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LAST NIGHT I saw King Lear at the Globe, Shakespeare's theater on the South Bank of the Thames. I've seen the play before, but now that I'm a parent I was especially struck by the idea of love and loyalty between parent and child gone terribly wrong.
THIS MORNING I am proud of my connections to North Carolina. I am an alum of Wake Forest and Duke University. My ex-husband's family (whom I still adore) are from Wilmington, NC. My best friend teaches at NC State University. My adorable young cousin, Dani has been volunteering for Barack all over the state and sending me text messages to let me know how things are going.
IS HILLARY REALLY ROCKY? At first, I dismissed it as yet another ridiculous attempt to paint herself as a working class underdog rather than the delusional underachiever that she's been this election season. Upon closer examination, however, I remembered something interesting about Rocky. Although he fought to the bloody end, the stubborn pugilist lost the first time around. To whom did he lose? That's right, a cocky black guy. That's when I realized that there's probably more truth to this Rocky thing than I imagined.
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To Denounce and Reject
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Posted By:
photonuts_00 at 03/18/2008 12:38:39 PM
Comment:
i cannot believe that nobody cares what obamas wife said about not being proud to be an american until now,and that obama didn't put his hand on his heart or he did not put his hand on the bible when sworn in. and on top of all that he is affiliated with the two most influential black ministers who teach nothing but hate against everybody who is not black how sad is that. what will it take to make america see that he is NOT ANY different than them. IF HIS OWN WIFE FEELS THAT WAY THAN YOU SHOULD KNOW THAT HE DOES. after all they live in the same house. in this day and time a thorough background should be done on all canidates by our government not the media. we never know who has our best intrest at heart. we should look forward but watch our back at the same same time and focus on our economy we are all hurting even the white people. Why would we want someone in office is surrounded by powerful people who hate AMERICA??????????????????? -
Posted By:
brainnee1 at 03/14/2008 12:28:03 PM
Comment:
in the time of the history of the roman government politicians who were running for office had to denounce and reject Jesus because he was the litmus test and saviour.As it is today Farrakhan is the Jesus figure of our time and for black politicians to be excepted today he or she has to denounce farrakhan.I as a christian can admit to this.Farrakhan does matter to black people because if he did not two million men would not have show up October 16 1995 and a million black families on October 16 2005.Why is it that the government and the wise of the white race understand who farrakhan is and many of our religious and political figure in our so called black circle don;t?Jesus didn't matter all of the people of his time but he matter to the wise of the wicked government of his day.studied your history so,you will not be among the hypocrites of our day and time. -
Posted By:
brainnee1 at 03/14/2008 12:27:22 PM
Comment:
in the time of the history of the roman government politicians who were running for office had to denounce and reject Jesus because he was the litmus test and saviour.As it is today Farrakhan is the Jesus figure of our time and for black politicians to be excepted today he or she has to denounce farrakhan.I as a christian can admit to this.Farrakhan does matter to black people because if he did not two million men would not have show up October 16 1995 and a million black families on October 16 2005.Why is it that the government and the wise of the white race understand who farrakhan is and many of our religious and political figure in our so called black circle don;t?Jesus didn't matter all of the people of his time but he matter to the wise of the wicked government of his day.studied your history so,you will not be among the hypocrites of our day and time -
Posted By:
brainnee1 at 03/14/2008 12:24:46 PM
Comment:
in the time of the history of the roman government politicians who were running for office had to denounce and reject Jesus because he was the litmus test and saviour.As it is today Farrakhan is the Jesus figure of our time and for black politicians to be excepted today he or she has to denounce farrakhan.I as a christian can admit to this.Farrakhan does matter to black people because if he did not two million men would not have show up October 16 1995 and a million black families on October 16 2005.Why is it that the government and the wise of the white race understand who farrakhan is and many of our religious and political figure in our so called black circle don;t?Jesus didn't matter all of the people of his time but he matter to the wise of the wicked government of his day.studied your history so,you will not be among the hypocrites of our day and time
troy lee -
Posted By:
rae.rae911 at 03/09/2008 2:20:15 PM
Comment:
I don;t think we have to denounce or reject anything Farrakhan said. The whites didn't denounce or reject what Imus said and he is back on the air now. Farrakhan believes what he believes and other Blacks believe what they believe. The question that someone should have asked is does Hillary denounce and reject her husband since he supported the Million Man March which was led by Farrakhan. -
Posted By:
Dman1977 at 03/03/2008 12:12:05 PM
Comment:
Farakhan is racist -
Posted By:
JAH TROY at 03/02/2008 11:49:55 AM
Comment:
ANYONE CAN SURPORT YOU. BUT WHO YOU SURPORT YOU IS BASED ON WHAT YOU HAVE IN COMMON. OBAMA DOES NOT NEED TO REJECT HIS BROTHER. HE NEEDS TO LET HIS BROTHER KNOW WHAT HE STANDS FOR . SO EVEN IF FARICAN SURPORTS HIM HE DOES SO WITH OUT EXPECTATING ANYTHING BUT GOOD GOVERNANCE. OBAMA SHOULD NOT BE SCARED, IF HE INTENDS TO SIT AND TALK WITH CONTRAVERCIAL LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD. ANTI AMERICAN FEELINGS WILL DEFINATELY DROP IF AN APROACH OF UNDERSTANDING THAT AMEARCA HAS CLAIMED THE HIGH MORAL GROUND BUT HASN'T ALWAYS DESEARVED IT. GET REAL AND HEAL THE WORLD. SOS TO OBAMA -
Posted By:
Voiceof reason at 03/02/2008 9:42:27 AM
Comment:
I am not so sure every time this occurs and there may some validity to this concern but at the same time it is fair to address the endorsement, direct or otherwise, when you are running for office just as John McCain recently stepped up to the microphone and rejected the comments made about Obama by a talking head when he was introduced at a rally. People do want to know where a ppolitician running for office stands when running for office when endorsed by a radical element. It helps me to know that Rush Limbaugh and the right wing dislike McCain then my support grows and when Move On.org endorsed and actively participates in Obamas primaries I become concerned. I do not think extreme endorsements or even support should go unanswered. If Hitler were alive today and said kind words about any candidate, I think they would rush to reject and denouce. If an election was not going on and general comments are made not to a particular individual, I agree no resposne is needed. When a name is mentioned then that person should protect his/her reputation. -
Posted By:
BlueAmerican at 03/02/2008 8:34:37 AM
Comment:
You refuse to show my views, that is bias. Your stacking the deck. -
Posted By:
TUAlpha93 at 03/02/2008 6:56:59 AM
