Why does Hillary get the Black vote? (aka Why I love Barack)

I was checking out Bossip and saw an article on recent comments from Jesse Jackson. They were related to politics and you can check it out here.

The reader comments turned into a debate over Hillary, Barack and others. Of course, I had to comment. Since I wrote a novel and haven't written lately, figured I'd post my response. lol. Seems to be a trend...no blog post for a month...Bossip post gets me heated.

Before the novel…let’s get this straight…1. One should not support a candidate on race, gender or *gasp* electability alone. 2. NONE of the candidates have experience as president. ALL of the candidates will need “on the job training” as Hillary calls it. lol.

I support Obama because he's the best candidate IMO. Reading his book and learning about the actual man and the choices he’s made, led me to trust him and that’s not something I do easily. When given a chance to earn top dollar in some fancy law firm, he went to the Southside to help REGULAR folks like me. Could he be a puppet? Maybe. But, I don't think so. The above example (and many more that I read) lead me to believe in his moral character and what he TRULY stands for.

Truthfully, all politicians are puppets to some degree or another. They have to play to both sides and know how to straddle the fence. But, I'm not sure why we'd elect someone who has SHOWN us exactly how effective they are when needed and is nothing more than a talking piece. How exactly has Hillary shown her ability to lead the country? She’s polarizing to both Republicans and Democrats. She and Bill’s movement towards the right hasn't exactly earned points with Democrats. And now Bill is hanging with Bush Sr.?! I am not a conspiracy theorist; however, I believe she and Bill are now part of the New World Order with Bush, Cheney, Thompson and ‘em. That “no ways tired” nonsense seemed like a routine from the “baiting negroes playbook” and yet we failed to jump on that. Why?! That showed what she thinks of us. Throw a little slang at ‘em and you got ‘em. She talks the talk but is not walking the walk.

We Black folk give her credit because of Bill. No matter what you say, that's the truth! Being Bill's wife is not true experience. She didn't know he was creeping in THEIR home with another woman. How much did she really learn about his job and what it takes to do it? Recently, Bill said he opposed the war from the start. Oh really? Hillary said she supported the war because, by watching Bill, she understands these situations. Well apparently she was watching Bill from the wrong angle because, she voted for the war and continues to straddle the fence on ending it.

Don’t get me started on Bill! Black president my ass! As a teen and young adult, I was all about Bill. But that love affair has died. As I got older, I learned more about his policies and realized he is FAR from the left and was damn near a Republican when he left office. That’s why his approval ratings were so high! Some call these “centrist” politics what we need. But, Black people, we need to read between the lines and look at the policies these folks create. For example, did you know BILL CLINTON is the guy who signed off on making drug dealing a DP offense? Oh, he added dozens of crimes to the federal DP list and opened the floodgates for more of us to get death in what is known to be an unjust system.

When given the chance to address the disparity between crack and cocaine sentencing, he chose to only “recommend” change while he oversaw legislation that made those disparities law. And now, under the Bush administration, the Justice Department has changed its guidelines…but that law stands in the way! Bill pushed folks off welfare. On the surface, it may have sounded good. But what has changed?! I don’t see it, where’s the training and development he promised? Where are the economic gains and independence for our community?

It doesn’t take much to go to Wikipedia or wherever you research to see the policies and laws these people support. Read up on NAFTA and some of Bill’s other disasters. Giving Hillary credit because of Bill is not really saying much at all. What EXACTLY did she do, as first lady or Senator, which worked and made us better? Yes, she did draft a healthcare bill and told us “it takes a village.” But, that healthcare bill was not jiving with the times and her new one isn’t either. Go to her site and read her plan…then check out Barack’s. He is being truthful when he said her “plan” is to force us to get insured. That’s not a damn plan. That’s not dealing with the real issue…which is cost.

During the recent debate, Hillary called $97,500/year middle class. When questioned, she basically said “well that’s who I represent.” Meaning, she represents the wealthiest in the country and will create policy based on them. Those PACs and lobbyists she takes money from -- unlike the other Dems -- will be her new constituents. Now I could just look past these facts – my husband and I make more than that – but I’m worried about us as a community and want to raise up the bottom. What are we doing about poverty? Who can we trust to really address the issue?

We as a people need to stop voting in fear. That “most electable” stuff is BS. Black folks and women could play an important role in this election. So, we’re the ones who can determine what is electable. “The Man” does not have as much power as we give him. But he gains it exponentially when we choose to vote in fear or even worse…not voting at all.

