Sports Columnists

By randy

April 11, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

terence, you need to look in the mirror!

By Joe Bob

April 11, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this

Let him Stay.. Good Call Terrence!

By Vol4ever

April 11, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this

I agree with you on this one Terrance. What he said was completely out of line but unless the rappers have to abide by the same, nothing will change.

By Robert Wright

April 11, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Hi Terence - Yet another excellent piece from you. Agree wholeheartedly.

By Sheldon

April 11, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this

Yeah don’t fire him because you will then have to fire all the rappers who use same vulgar terms. That’s a stupid cmparisson the rappers who may use the phrase “napped headed hos” are referring to people they have come in contact with personally not someone they never met.

By TrekkieBear

April 11, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this

For all the white folks who will read this:

What is hard for me to believe, even after seeing it with my own eyes, is that there are white folks everywhere are defending his comments. Here is their reasoning:

1. It’s only comedy; black folks should just get over it.

2. Black comedians and rappers say stuff like this all the time so why should “they” get mad just because a white guy said it?

That second question always makes me so angry. I challenge anyone to find a lyric or a comedy act by anyone black where the words “nappy headed ho” are said all together in one sentence.

To be blunt, slavery is over. It ended with the Emancipation Proclamation. White folks do not get to dictate to black people what they can or cannot say anymore. If we choose to use those words among ourselves, then that is black folks prerogative. White folks need to start getting used to the idea that they do not possess superiority over black people. You cannot tell us what to say and how to say it. Moreso, when we tell you that the words you use to us and about us are insulting, you need to listen and you need to quit. It’s that damn simple. And there is no need to ask “Why?”

But since some white people will inevitably ask why I will explain why. The struggle isn’t over the words, the struggle is over power. And white people like Don Imus and George Bush and your next door neighbor and your bigot sister or cousin refuse to relinquish the power those words have. White People insist on saying them and on retaining the RIGHT to say them. And just like other rights and privileges white folks are determined to keep to themselves, it’s not something you’ve earned, it’s something you’ve stolen based solely on the power of your skin. Not brains or beauty or ability or some magical god-like white power that conveys on you the dominion of all things, just your skin is deemed “white” and mine is not.

So now, I ask you ‘Why?’ Why is that white people need to be able to say those words “just because black people do.” Why is it so important to you? Why is it so important to be able to say the words but also to give the impression that oh, no, you would never do such a thing and you certainly don’t condone anyone else saying it.

Yet when your friends and family or even Don Imus speak such things, you remain silent. And you allow him to get away with a slap on the wrist vacation of a two-week suspension. Wink wink nudge nudge, boys will be boys, right?

But he’s a sixty year old man who should know better.

White people need to wake up about the level of insult words like this possess and the message they convey when they don’t stand up against it. Telling black people to get over it is blatantly agreeing with the offender and the offense.

Frankly, there is no truth to the lie that these words would be used together by black people in every day speech unless you were delivering the basest of insults and ready to fight. These words are not acceptable among ourselves. My husband would never say anything like this to me unless he was ready for a divorce. And I would certainly never allow anyone to say this to my daughter without a lawsuit or delivering an old fashioned American a* whupping. Either will suffice.

To my white friends, it’s not enough to simply be outraged or sympathetic. You have to be the one to tell your friends that this is not ok. You have to be the ones to make the phone calls of protest. You have to be the ones to not laugh the next a friend or coworker makes bigoted or racist remarks.

And you have to be the one to actually speak up - not just stay silent because you don’t want to “offend anyone.” When you see and hear things like this SPEAK UP. Yes, even to your family and friends. That is what I ask of you, demand of you. Do not stay silent because your silence, to a bigot, is approval.

Black people have carried the ball of protest but it’s time for white folks to stand up and if you don’t agree with the likes of Don Imus say it.

By Ramble ON!

April 11, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

[http://ibdeditorials.com/Cartoons.aspx], SHELDON you clearly are not on any debate team.

By Tony

April 11, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this

Not sure that rappers are refering to women’s college backetball players in their lyrics

By Hawg

April 11, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this

TrekkieBear

get a job - you have too much time on your hands

By gdg73

April 11, 2007 10:58 AM | Link to this

I was with you until the rapper comment. A pretty good article was ruined by one sentence. Sometimes you out think yourself. After we clean up the language of rap artists, let’s go after the violence as portrayed in the motion picture industry. Then we can have the Sopranos and Growing Up Gotti taken off of T.V. for glorifying the mob/thug lifestyle. Oh, wait a minute, that’s a different kind of thug.

By mo

April 11, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this

No, Imus should go. Who cares if he changed? I don’t. Punishment is the key here.

Now as far as rappers are concerned that uses derogatory words regarding women and other racially-disparaging remarks (because there are rappers out there that doesn’t do that), believe it… it’s all a scam to bring dollars to their pockets.

See, what is the target audience of these rappers? Or rap music in general? It is the white teenager (ages 12-17) that lives in the suburbs whose household incomes are $75k+. Ask any rapper or producer of rap music and they will tell you the same thing. Suburban white teenagers spend more on rap music per capita than any other ethnic group… and the total annual spending of rap music has a huge outlay within that market segment.

So, uh, is what you see in the videos real? Do most black people REALLY speak that way about women and themselves?

Of course not. Most black people that I know would not let another black person call him the ‘N’ word without being corrected. And most black people would not just arbitrarily call black women the common deroratory remarks that you hear via rap music.

So, why is it so prevalent in rap music? Because most rapper are frauds.

See, it’s all a formula.

The hip hop community (which listens to all kinds of music, and many think very disternly at current rap music) loves the “Rags-to-Riches” story. So, in order to start this, you have to have come from a bad part of the neighborhood. Then, you have personal strife within your family (either your father was not there or something.) Next, you initially give in to outside pressure of the streets by either selling drugs, gang activity, or any combination. Then, you have some tragic event (betrayal, jail, death of a loved one, etc.) and you decide to give up that lifestyle and “report” what you have seen through rap music.

And the target audience believes it to the point of dropping over $1Billion in revenues in record sales per year.

Yep! They actually believes that most black people that is “keeping it real” act that way… while most of these rappers are actually college-educated businesspeople that translated strange tales, written in rhythmic form down on paper, with synchronized drums and sampled sounds into a multibillion-dollar industry… but advertising a false sense of what it means to be a real black man in America.

By Bill

April 11, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this

People give you a bad rap for discussing race in general and race in sports. They’re wrong. Instead of talking about things like this too much, we shy away from it - either from political correctness, fear or for other less decent reasons.

It’s a topic that needs intelligent commentary and - for my money - you offer that. People don’t have to agree - I don’t always agree with you myself. But sometimes I do. Sometimes I learn something. Sometimes it helps me reason out what I feel and why.

Instead of shying away from this kind of talk reasonable people ought to welcome it.

By RW

April 11, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this

I agree with you Terrence and I also agree what Imus said was deplorable, there is no valid excuse for his comments. However, this is not an issue for Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson to make money on. This is an issue regarding the young women on Rutgers basketball team who deserve to be getting positive press about their personal accomplishments and almost winning a national title. So far, from what I have seen and heard in the press, the young women of Rutgers are taking the high road and showing class in regards to this issue. Imus is a coward, he said what he meant and now he is backing away, the man has no spine to match his no brain. I also think we have a HUGE double standard going on here. It is not okay for anyone to call a women a ho and that goes for rappers who own five houses, ten cars and are rich, you shouldn’t be doing it either. Rappers are making millions doing this in their music. Is Al and Jesse going to boycott rap music and picket the home of best selling rappers? No, they would never do this. Imus and the rappers are the same when they refer to our daughters, sisters and mothers in this manner.

By dzac

April 11, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this

Terrence, milk with oreos

By jc

April 11, 2007 11:19 AM | Link to this

what a shame, a white journalist calling people names….why don’t sharpton and jackson worry about the real problems

By randy

April 11, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this

have any of you seen any of chris rocks video’s. you should. because he calls a spade a spade and it is pretty nasty, and he is one of yours!

By uncle tom

April 11, 2007 11:31 AM | Link to this

Just curious if Rev’s Al and Jesse are headed to Durham to confront the “issue” of rape!

By Jameyan

April 11, 2007 11:49 AM | Link to this

Terrence Moore is an idiot. You right don’t fire Imus you need to be fired. This is the most rediculous blog I have ever read.

By Keeping it real

April 11, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this

we all have no room to talk. We all have some issuse. Sport writer hide under sports to throw stones. Imus is not by him self .look at AJC when Vick story came out not as bad as IMUS but the intent was still there . Jeff Schluz did wrong ESPN FOX, SI. They all come so close in talking about people and have the fact wrong. They just tell how they feel. It happens all the time just not as bad. Read the sport page across america. Read the blog pages on AJC sport Hate full we all have a hand in it!

By FLAFALCON

April 11, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this

This is ridiculous. I grew up in Metro Atlanta and most of the black kids I went to school with referred to each other N* words or “hoes” or “Nappy head.” This is not white terminology. We did not come up with this type of language. Don Imus was joking. He makes fun of everyone. The people who get the most insults from him are “fat, mouth breathing rednecks” as he calls them. If you heard his program, you would know that this is is schtick. He insults Asians (Gooks as he calls them), Hispanics, nothing is off limits. He is not the only shock jock doing such behavior. Howard Stern, Rush Limbaugh, Bill O’Reilly are other radio personalities that I find insulting and disgusting, but what I do when I hear them is turn the channel. It’s called FREEDOM OF SPEECH, and it is a right that our ancestors have fought and died for, Black and White alike. Not everyone will get along with everyone else, but we all have the option to tune them out if we do not like it. It does not make his comments right, but it certainly does not demean a whole race as the pundits are making out. Between the war in Iraq, Poverty, absent father figures, black on black crime, and a society that looks down on success as “Uncle Toms or sell outs” there are many other issues to get worked up over. Don’t let someone else’s stupid words get you so worked up. Especially when the context was an ignorant joke from a Crusty old itiot.

By BullDawg

April 11, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

For one of the few times, I agree w/you, Terrence. It’s funny how the Revs Sharpton and Jackson preach about a God of forgiveness and reconciliation - no matter who you are - yet, someone does something idiotic and they want to crucify him. Yeah, it was flat it idiotic, but not the end of the world. It’s only news b/c he said it on the radio. It’s funny how you can call someone a fraud, liar, and someone who sleeps w/his mom in attempt to “assinate” their character (see People vs. Larry Flint), but if you call someone a homo who actually is a home or someone ugly or give a perceived racial comment, then it is grounds for firing. It’s also funny how all the good you do (see all the fundraising and awareness Imus has done for children of all color and all backgrounds) doesn’t matter anymore b/c 1 stupid thing you said.