Comment:
Very well said...amen!! -
Posted By:
Latasha at 03/02/2008 12:46:52 AM
Comment:
It is such a shame to see ugly, disgustin, and racist ppl on earth, still powerful and leading others to destruction. why is it so hard for ppl to understand that Everyone Is Created Equal, and the only way for us humans to still be alive is to have love, and respect in our hearts for eachother's religion, culture, race, and country. after all we are all created by one creator, and if there is any love in our hearts for the one that created us, we would stop being racist and STOP THIS HATE that is puting ppls lives in danger. It is everyone's responsibility to stop this before it takes over our lives. Tnx for the article
My Love to Every religion. PEACE ON EARTH-
Posted By:
JAH TROY at 03/02/2008 12:00:10 PM
Comment:
Enter Your CommentANYONE CAN SURPORT YOU. BUT WHO YOU SURPORT YOU IS BASED ON WHAT YOU HAVE IN COMMON. OBAMA DOES NOT NEED TO REJECT HIS BROTHER. HE NEEDS TO LET HIS BROTHER KNOW WHAT HE STANDS FOR . SO EVEN IF FARRAKHAN SURPORTS HIM, HE DOES SO WITH OUT EXPECTATING ANYTHING EXCEPT GOOD GOVERNANCE. OBAMA SHOULD NOT BE SCARED, IF HE INTENDS TO SIT AND TALK WITH CONTRAVERCIAL LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD. ANTI AMERICAN FEELINGS WILL DEFINATELY DROP IF AN APROACH OF UNDERSTANDING THAT AMEARCA HAS CLAIMED THE HIGH MORAL GROUND BUT HASN'T ALWAYS DESEARVED IT. GET REAL AND HEAL THE WORLD. SOS TO OBAMA
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Posted By:
muhammadjulius at 03/01/2008 8:52:25 PM
Comment:
I am Honored to be a student of Brother Minister Farrakhan. It is obvious that we are doing somehting right to get this type of publicity for telling the truth. Brother Minister Farrakhan has not told ONE Lie. If he has, prove it. I have a small savings and am willing to give it to anyone who can prove that Brother Minister Farrakhan has told one Lie. Please debate US on the world stage. We will be the winners living or dead. All opposition to the righteous will fail. Make no mistake about it, Brother Minister Farrakhan Loves our Brother Barak Obama and wants the Best for America and the World. However, we will not compromise the truth to gain friendship with anyone. So, anyone up for debate? -
Posted By:
BlueAmerican at 03/01/2008 8:34:55 PM
Comment:
First of all, my heritage preceeds the invasion of North American in the mid 1700's. I wish to offer some incline of rational thought to this spagetti pile.
Farrakhan: This man has proven he is a racist. He will not help any other race or religion but the black men and women. Every race has suffered.
Barrock Hussan Obama: This man is nothing less than Adolf Hitler in present day. He is a smooth talker with little experience in the real situations of life. I personally am appalled with his way of approaching situations. It is deeply offensive that he has not been given a back ground check to see who is affiliations are with. Not limited to just Obama... All candidates should be check out to fullest.
The United States of America was a very proud country. We have lost alot of pride in transition.
May God Bless America...
Its appalling to see what is happening. Right before our eyes. -
Posted By:
BlueAmerican at 03/01/2008 8:22:54 PM
Comment:
As my heritage preceeds the invasion of North America, and I continue to watch our nation be turned into spineless wimps. Political correctness has reached new lows. First: Farrakhan, is a racist. Will not stand for anyone ofther than black people. Thats racist.
Barrack Hussan Obama: I have done alot of research on "Hitler". Burrack Hussan Obama is very much like Hitler. This person caters to the Hard Left and the United Nations. Very Dangerous.
I seriously doubt anyone will see this.... God Bless America... We need a good person for the White House. Whatever religion or nationality he or she is... -
Posted By:
Mollygirl at 03/01/2008 7:26:09 PM
Comment:
Love this article. It is SOOOO on point!!!!!!!! Please send this to Fox News, CNN, and any other media outlet who will listen. Maybe then they will get it. -
Posted By:
merc18 at 03/01/2008 6:08:00 PM
Comment:
When you are running to be the president for all of the peope/races of a country, it is necessary that you disassociate yourself from anyone who is racist, and only looks out for the benefits of just one group, such as Farrakham, in order to show the people that your interest in the position of president is not for the purpose of benefiting and looking out for the good of just one group of people. My impression is that judging from all of the black vote, and endorsements of black delegates,(some who were initially backing Clinton, and then were pressured to go for Obama, only because of their race) the black population believes that Borak Obama is running for the blacks, instead of for the whole country. Think about it, if the white voters were voting for their race, none would be voting for Borak Obama, and remember that when negative things have been said by anyone, regarding Obama, they have been criticized, and made to apologize. It seems to me that blacks have had civil rights for a very long time, now, and have been able to live like, and enjoy all of the benefits that this country has to give, including being able to run for the highest office. There should not be any further need to keep fighting for equality, etc. -
Posted By:
Marley at 03/01/2008 4:11:02 PM
Comment:
To me as a black man, Mr. Farrakhan stood for all the wrong things. I put him in the same category as those radical muslims. Mr. Farrakhan's loyalty is with his religion not black folks. For example when he went to Sudan, he came back swinging against the black christian South Sudan calling her people to dark, and would not be able to govern themselves. This man is evil. There are a lot of good and important black leaders than him. For me, I won't call him a black leader, I would prefer to call him MUSLIM leader. -
Posted By:
pretnder at 03/01/2008 3:10:57 PM
Comment:
This is ridiculous. As far as Imu goes, I lost alot of respect over his words. No, I'm not going to say anything, as he is not running for president. I'm sick and tired of all the excuses I hear. I firmly do not believe that whites are as racial as the blacks are. We do not request an apology everytime we are called ho's or crackers or honkies. Give me a break and quit whining about race all the time. this is over with. Seems to me that if Imus or some white surpreamish was running the blacks would really have somethig to cry about. -
Posted By:
Roddyk at 03/01/2008 2:00:21 PM
Comment:
Finally, someone has said what I've thought for years, and finally someone realizes what an ass Tim Russert is. I give you all your props!!! -
Posted By:
Roddyk at 03/01/2008 1:59:01 PM
Comment:
Finally, someone has said what I have been thinking for years. Finally, someone other than me has understood what an ass Tim Russert is. I give you all your props! -
Posted By:
dvb0378 at 03/01/2008 12:55:11 PM
Comment:
Farrakhan is a black "RELIGIOUS LEADER" who believes and teaches racists views. Don Imus is only a media personality who has no following and does not attempt to influence anyone. Let's not compare apples and oranges. -
Posted By:
Pucky13 at 03/01/2008 12:10:02 PM
Comment:
My only excuse for such unacceptable behavior is maybe it just needed to be clear that the leader of our country would not condone Farrrakhan's actions or his ideas of hatred and violence. -
Posted By:
Observer at 03/01/2008 12:05:45 PM
Comment:
Your story and conclusions are missing one very critical point.