Officially Obama!!

If you have followed this blog, or happen to know me personally, you know I am a life-long Democrat. The party is not perfect and I don't follow anything blindly (ask my husband!) However, I am a PERMANENT Democrat. The parties would have to do a 180 for me to change that.

As you can imagine, the last seven years have been rough! Between the 2000 election debacle and the never-ending Iraq war, I was *this* close to giving up on politics. When your country is headed in the WRONG direction, what do you do? I'll tell ya. You feel like a prisoner in your own home and become completely disengaged. I have bounced between both feelings...and yes, I do take it that seriously!

After years of anger and outrage, I realized action was my only choice. Martin Luther King, Jr. once quoted Marti Jose with, "I'd rather die on my feet than live on my knees." That sums up my beliefs on everything in life. I have never been one to shut up, only to get "done" in the end. Again, my husband can vouch for me on that one!

When the media started covering the 2008 election (back in 2006!) I knew it was time. I have spent my entire life watching from the sidelines and there was no time like the present to change that. While I enjoy offering commentary, words without action mean nothing. As the cliche goes, "You are either part of the problem or part of the solution."

Mention the Jena Six, Imus/Hip-Hop, Genarlow Wilson or NCLB and you're sure to boil my blood. This country is topsy-turvy if you ask me. The rich get richer (check out this satirical Onion piece) and the poor get killed after unlawful break-ins by COPS.

We need a resolution...and I am convinced Senator Barack Obama is the answer.

I did not make this decision lightly. I started off as a STRONG Clinton supporter. I know what we'd get with Hillary...I mean she's just Bill minus the charisma right? Despite what the conservatives say, I thought she was the one. Then I read Audacity of Hope! If you saw my posts, you know this book really touched me. I think it should be required reading for the voting public. Barack is not a politician, he's a motivator and one of the best sociologist I've read. He knows what he's talking about and has gone to great leangths to analyze our issues and provide reasonable solutions to them. He is not defined or limited by his labels (e.g., Black, newcomer, Democrat, liberal.) This man is the truth and for that reason, I am officially Obama now!

I attended a volunteer meeting this past Saturday. It was not surprising to see dozens of supporters in the Atlanta area (due to a large population of Democrats and minorities.) However, it was surprising to see so much diversity in the room of supporters. The crowd was a mix of generations, colors and even sexual orientation, and we were all there to support our first Black president.

As I walked to my seat, I was greeted by a young Black male. When I first saw him, I assumed his parent forced him to come. I couldn't have been more wrong! This HIGH SCHOOL student was one of our leaders and an official Camp Obama graduate! After local politicians shafted his school--and failed to make promised repairs--this young man took action. After seeing Obama on TV, he was intrigued to learn more and read everything he could find on the senator. He then signed up to help out because, as he said, Barack is the only truth-speaker/seeker out there...and I totally agree!!!

So, for those that aren't too sure about Barack I suggest you watch the videos below and then cop The Audacity of Hope. I promise it will move you...hopefully it will move you to vote for Barack!!

www.barackobama.com

Surprise, Surprise...Ope hates rap!

So Ope is in the middle of her two-part "After Imus" show. From what I can tell, she decided to focus on hip-hop music.

While I can agree we should look at all media and use this as a chance to open dialogue, I am disturbed by the quick turn to bashing hip-hop. I grew up listening to this music and will make no excuses for listening! I understand the complaints surrounding the music but am saddened by how all of us have shifted the blame. This is a GROWN man who made these comments. Not some impressionable teen. He knew full well what he was saying. Additionally his choice of words ("jiggaboo" and "nappy-headed") are not common in the hip-hop community.

I'm sick of people dabbling in the African-American world and thinking they know all about us AND what all of OUR problems are. EARTH has a problem with how we treat women. It's been a problem since the beginning of time. Yet, we're placing blame on a 30-year old music genre? Give me a break!

I know Oprah has a well noted bias against hip-hop, but even she should know better. The media loves to place blame but this time they have it all wrong. The blame lies with Imus. Yes, we should examine every part of our culture and discuss accordingly. But let's not start or stop with hip-hop. It's much deeper than that. Women and Blacks were NOT equal, to white men, 30 years ago. Hip-hop did not ruin some magical land of equality. Oprah you do a disservice to all by running with this "hip-hop is to blame" concept.

You can't negate hate....

