Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Response to Kenny Eng...

So for my third and FINAL post regarding Kenny Eng, I am responding to his article. Perhaps he, or someone like him, will see this and realize these are crazy "reasons" to hate anyone. Even if they were true, I cannot imagine how they would drive one to *hate* an entire race of people. Given that he's angry over the treatment of Asians, I would definitely expect him to have a better understanding of African-Americans. I mean the guy is Mr. Science and all, so shouldn't his analytical skills be a little better than this?! I would expect an irrefutable article from "Kenny the God".

"Here is a list of reasons why we should discriminate against blacks, starting from the most obvious down to the least obvious"

Did someone request this list? That's my first thought and I definitely feel an equal level of contempt towards AsianWeek for publishing this mess and claiming it was a "mistake." But, seriously, who sits down and writes a list like this? It brings me back to grade school when, so desperate to fit in, we created reasons to dislike someone and spent too much time hating. As an adult, I realize hating is a personal problem.

"Blacks hate us. Every Asian who has ever come across them knows that they take almost every opportunity to hurl racist remarks at us."

Do they really? It's amazing that he is able to speak for an entire race of people. Amazing. Has he considered the possibility that his views are common within HIS race, and subsequently, Blacks react in turn? My husband and I do pretty good financially, but the Beauty Supply owners still sweat me like I need to steal barrettes and grease! They start off with an attitude and speak to me like I'm beneath them. I take it in stride because I am used to these types of interactions. Growing up, I got the message that Asians were superior mentally and thus more "acceptable" than Blacks. All the while, African-Americans have provided countless inventions and discoveries to our society. AND, I was an African-American student who always tested in the top 5%. But, I still refused to retaliate with hatred.

There is a longstanding history of issues between Blacks and Asians. I will not claim to know the origin of these problems, but I know they exist. Part of me thinks it comes from the stereotypes Blacks have fought for hundreds of years. As I have seen/heard similar sentiments from various foreigners. Even my African friends have bought into the negative images of Black America. So, in hopes of making it here, they chose to distance themselves from the unseemly Black folks. Just like the Asian kids I grew up with.

"In my experience, I would say about 90 percent of blacks I have met, regardless of age or environment, poke fun at the very sight of an Asian."

First, he hasn't met many Black people. Second, is this a Black problem? Or is it a problem stemming from America's history of White Rule? Now, I'm not saying that to push everything on Whites. But, I am saying our country's history still impacts how ALL minorities are viewed and treated. He mentions Rush Hour and Exit Wounds, but who wrote and directed those movies? Not a Black man. What company put those films out? Not a Black one. It would make more sense to bond together and fight those stereotypes than to promote them.

"Contrary to media depictions, I would argue that blacks are weak-willed. They are the only race that has been enslaved for 300 years. It's unbelievable that it took them that long to fight back. On the other hand, we slaughtered the Russians in the Japanese-Russo War."

I don't know where to start here. Let's start with the facts. After the Native American population dwindled, settlers needed someone else to do their work for free. So in 1503, the first African Slaves arrived. They were chattel slaves; which means they were 100% owned by someone else. For 352 years, millions of Africans and African-Americans were forced to build this country, for free, in the worst imaginable conditions. For 352 years, this was all LEGAL.

Following the "emancipation" of slaves, we then had over 100 years of LEGAL discrimination meant to hold us back and prevent growth. Here we were with no defined identity (losing your entire culture can do that), no financial history to build upon and nothing that encouraged a positive self-image. Yet, we are weak-willed for not ending slavery? No, we are STRONG willed for enduring it and having the courage to stand up for ourselves and demand change. We have fought an impossible battle for many years and I am proud of that history.

Do your homework Kenny; we've been fighting back forever! But, we were outnumbered and outgunned. We were in a land where we did not know the language and were forced into illiteracy and inferiority. But, in case you still need proof here's why we are strong: we did the work no one else would/could do, we are alive and kicking after 500+ years of slavery (tangible and institutionalized), Nat Turner, Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X….need I go on?

"Blacks are easy to coerce. This is proven by the fact that so many of them, including Reverend Al Sharpton, tend to be Christians. Yet, at the same time, they spend much of their time whining about how much they hate "the whites that oppressed them. Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't Christianity the religion that the whites forced upon them?"

Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't most Asian countries ruled by communism, monarchies and/or dictators? Aren't those same countries known for their interfering governments? Now I don't mean that as a low blow, but…

Had it not been for Christianity, and the belief that there is a greater power out there, I wonder if African-Americans would still exist. True, this religion was "given" to us with our new identity. But, Christianity predates the slave owners who "forced" it on us. So, if something helped us survive, and became a positive and integral part of our new culture, I ask where the problem is?

"Blacks don't get it. I know it's a blunt and crass comment, but it's true. When I was in high school, I recall a class debate in which one half of the class was chosen to defend black slavery and the other half was chosen to defend liberation. Disturbingly, blacks on the prior side viciously defended slavery as well as Christianity. They say if you don't study history, you're condemned to repeat it."

So the class assignment was to debate slavery right? The Black kids, who were pretending to be pro-slavery, did a good job. Where's the problem here? It's very likely those students knew more about slavery than he did. With the limited history we receive in public schools, I think that's a GREAT thing. It shows someone's parents were giving them our history. Kenny's examples showed Black students who knew their history and were able to articulate a clear argument. I do not get his far-reaching conclusion.

"In high school, I only remember one black student ever attending any of my honors and AP courses. And that student was caught cheating."

I attended a Gifted Center from 3-8th grade and honors/AP courses after that. I grew up in a mostly white county, but, over the years, I still encountered more than a few Blacks! Where the hell did he grow up? I will not say I never cheated. That was a common part of the honors culture. Bright, driven kids will always try to outsmart authority and maintain perfection. But, unlike many counterparts, I was never caught ;)

"It is rather troubling that they are treated as heroes, but then again, whites will do anything to defend them."

When are we treated as heroes? When are whites doing ANYTHING to defend us? Sorry, he lost me with that one.

Why I hate Kenneth Eng

First things first, I do not actually *hate* anyone. It's just not in me to have that much contempt for another human being. I may dislike what some people or even groups of people do or imply, but it's just not in me to hate.

That being said, here's a few reasons I dislike Kenneth Eng:

• He's a young idiot. I think the guy is 22-23 years old. Yet he thinks he's wise enough to make assessments on everything from the state of Black America to Christianity. Most of his comments are far-fetched and wrong. I will address yesterday's article specifically, but this guy has written a bunch of nonsense. Wily Filipino has a great write-up on his previous works. He's sadly hilarious.