This is technical, but I understood Imus actually didn’t say the word “ho” - that was the other guy.

By Apples n Oranges

April 11, 2007 12:09 PM | Link to this

For TrekkieBear,

Generally speaking I agree with what you say.

But, the fact that you start your arguement with the two “white” arguements destroys everything you’ve written.

You want white people (your white friends) to stand up and fight against derogatory comments toward black people, but you make a derogatory generalization about whites to start your argument. Get over yourself.

You might want to stop making insulting comments regarding other races before demanding something from them.

Food for thought. Take it or leave it.

By De in Las Vegas

April 11, 2007 12:11 PM | Link to this

What I want to know is, what part of the statement NAPPY-HEADED-HOES IS CAUSING ALL THE FUSS?

For an older, wealthy guy like Imus to even know two black smears, and to use them in combination, shows just how mainstream the black language has become. not just a “ho”, not just “nappy-headed”, but a “nappy-headed ho”…..that takes some knowledge to put that one together in making your point.

We use it in our music, movies and every comedy played across America. No other group but African American make daily derogatory references about their nationality. And we think it’s cool, we are keeping it real. Now we have given these degrading words legitimacy, we get upset when it’s used by people outside our race.

As long as we as African Americans continue to degrade ourselves and disrespect each other, we will all ways be disrespected and at some point in time, we will loose the right to be respected. What do we do about the Rappers, comedians and black talk show host that uses these derogatory words in their monologues?

Tell Sharpton and Jackson to go get a job and quit living off our contributions. Why don’t they target these rappers? Where is the protest for them, why don’t they march outside the white record producers office. And who made them spokesman for the team? The girls can handle themselves.

By Darrin "The Vent King"

April 11, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Even though I know this Imus guy meant it as a joke, when you cross the line, you cross that line. That’s the buisiness. Tim Hardaway paid his price and so did that idiot from the universtity of Miami who applauded that moronic fight this season. Michael Richards won’t be selling out any comedy tours anytime soon and this goes back all the way to Jimmy “the Greek”. Why should it be different for Imus. Oh, okay it’s money and ratings. Well if his sponsors keep bailing out on him, then that won’t be a concern much longer either. I’ve served time in the military and have been around those whites who can’t see that line you’re not supposed to cross for whatever reason. Some don’t care about the line, some just don’t realize there is one there. Imus knows there’s one there but as they would say, he had a “brainfart” and it’s eventually going to cost him his job, maybe. He has come close to that line several times and that’s why I believe he’s a goner, because if he continues the way he’s been doing it, a slip-up, or perceived one, is inevitable. He may or may not be racist, I honestly don’t know, but he sure is dumb and that may be more dangerous than anything else. For that reason alone, NBC or whoever runs his show should fire him to show what they are about. Right now, just saying they will suspend him isn’t showing much.

By Morris

April 11, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Don’t like him? Don’t listen to him. Captialism will take care of the rest.

By kreedham

April 11, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this

Fire Imus! Then you should fire Rush, Sean, Randi Rhodes. You should boycott any comedian black or white that slams people because of heritage, race, sexual orientation, et al.

Al Sharpton should be ashamed. Remember he came into national prominence because of Tawana Brawley. He beat the drumbeat against the establishment in what turned out to be a fabricated story.

What Imus said was wrong and he is making amends. It should not be tolerated but at the same time the media is just making a little too much of this. He’ll live with this scar the rest of his life. Isn’t that enough?

To end, I wish some media person would contact Dave Chappelle and Chris Rock to see what they felt about the situation. My guess is they would say it’s a little too much.

By Dan

April 11, 2007 12:24 PM | Link to this

So, I guess if a person can intentionaly turn hurtful language into a lucrative marketable, profitable product, and unleash it on whomever thay want to, and to whomever will listen to it, without regard for whoever gets hurt by it (until they are called on it)… then an apoloy suffices? I dont think so. I guess you and I place a different value on human dignity and what our responsibility is to the general public and what gets flushed down the radio and into the public airwaves.

It may be good capitalism but it makes for lousy loving your brother as yourself

By Grampus

April 11, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t care less about Imus keeping his job or not, but just out of curiosity, do black radio hosts, comedians, and blacks in general ever say anything derogatory and/or stereotypical about whites? If the answer is yes, like what?

By Joel

April 11, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this

I would like to hear Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson publicly apologize to the Duke lacrosse players who’s charges will be officially dropped today. What do you think the chances of that happening are?

By Yari

April 11, 2007 12:37 PM | Link to this

Grampus, which black radio hosts are you referring to?

By buster

April 11, 2007 12:43 PM | Link to this

it is one thing to insult pols,stars, and other public figures but by insulting young ladies who are learning the game of life he has insulted himself big time. stupid is as stupid does. if he has any advertising sponsors left when he returns,i will be appalled, and will make note of it.

By David Lee

April 11, 2007 12:49 PM | Link to this

Let Rev. Sharpton do what ever he does, so he can apologize to the Duke lacrosse players…LOL. Don’t count on it.

By j

April 11, 2007 12:54 PM | Link to this

I really wish all of yall media ppl would just shut the fark up .. worse has been said and for yall to just keep stirring the pot is just stupid..

HE said he was sorry.. what the hell else do you want!

By TLQ

April 11, 2007 1:00 PM | Link to this

Apples and oranges, I wish more people would digest some of that “food for thought.” You eloquently expressed my exact thoughts when I read those comments by Trekkiebear.

This problem is not a black or white problem. It is a people problem. Everyone needs to stand up when ANY wrong is committed, but I doubt that making derogatory comments about any group of people is the right path to take.

By One

April 11, 2007 1:01 PM | Link to this

Terrence, you are an idiot!!!!

By Jeff Ramsey

April 11, 2007 1:02 PM | Link to this

Lets go after every rappers who has used “HO” in a song. They make millions for using the same term. I think I see a double standard here. Be fair.

By Will

April 11, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this

What about his constitutional right to say whatever he wants, regardless of who it offends?

By Grampus

April 11, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Yari, I don’t know any. I’m asking. Seriously, do other races find “humor” in stereotyping whites. I know whites find humor in stereotying other races. Are we the only pathetic losers that do it?

By ab

April 11, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

I understand equality for everyone, but for a word to ok on one side and not be ok on the other side and offensive is a double standard and its just stupid! That is the issue Jessie and Al should addressing instead of stringing the “white” man up. Come on “YOU” people!!

By gtfan

April 11, 2007 1:04 PM | Link to this

Terence you suprised me

As someone who constantly plays the race card in your articles, I figured you’d be calling for his head, just like some of your co-workers over in ‘Opinion’

I’m glad you recognize, that while what he said was bad, it wasn’t racist.

Lets not forget all the black, hispanic comedians who make their living off this type of talk. But you don’t see ‘Blue Collar’ guys even going near race issues.

They know Sharpton and Jackson would be all over them.

There’s a double-standard.

By TC

April 11, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

I agree with Terence on this call. We need to put more focus on our own people calling our women names in these rap songs etc. So one statment from someone else will cause us to riot, picket, or want him fired? Lets focus on what’s happening in the world today people. There is way too much going on with the war, the children, and GAS Prices!

By Filbert

April 11, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

Sorry, but this white guy just had to weigh in on this. I think Imus was stupid to say what he did and it was wrong, but this is America and freedom of speech includes the freedom to express opinions we don’t agree with or like. What about the ACLU defending the American nazi party’s right to march through Skokie, Illinois, which had the highest popoulation of Holocaust survivors? What about the racist “art” currently displayed at City Hall? Personally, I can’t believe Sharpton has any credibility after the Twana Brawley incident, but back to Imus. You know how I handle people like him? I don’t dial into their program. Simple solution, huh? But some want to control what can and can’t be said, and who can and can’t say it. Sorry, freedom of speech doesn’t work that way, and as for the rappers use it so why can’t I, what’s good for the goose is good for the gander. Imus is media grandizing pure and simply, and Sharpton and Jackson are capitalizing big time. Why not tackle the fact that an inordinant amount of black children are born our of wedlock and something like 80% live in single parent families? How about when a black kid tries to get a good education he’s accused of “acting white?” Whatever happended to the 60’s “free your mind and your @ss will follow?” So much indignation over what, words. I hear worse language walking downtown Atlanta every day. Words only hurt if you let them and yes, I am aware of all the history invovled especially down in the South. Funny thing. Since moving here 10 years ago, to the South where race relations were supposedly so wonderful, I have been schocked to find how rampant racism is, on both sides, around here. Me, I don’t care is Imus is fired because I still won’t listen to him. But if he is, then anyone who uses such dergoatory langauge, black or white, should face similar measures. THAT’s justice!

By Greg

April 11, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

I usually don’t comment on this stuff, but, honestly the guy should get a second shot for most of the reasons mentioned above. I just have one issue, because as usual Terrance just loves to annoy us (look at his ramblings about the falcons and other things to find out what i mean), how on earth is it racist to call Colin Powell a “weasel”? Am I missing something here? You can’t correlate the two not to mention that I’m sure if you go back you’ll see he’s called many politicians weasels and they were white. Not to mention that calling someone a “cleaning lady” isn’t necessrily racist either. It is YOU Terrance that have an image of a black cleaning lady, but, little do you know that white one’s exist too. I’m sure he’s belittled white people in much the same way, but, then it wasn’t racist it was just funny. Bottom line is that people will scream that people are racist at the drop of a hat (not saying that people aren’t),but, I sincerely doubt that Imus is. He’s been on a public radio show for far to long for us not to notice it sooner. He is a SHOCK jock (much like Howard Stern) that just gets paid to ruffle our feathers and it worked (maybe too well) for him this time. I wouldn’t have chosen to call those women “nappy headed ho’s” either, but, it doesn’t mean he’s racist. Suddenly everyone who has any sort of anti-racist agenda (like reverand sharpton) has to poke his head out of the woodwork and make a comment about it because he needs more tv time to boost his rep (has anyone seen Jesse Jackson)? That being said I think it was dumb that he did that and he should get punished by the company he works for, much like I would if I said that to someone (it wouldn’t necessarily constitute my firing either). After he serves his punishment leave it be.