LOL. The title is my Jesse Jackson ode ;) I got tired of reading the garbage comments on CNN. So here's what I posted....

I find it appalling for anyone to negate this Imus situation or to pass the blame. Imus clearly has a problem with stereotypes and bias towards minorities. He has called a respected journalist “the cleaning lady” and his producer has likened the Williams sisters to animals. Now he calls a triumphant group of women “nappy-headed hos.” There is no righting this wrong.

Over the past few days, I have read about this so called double standard. Apparently, “urban” DJs and rappers use this term all the time. Well I grew up on hip-hop and listen to “urban” radio daily. I have yet to hear “nappy-headed ho.” I would love for someone to provide details on where this term is used. I am not excusing hip-hop; it definitely has its moments of misogyny. But, doesn’t the world? Have we not limited women since forever? Again, I am not excusing the use of words like “ho.” But, I see it from a different perspective. The music represents the culture we (or maybe “they”) live in. It is not always right nor is always wrong. We cannot blame a music genre for the obvious racism and sexism displayed by Imus and his producer. These are grown men who should know better.

In closing, I would like to point out how some trivialize the involvement of Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson. If people would read beyond sound bites and mishaps, they would see the truth about both men. They have long histories of civil rights activism and involvement with the “little people” in our country. Think what you will about their mistakes or what appears to be a love of fame. But, no one can negate their contributions.

For the record, both of their histories include fighting against misogyny in rap and violence. Additionally, Mr. Sharpton discusses various topics on his daily radio show. I am not an Imus fan but I do listen to Sharpton. I do not agree with everything he says. However, I am certain he discusses the issues your viewers directed him to. Sadly, pointing out the more important “Black problems” shows just what’s wrong here.

Update: Imus on Sharpton

Al just wrapped up his interview with Imus. I'll be brief with my recap:

* Imus said he was having a conversation ("shooting the jive" as he said)and got carried away with the jokes. He admitted they were racist but says he was not being racist when he said them. *scratching chin*

* Imus says his work with sickle-cell and inner-city kids proves he is not a racist

* Imus says his friends know he's not a bad guy

* Imus has not thought of the appropriate punishment

* Al said the appropriate punishment is him resigning or being fired. Imus disagreed and said Al (and others calling for firing) are misinformed.

* Congresswoman Carolyn Kilpatrick (and a brother from the NABJ) ripped Imus a new one! They mentioned their daughters and how Imus' comments could affect them. They mentioned how African-Americans already struggle with identity and meeting the White standard of beauty. They discussed how these Black girls were likely struggling at the mostly white Rutgers. At one point, Imus said "There's no pleasing you people." He tried to back-track and said he meant Al and Kilpatrick and NOT Blacks.

* A faithful Imus listener phoned in on his behalf. The listener said Imus led him to do work with inner-city kids and helped his foundation financially. Imus kept saying there are many more who will give like testimony. And the point is? How does this erase what he said?

* Imus tried to call Al out for not knowing what our federal government spends on sickle-cell. He implied that all Blacks should know these numbers and he was somehow more "in-tune" because he knew the numbers.

* Some guy (another Imus fan) called in and said the real problem is...drumroll please...HIP-HOP. What haven't we blamed on Hip-Hop? I am SICK of this nonsense. Back to the caller...he said "nappy-headed hos" is a hip-hop term and that's where Imus got it from. Ummm...NO it's not. Both "nappy-headed" and "ho" predate hip-hop you idiot! And even if it were a "hip-hop term", how do we blame a music genre for an OLD man's comments?

An apology for slavery?

As I'm sure everyone knows, Virginia legislators have expressed "profound regret" for the role Virginia played in enslaving African-Americans. At first, this "apology" did nothing for me and I wondered what the point was. But, I was still happy to hear it as I was hoping it made someone feel better. I also saw no harm and felt pride in my home state for this progressive move. Fast forward a few months and some Georgia Democrats are proposing a similar resolution.

After reading Republican legislators boldly say, "it will never happen" and "I don't owe anyone an apology", and reading locals negate the apology and mock the Black experience (in the AJC's "Vent"), I have to piece together my newfound thoughts on this. So here are my responses to the most common arguments...