• His articles are based on unfounded theories and lack any historical backup. For example, he says most religious folk are dumb and/or poor. Given that the majority of our country are believers, I find that hard to believe. I'm starting to think he says inflammatory stuff just to say it. But, as noted in my first bullet, that's a trait of being young and dumb. I'm just getting over "diarrhea of the mouth." You need experience and maturity to cure it.

• He's not a great writer! I saw quite a few things he has written and I am far from impressed. He thinks he's an authority on everything but he's an authority on nothing! See his Amazon.com blog for the real "jewels." The guy calls himself "God" and brags about being the "youngest science fiction writer" ever. Pure comedy.

• By writing these articles and blogs, he is encouraging a society of bias and discrimination. Yet, he bemoans Blacks, and others, for their discrimination against Asians. What an idiot!

Okay, I could go on and on belittling this guy but I'd rather answer his article….I'll be back shortly….

Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Why I hate Blacks...

AsianWeek, a San-Francisco, CA based newspaper, published an article titled Why I Hate Blacks. The article was written by Kenneth Eng. A quick google shows he's written ridiculous crap before. I don't know what to say to this. I just read it and am speechless for now.

I hate to give this guy attention but...wow...


Why I Hate Blacks
Kenneth Eng, Feb 23, 2007

Here is a list of reasons why we should discriminate against blacks, starting from the most obvious down to the least obvious:

• Blacks hate us. Every Asian who has ever come across them knows that they take almost every opportunity to hurl racist remarks at us.

• In my experience, I would say about 90 percent of blacks I have met, regardless of age or environment, poke fun at the very sight of an Asian. Furthermore, their activity in the media proves their hatred: Rush Hour, Exit Wounds, Hot 97, etc.

• Contrary to media depictions, I would argue that blacks are weak-willed. They are the only race that has been enslaved for 300 years. It's unbelievable that it took them that long to fight back. On the other hand, we slaughtered the Russians in the Japanese-Russo War.

• Blacks are easy to coerce. This is proven by the fact that so many of them, including Reverend Al Sharpton, tend to be Christians. Yet, at the same time, they spend much of their time whining about how much they hate "the whites that oppressed them." Correct me if I'm wrong, but wasn't Christianity the religion that the whites forced upon them?

• Blacks don't get it. I know it's a blunt and crass comment, but it's true. When I was in high school, I recall a class debate in which one half of the class was chosen to defend black slavery and the other half was chosen to defend liberation. Disturbingly, blacks on the prior side viciously defended slavery as well as Christianity. They say if you don't study history, you're condemned to repeat it.

• In high school, I only remember one black student ever attending any of my honors and AP courses. And that student was caught cheating.

• It is rather troubling that they are treated as heroes, but then again, whites will do anything to defend them.

There goes my hope...

In today's WP, there is an article which claims being a Mormon or an old smoker would hurt a candidate more than being a woman or minority. We are supposed to be happy, I guess, to see these results. But, here are the issues I have:

We are only a few weeks into the '08 race and nearly every news story revolves around Barack's race and Hillary's gender. Obviously, these things matter. We have yet to see a minority or female run the country. I get it. It's a historic thing. But, in the grand scheme of things, will race or gender affect one's ability to run the country? What our country needs is moderate leadership that brings us together and allows us to tackle the tough issues. While I'm not convinced we are ready for a minority or female prez, doing poll after poll will get us nowhere. We need to get to the nitty gritty and let people see more than the superficially obvious. Barack has yet to pay his Black Tax and Hillary needs to pay her Strong Woman Tax. The only way, to do either, is to allow them to prove themselves BEYOND race and gender. They need us to forget WHAT they are and determine WHO they are. Enough already with the race/gender stuff.

People lie. Yeah, I know it's anonymous. But, if a stranger calls your home and asks you a bunch of sensitive questions, most people will give a PC answer! Even the biggest male chauvinist or racist, knows (usually) that his views are not polite in our (somewhat) civilized society.

If people are willing to discard a guy/gal over smoking cigarettes or being a Mormon, well I think it's safe to say we're all in trouble! I know cigarettes are unhealthy and no, we don't want our prez dying off. But, I'm willing to take a smoker if he has the right answers for our country. Reagan is called one of the greats (haha), and was elected TWICE. He was almost eighty when he left office. Now we know Nancy was basically holding him up and feeding words to him! Okay, on second thought….no old guys. But, to the point, we're focusing on the wrong things….I think ;)

Monday, February 26, 2007

Hillary vs. Barack

No there's no new drama to report...though I'm sure it's brewing in some journalist or staffer's mind. But, in my own mind, there is a battle. Beyond the obvious question (can either win?), I have struggled to form an opinion on the who's the BEST man/woman for the job.

Here's what I know so far:

Hillary is smart, strong, empowering and has some good ideas.

Obama is smart, eloquent, charismatic, inspiring and has good ideals.

I'm currently signed up to help both. So far, this only means tons of emails begging for my money. Hillary is hoping to raise $1 million this week. Supposedly, doing this will make a big statement and be historic according to Madeline Albright's email. I'm not excited.

After a THREE month wait, on my library wish list, my number finally came up for Obama's book. A day later, $40 million slaves was available too. I thought I'd won the lottery! LOL. Honestly, I want to read Rhoden's book first. But, in search of Obama's ideas (vs. ideals), I am reading his book. Like his speeches, it pulls you in and makes you feel good. But, I'm still searching for the ideas beyond a "new" government where everyone works to find an answer. Or maybe, that is the idea? Hmm...

Hopefully, this election will require candidates to actually present IDEAS and not rely on bashing each other or scaring their base into voting. I know only time will tell, but I'm really looking forward to hearing how Obama, Hillary, and all the others differ.

Quick Oscars Bit

Here's a few thoughts I have on last night's show:

Ellen was OKAY. At times, she bounced between too subdued and too talk-showish

Eddie was robbed! I have not seen most of the nominated films. But, I did see Dreamgirls and LMS. If Norbit was the issue, I really wish his people would have planned better. Sadly, I just can't imagine him getting the chance again....but I did hear he's being tapped to play James Brown. This could be a little too much like his Dreamgirls role, but maybe.....

Go JHud! Can't say enough times how much I like this girl! After seeing her golden "Count Dracula" coat, I can't say enough times how much I dislike Andre Leon Talley ;)

Dreamgirls did it!! They were robbed of a best picture nod and, IMO, they showed out last night! All three girls were outstanding. MSN said it was a "worst" moment and asked where Diana Ross was?! Obviously, this writer has no CLUE what it means to SANG! Diana is a wonderful performer, and has many hits to her name, but her voice has nothing on JHud or Beyonce. The author called Diana a true diva. Excuse me?! I always thought a diva had the attitude AND the looks or talent to back it up. Diana has one out of three...you guess which one! LOL.