By Anita

April 11, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this

He should be fired. Plain and simple. Any employee who offends the customer base of an employer should be held to the same expecations as anyone of us would at our jobs. I can not make slanderous comments, statements, or jokes at my job via email, phone, or watercooler that can offend, insult, or hurt anyone w/out facing termination. Our company has zero tolerance for such actions and that is the premise by which I operate when I show up on THEIR dime. His actions are repetitious. He has done this before on numerous occasions. The message needs to be sent that the company does not tolerant, except or support such tactics as humerous, or necessary to have a successful broadcast. Perhaps when he is let go, Rossie will get the boot next.

By Derek

April 11, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

TREKKIEBEAR I hate to inform you, but I don’t allow my children or any others around them or me for that matter to use any degrading terms (whether for entertainment value or not). No its not okay for white people or * “US” * to use any language that is derogatory. You may tell “white folks” they can’t use the term, and I’m assumming your the same race as me “black”, So I’ll tell you. Don’t use them. Yes fire Don Imus and for that matter Howard Stern. But also if your resrticting free speech for them , then you must also for so called artist who embellish the use of much worse language and actions by our own, children, friends, teachers etc. You seem half-way intelligent, use your brain and think things through before baiting others. Finally for your info, you and I are gonna be long gone before things change because people like you and Imus won’t allow it. Please quit embarrassing us

By Alex

April 11, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this

I can’t believe how pathetic black people are. They are more racist then anything! Al Crapton and Jackoff Jackson HATE white people. They want equal rights? Where were they when that painting was put up at city hall that said, “its ok to hate the white man?” Unreal. It’s OK for blacks to use bad words but whites can’t? Just ridiculous. All Imus spoke was the truth. Wear your hair normal africans.

By bdf

April 11, 2007 1:14 PM | Link to this

First and foremost, I do not condone anyone, shock jock or otherwise that uses racial overtones and comments. However, I find it so interesting that (and I say this from the experiences of being around many of my friends) African-American folks call one another the “n” word and worse, yet are ready to condemn the first white person who utters anything remotely close to these phrases and words. If we are going to collectivly request that people stop using these words and phrases, this should go for everyone. Being a member of ones race does not automatically qualify them to use derogatory racially charged words and phrases against one another for any reason.

By Michael Turner

April 11, 2007 1:15 PM | Link to this

TrekkieBear I could not agree with you more. First of all, rappers are not out on TV and Radio interviewing politicians who one day will become or have become presidents. Since when rappers are the standards we measure our journalists by. We should not even go after Imus. We should go after the advertisers. If you advertise on his show, you will be called out and be boycotted. Imus comment is not only a racist but also a sexist issue. There needs to be a line drawn. Wake-up white America to your own hypocrisy.

By Shell

April 11, 2007 1:16 PM | Link to this

Black people never use these words. Get real. I have two daughters, one who has what blacks call ‘good hair’ and the other one with so called ‘bad hair’. I refuse to perm my daughter’s hair, she’s only a kid. Yet, my black relatives call her nappy headed all the time.

Don’t fire him. Black people wake up, we’re bringing this stuff on ourselves!

By Reality

April 11, 2007 1:17 PM | Link to this

Don Imus???!! Rutgers women’s basketball???!! Who gives a flip about either one??

By SUZ

April 11, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I do not agree with what was said about the Rutger Women’s Basketball Team. I do however believe in the right to say whatever he wishes to say along with the Rev Sharpton and the rappers. That is the freedom that we have in this country. I am very sorry that peoples feelings get hurt in the process of free speach but what a priceless right to have.

By Joe

April 11, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

I think he should be allowed to stay as well. What he said is reprehensible and ignorant, but we tolerate the same kind of speech from rap artists and they’ve been allowed not only to continue that type of speech, but they have flourished using it. Remember we allow black comics to make derogatory racial comments about whites, but white comics are not allowed the same leeway. I’m not defending Imus in any way….but I am saying that equality is equality…

By JC

April 11, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

Didn’t know who Don Imus was until a few days ago. Really didn’t care then.

I do know who Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson are and all I can say is if Imus ticked them off this much, he’s okay in my book. I can’t stand Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson.

By KF

April 11, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this

This whole thing is stupid. Getting all riled up and calling for someone to be fired because he called a team a bunch of nappy headed hos goes to show that we’re all way too hypersensative and over the top when it comes to political correctness. Yes, it was inappropriate and uncalled for. Particularly as he’s never met them. And he should apologize to THEM - not to all blacks as a group nor to Al Sharpton or anyone else. Noone else deserves an apology as it isn’t about them. If there’s any ho in this story, its the media ho Al Sharpton looking for attention.

The only people that can be commented on and made fun of nowdays are white males. Stop crying about everything that happens or is said. Don Imus can say whatever he wants about whomever he wants. The marketplace will determine if he stays or goes. Just as I will not listen to the Al Sharpton Radio Show, nobody has to listen to Don Imus.

By JJ

April 11, 2007 1:21 PM | Link to this

Artist: Fugees Album: Blunted on Reality Song: Nappy Heads

Stevie Wonder Song: “nappy headed little boy”

Artist 2Pac
Album Until The End of Time
Released March 27, 2001
Label Interscope
Song F**k Friendz

Song: “I can’t stand no sneaker wearing, nappy haired bi*ch” “while you trickin’ on them other hoes”

source http://www.raplyricssearch.com

I dont give a crap about Imus, he’s grown and what he said is wrong but don’t get on your soapbox and say it’s ok for some but not others.

By David

April 11, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

I agree with what Terence has to say in this matter and I can’t believe I’m saying that! I also think FLAFALCON makes the most cogent and level headed response in this looong list of illogical diatribes. What ever happened to the attitude of “I may not like what you say but I defend to the death your right to say it”?

By so sick of the hype

April 11, 2007 1:22 PM | Link to this

Hey,

If any of you, which I’m sure that all of you african-americans, listen to the Tom Joyner morning show, all they do is talk about white people. I was listening this morning and they were talking about Anna Nicole’s baby. It was sickening to me. Then in the next sentenance they are talking about Imus. You cant be two-sided all your life. Rev Sharpton ought to focus on all the rapes and violence going on aroung here. Oh, I forgot, its YOUR own race commiting these offenses against YOUR children, so I guess that dis-qualifies the Rev from speaking up. Maybe if you african americans stop to take a look at what your race is talking about, you will stop complaining. You people are not the only ones who have a right to say what they want. Get it through your nappy little heads !! Move on, Live Life !!!

By John

April 11, 2007 1:24 PM | Link to this

Remember, it was our own Atlanta City Councilwoman, Emma Darnell, who said, “We’re going to show whitey just who’s running this city,” when Sandy Springs first tried to move for citihood. Emma Darnell has retained her job.

I deplore what Imus said, but unless we are equally severe with punishment for infractions by ALL races, then we are being reverse racist.

By AR

April 11, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

I am a 39 year old BLACK male and not one of these black/white guy types. I listen to Imus everyday and have for the last 11 years. I like him and accept his apology. I wish the I MAN stop saying we (blacks) use the “phrase” this and that. He only had to say he was sorry and move on. The show is very edgy and most people who watch him get it. He went over the line and it was disturbing and the ladies at Rutgers did not deserve it. With that being said, I would like to say I hate it when something like this happen we get Al and Jessie appearing on TV talking for black america or so it appear that way. Well they don’t always speak for me and us. I respect them both and marvel at their work but stop being and opportunitst all the time. Get on the tube and talk about how we need lower costing health care AL. Jesse talk about how folks are losing their homes everyday with these unfair loans for lower income folks. We need to be SCREAMING about real matters not a stupid comment. This matter is great for racial debates, yes we do debates because racisim is here whether we like it or not. Just dont get on stage and scream about this when there other matters that needed addressed yesterday, not just black folks but for everyone. Oh yea, stop the War and increase the peace.

By Jack Smythers

April 11, 2007 1:26 PM | Link to this

This whole Imus issue is so hypocritical. Yes what Imus said is absolutely wrong. Al Sharpton is calling for his head, yet Al Sharptom referred to Jews as “Diamond Merchants”. Why aren’t these representatives of black America calling out against the violence and sexism spewed in hip-hop music? Could skin color have something to do with this? And doesn’t it seem that this thing is blown way out of proportion. You would think that Imus murdered someone, judging by the witch hunt that is going on.

By sue

April 11, 2007 1:27 PM | Link to this

Everyone has freedom of speech to voice your opinion…I like black as well as white people..Blacks always use rational when it comes to something they don’t like…Do we have WHITE AMERICA Padgent?? This should be the least of the worries of the people when so much more important things are going on…The news media had a field day on this and reported more about it than more important things… Most anything you say can offend someone…so get a life and sluff it off!!!!!!!!!

By SHABONE

April 11, 2007 1:29 PM | Link to this

FREEDOM OF SPEECH, ENOUGH SAID.

By GaCracker

April 11, 2007 1:31 PM | Link to this

Imus called the entire Rutgers women’s basketball team “natty headed hos”. Since there are 2 white women playing, this is hardly a racist comment, but I’ll give in to a sexist comment. Now he has apologized, been on Sharpton, is ready to meet the team, and has been suspended for 2 weeks. This is old news now, Move on America. And enough on Anna Nicole Smith also. The media has to overkill these meaningless tidbits!

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 11, 2007 1:32 PM | Link to this

I must admit I had never heard of this Imus guy until this incident occurred. But drawing a parallel to rappers is misguided. If rappers are using derogatory words to describe their own people, that’s an issue for black people to address on their own. Similarly, if country singers or white comedians were using derogatory words to describe white women, that’s also an issue for white people to deal with on their own. Imus’s comments are worse because a) they are directed towards people of a different race, and b) he has a history of insulting black people on the air. If a black radio host called a predominantly white women’s sports team a bunch of trailer-trash crackers, that would be equally deplorable.

And another major difference between Imus’s comments and rap is that rappers rarely ever use words like “ho” or even “n****” to refer to people of a specific race — by and large, they use those words to describe females and males in general. Not saying it’s OK, but it’s true. The fact that Imus used the term specifically to refer to black women makes it all the more offensive.

And as Token on South Park says, Jesse Jackson is not the emperor of black people. Don’t judge every black person based on the actions of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton.

Finally, what does it say about women’s basketball that this story got more headlines than the entire women’s NCAA tournament?

By kew

April 11, 2007 1:33 PM | Link to this

Tell me, what was racist about “nappy headed ho” That don’t sound like a black or white thing. He didn’t call any particular person out. He was talking about the whole Rutgers team and if I remember correctly, there are white girl on the team to. To be honest with you, they probably were nappy headed after sweating out on the court. And for as the word “ho” that word is associated with with black or white, chinese, hispanic and any other women as long as I can remember - not black women only. So tell me where is the racist statement. Get this, I’m a black man who just don’t get all this craziness.