"The victims are all dead"

Many of the victims are still alive and represent 12% of our country. Slavery did not end with the emancipation proclamation and its effects are reaching into the future. Current legislators may not have owned slaves but they were definitely around when Jim Crow was alive and kicking. Jim Crow was merely an extension of the same mentality which told people it was okay to enslave Africans in the first place.Take any group of people strip them of their history, culture and abilities to be self-sufficient and the chances are they will struggle for generations to come. Add in 400+ years of slavery, and another 100 or so years of legal discrimination, and another X years of discrimination and racism, based on a longstanding mindset that this group is beneath Whites, and struggle and hardship is all but guaranteed for many years and generations to come.

If we compare African-Americans (statistically) to other groups, I think it's clear what I mean. However, I think education is the clearest example, as it's the root of our greatest divides. Slaves were barred from learning and in some states, teaching a slave (or later African-American) to read was illegal. Once slavery ended, there was legal segregation and the schools were far from equal. Segregation ended the same year my mom was born...not so long ago. Moreover, there were many years of resistance to this and other civil rights issues. Some areas weren't integrated until the 70s! I was born in the 70s! Fast forward to now and minorities are still falling behind. Inner city schools (and others with large percentages of African-Americans) are far from equal. They started out inferior and only got worse.

Therefore, you have generation after generation growing up with low expectations when it comes to education. However, the media and "experts" seem oblivious to this and keep asking "why?" It's evident this is a systemic problem deeply rooted in our beginnings here. Don't get me started on how the slave mentality still exists in the African-American community. Our culture is almost solely based on our experiences here and sadly, a lot of our history has created horrible patterns of self-defeating behavior. We still have kids who think education is not for them and learning is a White thing. Where do you think that comes from?

"Why do you need an apology?"

Personally, an apology won't make me feel any better about race relations in our country. But, I do feel we've treaded too lightly on the issue of slavery and how it still plays into our society. I look at how separating families and restricting education created generational trends, which still exist and wonder how we can honestly say slavery is a thing of the past. I see evidence of slavery embedded in my culture and it's hard to deny the effects. I also look at our attempts to right wrongs with Japanese Americans and Native Americans and wonder why the biggest crime against humanity got brushed under the table. I guess it makes people feel better to pretend it's a thing of the past. Jay-Z's words apply here: "men lie, women lie, but numbers don't." Statistically speaking, African-Americans are still enslaved.

"What will an apology solve?"

I would hope an apology leads to more discussions. I think we spend too much time either being angry over what happened or trying to distance ourselves from what happened and continues to happen. All the while, what happened still affects our country today. Maybe those conversations could lead to a deeper awareness for both Blacks and non-Blacks. I tend to think non-Blacks are less than aware of how race is woven into our society. While Blacks (and other minorities) are sometimes overly aware. We have to find a way for each side to gain an understanding of each other.

I completely understand when people say they didn't own slaves or they weren't responsible for XYZ. I get it. But, I also think many don't recognize that White privilege still exists and how race still matters. I've heard many negative statements, about Blacks, which generalized problems. I've read "those" parents aren't interested in raising kids. "Those" kids are violent or unruly. "Those" people need to get up off their butts. It goes on and on. And I know those feelings are common across the country. However, what I don't get is why anyone would believe "those" people are really so different. We bleed the same blood, literally and figuratively! Therefore, if "those" people are the same, there is obviously a problem. But, we have to admit to it first.

An apology can't change much. African-Americans are an invented ethnicity. Most know little to nothing about African culture or our heritage/lineage. Nothing will change that. Thousands died on the journey here and millions suffered as chattel. Nothing will erase any of the horrors African-Americans have faced since arriving in the US. Nevertheless, I hope small steps, like an apology, will lead to a new direction for everyone.

The "N-Word" gets banned....

Calling all rappers....

In what was billed as a purely symbolic measure, New York's city council banned the word Nigger. Yep, I said it. No "n-word" today. I heard about this last week and have been thinking about this ever since.

Earlier, I mentioned a relevant documentary we watched. It's called "The N-Word" and as you can imagine, it explores the history and usage of the word. Everyone from historians and politicians to actors and journalists were interviewed. One of the most memorable interviews showed Bryant Gumbel admitting to using the word with his buddies. Go figure! Here we were questioning his connection to Blacks and just how Black he was. All the while, he's a n-word ;)

Back to the point, as noted in the documentary, this word has been part of the African-American culture for many years. Initially, it was used to describe us. We were Black and, like the Latin/Spanish language says we were "Nigers." That's the most logical explanation for what became Negro and Nigger in our American society. But, what isn't clear is when/how we decided to use the word on ourselves.