Is it me or was Bey trying her hardest not to be outsung? She was belting the hell out of Listen. Who was better? Can't call it and not sure that it matters.

I have a new level of respect for Forest Whitaker. Until watching TV One's special, I had never thought of everything he's accomplished in Hollywood as a director and actor. Well deserved Oscar!

Saturday, February 24, 2007

Winners & Losers

So here are this week's winners and losers. I didn't see many contenders for the bamas list so I'm leaving that off. Though www.hotghettomess.com and the hoodrats that showed up in Vegas are making me second guess myself!!



WINNERS

Contenders:
The state of Virginia – On Friday, Virginia legislators agreed to apologize for the state’s role in slavery. They expressed “profound regret” for the Virginia’s history. Not sure what any of this means socially. I’m sure a few southern states are watching this story…

Jennifer Hudson – Yes, again. This week she has remained the number #1 celebrity (well next to crazy Brit and Anna.) From American Idol to Barbara Walters, her name was everywhere. Sunday is expected to be a GREAT day for JHud.

Tameka Foster – Ole girl was caught, by paparazzi, cheating on hubby with lil Usher. At 37, and with three kids, she’s reportedly Usher’s fiancĂ©e now. Started out as his stylist awhile back and now…Well I’ll be…

And the winner is…





TAMEKA FOSTER!!
I just can’t get past the come up she made. SMH


LOSERS

Contenders:
Hip-Hop:
We started the week with news of hip-hop artists involved in fights and pandemonium at the allstars events in Vegas. Mid-week, Paula Zahn, of CNN hosted a special titled “Hip-Hop: Art or Poison?” On Friday, I saw Oscar winning group Three Six Mafia’s new video for “Doe Boy Fresh.” SMH…

Britney Spears: Need I say why?

Anna Nicole Smith: Again, need I say why?


And the loser is…

HIP-HOP AND BRITNEY SPEARS
I’m done with the Anna Story! But I can’t pick between hip-hop and Britney. I was rooting for her and hoped she was just young and in pain from her upcoming divorce. But then she went and did this….





And this…






WOW. I really feel for her and her children. I don’t usually care about most of these celebrity stories but…WOW. I am in no position to judge her because I cannot imagine what life is like from inside a fishbowl. But, something is amiss.

Hip-Hop….my love. I used to love you like Common. Back when it took months to *get* the lyrics. Back when the women were classy and empowering. But, these days, I’m falling out of love. I get occasional butterflies when I hear you but I’m getting more bored and offended by you. Perhaps, I’m aging and no longer understand you. But I think you’re out of control and very immature. You’re manufactured and simple-minded now. We have to admit the negativity you are putting into our communities. We have to acknowledge the double-edged sword that created several Black millionaires but, also, gave fodder for bullcrap like Paula Zahn’s special….



Thursday, February 22, 2007

American Idol News

No need for a lenghty wrap-up of this week's episodes. The top 12 guys and girls performed over the last two days. Here's the only wrap up you need....



You GO LaKisha Jones from Ft. Meade, MD!

But watch out, Melinda Dolittle is not far behind!

Obama/Hil Thowing Bows; Hip-Hop is Poison

So Hillary and Obama are feuding. David Geffen, a former Clinton supporter turned Obama fan, had a lot to say to a NY paper. He accused Bill Clinton of taking away from the party and distracting the entire country. He said no matter how smart or great she is, Hillary is equally polarizing. Now Hillary's folks want Obama to apologize. And Obama, being the cool cucumber that he is, said he cannot apologize for someone else's words.

Bill has been called polarizing over and over again. But, when his second term ended, he had higher approval ratings than any president in history! Key word was ENDED. After Monica, and the various”scandals" Rove dug up, Clinton had high approval ratings. I think it's popular to hate him in public. It makes the speaker appear moral and compassionate. Denouncing a philanderer somehow erases your transgressions.

But, behind closed doors, most of us liked him! *Sigh* I hope they make nice. Joining forces may be their only hope for living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

___________________________________
So Paula Zahn, of CNN, hosted a special on Hip-Hop last night. The title was "Is hip-hop an art or poison?" Based on that alone, I knew there was no point in watching! As a proud child of the hip-hop generation, I know my opinions were different from Paula Zahn's fanbase. Not surprisingly, 53% of her fans think hip-hop is a poison. Since I did not watch, I am not sure what they based this theory on.

But, I did watch BET's The Top 25 moments that (mis)shaped Black America. Landing at number 20 was "Negative Images in Hip-Hop." I couldn't agree more! I definitely think the images we put out there are detrimental to how we are viewed by ourselves and others. I'm still a fan and totally understand "keeping it real," but when booty shaking and gun toting are the MAIN public visual of Black America, everyone is affected. Americans start thinking those images are true for all, or at least most, Black Americans. When we start hollering about street cred and "real" gangstas, we imply a culture defined by violence and thuggery. We imply ignorance and rebellion from knowledge. We imply the Barack Obamas of the world are truly unique for being "articulate" and "clean".

Note to Paula and her fans: Hip-hop is (almost) ALWAYS an art form. And, at the same time, it can be a poison. The two are not necessarily exclusive of each other.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Farewell Chief Illiniwek



Today, we say goodbye to Chief Illiniwek. For over eighty years, he has served as the "symbol" for the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. I take that back, for over eighty years, a non-Native American has painted his face, donned traditional regalia and did an "Indian" dance in front of drunk students and fans.

After years of protests, the NCAA finally gave in and deemed the symbol/mascot/Red-face inappropriate and offensive. They ordered the school to retire Illiniwek or face restrictions and penalties. So, today, we say goodbye to the Chief. Students, professors and fans have a planned walk-out. Talk radio and news programs are all abuzz about the issue. People are debating if the problem is insensitivity or hypersensitivity.

I grew up in the land of Burgundy & Gold. For you non-Washingtonians, this means the land of the Redskins. The 'Skins gave us Doug Williams' historic super bowl win and a stadium that set the bar for stadiums to come. My family is full of die-hard 'Skins fans and I had no choice when picking favorites.

So, naturally, it bothered me when the annual complaints rolled in and folks started calling for a name change. How, after so many years, could they suggest such a thing? Why is this an issue for "them"? What's the big deal? Those were questions I wanted answers to.

