a fundraising affair to help those unfortunate and your cost was high that they had to look for someone else. Someone that would negotiate $$$'s and that person finally done it for free. Get real Tavis! You don't have to vote for him but you definitely don't have to bash him or his wife. -
Posted By:
tinahampton at 02/26/2008 12:15:12 PM
Comment:
What a way to go! I agree 100%. My question is did Tavis Smiley really have a temper tantrum or is this the strategy of others to blow this up as controversy to undermine Obama? ~Tina -
Posted By:
tinahampton at 02/26/2008 12:14:06 PM
Comment:
What a way to go! I agree 100%. My question is did Tavis Smiley really have a temper tantrum or is this the strategy of others to blow this up as controversy to undermine Obama? ~Tina Hampton -
Posted By:
Ctundra at 02/25/2008 10:28:59 PM
Comment:
I will never trust Tavis Smiley again and forever will I be suspicious of his actions. Tavis' criticizism of Sen. Obama appeared very personal - like Tavis failed in his mission. Remember, when the Pope was shot, he was shot around his own people, when Dr. King and Malcolm were assassinated, both were around their own folks, "those" who were suppose to have their backs. Was Tavis trying to set Obama up? Who controls Tavis' actions and funds his projects?
Politican's spouses always step up to represent - So why was Tavis against Michelle Obama presence? Did McCain offer up his wife to attend in his place?
One more thing, when Shirley Chisholm ran for presidency in 1972, a Black woman, N.O.W. did not support her nor did the Hillary Clilnton, nor did a lot of Black politicians and Nixon won anyway; Therefore, Rep. Shelia Jackson Lee was wrong in her statement (at the SOTBU 2008) that implied Hillary is the first woman to run for presidency. -
Posted By:
Puddin at 02/25/2008 6:29:57 PM
Comment:
I really think Tavis Smiley is being totally ridiculous. He is an angry, self-centered individual who needs to get over himself. I use to hold him in such high regards, but ever since last year, I have had little respect for him. Barrak Obama is running for the President of the United States, he is not running for the President of Black United States. Tavis need to get real, real about his sponsors. McDonalds is selling food in our neighborhoods, food that is killing us. And Wal-Mart is the reason why Black folks have so few jobs. Tavis get real!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! -
Posted By:
CP3Plan at 02/25/2008 5:22:18 PM
Comment:
I believe Tavis is like many of our people that have made a living out of the misery suffered by us [African-American/Blacks/define yourself here]. This is not to say that racism does not exist or that racist people are still out there. To the contrary, it does exist, but not to the levels it once did and Obama is proving that point, just as King did in his generation. Many times, the barriers in front of us are the ones that we create in reality or psychologically. The SOTBU could be more valuable if we looked inward toward being a more proactive group instead of measuring our "core" existence by the positive or negative levels of "whiteness". Tavis had created a forum that was useful until other blacks pushed the bar higher than talking and started doing. The Obama campaign is historic for many reasons, but mostly because it demonstrates the ability to move beyond the rhetoric of discussion into action without having to qualify for a certificate of "Blackness". Tavis and others like him want to keep us and our situation stagnant, but there are many of us who have moved into action years ago; without fanfare or notariety. I feel sorry for Tavis and the others like him that are swiftly being classified as "charismatically irrelevant". -
Posted By:
tresdedos at 02/25/2008 3:35:36 PM
Comment:
What does it all mean really? It means there are a select few blacks that hold themselves in such high moral regard without intellectual respect for their peers. Does it mean as a nation of blacks, we are looking to finally change the rhetoric of bureaucrats but as a single entity without knowledge of being bamboozled by bling? Both Tavis and Obama are pushing an agenda about what black means to them without pushing the facts about those who are black???and brown??? and caramel??? and mocha.
The levees are still broken and will remain so until all humans see themselves as the blood of the land without entitlement to history. I know what it means to be black so you do not have to tell me Tavis, but I have yet to hear Mr. Obama speak specifically about who???s riding in on his wave of new business.