If Don Imus was a political figure or if any white political figure
were to endorse or recommend a white candidate, then yes every
interviewer is expected to ask that candidate to denounce that individual.
There is no double standard, you can not compare apples with oranges and
arrive at the same conclusion. Compare don Imus with black comedians and see where he stands with the media. Therefore Farrakhan must be judged as a political figure and his associates are to be scrutinized more. -
Posted By:
Dman1977 at 03/01/2008 11:05:11 AM
Comment:
Farrakhan is a racist and I think taht a African American or White american Or Latino American or Asian american who is going to represent all Americans Black and White should denounce the endorsement of anyone who is racist, as any White political figure would. Remember David Duke. The white community rejected him. I'm white and I'm voting for Obama Because he has shown me he is equal and fair in his politics. That is what the country needs, To show that we have reached a level of equality that an African American can achieve the highest achievement in America. -
Posted By:
Dman1977 at 03/01/2008 9:58:07 AM
Comment:
Farrakhan is a racist and I think taht a African American or White american Or Latino American or Asian american who is going to represent all Americans Black and White should denounce the endorsement of anyone who is racist, as any White political figure would. Remember David Duke. The white community rejected him. I'm white and I'm voting for Obama Because he has shown me he is equal and fair in his politics. That is what the country needs, To show that we have reached a level of equality that an African American can achieve the highest achievement in America. -
Posted By:
msennet at 03/01/2008 8:28:01 AM
Comment:
Well written. Enough said! -
Posted By:
umojalo at 03/01/2008 8:16:09 AM
Comment:
Marjorie, as a journalist, would you be interested in documenting whether Farrakhan actually called Judaism a "gutter religion?" To this day, I have never seen journalists who routine write that Farrakhan called "Judaism a gutter religion" ever document it as fact. Yet the accusation lives as if fact. Are people who talk back to Jews to be always called anti-semitic? Farrakhan does have harsh words for the Jewish community---but he has also directed those arrows to every group who he believes does not uphold tenets they profess. What he actually said about so called Muslims, Jews, and Christians is that -
Posted By:
umojalo at 03/01/2008 7:53:44 AM
Comment:
As a journalist, would you be interested in documenting whether Farrakhan actually called Judaism a "gutter religion?" To this day, I have never seen journalists who routine write that Farrakhan called "Judaism a gutter religion" ever document it as fact. Yet the accusation lives as if fact. Are people who talk back to Jews to be always called anti-semitic? Farrakhan does have harsh words for the Jewish community---but he has also directed those arrows to every group who he believes does not uphold tenets they profess. What he actually said about so called Muslims, Jews, and Christians is that they use the name of God to hide behind their dirty religion---or what they profess to practice as religion. Your religion, he said, is what you preach but what you practice. -
Posted By:
Agye at 03/01/2008 5:26:20 AM
Comment:
Why America ???? Whats happnennig in a free DEMOCRATIC country. Is it now illegale to be a muslim in USA???? Every citizen has a fundamental rights, one of them is the right to vote. What has Farakhan done to loose this right.
We are in America, we have freedom of religion; why should all theese IRRESPONSIBLE people make big story about the middle name of someone.
If one is elected as President, he is not representing only the GOOD citizens. He is representing, the good, and the bad ones as well. The KILLERS UNDER the death sentence.
Why should Barack Obama even denoucnce Mr Farrakhan????????
Mr Farrakhan has opinion, but he can't force Mr Obama to Follow -
Posted By:
Fever4Life at 03/01/2008 2:00:00 AM
Comment:
Very well written article. Not much for me to say but to agree. -
Posted By:
gjoh at 03/01/2008 1:32:06 AM
Comment:
You took the words right out of my mouth.
I wanted to slap russert during that debate. He just wouldn't stop. I plan to complain to MSNBC in writing and we all should let them know that what russert did that night was an attempt to smear Obama on national tv.-
Posted By:
dvb0378 at 03/01/2008 1:08:01 PM
Comment:
Terrible article............Farrakhan is a powerful religious and political leader in the black community who teaches racism and has anti-semetic views. Don Imus is simply an insignificant media personality with absolutely no power and no following.....Let's not compare apples to oranges.