Now that I'm older, I totally understand the argument against the 'Skins and all teams that use Native American images as "fun" mascots or symbols. With maturity, I have learned to see the other side of things and have attempted to place myself in someone's shoes before judging. With this issue, I cannot imagine the level of anger and disappointment I would feel if a college or major league team created a team based on ME and my culture. Imagine the Cleveland Browns as the Cleveland Brown-skins. Or the Redskins, in honor of DC's "chocolate city" image, changing their name to the Washington Chocs or Coons. Picture the mascot, maybe a pimp or rapper, coming out at half-time to pop-lock or better yet do a traditional African dance. Immediately, these images/ideas sound ridiculous right? If we replace those names/images for Yellow-skins or any name/image that suggests another minority group, we would all be up in arms. IMMEDIATELY!

So, I ask, why is this any different with Native Americans? Most will say it's all in fun or better yet that we are somehow "honoring" them by creating mascots out of their looks and culture. Imagine that; labeling an entire culture in the same vein as Jaguars, Cougars and Colts is "honoring" them?

I know it's meant in good fun but honestly our prejudice and racism allow these things to happen. Native Americans are conveniently forgotten and regarded as somewhat mythical creatures in our world. They are rarely seen unless we're creating them for mascots or movie roles. I guess it makes some feel better to view them that way. With them conveniently out of sight, we can forget what was done to them.

How much have we really invested in the original Americans?

Last Thanksgiving, my daughter received her first – and possibly last – history lesson on Native Americans. She was so excited to read me the project they put together. On the first page, there was a picture of a settler and a Native American. They were sitting down to a dinner of multi-colored corn. The settler had his Black & White Pilgrim digs and, of course, the Native American had his feathers on. Beneath the picture, it said: "The Settlers made friends with the Indians." This was the only text written. Everything else showed pictures of the settlers and Natives planting seeds and eating. What a huge lie and understatement there!

The Illiniwek people were a group of six tribes that called Illinois home. Due to "friendly" settlers, and our government, they were pushed out and forced to create a new name and home for themselves. The Indian Removal Act, passed in 1830, took them to an Oklahoma reservation, where they became the Peoria Tribe. I am willing to bet many, who say the Chief's "death" is unfair, do not know the history. If they do, and still view their loss as greater, than they are self-centered idiots.

We never gave the Natives any justice or attention in our mainstream society. Yet we freely use their images and culture in "fun". Something is wrong about that. I say "GOOD RIDDANCE" to Chief Illiniwek!

Tuesday, February 20, 2007

Authentic Obama

Eugene Robinson (my favorite writer at the WP) wrote an excellent Op-Ed related to yesterday's post. You can get it here.

When I heard some were questioning Obama's "Blackness", I was forced to relive past feelings and thoughts regarding "Blackness." It reminded me of what I struggled against as a young and gifted African-American born into a family where educational excellence was not the norm. It reminded me of my own days of questioning who and what I was. It also reminded me that we are not yet ready for an African-American president. I wanted it to be true but how can we be when issues like this come up?

I think the media is making a bigger deal out of his Blackness than any Black person I know! Outside of Stanley Crouch and Cornell West, I have yet to hear anyone bring it up. I keep seeing stories questioning his Blackness - and how it is an issue in the Black community - but have yet to hear anyone that really thinks that way. Maybe it's just the people I know or listen to and read, but all are either already on board or wanting to know more about his views. For most "colored" voters, he will not get a free ride because of his race as they intend to make sure he's the "one" before endorsing him. His race is a bonus, but, in our Post-GWB world, issues matter more.

After posting about Barack being "too Black", I decided to ask my mostly-White playgroup how they felt. Most thought the idea of questioning his ethnicity or racial loyalty was ludicrous. But, one response sticks out in my mind. One lady, a native of Chicago, said people need to understand that he lives in Chitown's southside and that's why he attends a Black church. On the surface, this sounds like a logical explanation. But, if we dig deeper, it's the root of the problem. Why does this BLACK man have to explain the why's and what's regarding his church, friends, wife or anything else? Shouldn't the fact that he is, in fact, a Black man be enough? Did our forefathers allow their secret love children to be anything but Black? Are any of us African-Americans 100% Black? As I look around, most of us look much different than our assumed West African ancestors. Who are we to judge him? I think most of us would agree we are in no place to do that. Who is Biden, or anyone else, to say he's an abnormal Black man or question what an entire race feels about it?

Why did we think we were ready?!

In our racially-conscious society, any reminders of his race could be an issue. People like him because he talks about issues relevant to everyone and, sadly, anything that goes against the mainstream could hurt him as people start to question his loyalties. We tend to see things as "us" and "them" issues. To win, he has to walk a fine line and not lean towards either side. That seems impossible!

An article, published in Time magazine, sums this whole thing up well....

Obamania is rooted in the belief that 50 Cent, not Barack Obama, represents the real black America.

Back in the real world, Obama is married to a black woman. He goes to a black church. He's worked with poor people on the South Side of Chicago, and still lives there. That someone given the escape valve of biraciality would choose to be black, would see some beauty in his darker self and still care more about health care and public education than reparations and Confederate flags is just too much for many small-minded racists, both black and white, to comprehend.

Barack Obama's real problem isn't that he's too white — it's that he's too black.

Monday, February 19, 2007

Tucker Carlson is an idiot!

So Tucker Carlson is upset that Barack Obama attends a Black church. Apparently, churches being the most segregated places, in the country, was a newsflash for him?! LONG ago, Martin Luther King, Jr. said "11:00AM, on Sunday, is the most segregated hour". Where has he been? And what is the big deal? The church is not talking about killing off white folks! LOL

Friday, February 16, 2007

Winners, Losers & Bamas of the Week

Well it's Friday! Another work week is over and gone.

Winners

Contenders:
Dixie Chicks for taking home the big prizes on Grammy night
Mary J. Blige for taking home three awards and having the best performances on Grammy night
Dreamgirls

While both Mary and the Dixie Chicks had an awesome week, the prize goes to Dreamgirls. Is JHud not winning every award AND on EVERY cover out there? Just this week, we learned that she's on the cover of:

Vogue – Jennifer is the first African-American singer to ever grace the cover! I believe JHud is only the fourth Black woman, in any field, pictured on the fashion Bible's front page. Go girl! And to think they made Oprah lose weight before she got top billing! I guess when everyone's in your corner, like we are for JHud, there is no hate. But I have a question…With Andre Leon Talley being the editor-at-large, why have there only been FOUR African-Americans on the cover of Vogue in the first place?

Essence – And talking cash junk about Ms. Holliday! In response to Ms. Holliday saying she feels that Dreamgirls is stealing her livelihood, Ms. Hudson says she has NO intentions of making "And I'm Telling You" be her ONLY claim to fame and anyone who did made a mistake! She also said Idol brainwashes you into being the person they want to become. Meow!!!