By hmmmmmm

April 11, 2007 1:34 PM | Link to this

When it comes down to it….basically, the only difference in the Imus, Sharpton, Jackson and Moore’s of the world is in the spelling of their names..they are all the same in their own method of presentation

By Najeh Davenpoop

April 11, 2007 1:35 PM | Link to this

Also, freedom of speech is guaranteed by the government, not by individual companies. The 1st Amendment only says that the government can’t make MSNBC fire Imus. But there’s no 1st Amendment for private companies. If MSNBC wants to fire Imus for his comments, and if the general public wants to condemn Imus, they are completely within their rights to do so.

By Jessica

April 11, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

I say give him another shot and see if he’s truly repentent. Rush Limbaugh, Neal Boortz and others have been equally insulting and nobody has asked for their heads on a platter. And, I agree, if Ludacris, Nelly and the rest get away with it, why is everybody going into cardiac arrest over what Imus said. Plus Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are just 2 opportunist who love the TV cameras.

By Soma

April 11, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

LET HIM STAY IS RIGHT DR MOORE. PEOPLE HAVE SAID AND MADE COMMENTS MUCH WORSE THAN THAT! THAT IS NOT INDICATIVE OF WHO THOSE GIRLS ARE ANYWAY. WHAT POWER DOES HE HAVE? NONE. I WISH THAT SHARPTON AND JACKSON WOULD GO AFTER THOSE GANSTER RAPPERS WHOSE LANGUAGE IS BARFOLA. I MUST SAY THERE ARE MANY OTHER’ PROBALLY THINKING THE SAME THING AND CAN’T SAY IT. MOOVE ON….THIS COULD HAVE BEEN A STUNT TO BOOST RATINGS ANYWAY. LET HIM STAY AWAY FOR A WEEK RO TWO AND REALLY SEE IF HE CHANGES…….SO I HE DOESN’T WE SHALL LIVE WITH OR WITHOUT HIS COMMENTS.

By out of towner

April 11, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Ummmm … how is calling Gen. Colin Powell a “weasel” racist? I get the Gwen Ifill slam — and it’s as deplorable as the label he affixed to the Rutgers players. But “weasel” seems to me more of a reference to ethics (or lack thereof) than anything racial/cultural.

By Linda

April 11, 2007 1:38 PM | Link to this

Let’s face it, Sharpton and Jackson are two of the biggest racists around, its the old double standard. They are allowed to do whatever they want to do but no one else is if it offends them. They are both full of crap and a waste of TV and radio time!

By who cares

April 11, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

Geez people, get over it. There are enough REAL problems to contend with in the world right now besides what Don Imus said off-the-cuff about some womens b-ball team.

By kew

April 11, 2007 1:40 PM | Link to this

White girls can have nappy heads to. And there were white girls on the Rutgers team as well. All women black or white are call a ho by some men. So “nappy headed Ho” has nothing to do with racism.

By J Smith

April 11, 2007 1:43 PM | Link to this

Imus should not be fired because of what he said. How can blacks call each others names(rappers,comedians) and expect not to be called names. They also call others groups of people names and nothing is said. You’ve got to be fair. You can’t do what you want but raise cane when someone else does the same thing. What Imus did was wrong, but it shouldn’t come with him being fired. No one should degrade others over the air waves. There should be a line that you don’t cross. What Imus said is a blacks slang. It and other slangs taken very lightly in the black community which is also wrong. If Imus is fired then all the comedians and rappers need to be fired to by consumers also.

By laneyw

April 11, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

Imus is 67 years old, most white people his age are racist anyway, people over 60 (some blacks to) have it in them from way back, because of the era they were born in. This age group is the last of a dying breed racist breed.

If he was somewhat younger between 18-45, I’d say forgive him and move on, but he should be fire and the producer.

By doublestandard

April 11, 2007 1:44 PM | Link to this

I do not agree with what Imus said, it was wrong and mean. But that is what he is paid to do and that is why he is so popular. But this is a double standard, because black comedians and anyone else for that matter can say what they want about whites and get away with it. I would like to see Al sharpton and Jesse jackson come protest a policeman getting killed. Also, people like sharpton and Jackson love stuff like this, because it gives them a reason for making a living. True equality would put them out of business

By savannahjay

April 11, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

hey why doesn’t al sharpton put this kind of effort into getting imus fired and direct it to people like chris rock and these rappers who degrate women and whites and blacks thru the music and jokes they put in our ears? i guess his answer will be turn the station or channel. i guess he would not have a job if there were no race issues though would he???

By Crosby

April 11, 2007 1:46 PM | Link to this

I agree with you Mr. Moore. I have always felt the FCC was a big waste of time. If what somebody on the public airwaves says is offensive then advertisers will pull their money from them. Advertisers are the ones that make ALL media outlets besides NPR or Public television profitable. So there is no need for a governing body when advertisers and ratings will dictate who is fired and who isn’t. Also, I am a firm believer in the Rev right to protest and I’m a firm believer in Imus being able to practice freedom of speach. I’m a teacher in a public school system and I hear those words used all the time by black, white, and hispanic children.

By Rh

April 11, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

TrekkieBear, I believe Master P, one of the most successful rappers, has song titled “Freak Ho” and the lyrics went like this “Freak Ho” “Freak Ho” “Bend over until your knees touch your elbows”. They love their black women right? Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg had huge success with the song “Bitces aint shi”. The lyrics went like this “Bitces aint shi but hos and tricks, licked on the nuts and suck the dic”.

Please respond to that. I would much prefer to be called a nappy headed ho.

Get real. These 2 examples are just 2 of a million examples that could be named.

By Dawn

April 11, 2007 1:47 PM | Link to this

What ever happen to freedom of speech? I hate the fact that we are in a world now where we can’t say what is on our mind: good or bad. And the whole idea of offending someone is so out of control. We should be allowed to speak our minds even if it hurts your feelings. People need to get a back bone!

By No Opportunity To Repent

April 11, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Imus supporters are right about two things — the colorful phrase “nappy headed hos” existed before he used it, and he picked it up from probably the same source you did..or how would all the journalists know how to spell it? To me it would be the same as HIV carriers spreading the disease to the innocent — not necessarily any laws against it, but you know it’s waaay wrong.

Once and for all, leave rap and hip-hop out of this. The whole “he can say it, why can’t I?” argument suffers from many flaws.

By Ed

April 11, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Black people should get a clue when it comes to issues that involve Al Sharpton and/or Jesse Jackson. We cannot take these two serious, nor can we take serious any issue these two who, as far as I know, have never had a job other than taking money out of the pockets of ignornat black people. You need to realize, and in a hurry, these two hurt any cause they are associated with far, far more than they help. if you to be taken serious about this issue, tell Dumb and Dumber to back off and put their hands back in their pockets. Can anyone tell me, seriously, what Al and Jesse do for a living other than this type of stuff?

By Rh

April 11, 2007 1:48 PM | Link to this

Fire him so he can go on satellite radio and say whatever the hell he wants for more money?

Ughhhhh?

By Karen P.

April 11, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

What difference would that make, if he stay or go? it is what it is..He is who he is..terence moore just decide to ruffle a few feathers making that statement. Imus meant every word he said and he knew the consequences that would follow… nobody is that stupid

By ahumanbeing

April 11, 2007 1:51 PM | Link to this

Take a look at this…http://www.wsbtv.com/news/11619853/detail.html A non-white, non-moneymaking-to-white-teenager rapper. But yes, a well educated state rep. MO… TREKKIEBEAR and all the rest can kiss my a$$.

By MrWrestling#2

April 11, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

A few thoughts:

To TrekkieBear: Black Americans have no definitive right to decide what non-Black Americans can say to them. If “nappy headed ho” is wrong coming from Imus it is wrong coming from a Black rapper. Right and wrong knows no color line.

To everyone else: That said, Imus should be fired. Not because he used the word “ho” to describe black women but because he called anyone a “ho” on his radio program.

The truth be told in a technical sense this is no racial incident at all because after all there are some white women on the Rutgers basketball team, so I presume they too were calle “ho.”
Of course “we all know what Imus “meant.” Granted we probably do. Yet we can’t be assumptive.

The truth is that common decency should prevent anyone from calling anyone a “ho” on their radio program. Ulitmately this is an issue of civility and decency and not race. On that issue Imus has failed the test.

By 911

April 11, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

first of all can you name any rap song or rapper that says b***,ho or the n-word on public radio or public tv? none,because the play the edited version on the radio & tv. You have to buy the cd to get songs with cursing on them. But Imus said that word on public radio. But this is America if don’t like Imus don’t listen to him if you don’t like rap music don’t buy it! if don’t like Sharpton or Jesse then don’t listen to them. Its not Imus or the rappers its the audience that supports them.This is not the 50’s when there were only 3 tv stations and 10 radio stations,there over 200 radio and tv stations to choose from!

By kew

April 11, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Fire him for saying ugly thing about kids playing basketball but not for saying a racist comment because “nappy headed ho” is not racist, it’s just wrong to say about someone’s child who is not only playing basketball at the college level but is also in school to become great person in society. So that is why he needs to be fired, not for calling them a nappy headed ho. Some of them might have been nappy headed - who knows.

By Joe

April 11, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

I love how Al Sharpton endorsed a cash advance short term lending company/predatory lender in NYC that preyed upon the poor people that considered Al Sharpton their “community leader.” Al is nothing more than a self serving race baiter that needs to create controversy to stay in business.

By War Eagle

April 11, 2007 1:55 PM | Link to this

Imus should not be fired. Just like Jackson and Sharpton kept THEIR jobs after making racist comments when they took over as speaker of the Black Community.

By C Jacobs

April 11, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Yes it was very unprofessional and out of line for the comments made by Mr. Don Imus, but he should not be condemned due to insecurity of others. I think a lot of organizations wait for a time like to be seen. What about other sins that are being overlooked…..There is no little or big sin….Sin is sin. We never have a right to condemn or judge others eternity because you will be judged yourself. Walk in Love and pray for him…he needs help. That is why some people commit suicide because people make them feel horrible for mistakes. Love them like God loved you when you were a sinner. God forgave you and welcomed you into his presence and everlasting love.