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Posted By:
bolefunque at 03/01/2008 1:14:56 AM
Comment:
Thank you for such an excellent analysis of the denunciation litmus test that blacks must pass before they are deemed worthy of representing the majority american population. But instead of a test it is more so a trap. But we have come to understand that it is of unpure motive and therefore not worthy of a honest response. It is no different than the question of who discovered america. In order to pass the history test with a grimace we are required to answer that in "1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue". In order to get a passing grade that is the correct answer even though it is not the truth. We are working to get to the point where we can re-write the exam. Both Obama and Farakan understand that and are to shrewd to allow the test to be the trap. Amen to both brothers. Free.man -
Posted By:
josephpoe1 at 03/01/2008 1:04:59 AM
Comment:
IN A PERFECT WORLD THESE QUESTIONS WOULD NOT HAVE TO BE ANSWERD THE FACT IS WHITE PEOPLE HAVE AN UNDERLYING FEAR OF BLACK LEADERSHIP NO MATTER HOW ARTICULATE AND QUALIFIED WE ARE IF WE HAD DONE TO THEM WHAT THEY DID TO OUR FOREFATHERS DURING SLAVERY I PROBALY WOULD WANT SOME TYPE OF ASSURANCE THAT MR OBAMA WAS NOT CONNECTED TO ONE OF THE MORE MILITANT ASPECTS OF OUR COMMUNITY IN A WORD ITS GUILT IF YOU LOOK AT HOW WE ARE PORTRAYED IN THE MEDIA ITS NO WONDER -
Posted By:
Joe at 02/29/2008 10:45:29 PM
Comment:
There are several things that come into play here they include extremes on both sides of the color line. We have always asked whites to renounce extremes, the klan being one of those by the same token we are being taken to the same task whem asked to denounce Minister Farrahkan's approach as they relate to Jews. We can't hold others to higher level than we are willing to commit to. Maybe the timing was wrong but we can't expect a person vying for the highest office in America to not be a fair representation of all americans. Frankly I would not want that in the person accepting the leadership position.I give the Senator all the praise for saying the right things and taking the right approach at the time and place he could easily fall on his sword.
Let me offer a message in that regard those of us that have held commands in the military have face what Senator Obama is dealing with now. An assessment of he he is and how well he can be expected to carry out the duties and responsibilities of the position. Some of the things thrown may not be fair but he must learn to duck at the right time and feint left or right as the jabs come. Men and women between 1948 and 1970 serving in the military have experienced the things Senator Obama is dealing with I think we would be better served to applaud his efforts than cry about what was tossed. Today he is being asked to wear a coat of tin but if he gains the nomination he will need a vest made of iron and a coat of steel to weather the torrential rains and the storms coming his way.
Let me just say I believe Minister Farrakhan knows that and has therefore taken the high road by not endorsing the Senator.Ours is not to show our hands when all we have is a pair our efforts should be to work as hard as we can to help the Senator gain a royal flush. We do that by beating the bush talking and walking and building a solid base in our community that will work to elect not argue the merits of minor points. -
Posted By:
hopeful51 at 02/29/2008 10:22:39 PM
Comment:
What a great article. I wish all of America could read this article. Maybe one day as our country evolves, we will all fill this way. Hopeful51 -
Posted By:
eminka at 02/29/2008 10:21:33 PM
Comment:
In all fairness though, because of the link between Obama's pastor Jeremiah Wright and Farrakhan the question had to be asked. Maybe the debate was not the right forum for that but it would have lingered in the mind of white america. I am glad at least that this has been cleared up right now and not during the national election when the Republican smear machine could turn it into much worse. -
Posted By:
Obama Is Muslim at 02/29/2008 8:13:53 PM
Comment:
Too bad they are associated with Mr. FaraCANT. They (Black Leaders) seemingly are more concerned with seeking his support compared to denouncing that hate mongering racist want to be muslim trailer park trash looser. Osama is just as evil as Mr. FarraCANT. Wake up White America before it is too damn late! -
Posted By:
bdm41 at 02/29/2008 8:02:26 PM
Comment:
Don Imus apologized.-
Posted By:
wallst64 at 03/01/2008 3:31:11 PM
Comment:
Of course Don Imus apologized. If I was trying to save my million dollar job, I'd say what you want also. The truth is, Imus is living in his own world, and that world is filled with sexist and racist tendencies. There are many more closet racists out there and that's ashamed in the year 2008. If America does not come together, our enemies will eventually take us down. -
Posted By:
wallst64 at 03/01/2008 3:28:43 PM
Comment:
Of course Don Imus apologized. If I was trying to save my million dollar job, I'd say what you want also. The truth is, Imus is living in his own world, and that world is filled with sexist and racist tendencies. There are many more closet racists out there and that's ashamed in the year 2008. If America does not come together, our enemies will eventually take us down.
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Posted By:
willanilla at 02/29/2008 7:58:15 PM
Comment:
If you stand there and tell me to say something and I do as you say, that very moment I become a puppet. I prefer to chose my own words, and I have no problem doing so. If I feel the need to denounce someone then I will. I'm not known for holding my tongue. But I won't denounce anyone or anything if I feel that I am being put on the spot. Even if the words that I am told to speak truely reflect my point of view, I still won't recite the script. I'll stand mute or I'll voice my aggrivation with being told what to say. -
Posted By:
multiple1 at 02/29/2008 7:46:05 PM
Comment:
IT IS TOTALLY RIDICULOUS, THAT BLACKS ALWAYS PLATING THE ROLL OF VICTIMS.
STOP FILLING SORRY FOR YOUR SELVES.
OR IS IT THAT YOU CONSIDERED YOUR SELVES FROM OTHER PLANET.
GOD CREATED ALL OF US EQUAL.
SOME OF US ARE AGLY OTHER A LITTLE BETTER, SOME GOOD LOOKING,
SOME HAVE TAKEN THEIR DESTINY DIFERNTLY.
SOME PEOPLE USE THEIR LIFE TO DISTROY AND HURT OTHERS.
BLACKS STOP COMPLAINING WE ALL GOD???S CREATION -
Posted By:
multiple1 at 02/29/2008 7:43:02 PM
Comment:
IT IS TOTALLY RIDICULOUS, THAT BLACKS ALWAYS PLATING THE ROLL OF VICTIMS.
STOP FILLING SORRY FOR YOUR SELVES.
OR IS IT THAT YOU CONSIDERED YOUR SELVES FROM OTHER PLANET.
GOD CREATED ALL OF US EQUAL.
SOME HAVE TAKEN THEIR DESTINY DIFERNTLY.
SOME PEOPLE USE THEIR LIFE TO DISTROY AND HURT OTHERS.