Giant – Go girl!

Here are a few of her pictures. The first is the HORRIBLE Vogue cover. Most Vogue covers are beauty shots. WTF is up with this? The other photo is from Giant mag's cover.




And do I even need to post why Ms. Beyonce is included in this win? If so, see below….



Losers

Contenders:
Tim "I hate Gay people" Hardaway
Georgia and Tennessee "down with abortion" lawmakers
Ricky "I need Dixie Chicks attention" Martin

This one goes to Tim Hardaway. I mean it's one thing to have your beliefs about homosexuality. I believe we are all entitled to that. It's also reasonable to question a homosexual being in the locker room. But he went way overboard. The NBA is no longer interested in having him around for All-Star week (if ever) and his hall of fame hopes just faded away. LOSER!

Bamas

Whoever dressed Stevie Wonder on Grammy Night



Whoever dressed Nelly Furtado on Grammy Night


Ja Rule and his hair stylist


The winner is Ja Rule. Ja, you are bama of the week, week, weeeekkkk!!! This is why you're NOT hot…

Monday, February 12, 2007

Marta is NOT Smarter (Only in Atlanta #3)

So I was compelled to respond to the AJC's article on Marta's "cold snap." I doubt it will see the light of day. For starters, the AJC only accepts letters shorter than 150 words! Second, my letter is a little late and I'm sure they have moved on...But, it seemed to help ME. You know how they say one should write a letter to their abuser? It's meant to allow the abused to release the emotions and move on. So I guess, this was my release....

Paul Donsky's "Marta runs late in cold snap" almost led to my head exploding. As a newcomer, I was certain the rumors of cold weather shutting down trains were just rumors. After experiencing three breakdowns, in one very cold week, I started to wonder if the rumors were true. Thanks to this article, I am left with even more confusion. The article placement and ludicrous MARTA defense seem to imply this is an unimportant issue. I am appalled at the level of “customer service” MARTA provides and I blame the media and complacent passengers for the problem. When both customers and the news treat these issues as normal, where is the motivation for change?

My family and I recently left the Washington, DC area behind. With DC being my hometown, public transportation is not just a good idea, it is the best idea. When I first moved, catching the train, and avoiding the hideous "Spaghetti Junction", seemed like the natural choice. As a wife and mother of two, my commute is the only time I have to myself. During this time, I collect my thoughts and spend a few moments away from meal plans and checking homework. The idea of giving up my peace, in order to curse every idiot on I-285, scares me. The fact that I can save time and/or money, by riding MARTA, is simply icing on the cake. So, I am a faithful, yet frustrated, MARTA customer. Every day, I spend two hours riding the train back and forth to Dunwoody.

As stated, I have heard many horror stories about MARTA. Co-workers have missed flights and appointments. Friends have gotten lost and found no one to assist them. But, the funniest warnings related to the weather. "Be sure to drive when it gets too cold or hot," one friend said. Being that I arrived during a record breaking summer, I wondered how bad it had to get. I also wondered how any of this could be true. Certainly, other cities have worse weather and subsequently more weather delays right?

Well according to MARTA officials, the winter air in Atlanta is more humid than colder cities. This did not sit well with me. I surely remember Washington being a humid city and the underground stations were always twice as humid. It seems the National Climatic Data Center agrees. A quick trip to their website confirmed Washington, Chicago and Atlanta have similar relative humidity during the winter months. Washington has more humidity in the summer, followed by Atlanta. However, Chicago is not far behind. Yet Washington, Chicago, and cities around the country, manage to operate train systems without constant delays from the weather and other random scapegoats.

Knowing there is more to the story should make me feel better. But, when I remember being dumped into the cold and wet pre-dawn morning, I cannot feel anything but angrier. When you add in the ten minute wait with hundreds of late and incensed passengers behind me, and the very same thing happening on my northbound train, you would understand why I am fuming.

MARTA is not relatively expensive, but it is not cheap either. For nearly four dollars a day, I should have some level of comfort with the system. I should be able to trust that I will get to work on time and in one piece. Absurd weather delays and the much talked about security issues should never cross my mind. How someone can silently take this abuse for years is beyond me. If you wait for more than five minutes it is a delay where I'm from, yet Atlantans accept 10 minutes as a customary rush hour wait and deal with waits of twenty minutes or more!

Regardless of how things seem, the customers and constituents have the power. Instead of debating toll roads and HOV lanes, our legislature should find a way to make MARTA smarter. MARTA is the largest public transportation system without state funding. All the while, Washington’s WMATA receives funding from Virginia, Maryland and D.C. Both Washington and Chicago receive hefty federal funding as well. MARTA needs to increase its staff dramatically. More train operators, station assistants, police and engineers are needed to make the system user friendly, efficient and safe. Instead of creating temporary allowances for a $100 million Breeze system, legislators should force MARTA to actually improve the infrastructure as the law demands. Citizens should demand change and question why the state is so bent on toll lanes instead of public transportation. If done correctly, it will work wonders for traffic. Trust me I know.

Friday, February 9, 2007

It's official...


Obama is officially running for President in '08!! He will announce this tomorrow in Illinois. I am not sure how any of this will play out, but I'm enjoying the ride so far. Both he and Hillary have encouraged some important dialogue in our country...it's about time!!


On Speaking Well (or Race Rant #4)

Unless you live under a rock, you have heard the, now infamous, quotes from Senator Biden. Before announcing his own plans to run, Biden commented that Barack Obama was like a “storybook” because he was the first “clean” and “well-spoken” African-American presidential candidate. Of course, as we all know, the entire statement is without fact. But, even worse, patronizing is one of the most common forms of prejudice that we see.

After seeing the reactions from Bill O’Reilly and Glen Beck, I have to assume many do not recognize just what they are doing. As they both turned their problems around and blamed them on Blacks! Both men say they are “afraid” to speak to Blacks because they may offend the overly sensitive. WTF?

Bottom line is this; minorities have to "overcome" our race before we can gain acceptance and that's based on racism and ignorance. When a Black person does something, that doesn't fit the stereotypes, some get surprised and comment. That's what happened with Biden and that's what happens all the time. I can't tell you how many times people have said "you're so well spoken" or some variation of it. Sounds good in text but it's said with a tone that implies I'm extraordinary because I know how to pronounce my words clearly. And sadly a lot of minorities believe that crap too. Blacks are not limited to the jive talkin and shucking that you see in videos and movies! To put the blame on Blacks or other minorities is BS but I guess it makes them sleep better at night.