Historians (credible and street) have said the "house/field niggers" situation was to blame. They felt a need to distinguish themselves from each other and labeled the other group "niggers." Maybe that's true. I know what is true. Some Blacks currently use a deviation of the n-word and people are making a big fuss over nothing in my opinion.

I have heard the following arguments against the use. Of course, I've added my responses…

It's hypocritical and unfair to get angry if a non-Black person calls you that but to use it "lovingly" amongst yourselves.

So let me get this straight…there is a large group of non-Blacks that would really love to use this word. They are waiting for an "okay" and are upset that Blacks only "allow" this within their group? If so, aren't we barking up the wrong tree here? Shouldn't we be asking WHY a non-Black person WANTS to use this word? Shouldn't we question their motives and intents? You see, it's usually quite clear that Blacks do not mean harm when they are using that word. At least not the racially-charged harm we associate with non-Blacks using it!

That's the whole point. Within a group, you can say and do things that are understood INSIDE the group. You know what your group is thinking and how they operate. But, an outsider cannot do the same because you do not know their motives or what they have on their minds. This is the same everywhere. I know people, of all colors, whose parents said "What goes on in our home stays in our home." And that's because it's FAMILY business that no one else could understand and, thus, they shouldn't have the privilege of knowing.

Which leads to the "so why do hip-hop artists say it so much?" question. That is a valid question and my only response is "hip-hop was never meant to crossover." And that's the truth. Just like Rock-n-Roll and R&B, hip-hop was not created for the masses. It was created for a group of people who would understand it's energy and words. Even today, artists lose credibility when they "sell out" and make music for all. I'm pretty sure no one expected 70% of hip-hop albums to be purchased by White teens. But, now that this is reality, I do wonder if, at the least, we should scale back on the usage in music?

Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks are rolling over in their graves

The word was used, by Blacks, when both were alive. It's not a new thing. It's discussed more and is definitely in the open with movies, videos and a new rapper coming out every week. But, it's not new. And, Rosa Parks (or her people) spent a lot of time and efforts suing Outkast. Were they suing them for using the n-word? Nope. They were suing because they used Rosa's name to title one of their songs. In the end, Rosa settled and took cash from rappers who have said the word many times on and off record.

It makes non-Blacks confused

There is no confusion. If anyone, in this day and age, is confused over the n-word they are either slow or too young to listen to explicit lyrics in the first place.

It continues to limit us and encourage racism/discrimination

The verdict it still out on that one. Maybe it's because I am part of the hip-hop generation. But, I do not see it that deeply. In fact, I rarely associate the word "nigga" with negativity! I know many things, that some do, add to destroying our overall self-image. But, two brothers/sisters saying the word here and there doesn’t make me feel bad. Unless it's done in public or around children, I actually feel a sense of pride in our united community. At times, our private dialect is the only visible sign of a unique African-American culture. We spent so much time fighting for equality and failed to realize, equality does not have to mean morphing into something else. We are free to have our own culture and ways. Just as Hispanics can speak Spanglish at home, we can and should do what we want with our own.

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….

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.

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…

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.

***Catch Glen Beck and Bill O'Reilly discussing this***

Race Rant#2...A Girl Like Me

Over 50 years ago, Kenneth Clark and his wife conducted studies on Black children in the north and south. They placed two dolls, one White and one Black, in front of the children. They then asked several questions such as:

Which doll is prettier?
Which doll would you like to play with?
Which doll is mean?
Which doll is ugly?

You get the point right? Well, not surprisingly, to me, most of the children chose the White doll after positive questions and the Black doll after negative questions. What is surprising, is 50 years later a young girl did the study and got the same results :(.

The only rant is the IDIOTIC comments posted by some of the Youtubers.

Race Rants

Several news stories have prompted me to start the Race Rants. From time-to-time, I will post absurd news stories that show just how alive and kickin' racism and issues of race are.

I grew up in an almost all-white suburb of DC and am happy that I've had friends of all types. But, there is one issue we never truly see eye-to-eye on. RACISM. As a Black American, I have become so in tuned to racism that I see every bit of it. At times, I'm sure; I go overboard and see non-existent racism. But, once life programs you, it's very hard to turn that off. I'm sure I've written some jerk off as a racist when he was simply a jerk! But, how can you blame me?