BLACKS STOP COMPLAINING WE ALL GOD???S CREATION. -
Posted By:
1nine at 02/29/2008 3:04:01 PM
Comment:
When considering the role of Louis, you need to choose whether to acknowledge him as a significantly influential black leader (if not now then in the past) OR just crazy man with insignificant power and influence. David Duke and the guy from the radio (I can't even remember his name he's so insignificant) would never be able to get one million people to a meeting. It is because of Farrakhan's success in doing so that causes the media to pay attention to him. The fact that questions regarding Farrahkan are frequently directed toward other black leaders (rather than whites) seems simply to be a result of an assumption that one black person may have a slightly more invested interest in the actions of another black person/black community/ or anything else black-oriented. I do not claim to say that this assumption is accurate, but it IS supported when websites are created that claim to emphasis the black experience/news verse the general news and events. I think there is a connection between Obama being questioned about Farrakhan and media sources like theroot.com, BET, etc. -
Posted By:
rebeccawalker at 02/29/2008 2:53:44 PM
Comment:
Great piece! -
Posted By:
JT1029 at 02/28/2008 5:02:53 PM
Comment:
It is very interesting that the sixth and seventh paragraphs of this op-ed are the lead in today's Rosner's Blog, the Chief US Correspondent for the Israeli daily newspaper, Haaretz (www.haaretz.com/rosner) under the title of "Get rid of the Farrakhan test".
Be sure to read the over 200 responses to the blog, of which many refer directly to the two paragraphs.
Then read: "A promise no Jewish liberal can ignore" and the almost 135 responses to that thread. -
Posted By:
jbroot at 02/28/2008 4:22:27 PM
Comment:
This is one of the most effective, poignant, and insightful editorials that I have read this year. It is sad, that in 2008, the general public still believes that African Americans have one way of thinking and that one outspoken, controversial voice can influence and dictate the ideology all Black Folk. Until these racist thinkers and journalists can accept different opinions without feeling threatened or intimidated by them there can never be equality in the American press. -
Posted By:
tikkun at 02/28/2008 12:47:03 PM
Comment:
The problem with Farrakhan signifying what whites don???t want to tolerate is both more complex than understand and, I think, could have been put more sharply than the way you put it. At one time the relationship that many white people had with black people was one made possible by television. It provided the most direct access to Farrakhan. And what it showed more often than not was that black people held sympathies for his views. You didn???t see black people denigrating Farrahkan. Instead, you saw Farrahkan speaking and black people clapping. Television also happened to be the medium that white people were able to see everyday black people in mass numbers. Was that sympathy for Farrakhan purely a function of the media? Probably not. But neither was the media fair in depicting all the different views black people held with regard to Farrakhan.
With that said, you're absolutely right to suggest that there's a very problematic and unwittingly racist undercurrent that resides within the disconnect between what white political leaders are held to account for and what black political leaders are held to account for. From my perspective, white people are now in a process of working out their racist issues of what it will mean to have a black leader represent the whole of the country. Black people must process what it means for whites to vote for a black candidate. While black people have almost always been forced to vote for a white president, now whites are opting to vote for someone many blacks thought very few whites would want to lead the country. That whites were responsible for years of slavery and oppression, and I think feel a degree of alienation because of it, just makes that moment all the more interesting for whites and blacks alike.
Most revealing is what you say about Farrahkan. Man, you don't get the half of it. And perhaps this is part of the problem. Your own denouncement of Farrakhan speaks only of racism. That's just the tip of the iceberg. While watching a documentary on Mike Tyson the other day on You Tube, I came across a press-conference of sorts that Farrkhan gave in the heat of the rape charges (see below for link). The rhetoric is crazy and illustrates just how awful the guy is. This is probably the heyday of Farrakhan sympathy and popularity, but with it, a very low moment in what it means to support such strange thinking... It wasn't Mike's fault, just look at the circumstances, Mike was just doing his thing. GIVE ME A BREAK! The people laughing next to him make me sick! -
Posted By:
obie1974 at 02/28/2008 12:30:58 PM
Comment:
Being from Chicago I can remember that in 1984 when certain white reporters tried to make Harold Washington denounce Minister Farrakhan. He refused to do saying that he was tired of white politicians trying to make every black politician denounce Minister Farrakhanwere while they failed to ask white politicians to denounce people like David Duke.
With respect to Dr. Wright, Schusterfluke should contact Trinity Church of God in Chicago and request a cd of one of Dr. Wright's sermons he would find that Dr. Wright's mesdsage is love for all God's children. -
Posted By:
JayDub at 02/28/2008 12:10:56 PM
Comment:
Martin Luther King said he looked forward to the day when people would be judged by the content of their character and not the color of their skin. White people agreeing to live by this creed do not want to be partners with those who make their own special exceptions. Hatred is hatred, whether coming from a black man or a white man. That's the meaning of what MLK said. There is no color exemption. Farrakhan has shown himself to be a anti-white and anti-Jewish bigot. If Hillary Clinton were endorsed by the KKK, I would likewise expect her to vigorously denounce that. -
Posted By:
Tristan714 at 02/28/2008 12:10:47 PM
Comment:
How come we have never scrutinized the Bush's relationship with the Bin Laden family the way many prominent African American leaders are scrutinized for having a real or imagined relationship with Farrakhan? If the Bush's have been under the microscope I must have missed that. -
Posted By:
dr spaceman at 02/28/2008 10:29:15 AM
Comment:
Ms. Valbrun,
Though not a follower of his, I have listened to all of the lectures Minister Farrakhan has given which are always MISQUOTED in an attempt to prove, as you so tiringly wrote, that he is an "anti-semite." Nothing I have ever heard from him suggests that he is an anti-semitic. And the fact thay you wrote, "had he criticized Black Baptists in the same way..." tells me that you haven't listened to him much yourself. Form your own opinions much?
By the way, should you decide to be honest with yourself and actually listen to an entire Farrakhan speech -- one of the so-called anti-semitic ones -- do yourself a further favor and look up the word "semite" in a good dictionary. From what you wrote, you apparently don't have a clear understanding of WHO or what a "semite" is, so you shouldn't be so sure that you can recognize an anti-semite.