But since they want to play ignorant, I will explain it for them….I think the difference is the tone and how/when it's said. If I'm singled out (when everyone around me is at the same "level") or if someone puts a ton of emphasis on how great my speech or something minor is (when I'm really not THAT great) I do get the feeling that it's based on stereotypes and it does offend me. Will it offend enough to make me angry? Well it depends. I recognize that everyone has some prejudices (because I'm used to seeing and having them) and I will accept a certain level of this. But, if someone patronizes me over and over again (without me deserving it) that will become an issue. I've had bosses and teachers who start with "well-spoken", on report cards, review forms or when talking about me to others. I would think my work ethic, dedication, knowledge, team work, etc., would come first. Being able to speak properly is not a big deal! Give me credit for my abilities to develop a sound argument or something like that. Saying we “speak well” is not a compliment. It’s a basic need for life.

Just in time for the Grammy's....

If anyone has heard Donnie Simpson’s morning show, they are familiar with Huggy Lowdown and his “Bama of the Week” segment. Huggy is a character on Donnie’s show and he creates a running list of the BOW contenders. On Friday mornings, he crowns someone the Bama of the Week. You earn this title by being generally bama-ish. If you don’t know, this means your style is whack (for lack of a better word.) Doing something ignorant and/or making a fool out of yourself is another way to win. I love Steve Harvey’s morning show, but I really miss Huggy!

I decided to do a BOW type thing, but could only think of more serious topics and contenders. Maybe the Grammys will give me fodder for next week’s contest. Until then….

Parent of the Week

Sadly, there are several contenders:

William Page – This ass didn’t realize two-year olds wake at night and do things parents do not want them to do. After finding his two year old awake, at 2:30AM, his anger led him to punch her in the face and knock her unconscious. He then put the girl outside where the temps dipped to 2 degrees. His daughter's body was found the next morning. She was dressed in a sweater and a diaper and her footsteps were in the snow. Poor thing tried to find help. (read story)

Daniel Price – His child “accidentally” glued his eyes shut. This genius of a father tried to remove it by using ACETONE. Of course, this caused chemical burns on the child’s face. (read story)

Joseph and Sonya Smith – By following the recommendations of their cult-like “church”, these parents managed to beat their troubled 8-year old to death. (read story)

There are no “winners” in any of these stories. But the most disgusting POW is definitely William Page. As Steve Harvey says, I’m not a good enough Christian to wish him well. May he rot in peace!

Punk of the Week

Bill O’Reilly – While discussing Biden’s latest comments he said, “Now you got to feel sorry for us white folks here, because I’m telling you now I’m afraid to say anything.” …umm NO!!! I’ll feel sorry when pigs fly.

Glen Beck – Glen had a similar discussion on his show and said, “You know, Shelby, I don’t know if anybody else in the audience — oh, this is just going to be a blog nightmare over the next few days. But let me just be honest and play my cards face up on the table.
I was thinking about this just last week. I don’t have a lot of African-American friends, and I think part of it is because I’m afraid that I would be in an open conversation, and I would say something that somebody would take wrong, and then it would be a nightmare. Am I alone in feeling that?”

Catch clips, from both shows, here.

The GOP – For acting like schoolgirls over Pelosi’s plane request. She’s flying a longer distance and has a justifiable reason for a larger plane. But they balked because her plane will be bigger than Hastert’s. But wasn’t Hastert flying to Illinois?!?! Even the White House backed her up on this. Sounds like someone has Freudian issues…”but hers is bigger!!!”

The winner is: Glen Beck, with Bill being a close second. Yes this is a blog nightmare my friend. If you have to avoid an entire race, because you may “slip”, its not MY problem. It’s an issue you need to address with yourself. But I guess that’s how an oppressor thinks? Part of life is learning to live with others. You punk you!

Tragedy of the Week

In our celebrity obsessed world, this may sound extreme…but I can think of nothing more tragic than the life and death of Anna Nicole Smith. I know there were several bombings and planes shot down in Iraq. I know parents and children are out of control with violence and rage. But seriously, this woman’s life was one sad story after another. She is proof that money and fame mean nothing. Inner peace should be our goal.

Wednesday, February 7, 2007

On Submission

For many reasons, I’ve been thinking about submission and what it really means for me and my family. Let me start by saying I am not talking about submission that belittles you or forces you to be less than who you are. But submission, in its basic form, is a healthy concept that we should practice more often and encourage in our children.

Many have argued that submission, of any kind, is a religious concept and thus invalid and not worthy of discussion. That is partially true. The infamous "honor and obey" line, as stated in marriage vows, is definitely related to the Bible. But, even in the Bible, submission is not limited to the wife as husbands are commanded to do the same.

In my opinion, God/Paul added these statements to remind us that we are interconnected and meant to live together. We are much more than simple individuals with personal concerns and opinions. We are part of society and our lives have a much greater purpose.

While reading, I came across this quote, “a created universe gives us both meaning and obligation.” And that’s how I view submission. We have an obligation to live beyond our own minds, desires and beliefs. But we cannot do that without submission.

If we allow ourselves to see beyond the wall of power, we may learn something. If we stop defending our way, we may see that we are wrong. If our children learn to obey, they will learn self-discipline. What is wrong with any of that?

Only in Atlanta #2 (Marta edition)

...Marta trains break down because it's cold. Marta is NOT smarter!

To be fair, I'll add a few nice comments

....male passengers give up their seats for young women like me ;)

....men carry scared children down escalators because their mom, a stranger, is busy carrying the baby sister (I witnessed this yesterday!)

...the stranger sitting next to you will ask how your day went or tell you all about theirs. On the metro, in DC, someone would have moved seats and called you crazy!

When spanking goes wrong...

While I love the news, and tend to follow all big stories, crimes against children are hard to watch/read. One such case happened in the Atlanta area. Two parents are charged with beating their 8-year old to death. The parents blame his death on roughhousing and deny the allegations. However, they admit to beating him often with a wooden stick and locking him a closet and to pray to a picture of Jesus as they watched on closed circuit TV. The mother says beatings were done in increments of ten. This practice is taught and strongly encouraged at the Remant Fellowship church of which they are members. (Get the whole story here.)

Several parts of this story trouble me:

1. Increments of ten
2. Praying to Jesus in a locked closet
3. Wooden sticks
4. An infant child also died in their home.

What reasoning does this so called "church" use to encourage this type of parenting? What parent thinks these things are normal and healthy for a child?