???Dynasties are and have always been paid for??? but black intellect is invaluable and dynamic to a nation that has yet to reach its potential. -
Posted By:
musicisme at 02/25/2008 3:01:14 PM
Comment:
I commend Tavis Smiley on his yearly summit but in my opinion it is good talk, nothing more. I don't see these talks generating any change in the Black community and if there is some change it's not enough to notice. Obama is running for president and he has to campaign. He offered to send his wife in his stead which I think is an effort of support on his part. Tavis doesn't want the wife but Barack only. What is Tavis's true motivation and intent in this? -
Posted By:
musicisme at 02/25/2008 2:57:21 PM
Comment:
I commend Tavis for the yearly SOTBU, however it is good talk, nothing more. I have not seen enough change in the Black community to take notice of these talks changing anything. Obama tried to make amends by sending his wife in his stead but Tavis wants Barak and Barak only, He is running for president for goodness sake, leave the man alone. -
Posted By:
geb at 02/25/2008 2:02:10 PM
Comment:
The whole World know what I have been knowing for a long time. Tavis is not altruistic. He has his own agenda and that is to make money by selling books at the expense of the Black Community. He claims he's concerned about Black issues yet he sits on the sidelines and criticizes the Player, but won't get in the game. If he were that concerned he would run for office. I saw what he was really about about two years ago when he pledge to give KTSU radio station a million dollar and the Radio Station named the Building after him and gave him an office that sits vacant to this day and he did not honor his pledge. Well, Let's see how many books he sells now!
Guy Bouldin Sr.-
Posted By:
concerncitizen at 03/19/2008 9:22:23 AM
Comment:
I was going to get Tarvis Smiley books, but now I changed my mind, because I want us to look at the divisiveness between us. Okay, Barack Obama is campaigning getting people to learn who he is. I never heard of Barack Obama, until January, when he email me. I was gratful to participate in a campaign, and I start learning that this man could have had any job, and made millions. Instead, he was concerned about our community, and this is from his heart. I got Barack Obama books, and my children are strengthening themselves to stay in something, instead of giving up. Barack Obama is awesome, and he is making history of helping us move past racism to unity. I also want to say that there are evil people everywhere no matter what their ethnic group is. Some are very sneaky in the way that they may appear, but never the less when something strikes them they begin to show themselves. Nobody I know wants to support the candidates that are dedicated to special interest groups or lobbyist like Hillary and Bill Clinton.
-
-
Posted By:
Puddin at 02/25/2008 1:49:28 PM
Comment:
Ms. Melissa Harris-Lacewell you are so right on. I was hoping that I was not the only one who think Tavis Smiley is ridiculous. I think he is angry about something. Last year I was outraged by what I saw and heard by Black people who I respected and admired speak so nasty about someone who is one of our own. I sent Tavis an email (no response) asking him is he and others thought Obama was running for Black America or was he running for America? I mean, these are suppose to be highly educated Black people. I am so very disappointed in them all. I am also disappointed that the very corporations that Tavis praise and have as sponsors are the very reason people of color are in the mess that we are in. McDonalds, the stuff they pass off as food is killing us. And Wal-Mart was the biggest champion for NFTA and were one of the first to send "our" jobs overseas. And has Tavis forgotten about the many discrimination law suits against Mal-Mart. Well, I am so mad, I could go on and on, but let me tell you, Tavis Smiley does not speak for me. I no longer hold him in high regards. Thank you Ms. Harris-Lacewell for an opportunity to voice my opinion.