KGC -
Posted By:
gpierce at 02/28/2008 7:59:38 AM
Comment:
What's the difference between asking prominent black leaders to dis Farrakhan, and asking Islamic religious leaders to dis radicals? Just because Farrakhan has more followers doesn't make him right, though one could argue that in a democracy that numbers make right...and got Hitler elected.... -
Posted By:
LJ21983 at 02/28/2008 4:19:36 AM
Comment:
I agree with PlanetaryEulogy, the comparison you make here is not valid. Think of the Don Imus debacle, several prominent white leaders certainly felt the pressure there to repudiate Imus's offensive comments because he is mainstream. Obviously Farrakhan is not as mainstream as black leaders such as the Revs. Sharpton and Jackson, but he is no fringe extremist like vocal white supremacists are. Also, realistically speaking, Obama will need the Jewish vote if he wants to win an important state like Florida, so he does well to distance himself from Farrakhan. -
Posted By:
gpierce at 02/28/2008 2:17:13 AM
Comment:
What's the difference between asking prominent black leaders to denounce Farrakhan, and asking Islamic religious leaders to denounce radicals? It's not saying that Farrakhan is unable to have his own ideas, just that if he's idiotic enough to couch them in a way that offends almost everybody, he's got to put up with the consequences of offending everybody. Same as I do. You wouldn't dream of putting an Islamic candidate who didn't outright condemn Hezbollah on the ballot, would you?
Just because Farrakhan has more followers doesn't make him right, though one could argue that in a democracy that numbers make right...and got Hitler elected.... -
Posted By:
deangelo starnes at 02/28/2008 12:06:31 AM
Comment:
I get so tired of this belief that Farrakhan needs to be repudiated. I'm not repudiating Farrakhan, Sharpton, or Jesse. Especially not over old news.
And I really get tired of people applauding such a repudiation.
Because I the question says more about the questioner than the person to whom the question is directed.
Rather than applauding the answer, we should stop the question. Or better yet, stop the question.
Because it's a distraction.
Nevertheless, I think folks are giving Barack too much credit for his answer. Because to me it was a sophisticated non-repudiation to a non-issue. Which I applaud. -
Posted By:
raynan5 at 02/27/2008 11:47:21 PM
Comment:
Marjorie: You DO NOT GET IT. Why does Obama belong to a Church who espouses and honors Farakhan? Aren't there other churches he can belong to? Isn't there a problem when Obama belongs to a church that praises and honors Farakhan? If there were a white candidate who belonged to a church that honored and praised David Duke, I can assure that he would not get a free pass with the press. It was not so long ago that the US Senate would not even consider a candidate for the Supreme Court who belonged to a social club that denied membership to Blacks. It's called a 'Level Playing Field'. You should read the Jewish Telegraphic Agency transcript of the interview with Obama. He just doesn't get it when it comes to racism against Jews. Yes, many of his 'best friends' are Jews, so long as they tolerate his association with a racist church.
Other comparisons to Falwell and obertson are not correct. There are Black members of these churches. I'e never seen a white person at a Farakhan rally (other than to witness racism), -
Posted By:
deangelo starnes at 02/27/2008 11:39:33 PM
Comment:
Amen, my sista. This is the kind of editorial that's missing on mainstream (read: white) media. I was pissed about that question because it was a set-up.
But the point is why do we need to repudiate Farrakhan? Why is that a litmus test?
Doesn't that say more about the questioner and the question than it does of the person asked the question - regardless of answer?
I'm not going to repudiate Farrakhan. I'm not going to repudiate Sharpton or Jesse. F**k that! -
Posted By:
Mecca4BA at 02/27/2008 11:23:29 PM
Comment:
ALL I have to say is the following:
September 1st through 8th 2001. -
Posted By:
Mecca4BA at 02/27/2008 11:21:51 PM
Comment:
ALL I have to say is this:
September 1st through 8th 2001... South Africa -
Posted By:
Seditious at 02/27/2008 11:01:08 PM
Comment:
When will white people stop being called to account for the deeds and words of other whites? -
Posted By:
2Cool4school at 02/27/2008 9:31:07 PM
Comment:
I am astounded by the utterly unselfconscious stupidity of the self-hating Jews like Adolbe and bellacohen(particularly pleased by his answer?Please!)who bend over backwards to rationalize his wilingness to respect and follow a preacher who respects and follows Farrakhan. In fact Obama went to great semantics pains to avoid directly saying that Farrakhan makes him sick to his stomach.What is it with us Jews...Do you believe a single Balck person would actually write in to support a white candidate who was close to a preacher who was close to the KKK?I am disgusted. -
Posted By:
MayaMolly at 02/27/2008 9:16:41 PM
Comment:
I think you're missing the point about Obama's connection to Farrakhan. It's more than simply the superficial connection between the color of their skin-- and, frankly, Obama has experienced very little of the American black experience, so he could hardly be expected to serve as a proxy for all black people. Rather, Obama chooses to attend a church which has not only publicly issued some borderline anti-Semitic propaganda itself, but which has publicly honored Farrakhan. There's a big difference between not lining up (unasked) to condemn Imus and deliberately honoring (also unasked) an agent of hatred like Farrakhan! -
Posted By:
jabberwackie at 02/27/2008 9:05:11 PM
Comment:
I am a white man who voted for Nader in 2000 and 2004 and I have become an Obama supporter first because he was against the Iraq war from jump street and second because he seems to be making people wake up to the fact that if we want change WE have to be the ones to do something about it. I don't care who else supports or endorses Mr. Obama. I will continue to judge him by HIS words and HIS deeds. He has my vote and my wife's vote and the vote of my three voting age daughters! -
Posted By:
isabvella at 02/27/2008 9:03:47 PM
Comment:
I agree with you but I see something else. 1. I Ibelieve his loyalty is being tested. Is he willing to sacrifce a person of his race to prove how loyal he is to the white community? 2. Is he being asked to bow down to the white community
and say, "Yessum." Is that the test he has to pass? By the way, I support
Israel and Farrakhan is not Obama. -
Posted By:
isabvella at 02/27/2008 8:35:58 PM
Comment:
Let's put them in the gladiator pit. When Tim Russert asks, " Do you denounce Farrakhan? Obama takes a cue from the fair audience (holding thumbs down )and reject, denounces, condemns, convicts,slaps, kicks, smites, him. Would that make you happy? What else do you want? -
Posted By:
cmyhtrod at 02/27/2008 8:34:17 PM
Comment:
Farrakhan, Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton have done more to create racism than they have to eliminate racism. Every time there is some "racial issue" that comes up, you can bet that Jackson and Sharpton will be there stirring the pot. Farrakhan hides behind the lecturn and uses words of hate and distrust. It is surprising that so many whites are following Obama given his relationship with Farrakhan.-
Posted By:
wallst64 at 03/01/2008 4:03:57 PM
Comment:
You and your statements are part of the problem. You have half the story, but want to comment as if you words represent the total truth. If you really want to understand why Jessie and Al and others speak out, then do some research. A lot of us live through our own experiences and thoughts. Jessie Jackson, Al Sharpton and others marched with Martin Luther King when it wasn't popular to do so. In the 60's and 70's, it was these men that visited my school to talk to the youth and encourage them to stay in school... and also to take responsibility for my actions. You say Jesse, Al and others only speak out when racial issues come up...but have you ever wondered why those racial issues keep coming up. It is the year 2008. These guys have been speaking out for almost 50 years. To speak out against oppression in the past was dangerous. Black leaders risked being beaten, arrested or even killed. Because of that, many would not speak out. these guys spoke out when no one else would. Are you going to speak out when someone is being discriminated against. ...or are you going to be part of the problem and just spread your ignorance. Do a little research and don't just except what you hear. Take a class. If you don't care, then realize the problem will continue until we're all educated about each others history. If you take this with an open mind, we have hope. If you're turning red, I rest my case.