Another good thing about Mr. Don is that he has admitted that it was wrong and he asked for forgiveness from the public. That takes heart because its not up to us accept his apology…God did and he is free from it now. After that point Mr. Don Imus is no longer in bondage to sin…..once you repent God erases your past. On the other people don’t and noone should be condemned for faults but I do understand corrective action or disciplinary actions. Also I totally disagree with Rev. Al Sharpton because you overcome evil with Good and not overcome evil with evil. A very confident and secure person would not waste any time defending their identity. For example, the girls basketball team definitely must know their identity and who they are and their purpose for their lives and negative words or ignorant comments should be null and void to them. Lastly, we must remember you must forgive others for you and not for them. If you hold unforgiveness you will be in bondage to that person or thing for the rest of your life. Also when we forgive others God will forgive us but if we don’t forgive others then God will not forgive us. Stay free and never be in bondage to what someone else thinks about you. If you are validated and sealed by God’s word that is all that matters. Smile!!!!!

By Robert

April 11, 2007 1:56 PM | Link to this

Why does Imus get blasted for referring to a team as ‘Nappy-headed hoes’ but Sharpton and Jackson don’t get blasted for being racist towards Jews? In my opinion, whites are held to a higher standard than blacks when it comes to race issues. If you’re going to get mad at one person for a racist comment, you have to get mad AT EVERYONE!!!

By Diego

April 11, 2007 1:57 PM | Link to this

I’m so tired of this story, it isn’t even newsworthy.

I don’t listen to Imus and I’m sure most of you don’t listen to him either, so it’s not fair for us to stomp on Imus as if he set racial equality back 50 years. (Setting a guideline as to what type of people are allowed to say certain things, is doing that) What he said was wrong but not worth getting fired for. It’s like the older we get the more juvenile we get. People need to worry about their own job and not about getting others fired or sent to the ‘principle’s office.’

By Ralph

April 11, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Chris Rock , Eddie Murphy, The late Richard Pryor……..ALL used racially charged words in their acts….For the life of me, I don’t remember Mr. Sharpton or Mr. Jackson coming forward to have any of these performers fired. I just saw Mr. Sharpton on CNN. He says he has taken a stand against rappers using offensive language in their lyrics, but he never said he thought the record companies that produce these songs should FIRE those rappers. MMMMMMM, seems to me there might be a double standard there. Don Imus was an idiot for saying what he did, BUT Don Imus has done and continues to do some GREAT philanthropic work and I have yet to hear Mr. Sharpton or Mr. Jackson even mention this. If you believe Don Imus should be fired, then make sure to never watch or support any work of Eddie Murphy, Chris Rock, The late Richard Pryor, etc.

By vsu84

April 11, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

I believe that TrekkieBear is right. We his “white friends” need to start standing up against the atrocities that we see everyday. For example: Any black comedian can call a white man “a bald headed cracker” and nothing will be done about it you won’t see that comedian appearing on the O’Reilly factor apoligizing for his remarks….Apologies for slavery are demanded of “us” yet none of “us” have ever owned slaves and none of the offended have ever been slaves - accusing all white people of racism is generalizing and sterotyping ….shouldn’t that be as wrong as a white person sterotyping all black people…companies are required to fill quotas because they have to hire a minority to meet their “diversity” numbers while their applications say that they do not hire on the basis of gender and/or race, they then pass over the most qualified applicants for a more qualified skin color. You are correct we, the majority, of the nation should stand up and right all of the wrongs done to people due to the color of their skin. Yes I believe that racism is rappant today…namely in the form of reverse racism….I have read Mr. Moore’s articles many times and I think he is the biggest racist in the state of Georgia, however, no one is calling for his head. If we want to rid our country of racism we should deal with the most important person first, ourselves. After that we can start worrying about other people, I believe racism will die when we let it die and calling out a man because he called some girls “nappy headed gansters” (he did not say “hos” that was the other guy…..of course that guy has not gotten in trouble……wonder if he was black.

By dbrock

April 11, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

Terence I am a 26 year old an African American female who AGREES with you!!!!! Imus was wrong and there is no doubt about that. However he just said what every white man thinks. Fire him, suspend him, kill him, hell it doesn’t matter the bigger issue is the downward spiral of African American culture. Why is that 75% percent of African American children are born in this world to unwed parents. THIS IS A BIGGER ISSUE! I am not saying that IMUS was right. DUH it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure it out that he is wrong, but why does it take some scrappy head white guy’s comments to get black america all in tizzy. If anything this little tragedy has actually influenced some black americans to think about the sad state that we as african americans are facing daily. WAKE UP!!!!!

By Rh

April 11, 2007 2:00 PM | Link to this

911 , does it really matter what media outlet is used in conveying the words bitc*,ho, etc? So it makes it right to produce CD’s that go to millions and millions of young kids, but since it is not on the “radio”, it is now okay? So if Imus release a CD calling black women nappy headed hos, that would be okay, just not on the radio. Wow, that is special.

By Sick & Tired

April 11, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

It’s funny, I keep seeing the rant that “rappers use the term ho all the time” and that something should be done about them, however, I don’t see anyone calling music execs (black or white) on the carpet for producing or releasing such music. Some of these execs demand the controversial lyrics otherwise the music doesn’t get put out. But I guess you don’t have the time to approach things from that point of view. I doesn’t lend support to your argument that what Imus said was just a “joke”.

By BJ

April 11, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

No.. he shouldn’t be fired. I don’t agree with what he said…it was ugly, mean, stupid and just plain NOT funny. However, this is a free country and he is simply doing what he’s paid to do. He’s being “Imus.” I watch movie after movie of urban kids spouting the same vile slang and it’s funny — apparently — to those kids and the folks who watch the movies. And last time I checked, Sharpton wasn’t calling for the boycott of Spike Lee. I know.. I know… “it’s different.” No, it’s not.

That’s equality.

And this is a free country. I don’t like Imus, so you know what? I don’t listen! And if this thing hadn’t been so blown up in the media, I would never have known it happened. Imus is not even a blip on my radar. Well, he is now, I guess. Hmmm.

By Sha

April 11, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

I love the way y’all justify the double standard that African Americans live by. It’s okay for blacks (rich or poor)to use derogatory comments about themselves in every day language, but God Forbid old whitie follows your example and Sharpton and Jackson and the rest of Afircan Americans start chanting for whitie’s blood. Y’all should be demanding that all African Americans cease the use of derogatory terms against each other, especially in the rap community which has done nothing but drag blacks down (and y’all pay them to do it), and the rest of the world will follow suit. Jackson and Sharpton’s time and effort would be better spent campaigning against the use of derogatory terms and lifestyles within the black celebrity community from which y’all pull your influences, instead of chasing after some old wrinkly white dude who is too dumb for his own good. Lead by example, my brother!!

By Leigh

April 11, 2007 2:03 PM | Link to this

The thing that irritates me most about this is that I feel there is such a double standard here it is ridicoulous, because I guarantee you that Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson would not be calling for an African American talk show host to be fired if he had said what Imus said about white women.

By MD native

April 11, 2007 2:06 PM | Link to this

To fire Imus for his comments completely undermines the entire premise of free speech. While I don’t agree with what he said he has a right say it. If we truly want free speech we are going to have to listen to stupid, ignorant comments such as this.

“You want free speech? Let’s see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who’s standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours.” The American President

By Emma

April 11, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

Why is nappy considered insulting and derogatory? Why do Black and White folks continue to give negative connotations to nappy hair? Does that mean that people with nappy, kinky hair are somehow “less than,” unworthy, unlovable?

Why do we debase women by attacking their sexuality—call her wh*. Why do we persist in cheapening women that way? Is this how you want your mother, wife, sister, daughter described?

By Mr.White

April 11, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this

TrekkieBear, Read your own words, knucklehead. You also don’t have the power to tell me or anyone else what to say. This is America. If you don’t like it, tune it out.

By Pat

April 11, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

I agree, let him stay, he’s going to do this again because this is who he is. We have to know God has this one, it’s a time and place for every thing…. We have been thru a lot being A Black Race and this is another test of our faith. We can’t continue to waste valuable time on Ignorance. He’s not the first to makes these statements and won’t be the last. I think there are more important things we need to be putting more power and fight to.

By Rh

April 11, 2007 2:09 PM | Link to this

Why not blame the owner of the station for not putting a delay in the show and censoring the comments? It is the company’s responsibility to make sure the right message is portrayed on their station and ensure inappropriate comments are not blurted on the air. They are the last line of defense, not the radio personalities. I actually heard Imus on the radio this morning for the 1st time and thought he was hilarious, and based on his interview and hearing the “broadcast”, he is not a racist, but someone who made a joke that offended black people, although it should not have. Offensive to the Rutgers team yes, but now an entire race.

I am calling for the resognation of all African Americans who have ever said anything racist.

I am calling for an apology to slavery from the continent of Africa, who provided and created the slave market.

I am calling for a boycott of all company’s that do business with or are affiliated with BET.

I am calling for an end to all holidays, awared shows, scholarship programs, universities, and other programs that descriminate against “all” races other than blacks.

By C Jacobs

April 11, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

YOU ARE WHAT YOU RESPOND TO.

IF YOUR NAME IS BOB….WILL YOU RESPOND IF SOMEONE IS CALLING JACK? OF COURSE NOT….BECAUSE YOUR NAME IS BOB

NEVER RESPOND TO IGNORANCE BUT ALWAYS RESPOND TO INTELLIGENCE AND GOOD MORAL CHARACTER.

By Sick & Tired

April 11, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

Sha,

I think you need to check your facts. White teens are the ones spending billions on rap music. Also, someone else using derogatory terms cannot “drag me down”. That argument makes no sense.

By TrekkieBear

April 11, 2007 2:12 PM | Link to this

By HawgApril 11, 2007 10:57 AM TrekkieBear get a job - you have too much time on your hands

FYI, I have a job in education and I am on Spring Break. Even if I was working this week, I could never take too much time to explain what white people should already know but refuse to understand.

By zombieboy

April 11, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Obama/Imus in 2008!!