Sharon -
Posted By:
shawki at 02/25/2008 1:42:16 AM
Comment:
I think Tavis was simply acting as a surrogate for HRC for whatever personal gains her backers have promised him. This campaign is causing a lot of people to show their true allegiance (money). I was not surprised when that idiot, Bob Johnston tried to smear Obama in South Carolina with the drug innuendo, nor was I surprised when Bill Clinton tried to paint Barrak into a black candidate corner (both efforts of which backfired). I was surprised at Tavis, but it just speak to the power of the $. I knew that Bob Johnston was blinded by money when he traded one of the most powerful platforms in the world (Bet television) for a sports franchise and a few million pieces of paper.I dont place Tavis in that level of ignorance-but I will never view him the same as before he did this. -
Posted By:
Tee-Q at 02/24/2008 9:15:19 PM
Comment:
Thank you Melissa Harris Lacewell for writing this letter about Tavis Smiley. He does not speak for every black that lives. I concur with everything that you said. Sen. Obama is trying to unite people, not tear them apart. I'm very sure he is pro black but he surely will not become President without the help of other nationalities and doing something stupid to show otherwise would be suicide.
God bless you and know that most real black people have minds of their own. People like Tavis Smiley is for people who do not know how to think for themselves and believe any and everything that come from so called black leader. Thank you for you time and keep up the good work. Anthony Quarles Sr. -
Posted By:
Kimma at 02/24/2008 5:56:59 PM
Comment:
Leading the black community has a double edged sword. Tavis has come up in his own right but he has be able to be accountable to the people so that we kniow that he is for real. We have had to deal with so many phonies along the way.
I say to Tavis, show all your cards do not hold back anything ackledge that you can make a mistake, tells what you have learned show us the way. My mother use to say get out of your way.... He has earned a place in hearts can he stay there. He calls for accountability, well it starts with you. Where has the money from the covenant book gone? How we can we be sure that we can depend on you? What have you sacrificed? =What are you willing to sacrifice? Why is your name on everything you do ? How does the community benefit from your name being all over every event? How come you have to moderate all the forums, why not have college students do it for the excperience? There are many questions that he should answer so that we can love him deeply?
Kimm from California -
Posted By:
lind at 02/24/2008 9:53:10 AM
Comment:
I still love you Tavis, and I pray you can get through this one, but you made a mistake this time. This is what we do to each other ( Black folks) and it's not right. We suffer from Post Tramatic Slave Syndrome. I love and forgive you and we still need you Tavis. You and Tom know what iit is about. However we all make mistakes. I will continue to pray for you and your family's protection. Please call Obama and make up, he needs you too. I hate this. The only reason all this is happening because the devil is mad. This is a God thing about to happen. We have to be one. One voice, one stand, and one with each other. -
Posted By:
briel at 02/24/2008 3:13:27 AM
Comment:
Tavis certainly does worry about loss of influence. When Barack Obama IS elected, Tavis will likely wish that he had held his tongue, when he is confounded with the issue of how to address any issue to the new President. -
Posted By:
aboo8743 at 02/23/2008 8:23:43 PM
Comment:
Tavis Smiley is a self-centered ego maniac whose only concern is the promotion of Tavis Smiley Inc. Tavis has to be intelligent enough to know that if Barak Obama is elected to be President of the United States his wife, Michelle Obama, is going to have a strong influence on the outlook of Mr. Obama. She has performed as the closer on the trail and will continue to play a strong role going further. Mr. Smiley's refusal to allow her to speak let's me know Tavis isn't serious about the problems of the African American community, he is serious about expanding his own "platform" to capitalize economically on our ills. Mr. Obama has built an organization from the ground up without the support of the older generation of civil right stalwarts. That is threatening to many of them, and it let's them know that a younger generation of African Americans are not moved by the same so-called leaders as the past. In seeing what Corey Booker went through in Newark let's me know that its time for certain older leaders to sit down and realize we are in a new world and we need new leadership. Tavis Smiley want's to criticize Barak Obama in not attending HIS conference, but we haven't taken Tavis to task on his corporate sponsor: Wal-Mart, or the predatory lending practices of his sponsor Wells Fargo. Once and for all I hope people will realize that African Americans aren't going to be spoken for by self-appointed zealots. I hope Tavis has been humbled and I hope other older civil rights leaders will get the warning.