-
-
Posted By:
thrasher at 02/27/2008 8:19:38 PM
Comment:
White jewish leaders were never forced to denouce Ed Koch for his racism against David Dinkins. White leaders were never forced to reject Strom Thurman or Jesse Helms. I wish Obama would have stopped Russert in his game but he did not and that is troubling.. -
Posted By:
island7mom at 02/27/2008 8:15:00 PM
Comment:
Thank you for this article! It is definately well written, thought out and researched without seeming to attack like so many journalists these days! I'm thankful also, that you have the guts to speak against the "crowd" and point out the facts about Farrakhan! Being racist damages future generations and creates generations of children who have a twisted view of other races!!! Didn't we learn our lessons from the past mistakes of our ancestors?? I know from personal experience having been raised around a Reservation about hateful prejudice and racism!! It needs to stop! -
Posted By:
Rinny at 02/27/2008 8:10:07 PM
Comment:
Very good argument. However, I would go even farther and say that black people should stop calling highly public black social activists 'black leaders.' I don't need someone to represent me as a black person, or speak on behalf of my experiences as a black American, and neither did I elect any of these figures to do so. -
Posted By:
Grieves_1001 at 02/27/2008 7:58:53 PM
Comment:
Obama's "inspiration", Jeremiah Wright has lauded Farrakhan. So Obama not only needs to be disgusted by Farrakhan in fact, but he needs to be seen as doing so as well. This is obvious.
But I do agree with the author that we should be calling for Farrakhan's head. He, and anyone who apologizes him, is a vile, racist monster. This is also obvious. -
Posted By:
Rinny at 02/27/2008 7:54:01 PM
Comment:
Very good argument. However, I would go even farther and say that black people should stop calling highly public black social activists 'black leaders.' I don't need someone to represent me as a black person, or speak on behalf of my experiences as a black American, and neither did I elect any of these figures to do so. -
Posted By:
peg at 02/27/2008 7:16:26 PM
Comment:
I agree that all Black people are not responsible for Farrakhan any more than all White people are responsible for David Duke. But if I were a White politician and, for twenty years, belonged to a church whose pastor and my spiritual advisor, went to visit Adolph Hitler in the company of David Duke and then whose magazine gave David Duke a Great Humanitarian Award, yeah -- I think I should be held accountable. And if I were a Black politician who, for twenty years, belonged to a church whose pastor and my spiritual advisor, went to visit Qadaffi (in violation of the then-law prohibiting travel to Algeria) in the company of Louis Farrakhan and whose magazine later gave Farrakhan a Great Humanitarian Award, yeah -- I think, at the very least, I should answer a question about why -- in 20 years -- I never raised the issue.
Peg Kay -
Posted By:
raalomin at 02/27/2008 7:15:52 PM
Comment:
The "Judaism is a gutter religion" comment is carved in stone, as far as journalists and politicians are concerned. Governor Bush would be surprised to learn that the quote of June 24, 1984, when Farrakhan returned from a trip to Libya, never mentioned "Judaism" at all and did not use the word "gutter." He used the term "dirty religion" as he had in other speeches regarding Christians and Muslims who commit injustices behind the shield of their religion, thus making it dirty. This is from the website of the NOI???s newspaper, Final Call: "Minister Farrakhan regularly teaches that ???Muslim sheiks who live in opulence [from the riches of oil] when their people live in squalor are practicing a dirty religion.??? Christians that give the poor a Bible and then exploit their faith and take their natural resources, in the name of God, have dirtied that religion. Television evangelists who thrive off of the faith of the gullible and ignorant, have dirtied the religion."
The exact 1984 quote was this: "...America and England and the nations backed Israel's existence. Therefore when you aid and abet someone in a criminal conspiracy, you are a part of that criminal conspiracy. So America and England and the nations are criminals in the sight of almighty God. Now, that nation of Israel, never has had any peace in forty years and she will never have any peace because there can never be any peace structured on injustice, thievery, lying and deceit and using the name of God to shield your dirty religion under His holy and righteous name."