By nick

April 11, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

To be honest with you, he didn’t say anything that he wasn’t taught by black people who call each other nappy heads Ho’s’s all the time. The reason imus makes such statements as well as other ethnic groups is that blacks disrespect each other by calling each other ho’s, nappy heads, the N word, you name it, black people which include women, create these names and get mad when other race of people use them. Blacks make jokes about them all the time on def comedy jam with the stand up next star comedians. Black comedians have made millions of dollars calling each other vulgar names. and guess who’s setting their lauhging, BLACKS. Forgive me for not using the term African-Americans but blacks fits well with how words are used in our culture. I’m not of course defending imus at all, he should be punished for his remarks. but blacks have given him and other race of people reason to use these words because that’s where they get them from. That still doesn’t give people the right to use them, But when blacks stop using them in rap songs, street, in the nieghborhood, then don’t get upset. When black women really get angry with each other, they call each other, “you black nappy headed b……” and all types of other names that I won’t even mention on this blog. Of course this doesn’t mean all black women. I just wish the good moraled educated sisters would help and minister to the younger sisters who are coming up and teach them how to respect themselves. I applaud all women who respond to this type of behavior, but remember, If you are willing to show it, then you are willing to share it. Stop giving society a reason to call you these names. I will fight with you when you start fighting for your respect. You respect yourself by the way you carry yourself, not getting on BET showing your butt with the rappers who don’t know anything about how to respect or treat a women. I know you do it for the money but you can find another way to make a good living besides showing your butt to the world and then get offended when they call you what you’re acting like. I know a lot of people won’t like what I just said but this is not about Imus, this is much bigger than him. This is a culture problem that needs to fixed by US.

By KC in Athens

April 11, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

Trekkie Bear, the world would be a better place for you and your people if you would stop being so sensitive. It’s funny how a talk show host who is supposed to be controversial gets lambasted for a nappy headed ho comment. Any other comment in the world would have been acceptable, but black folks feel freedom of speech is only applicable if it doesn’t offend them. Save yourself the anxiety and get over it. I am not moved by your diatribe. Oh no, I just did it. I said something that blacks won’t like and there’s Al Sharpton knocking on my door.

By FreeSpeech

April 11, 2007 2:13 PM | Link to this

I am appalled in reading some of the blogs above that ANYONE would even suggest that only black people have the right to free speech and can say anything and use any words or language they want, and white people do not have that same right.

Are those people making those arguments really that ignorant? Free speech applies to everyone in this country. And inflammatory language is inflammatory language no matter who utters the words. It is time now that everyone stands up and says enough is enough. NO ONE needs to say those words. It is time that decency takes a stand and we have honor back in our lives.

We do not need the rappers, rascists, comedians, activists, talk show hosts and others, to preach the language of hate, defamity, disrespect, slander, and libel to us all any longer.

Seriously, how any of you can support anyone using those words is beyond me. However, free speech allows all to use those words. Either Imus is allowed to say them, or NO ONE is allowed to say them.

You cannot have it both ways folks. Terrance Moore is absolutely right. You cannot fire Imus without firing 100’s of others in the entertainment business. Those words and worse are uttered daily. Jesse Jackson called New York City “Heimytown”. Should he be fired? Al Sharpton called the prosecuter in the Tawana Brawley case “cracker” (for those of you who don’t know, cracker is the white equivelent of the “n” word). should he be fired?

Do not even begin to argue that only blacks are allowed to talk the nasty talk. My grandfather did not die in Europe so that only Tupac could say the N word and nobody else.

By No Opportunity To Repent

April 11, 2007 2:17 PM | Link to this

Ralph,

Chris, Eddie and Richard all used race in the comedy acts. And you paid in one way or another to see or hear it. That’s the humongous difference between the personal entertainment you sought and the free, public radio forum where Don Imus made his comments. You can’t turn down the dial from Imus and hear Chris, Eddie or Richard on any radio program in the country. How convenient for you to use those three though? Did you forget about Andrew Dice Clay and most recently Michael Richards? They all use racially charged words in their acts too, or were you trying to prove some kind of point?

Not even Bill Clinton would get a pass with black people for calling the Rutgers’ basketball team or any group of women “nappy headed hos” in a public forum like Imus did. Sorry, but there’s no amount of merit any white person could build with black people to make a comment like that and get away scot-free. There’s little to no legitimacy for a black person who says such things.

Not many of us are arguing against Imus’s right to say what he said. There are some words that just cost more than others.

By Mark

April 11, 2007 2:19 PM | Link to this

Imus has finalyy been exposed to be fraud he has always been. He spouts off like he is bad a## but when he gets challenged, he starts crying like a baby.

He is a big wuss—-kick him out.

Howard Stern would of told people that he meant what he said and they also could kiss his lily white a## if they don’t like it. He talks the talk and walks the walk.

Imus is a pus#^.

By EJ

April 11, 2007 2:24 PM | Link to this

What goes around comes around comes around. The good thing out of this is it brings to awareness the fact that the black community needs to respect each others,and others in our speech. If we don’t respect each others what make us think others will respect us. We can now take a stand against anyone including Black Rappers and Comedians that try to degrade for the sake of personal gain. What’s wrong for one should be wrong for all.

By LestWeForget

April 11, 2007 2:30 PM | Link to this

Circumstances, Choices, and Consequences. I think you forgive them for their choices but I think consequences are unavoidable. I also think those like Moore who align themselves with men who espouse indecent and cruel racist remarks should be fired as well. What if it were your mother, wife, sister, daughter? Some choices have consequences. Just one man’s thoughts.

By Marcus

April 11, 2007 2:31 PM | Link to this

Don Imus will always display his evil characteristics on radio and television programs and say it’s comedy. Don Imus has been doing this for a long time and it finally caught up with him. What comes out of a man is what’s in a man Heart and Soul. Terence Moore you are one of many whom always wants to keep giving evil a chance, and when you wake up evil is at your door, to late then, you then become a Slave! Or evil will say this is my country now! Don Imus is an evil man whom gives good gifts unto children and promotes books for friends like Clarence Page. Don Imus should be fired that’s the way you remove his kind of evil from radio and television or when Don Imus goes to rest with Satan. Keep up your support for years of Don Imus chances Terence, just to show favor to have people read your articles, I want any more!

By Scilla

April 11, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

The term “nappy-headed ho” is very much a racial term. If it wasn’t meant to be racist then he would have just said “hoes”. But he didn’t he singled out a specific group of people on the team. No white female has ever been referred to as “nappy-headed” because it is a term reserved and used towards black people. And no it was not coined by the African American race it was used during slavery along with many other terms to degrade us.

Furthermore, if Imus’ comments weren’t mean to be racists then why did he go on to company the team to a Spike Lee movie and call them “jigaboos”. Is that also not a racist term? Come on people, let be realistic. His comments were intended for the black girls on the team or his insults would have been more general.

I do agree with Freedom of Speech and I do not feel like that would be violated if Imus is fired. We aren’t asking for him to be locked away in jail, we’re just saying to hold him to the same standards that any other professional would. And in any professional setting you should not be allowed to offend anybody based on their color, race, religion, or sexual preference!

By Mr White

April 11, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

Whites aren’t held to higher standards. The fact is that whites have higher standards. Those words you blacks are so offended by are lazy, uneducated mispronunciations of the English language. Don’t blame us. You people are outraged over nothing but words. The real outrage is the communities you have moved into and completely trashed. If you don’t believe me, go look around. You’ll never get anywhere until you take responsibilty. Sharpton and Jackson are fleecing your dumba*s. Wake UP! Whites don’t get upset over words because they really don’t care. We are concerned more with actions and responsibility.

By Michael

April 11, 2007 2:37 PM | Link to this

Fire IMUS. He has no right to spew that garbage on free radio. He can do it on satellite radio if he can find an audience.

He was on a slippery slope trying to be funny. It takes a real genius to find the humor in stereotypes. Chris Rock can do it. Eddie Murphy can do it. Not many others.

Having said all of that, you folks should ride MARTA with me late at night. You’ll hear african americans calling each other awful names in a language that is barely understandable. They use names that this white man will never use. Bill Cosby has it right. Our youth needs to learn ENGLISH. Otherwise they are doomed to low-paying, dead-end, physical labor type jobs that will just perpetuate their dependent existence.

By Shell

April 11, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Exactly RH, As a black woman it kills me when I ask black females how they listen to black calling them hos and bit*hes on these rap songs. Most say, he’s not talking to me. I tell them, ‘Well, they didn’t say any particular name. so, I guess they’re talking about all women.

That’s when I get called a sell out or bourgie

By FreeSpeech

April 11, 2007 2:38 PM | Link to this

Scilla, this is how rumors and stories get started. At no time did Imus use the term “jigaboo” in reference to the Rutgers team. Whoever told you that was giving you bad information. That term was never used, not by Imus at least. Please don’t go around repeating that as you would be repeating bad info.

By Titothebear

April 11, 2007 2:39 PM | Link to this

What qualifies the Reverend Fatback to sit in judgement of anyone? How about Rev. Baby Daddy? Fatback rode the Tawana Brawley fiasco to fame despite the fact that the whole story was a concoction and everyone, including Rev. Porkchop, knew it was a manufactured lie. Rev. Baby Daddy got into trouble years ago by referring to New York as “Hymie town.” He still goes to New York and he still raises his hypocritical voice to criticize others for racial intolerance. Imus used black vernacular to criticize the coifs of a female basketball team. That’s really all it amounted to. The main objection, it seems, is to the use of ho. Ho once was a truncated version of w******* but, through constant useage in Rap music and movies, etc., has come to be commonly used to refer to any woman. I saw some of the young women on television and, though I know nothing of their character, ‘em was some nappy headed hos.

By Sam

April 11, 2007 2:40 PM | Link to this

NOT ALL BLACK PEOPLE THINK ALIKE.

By TrekkieBear

April 11, 2007 2:42 PM | Link to this

By Derek April 11, 2007 1:10 PM No its not okay for white people or * “US” * to use any language that is derogatory. You may tell “white folks” they can’t use the term, and I’m assumming your the same race as me “black”, So I’ll tell you. Don’t use them.

I never said it was ok for Black to use these terms. But it sure isn’t ok for white peole to dictate to us whether we can or not. But black people do get to DECIDE. Now you may feel that is ok for white people to continue to tell black people what they can or cannot say, but I for one, do not.

As for your comments denigrating my intelligence that is another matter. I assure you that I while I may not agree with your opinions, I would never attack what I perceive to be your intelligence or lack thereof. That was uncalled for and has nothing to do with the topic at hand. If anything, you embarrass yourself, I have not embarrassed anyone and especially not black people.

By MrWrestling#2 April 11, 2007 1:53 PM To TrekkieBear: Black Americans have no definitive right to decide what non-Black Americans can say to them. If “nappy headed ho” is wrong coming from Imus it is wrong coming from a Black rapper. Right and wrong knows no color line.

OK, This comment is so far off target that it must be addressed. Black Americans most CERTAINLY have a definitive right to decide what non-Blacks can say to them.