I will admit it...I am a spanker. Growing up, I always said I would "never" strike my child. By the time I became a parent, those feelings had changed. I see too many children that seem to not understand consequences or have any respect for authority. But, the beatings I received - while normal at the time - are not something I would do now. In fact, I don't call them beatings because I associate that term with belts, clothes hangers, cursing and rubbing welts with alcohol. I don't want or need my children to fear me in that way. But I do need them to know there are consequences to every action. So for that purpose, we will do a few pats on the bottom and take away priviledges. It works for us and I don't believe parents should have that right taken away.

However, couples like this worry me. I worry they will fuel the fire for those who think all corporal punishment is abuse. I worry some crazy liberal or anti-religion freak will use this as an example of what's wrong with Christianity. And I worry they may all be right.

Monday, February 5, 2007

Prince Won!

"Remember when we was young everybody used to have these arguments about who's better, Michael Jackson or Prince? Prince won!" - Chris Rock

Oh yes he did! Prince tore it up last night.

The Danger of Perfection

First off, congrats go out to Tony Dungy and the Colts who took home the big prize yesterday! While I secretly hoped Peyton didn't win (and get the undeserved MVP glory), I wanted Tony to win. From what I've seen, he is a great family man who is very humble and kind. How historic was that?! Change is slow but it is happening everyday!

While watching the superbowl highlights, I heard a few negative comments on Tank Johnson of the Chicago Bears. For those who don't know, Tank was arrested a few times last year. He seems to like illegal guns a little too much! To the dismay of a few, his team opted to let him play and not suspend him. One of the ESPN guys thought this was an abomination and complained how this was setting a poor example to our children. Michael Irvin, made a point that I 100% agreed with. And it's not so often that I agree with Mike...his defense of Terrell Owens can be sickening. But, Mike said something to effect of "this is his job and most people still have a job when they do something wrong." The more I thought about this, and the irony of who this made this comment, I remembered two relevant quotes:

**Ms. America did a 20/20 interview, which aired this past Friday. In the interview, she said her misjudgements and habits were actually good examples for kids. When asked to elaborate she said she never felt good enough to be a beauty queen. Growing up, the images she saw seemed to say only perfect women (in looks and behavior) could be a queen. From what she gathered, she was far from eligible. But, now, her bad behavior and subsequent therapy would show children legends do fall and no one in perfect.

**While reading Pearl Cleage's Somethings I Never Thought I'd Do, two characters (Blue and Regina) discussed Martin Luther King, Jr. and the book written by his second in command Ralph Abernathy. Mr. Abernathy's book seemed to back up decades of allegations that Mr. King was an adulterer. Many of us felt he was a snitch and good-for-nothing because he outted our hero Mr. King. While discussing the book, Blue said these secrets are important for us to know. He said the idea of a perfect hero leads us to believe we are unable to provoke change or make a difference in our world. Instead, we determine we are unworthy, average and not required to do anything special in this lifetime.

I agree with those statements and think we do a great disservice to ourselves and our children by:

1. Holding "heroes" to unrealistic expectations
2. Focusing on anyone's bad choices
3. Believing that perfection leads to success or special treatment

If you don't believe any of this is true and choose to teach your children differently, try reading The Overachievers - Secret Lives of Driven Kids. It may help you see just how wrong this line of thinking is and how damaging it is for our children.

While watching Akeelah and the Bee (which is a GREAT family movie), I was reminded of an awesome quote that is somewhat relevant....

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness, that frightens us most. We ask ourselves, 'Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and famous?' Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that people won't feel insecure around you. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” - Marianne Williamson (used by Mandela in his 1994 speech)

Race Rant #3 - MLK, Jr. Parties

HAPPY BLACK HISTORY MONTH!!
On MLK, Jr. day, I waited in a ridiculous line, at the Atlanta History Center, to see King's papers unveiled on the day we were to honor him. But this is how a few college kids spent King day....

(click to enlarge) Tarleton Party:

Clemson Party:



A few years back, students at Tarleton State University, in Texas, started a new trend for White college kids. They hosted the first - or first to be documented - "Martin Luther King, Jr. Day" party meant to mock stereotypes and things common in Black culture. Clemson students had one this year.

I'm speechless....

Sunday, February 4, 2007

"The N-Word" Documentary

This is a MUST SEE documentary Black folks! Rent or buy it in honor of Black History month! ;) No matter how you feel about the word's casual usage, I think it's important to get the whole history lesson and understand both sides of the argument.

P.S. - I also saw The Boys of Baraka. It is another documentary worth watching!

I saw this VERY relevant article online and had to post it.....

May 25, 2005
A Double Standard Worth Keeping
By Tim Wise

As soon as Oklahoma University's baseball coach Larry Cochell was fired recently, for using the n-word during off-camera conversations with two ESPN reporters, I knew instinctively what some were likely to say. Though I am far from psychic, it hardly required clairvoyant ability to see what was coming.

Sure enough, the foreseeable dialogue found its way into my local paper, in the form of an editorial by one of Nashville's most respected sports writers, Joe Biddle. His remarks would mirror several others to be heard on sports radio in the past few days, and appear, from my experience at least, to represent the views of large numbers of whites in America.

As Biddle put it, while Cochell's choice of words to describe one of his players (ostensibly in a light-hearted manner), was clearly unacceptable and deserving of censure, it was no more offensive than the casual use of the same term by blacks themselves, on the playground or from a stage, as with the comedy of Chris Rock or Richard Pryor (the latter of which has actually stopped using the n-word for more than two decades, unbeknownst, apparently, to Biddle).

In fact, the difference between Rock and Pryor in this regard largely mirrors the divide that exists throughout black America. About half of African Americans, when polled, say the word or it's derivative (the one that ends with "a" instead of "er") should never be used, and the other half argues that it can be used among blacks in certain contexts, as an endearment, or a subtle but unhateful dis, or as a way to "reclaim" the term and arguably strip it of its power to injure.
But whether or not some in the black community continue to use the term, there is no reason why whites should audibilize it, ever. That Biddle (and probably most whites) would call this a double standard is irrelevant. Fact is, history has been a double standard too, and it is this history that explains why the n-word is so much more offensive when coming from a white mouth than the mouth of an African American. That most whites don't know much about the history of racism hardly pardons us: it has been a willed ignorance, after all, and as such can hardly be used as an excuse for the phony claims of equivalence forwarded by Biddle, or any number of white high school students I discuss the subject with each year.

Simply put, the historic use of the n-word in the white community is not one of mixed meaning. It is not a history in which we called our black friends or colleagues such a term, as if it meant little more than "hey there dude, let's go grab a burger and fries at the Mickey D's." In the mouths and hearts of whites, that word has only been used in the context of contempt, of presumed white superiority, of anti-black bigotry.