When I first learned the American history of my people, I became a victim. This didn't happen knowingly or with any bad intention. Schools, seeking to appease complaints, add in those lessons on slavery and civil rights. Parents, seeking to empower, retell the stories of Martin and Malcolm with pride. But, from a child's eyes, those things do little more than announce "you're different and people don't like it."

Throughout my life, I have heard countless stories that do the same. At times, I've been proud of the brother or sister who had the courage to fight for change. But, in the back of my mind, those stories have affirmed that I am different and racism is still alive. So to those who would argue "get over it", I say "IT is very much alive, so how can I do that?" I also say, “With all due respect, why must I get over it but Jews have the right to make the Holocaust a daily discussion?” Jews are allowed to wear that like a badge of honor and we Americans (most of us) sympathize and admire them. I guess the issue boils down to this...the Holocaust didn't happen here and White Americans can say, "WE helped them". But, they don't have that luxury with slavery and Jim Crow. I’m sure a little guilt seeps in and their only defense becomes “get over it.” If only it were so simple!

Oh, no they didn't leave out "the" Black movie of the decade ;)

They had me convinced. For over a year, I've heard this was THE movie for us Black folk. Comparisons to The Wiz and the broadway production had us running to theaters on Christmas day. We had our babies in there watching a PG-13 film because we knew it was history in the making. This was OUR movie. This was THE movie. But, alas, ole Oscar voters didn't think so. Dreamgirls received eight nods, which is the highest for any film this year. However, the film was shut out of the most important ones...no best picture or best director nod for Condin. How ludicrous (spoken in my best Mike Tyson voice.) Well, the good news is Forest, Will, Djimon, Eddie and Jennifer were given a shot at ole Oscar. No, Beyonce you will not turn THIS red carpet into your own fashion show. Sorry girl, you did look hot. But, with five of us in the big four, we can't complain and we definitely can't argue that you "out-acted" Meryl or Helen! Remember the big picture Beyonce; this is a historic year and - because of all this history making - one day, you too may have the chance to win an undeserved Oscar...just like Halle. How historic.

http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Movies/01/23/oscar.nominations/index.html

How Historic

Hilary Clinton. Forest Whitaker. Tony Dungy. Eddie Murphy. Lovie Smith. Jennifer Hudson. Barack Hussein Obama. Nancy Pelosi. What do they have in common? In just three weeks, all have made 2007 a history making kinda year.

We went from wishing Black folk would get nominations to African-American candidates taking home three out of four of the major individual awards. Not to mention Grey's Anatomy and Ugly Betty - both minority creations - taking home the big TV honors. Dreamgirls, the Black "movie of the decade" (as noted by legit critics), won the globe for best musical or comedy movie. It was raining Black folk on Golden Globe night. Now let's see what the Oscar noms look like...

So far, no Black coach has made it to the Superbowl. We all remember Doug Williams' historic season that landed the first Black QB in the Superbowl. He gave us hope in the 80s and hope never looked so good back then. With AIDS, crack, bad fashion and hair trends, and Reagan, times were tough! But Warren Moon, Donovan McNabb, Michael Vick and Dante Culpeper - or any other Black QB - have yet to make it...let alone make it, win, and take home the MVP award. So, we've been aching for the next Black historic moment in football. You know we cling to this stuff like it holds meaning right? And maybe it does. But, it rarely adds up to the growth we expected. Okay, I got sidetracked, but the point is GO Lovie and Tony! We went from no Black coaches, in a Superbowl, to TWO going at each other in 2007. Shoot, Black coaches have a hard enough time landing a job. The league bullies teams into interviewing us. And now we're going head-to-head in the BIG game. How cool is that?! Maybe, just maybe, we can move to a point where these interview quotas aren't needed.

I remember, with great disdain, the moment the 2000 election was stolen…I mean won...by Bush. Oh what a night I had drowning my sorrows as I made plans for the end of days. Well, hopefully, we're actually going to make it to 2008. With Dems in the House and Senate, we just might have a shot. The year jumped off with history making Democratic news. We swore in the first Muslim and took over the House and Senate. But the biggest moment went to Nancy Pelosi our new Speaker of the House. Dressed in her designer duds and flanked with cutesy grandkids, she took the reigns and accomplished all of her 100 hour plans. Now that's mission accomplished!

I look forward to watching politics over the next two years. It will be very interesting to see how this plays out. We could be looking at our first female (Hillary Clinton) or Black (Barack) president! How historic.

Oh, no they didn't go and make history!