This is why white teachers cannot and donot refer to our children as nggrs in the classroom. This is why the word N*GRA or COLORED is no longer used in mainstream media or even in every day speech. Because it is offensive and black people across the country have made it very clear that they do not want to be referred to in this way by non-blacks.

Again, my comment is not about whether blacks should or should not use this language. My comment is that Blacks most certainly get to decide whether this type of language should be used amongst themselves and they most DEFINITIVELY get to tell white people and other non-blacks to stop using it as well.

By I B Blackmon

April 11, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

The Iman has a history of saying things like this. These are the words of a burnt-out hippy. A drunk, drug addict who believes that black people are subhuman. He should definitely be fired. It is so refreshing to hear real men speak out against sexist comments. I don’t have any daughters or sisters. But I will not let any man black or white dis the Mother of all civilization.

By Karen P

April 11, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is.. Imus knew exactly what he was doing before going on the air ..He discussed this with his collegues before he decided to say it. cuz the man is not that stupid. He got a 2 week vacation. Because If anybody get suspended it starts right now.. not next week… Reality Check people!! again here we are racially divided because of something someone plan to do….

By gb

April 11, 2007 2:46 PM | Link to this

I agree that some rappers use the same vulgar language toward black women (ho), however you can’t “fire” rappers. and, more importantly to note is that this scenario is similar to the use of the N word among blacks and non-tolerance when it is used by non blacks. Though I believe it should start with blacks respecting each other and not referring to one anther using any derogatory names, that would be in a perfect world… In the meantime, Imus should be fired, it is unacceptable. Might I mention also, that if a black person had said the same thing, they should also be dismissed.

By Mark Lemke

April 11, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Hey everybody, the Lemmer here just wanted to remind everyone that its a fact that its whack to crack on black

By I Wonder If...

April 11, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

I wonder if anyone has noticed that the Lady Vols (UTenn) have been quiet on this one. How many of you actually watched/listened to the video/audio of what was said.

Well, I took the liberty of looking up both rosters on their respective websites and discovered that the Lady Vols are a very nice looking bunch. The Rutger’s team - in the words of Borat - “Not so much….”

Also, no one has cared to mention that both teams have both BLACK and WHITE players on them!

So, Imus took the comedic liberty of pointing out that the Rutger’s team was all “tatted-up” and frankly, a rough looking bunch of girls. Would it have been better if he’d just said, “my what a rough, ugly, thuggish, etc., bunch that is”? Would we be talking about this? What if he just called them “b***” instead of “hos”? Would that be better? Or is it really just that he’s white????

What if Dave Chappelle had said it? I can tell you, I can see it now and it would have been freaking hiiiiillllarious!!!! He would have even used the n-word (I guess that what we are calling it these days.) and everything!!!!

And no one has mentioned the fact that Imus (and the person in the background) mentioned that the Lady Vols were pretty. Was he only talking about the white ones?????? They also tried citing a Spike Lee movie that uses jigaboo/wannabee. It was Skool Daze (sp) NOT Do the Right Thing, by the way! And to FreeSpeech, YES it was said!

The girls were rough looking and frankly, I think you ALLL know what he was getting at! How pretty can you be while you are trying to win a national championship?

Grow up America! Since when did we become such pansies (oh, can I say that)? Why is everything so touchy-feely these days?

Frankly, I am sick of it. Sick of the apology/rehab stunts. Sick of people thinking that everyone owes them an apology and sick of people (Al, Jesse, et al) thinking that the rest of us care about this kind of stuff so much that they HAVE to get someone to apologize to the whole race. What’s more is after the apology is demanded, nee, extorted, it is never enough! How much does anyone want to bet that we will hear lawsuit next?

To Al and Jesse’s credit, they have been working with the hip-hop community on the language, the violence, the denigration of females. But these men are fallible. They have issues that the media has made sure they remind us of. They have been asked to apologize and both make no apologies. They stand up for their bigoted ways! Real men!

What if white folks started making black folks apologize for stuff? Like high-crime rates or the word “bling”(oh crap, I’ve done it now).

I figure, if you say it, you mean it. Or you mean some variable of it. If we keep making everyone apologize, how will we ever distinguish the bigots???? I’d like to know who they are, thank you. Don’t apologize. Stand up for what you believe in. And certainly don’t go to someone else’s radio show to do it. Imus has his own show. He can apologize there. And I agree with an earlier poster, “capitalism will do it’s thing”.

Who cares if the rapper/comedians keep saying it, as everyone is whining? If you don’t like it, don’t buy, listen, all of the above. Guess what? Not all rappers/comedians talk that way. Why? Because they found their audience and their audience doesn’t want to hear it! Capitalism at it’s best!!!

Also, can everyone learn the difference between the words racist, bigot, prejudice, etc.???? Since when did it become racist for someone of another color or race to say something you don’t like???? Could it be that you AREN’T a good manager? Maybe you DON’T deserve that raise. Maybe you SHOULDN’T have another child. Maybe you SHOULDN’T buy potato chips with food stamps. Maybe you SHOULD get a job. Maybe your credit ISN’T any good. Maybe, just maybe, your hair IS nappy!!!! (Gasp)

What if a black person doesn’t hire that black person? What is that? It’s, it’s…. Is it racism? Maybe they just don’t like you! YOU! Not your color.

Frankly, I look for racism in the form of my very own “coloreds only” toilet or fountain. Or my very own entrance in the back of the restaurant. Or my very own section of the bus…in the back. Or my very own desk at a job that I am clearly not qualified for. Or that meeting that I am not being told about that I clearly need to be IN. Or that loan that I all of a sudden can’t get after being assured on the phone that I had it (good credit, etc.) but I walk into the office and they tell me no!

Who cares if Obama, Colin or Condi haven’t come forward. I think they have bigger issues to deal with and frankly, make their money in other ways than worrying about a has-been fossil that is Don Imus (was that racist? should I apologize?) Condi has all of these people trapsing around the world trying to do her job. (Don’t get me started)

Bottom line is that it is time for us to stop being so touchy feely on all of this. Stop all of this race-baiting because it is creating a big rift. We were suppose to overcome! We are digressing.

Why are there words that one can use and others “can’t”. Screw that. All words are fair game! No one race is the keeper of words!

By the way, I am a black (if that’s what we are calling ourselves these days) female. I have nappy hair that is currently relaxed (although I do have my days, let me tell ya)!!!! LOL

(And I do have a job that I am terribly neglecting just to write this.)

By Ally

April 11, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

Dear TrekkieBear- I am an African American woman and I disagree with you and I do AGREE with Terrence. We have to stopped using this degrading language as what some deem as “terms of endearment” in the hood. What Imus said is what we hear in “our” music and “our” daily lives. This is not about prejudice, it’s about ignorance..”our” own and I am not mad at Imus..We say this all the time..only this time a white man said it…

By Scilla

April 11, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

FreeSpeech, the term jigaboo was used. I am wrong is saying the Imus used it, the other guy on the show did. Imus said that the other girls on the team were kind of cute, kind of like a Spicke Lee film. The other guy comments: “the jigaboos vs. the wannabees”

Here is the entire clip: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RF9BjB7Bzr0

But you are correct in saying that the comment was not made my Imus.

By SomeOneWithSomeSense

April 11, 2007 2:57 PM | Link to this

Recently, I asked my 20yr old son if he had met a special girl at the school he was attending. He replied that it was hard finding a good girl, that a lot of the girls were “hos”. I asked what did he mean by using the term “hos”. His definition, “girls who have sex for attention (or some price) and outside of a real relationship. Does Imus know about the Rutger’s Basketball team’s sex life? Probably NOT!! Maybe, when the rappers use this word, which I am not condoning, they have some insight about the girls they are referring to that have sex with them for their stardom. Maybe, the rappers aren’t making blanketing statements like Imus did about young women he does not know.

By baddog

April 11, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Good call we need to start policing the rappers before we put other folks on blast. Why do we call each other “my nigga” and its cool and when a White person says it then we want to fight. We as a people have been taken back 40 years by the way we act in public and the the things we let slip by. Again lets start with ourselves first then we can check them because White see us doing it then they think its okay for them to do it

By WTF

April 11, 2007 2:59 PM | Link to this

Words only have power if you give them power…Meanings of words change daily…remember when bad meant bad, then bad meant good or remember when chill meant to cool, now it means to calm down, I heard my son say that something was “sick” and apparently now that means “bad” as in “good”—‘cmon people get over who is allowed to say what and think about why you let these words affect you so much…consider the source, consider the impact, consider how much time is wasted bickering over words…If this incident had not blown up the way it did Imus’ ignorant words would have been stupid and done with, now it has sparked a national debate…I just don’t get it…and by the way, I am African American

By RH

April 11, 2007 3:00 PM | Link to this

What happeded to the “Happy to be Nappy”. I guess that is not the case?

By Tony

April 11, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this

What needs to happen is, Jessie Jackson and Rev.Al Sharpton and all of the outrage black pepole should start cleaning around their own doors. And not use each and every time a white person says or does something that offends us. And we as black pepole use this language everyday.If the black leader’s want to bring about change, maybe they should speak on us having self repect and maybe then others will learn to repect us. And also black pepole need to stop using the tired!! excuse of saying, it’s ok for us to use.

By Sriraj

April 11, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Terence,

I typically never agree with you but this time, you are spot-on. What you are advocating, is, let the free markets decide his fate. That is much better than race warlords and others demanding for his firing. And, pray, who constitutes the free-market — it is us, the viewers/listeners, it is his guests, it is his advertisers/sponsors. When they decide to pull the carpet from his feet, he will have no recourse. That would be a much better step (to give him the opportunity to display his stupidity) than to seek his head like the Al Sharptons (a racist himself) and Soledad O’Briens of the world. Rather than resort to emotion, these people should resort to reason and understand that Imus is his own worst enemy — he will bring about his own downfall.

By Bill Sullivan

April 11, 2007 3:13 PM | Link to this

Dear Mr. Moore:

I agree with your comments on not firing Imus. He probably did pick up the word “Ho’s” from the gangster rap music. I think the “Imus” incident should be a great opportunity for all of us ethnic groups to tone things down a bit in the future. After all, we are all fellow Americans with enough threats from outside forces like Al Quieda. There is no sense in stirring up fellow citizens with thoughtless comments which only add to ill will. I appreciate your perspective.

Bill Sullivan

By JR

April 11, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Imus is an idiot and it’s hard to believe anyone would waste a second of their life listening to him. Kind of like the time I just spent reading your blog and the some of the responses.