As such, for any white person to use it today is to force the black person hearing it to immediately wonder what's behind the comment, what the speaker's intent really is, in a way they don't have to sweat as readily when spoken by another black person. History creates a natural and internalized warning bell for any black person hearing a white person use the word, which, if triggered enough can create psychological scars far deeper than most whites could ever fully comprehend.

But to understand the fundamental difference between the white and black use of the word, beyond its historical legacy, consider a similar example.

I am from the South, and frankly, have never much appreciated the word "redneck," which is so often used against white Southerners, largely because I know it as a slur against working class whites, especially rural folks, whose labor in the sun would cause their necks to become "red." Though I admit to having used it before, often in fact, I have resolved not to do so in the future because of its derogatory implications, and because, frankly, many in my family, going back generations, would qualify for the designation.

But having said that, I must also note that when Jeff Foxworthy tells twenty minutes of redneck jokes (as in, his "You might be a redneck if..." routine), I have a hard time taking offense. I don't find the bit particularly funny, as it's not my comedic cup of tea. But I don't get pissed. And why? Simple: Jeff Foxworthy is in the family, so to speak. He too is a white Southerner; someone who could be viewed as a redneck; and as such, I can pretty safely assume he isn't hating on his people or himself. Self-deprecating humor, while it can sometimes straddle the line with self-hatred, generally has a different feel than when someone outside the fold tells the same jokes.

In other words, if Jerry Seinfeld starts telling redneck jokes, we're gonna have a problem.
It's the same thing with Jewish jokes. I'm Jewish, as is my father's father's side of our family. For generations, Jewish comics have made a living telling jokes about our community. In fact, as a kid, I remember coming across several books of Jewish jokes in my dad's old room, all of them written by other Jews. And while I didn't think them very funny (after all, there's nothing amusing about playing upon stereotypes with such quips as, "Why do Jews have long noses? Because air is free."), nonetheless, I could assume this humor was emanating from a less toxic place than had it been published in a Klan pamphlet or church bulletin.

It's sort of like the old playground wisdom that I can talk about my momma, but you had damn well better not do the same. Double standard? Sure. But so what?

That many whites won't be able to understand this simple point is testimony to nothing so much as our own sense of entitlement. In other words, we are not used to anyone telling us that we can't do something, or shouldn't, and as such take great offense when our own freedom, including the freedom to offend, is constrained.

What else can explain the white hysteria over so-called political correctness, which, after all, was really never anything but the desire for folks not to be racist pricks, and to inculcate a norm of civility and respect for persons different from oneself?

I can think of no other reason than the desire to maintain a certain form of white privilege: the privilege of saying whatever we want, whenever we want, and feeling as though our right to lecture others on their behavior should logically take precedence over controlling our own.

In other words, the same privilege that (as the flipside to racism itself), has historically given the n-word its power to injure in the first place. As with all racism, it is power and position that gives a racial slur its ability to injure. This is why slurs against whites like cracker or honky seem more juvenile than truly offensive. And this is why the n-word, spoken by whites, is so fundamentally less acceptable than the same term spoken by blacks, however potentially problematic the latter may be.

Tim Wise is the author of White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son (Soft Skull, 2005) and Affirmative Action: Racial Preference in Black and White (Routledge, 2005).

Saturday, February 3, 2007

If you're moving to Atlanta (or anywhere really)

I wrote this in response to a post on AOL Blackvoices and thought I'd add it to my site. The poster asked "where are the best areas in Atlanta?" After several posts that seemed to limit the city to a handful of neighborhoods I wrote:

I think it's important to define, for yourself (and family if applicable), what "best" means. Do you need 100% of the kids exceeding standards? Do you want social and ethnic diversity? Are you willing to drive X number of miles to work, church or to shop? Would you like neighbors who are friendly and interested in getting to know you? What do you need to feel safe? What can you afford? I could go on and on, but I'm sure you get the point! It's very easy to define an area based on surface level things like test scores or how the residents look. But, I believe so much more should go into these decisions.

We recently moved here from the DC area. I attended school in Northern Virginia and my county's system was considered THE best in the nation. My mother moved there, from DC, because of the school system. So it's ingrained in me to think those numbers are a big deal. However, I was one of few (and in some cases the only) Black kids in my classes. I struggled with my identity b/c the non-Black kids thought I was the stereotypes they see on TV. My mom had to put in double duty to expose me to things relevant to my culture and history. My husband grew up in NC. His neighborhood was a middle-class majority Black neighborhood. His school was split down the middle (50% Black/White).

While ALL of the highschools, in my county, were listed in the top 200 (Newsweek HS ranks), his HS landed at 740 a few years back. But he is a very bright man and all of his friends are college educated and doing well for themselves. They all have a definitive confidence in who they are and their apparently "average" or in my eyes "poor" school system didn't hurt them. It's important to check into school test scores. But don't write an area off without analyzing the situation. If 75% of the kids meet standards at school A and 85% do at school B, what does that REALLY mean? It doesn't mean the first is a bad school! We're only talking about a 10% difference, and the schools have unique student bodies and number of students which affect those stats. Most teachers want to teach and most students want to learn. You will have issues at any school. It's up to you to determine which kind you can take and what may/may not hurt your child. But, perfection is not possible and it's dangerous to get too hung up on those numbers. You have to look at the overall picture. I wouldn't jump at the chance to live in Clayton County for various reasons. But I wouldn't assume North Atlanta or Gwinnett are the only good options either!!!

When planning to move here, we had many a debate on what we wanted for ourselves and our children. Above all, we wanted freedom to be ourselves. Several visits and conversations later, we realized some of the "good" counties/areas would not afford us that luxury. Some are full of lifetime GA residents who resent the influx of Black folks. Others have transplants that are overly focused on status and themselves. We wanted a place where we would see folks who look like us. It didn't have to be 100% Black, but we never wanted to be the only/token in the grocery store or at the school. We also wanted them to have exposure to other ethnicities and people who aren't living at the same level (socially/financially) as we are. For us, these things are important in order to build socially aware and connected children.

We went with an area in east Atlanta that is near the perimeter. When mentioning where we live, we get occasional looks from the bourgeois who have determined these areas, and the people who live there, to be unworthy and disposable. However, I love where we live. It is both ethnically and socially diverse. Our neighborhood is safe and my children are happy. The stores and restaurants reflect our tastes and not the mass produced stuff that corporate America sells us. But, when needed, I still have Wal-mart, Target and Applebees just around the corner. So I wrote this novel to say, there are no good/bad areas. It's depends on what you're looking for. There are great neighborhoods throughout Atlanta.