Anthony B. -
Posted By:
sue at 02/23/2008 7:48:58 PM
Comment:
Tavis, I have always listened to your commentaries (from BET to TJMS to PBS) and usually hold your opinions in high regard, however, this time you have missed the mark! Most African-Americans who support Obama are not supporting him simply because he is a black man. We are supporting him because of his policies, beliefs, accomplishments, and most importantly, because of the direction in which he is trying to take our country. It is this same type of divisiveness that YOU are attempting to bring forth, between AA and other races, that Sen. Obama is trying to rid this country of. Also, as an AA woman, I take offense to you not accepting Michelle's offer to speak to the SOTBU. Is she not black enough or do you not believe that she is concerned about the plight of Black America? What's the difference in Michelle and Hillary? Michelle is the surrogate/ wife of a FUTURE president and Hillary is the surrogate/ wife of a FORMER president. If it's ok for Hillary to attend your event and remind people of what her husband did when he was president (we all are smart enough to realize that she is trying to run in her husband's shadow) then, it should be good enough for Michelle to attend your event and remind people of what her husband will do when he becomes president...and he will be president!!! Instead of attempting to divide us Tavis, use your voice to unite us...yes,YOU can!!!! -
Posted By:
ajames217 at 02/23/2008 2:40:30 PM
Comment:
Ok let's be honest, Tavis and many of the "Black Leaders" attending this conference don't want the Black situation in America to improve because they will be out of work. Barak Obama is the physical manifestation of Dr. King's dream but you have to drag Jackson and Sharpton kicking and screaming to support him. It's time that we take back the power given to these political pimps who capitalize on the suffering of our people and are truly against change. The State of the Black Union will not be changed by a convention in New Orleans, It will be changed by the actions of us as a people. It will be changed when our children have role models like Obama to look up to. Pimps like Tavis, Jessie, and Al realize that, and they don't want to lose their power, so they stir the pot and critize Obama at the most crucial time in his campaign.
Please don't allow them to win. Support Obama. -
Posted By:
Empowered at 02/22/2008 8:24:34 PM
Comment:
Simply...Grow up Tavis!
The old guard of so-called black leaders are on thier way out. They are so tied to the Clinton regime they can not breath. That's what happens when you sell your soul. No one want to hear a bunch of self proclaimed black leaders talking about what need s to be fixed in the black community then they all go home and rest on the laurels. If you ask them to come to your community to help they will not show up unless large fees are paid...they ain't free.
I too was inspired at first by the State of the Black Union but I will not waste my time this year. -
Posted By:
Empowered at 02/22/2008 7:58:22 PM
Comment:
Your article is right on target. I am extremely disappointed and angry with Tavis Smiley and his posse. How dare he place such a stigma on Senator Obama and Michelle. Every year the so-called Black leaders show up at Tavis' event and sit around all day expounding on all their titles and how great they are...then they go home and do little else for their community. It is time we start thinking and taking positive action to move Black folk and the world forward. We must look at new and fresh ideas if we are to prosper.
The 'so-called' black leaders do not speak for me. In fact, why ia it that Black Americans have to have a leader to speak for us? Most have sold us down the river. Hold them accountable. Instead of taking white folks money to hold this grand event in New Orleans why do they not roll up their sleeves and get down with the grassroots community to solve real issues before us.
Shame on Tavis and his Posse. -
Posted By:
robertirvin at 02/22/2008 7:43:17 PM
Comment:
Tavis has to/should/must reinvite Michelle Obama to SOTBU.
If not, then he has to sit in the corner one Tuesday night in November.
Robert Irvin, PhD
robvine@ca.rr.com -
Posted By:
pbreedlo at 02/22/2008 6:23:14 PM
Comment:
I myself; am very disturb with Tavis Smiley???s Tantrum. Does he actually believe that he needs to thinks and express African American???s feeling for them? Tavis needs to grow up and bring himself off the Pedestal he has placed himself on. Is he trying to sabotage Barak???s chances? Tavis is no fool. He is fully aware that for Barak to attend such a function in this crucial time of the campaign. Would certainly be Political suicide? I keep wondering who put Tavis in charg