Is Farrakhan saying there should be no state of Israel? No, Jack. He is not a "Zionist," but he has repeatedly said that only the injustice toward the Palestinians need be removed, with a Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel. You are aware, Jack, that Farrakhan has recently struck up an association with a group of fundamentalist rabbis from Brooklyn who are not Zionists. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which has led the charge against the Nation of Islam over the last 16 years, has actually criticized Farrakhan for meeting with these rabbis as if he can only be considered "pro-Semitic" if he is accepted by the right kind of Jews -
Posted By:
raalomin at 02/27/2008 7:15:12 PM
Comment:
The "Judaism is a gutter religion" comment is carved in stone, as far as journalists and politicians are concerned. Governor Bush would be surprised to learn that the quote of June 24, 1984, when Farrakhan returned from a trip to Libya, never mentioned "Judaism" at all and did not use the word "gutter." He used the term "dirty religion" as he had in other speeches regarding Christians and Muslims who commit injustices behind the shield of their religion, thus making it dirty. This is from the website of the NOI???s newspaper, Final Call: "Minister Farrakhan regularly teaches that ???Muslim sheiks who live in opulence [from the riches of oil] when their people live in squalor are practicing a dirty religion.??? Christians that give the poor a Bible and then exploit their faith and take their natural resources, in the name of God, have dirtied that religion. Television evangelists who thrive off of the faith of the gullible and ignorant, have dirtied the religion."
The exact 1984 quote was this: "...America and England and the nations backed Israel's existence. Therefore when you aid and abet someone in a criminal conspiracy, you are a part of that criminal conspiracy. So America and England and the nations are criminals in the sight of almighty God. Now, that nation of Israel, never has had any peace in forty years and she will never have any peace because there can never be any peace structured on injustice, thievery, lying and deceit and using the name of God to shield your dirty religion under His holy and righteous name."
Is Farrakhan saying there should be no state of Israel? No, Jack. He is not a "Zionist," but he has repeatedly said that only the injustice toward the Palestinians need be removed, with a Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel. You are aware, Jack, that Farrakhan has recently struck up an association with a group of fundamentalist rabbis from Brooklyn who are not Zionists. The Anti-Defamation League (ADL), which has led the charge against the Nation of Islam over the last 16 years, has actually criticized Farrakhan for meeting with these rabbis as if he can only be considered "pro-Semitic" if he is accepted by the right kind of Jews -
Posted By:
Good Negra at 02/27/2008 6:19:07 PM
Comment:
It saddens me that Farrakhan is continually labeled as an antisemite. I have heard several speeches over the last 10 years where he has explained his comments and reached out to the Jewish community. Despite everything be says and does, he is continued to be labeled as a "hater". Most of these comments that are continually brought up happened nearly 20 years ago. Farrakhan is not a hater and is in a respecter of jewish people and the jewish religion. Does anyone remember that Farrakhan organized the Million Man March? More importantly, how many of you have ever listened to one of his speeches in his entirety and not just media soundbites? Ms. Valbrun, have you ever heard Farrakhan for yourself? It is sad that people like yourself refer to Farrakhan in this manner as a "matter of fact" without doing your research. Btw, I am not a muslim and am not affiliated with Farrakhan's group in any way. I simply am a person who decided to do my research and hear him for myself and found most of his comments to be criticial of African Amricans and continually challenges them to pull themselves up and not look for whites and others to bring them out of their condition. I have never heard or witnessed any talk of "hate". -
Posted By:
glimdrip at 02/27/2008 6:10:28 PM
Comment:
This is a political campaign. I want to know what the candidates think about, who endorses them and why and why the candidate and his supporters want to keep me (and others) from inquiring. Something to hide? Going up an alley you don't think is going to look too good?
I would like to know about his other supporters too. Bill Ayers and Bernadine Dohrn, Tony Rezko and the funny way Obama seems to have gotten his seat in the Illinois Senate. Obamas ambition and what he thinks it is for. You know things like that. "Litmus tests" are what people who are defending repugnant and indefensible positions call anyone asking fundamental questions. THose who stand in the way of these inquiries have opened themselves up to question. Does the writer think that there are things we shouldn't know and shouldn't ask? Think about that. -
Posted By:
Good Negra at 02/27/2008 6:05:15 PM
Comment:
I am neither a muslim or member of the Nation of Islam and have no stake in defending Minster Farrakhan. However, I find it disheartening to see Farrakhan continued to be labeled as an antisemite and enemy of Jews. I have had the opportunity to listen to several of Farrakhan's speeches over the years and time and time again, I have heard him continually say that he is a respecter of the jewish people and the jewish faith. He has also explained his past comments (which occurred nearly 20 years ago) and has reached out to the jewish community. People forget he was the organizer of the Million Man March and the "Stop the Violence" series. I believe OBama and other black leaders actually have much respect for Farrakhan. It is sad that Farrakhan has to be thrown under the bus for black leadership to be acceptable to whites. No matter what positives are said or done, Farrakhan still is labeled a hater. Majorie, have actually listened to Farrakhan in his entirety and not a soundbite? -
Posted By:
ss at 02/27/2008 6:00:02 PM
Comment:
Obama is not a black leader. He is a politician, a senator, representing a majority-white state, who happens to be black. His is not a platform of black nationalism, or black anything. His is a democratic platform. The reason that Obama had to answer this question is not because of him but because of his pastor, who _is_ a black leader and apparently a supporter of Farrakhan.
I, for one, as a white really do not care about Farrakhan's support of Obama, in fact that seems to be a good thing, meaning that as a president he would not be getting as much resistance from that part of the black leadership. I completely trust Obama on the issue of anti-semitism because his denouncement of it fits so perfectly with the rest of his platform.
As to whether Russert should have asked the question, yeah, I do think the debate time could have been used more wisely discussing some more relevant issue such as what their plans for Pakistan, or North Korea, or Iran are, but I'm not surprised at it after the types of questions he asked at the debate right after the Bill Clinton brouhaha. -
Posted By:
glrichards at 02/27/2008 5:53:33 PM
Comment:
YOU HAVE SPOKEN ,WRITTEN, THIS ARTICLE WITH UTMOST GRACE. AS YOUNG CHILDREN WE WERE TAUGHT AND BELIEVED THAT EACH OF US ARE AMBASSADORS AND IT WAS AND IS A STRESSFUL BURDEN. WE ARE NEVER FREE NOR WILL BE IN THE LAND OF THE FREE AND HOME OF THE BRAVE. -
Posted By:
PlanetaryEulogy