By Mr. White

April 11, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Where did this “mother of all civilization” crap come from? I definately did not descend from the black race. That is some of that Afrocentric stuff made up to make you feel better. I am White , very proud of it and do not apologize for it.

By seeb

April 11, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Hey Terrence, You are right on the money, Imus is just saying what a lot of American people are thinking. American people (white, black, asian, etc.)are sheeple. Easily distracted from the real problems. The earth should just shake us all off and let the cockroaches have their moment in the sun. Stupid Americans

By Ken

April 11, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

I am curious as to why Brandon McGuirk, who used the term “jiggaboo”, among others, hasn’t been castigated for this incident. It seems the very Reverend Al Sharpton and his fellow snake-oil salesman Jesse “never met a racial incident I couldn’t milk for income” Jackson decided that Imus made for a better target for their hypocrisy and publicity-whoring.

What a joke. You people all need to get a life and stop paying attention to these parasites.

By AL G

April 11, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

Who cares? I mean really- aren’t there more important things in the world to p** and moan about? I wonder what the public outcry would be if a non-white person called a group of white women a “bunch of meth-huffing trailer queens”?

By FreeSpeech

April 11, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I am going to throw something out that is going to be a very novel idea and something that many people will find totally repugnant, but I will throw it out there anyway.

I actually never think about race until someone throws it in my face. I have friends of many different ethnicities. It never crosses my mind where they come from. Most of them I suspect are of the same mind, because they never bring up race and it is never a subject we discuss, not because we are afraid to, but because it is not anything that seems to be of any importance to us. Maybe I am the only one who thinks like that, but I don’t believe that. Race just don’t mean crap to me, except for the Human Race. I think people put too much emphasis on what color they are. Black skin, yellow skin, red skin…might as well be blonde hair, brown hair, red hair as far as I am concerned.

But then, things like this comes up, and then it gets discussed. And it is always the same people who make race a big deal, it is the Al Sharptons, Jesse Jacksons, and especially the media. In short, it is the ones who make a living off race issues, the ones who profit from race problems. The ones who, if there are no race issues, have no place in the world and have no job, no further purpose in life.

Has anyone ever considered that if everyone just ignored the ignorant slobs like the Imus’ of the world and quit giving any power to the words they speak, they would slowly crawl back under the hole they came from and disappear. And maybe, the creeps like Sharpton who create more problems than they help might crawl back with them?

By Patricia

April 11, 2007 3:18 PM | Link to this

I have read a lot of the comments and to honest with you all….can someone get Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson to fight with these colleges and Universities to let some of black children in with 100% financial aid?

Can either or fight the public school system for books and pay teachers more. Can we get some black programs for our children in our neighborhoods.

Come on people we really do have more important issues we should be spending this time on.

By Gator

April 11, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

What ever happened to Stick and Stones will break my bones but names will never hurt me?

By Imus Should Go

April 11, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Please stop comparing what rappers say on albums; they are NOT directing their “ho”-laced lyrics to any specific individual(s). And, I don’t agree with these lyrics, nor does Sharton or Jesse; both have—in fact— spoken out against the rappers who are making millions using this degrading slop.

What Imus and his sidekick did was personal. How would you feel if your daughter was referred to as a w*******, on nation-wide TV/radio no less? This is slanderous, hurtful and helps to perpetuate negative ethnic sterotypes. You really think/believe there should be no repercussions for impugning the character of hard-working young women? Oh, I forgot, he was only joking…Please.

All these red-herring arguments about the black-on-black crime problem has nothing to do with this issue. Not to say it’s not a problem—it IS. But, that’s an entirely different convoluted discussion for another day.

Further, it’s not soley a black problem. It’s an Amercian problem. We all lose when so much potential talent that would creat a stronger quilt, is loss to drugs, jail or an early departure from earth. Thus, we all bare some responsibility for the excessively high dropout rate, which is one of the main negative triggers leading to young black boys losing their way. Combine that with the ever-weakening family cell, well, we have a recipe for societal devolution.

Look, white boys from broken homes commit their share of crime/drug use, etc…But, the justice system treats them differently. This I know for a cold, indisputable fact. Blacks almost always receive greater jail time for the same exact crime. They’re more likely to be incarcerated for a crime they didn’t commit.

Once we as a nation decide that we’re in this pot together and view all people as part of a greater human family, then, and only then can we come close to reaching our full human potential.

Make a statement CBS/NBC—Fire Imus and his producer!

By Tony

April 11, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

Freedom of speech protects you from being prosecuted by the government not from your employer!

By Gator

April 11, 2007 3:20 PM | Link to this

What ever happened to Sticks and Stones will hurt me but names never will? Grow up people!

By Renea

April 11, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

B R E A K I N G N E W S F R O M 1 1 A L I V E …

Defense Secretary Announces Longer Tours in Iraq

Beginning immediately, all active-duty Army soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan will serve 15 month tours — three months longer than the usual standard, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said Wednesday.

Stay with 11Alive News and 11Alive.com for more on this developing story.

By Clayton Bigsby

April 11, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Comment from a 30something African-American Male:

It’s all Bull$#%! People should be able to say whatever they want, except on a public stage by a responsible employee of a Major Television network. Anytime some cracker goes on the record to call me and any of my people a racial slur, they always justify their actions by blaming rap music. Crackers(ignorant whites) rarely spend 5 seconds in a black communtiy. Don’t they know we too fight to get those ignorant niccas(ignorant blacks)out of our radios and communities.

My concern is when will these people wake up. We all live, eat, and breathe the same air. We all have unique characteristics. We have morals, values, and integrity. We should admire each other for our God given differences, gifts, and blessings. I’m only black becuase my mother and father were. When I was a kid I wish I could’ve been white(At least to be able to get a job)! I have black and white blood in my veins. I love fact that I’m both, but my skin is dark. For a long time I was confused, but now I understand that I’m who I am. I had to learn to forgive myself and forgive my enemies. There’s nothing we can do about our race, we must do something about our hearts. We must learn to forgive! We must also fight for integrity and high moral standards! We also should not be so afraid to dialogue with others. We all live, eat,and breathe together. Let’s work on forgiveness, communication, and acceptance.

By Peri, Lithonia

April 11, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this

Exactly. What many people don’t SEE or HEAR about are the many groups out there who ARE protesting the lyrics of rap and hiphop music and videos. It simply is not reported as widely. The media is in the business of reporting stories that will get the most attention.

Believe me, black women don’t appreciate being called hoes and b**tches by ANYONE, not just the Don Imuses of the world.

By SomeOneWithSomeSense

April 11, 2007 3:23 PM | Link to this

JoMama, I’d like to spend some time explaining my comment to you, because I see that it went RIGHT OVER YOUR HEAD. I forget sometimes who reads these blogs. Read it a couple of more times and maybe you’ll get it. The statement is disputing the comparison between what Imus said and what rappers say in their songs. It’s saying that it is not the same because they aren’t using it in the same context. Webster’s definition of a “w*******” is exactly as was defined previously.

By Titothebear

April 11, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this

Terence, after having seen Colin Luther Powell’s performance at the U.N., greasing the skids for war in Iraq, do you take umbrage at Imus’s characterizing him as a weasel? It fits perfectly! It seems odd to me that all those concerned with racial equality and justice are talking non-stop about what Imus said. Meanwhile, charges brought by a lying, degenerate ho against three white, Duke students are about to be dropped. The reason-there never was any proof! Charges should never have been preferred. Her story, like Tawana’s before, was a concocted mess. Where were Revs. Porkchop and Baby Daddy during this mess? Answer: they were calling for the conviction and imprisonment of these young men who did nothing to the nappy headed ho!

By kev_rome@yahoo.com

April 11, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

Do you know that General Electric own MSNBC and Univerisal? General Electric allows their employees to say negative slurs about African Amerian by Universial distribution where the rappers shipped and market their music who is majority white owned companies. Of course, MSNBC always saying negative slurs about African Americans.

By LUV 2 HATE ME

April 11, 2007 3:29 PM | Link to this

I call this a “Ricochet Effect”. This is what happens when white people hear our music and laugh to our comedic jokes. They pickup on these negative comments/images & start stereotyping African Americans. They figure if BLACK PEOPLE can say it and get paid why can’t “We say it”. Black people when are we going to stop covering up for Hip Hop artists and Comedians. Yes it’s a form of art and expression but enough is enough. I’m a music producer and these hip-hop artists aren’t talking about nothing these days. The art of music is dying and lets not talk about the videos and how women of color are being portrayed. It’s ugly in my opinion. It’s all about the mighty dollar and that needs to stop because until the entertainers notice and change their lyrics and material this will continue (Rutgers incident) for many years to come.

By Shanthemanatl

April 11, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

I saw an interview with Halle Berry the other night(just before the whole Imus thing)and she mentioned that she was about to shave her head for her role in her next movie, entitled “Nappily Ever After”. It’ll be interesting to see if they change the title now!

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this

Clayton Bigsby,

You are just as stupid as Imus. Why in the world do you think its ok to call white people “cracker? If you can call them “cracker”, they can call us “nappy head hoes”.

By jacworth

April 11, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this

Has anyone here ever listened to the Imus show? Imus makes fun of EVERYBODY. Doesn’t matter your political party, race, or sex. It’s a radio talk show that is supposed to be funny. Now did Imus go too far with his comments about the Rutgers women’s basketball team? Sure he did. And he apologized. The guy runs a ranch for terminally ill children and is involved in a lot of other charities. Is he perfect? No. As Jesus said, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”

By ab

April 11, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Lets see; Imus apologized, I’m pretty sure that someone will apologize for slavery sooner or later, but my main question to Al and Jessie are you 2 going to apologize to the Duke Lacross Team??? If I were one of the three; I would go on Imus and demand an apology and possibly sue the two of them for prosecuting them infront of every camera they could find!! Aholes

By Anonymous

April 11, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Free speech comes with responsibility, and sometimes with consequences. Imus is living with those consequences right about now.

By Dani

April 11, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

Wow! What a dumb ignorant statement. You’d think you’d know better than to say something so ignorant yourself. Who cares to know if he is repentent? If you don’t know he’s not REALLY repentent, then it is a loss cause. But, just as he has a powerful voice to put his opinion out there and negatively influence others, you are doing the same in your column and that is sad. And you try to compare that to rappers that are speaking negatively of women that aren’t even on the same level as those young ladies!! It is never FINE for anyone to call anyone a name, but get real. We know that that man probably view Black Women that way PERIOD. Why didn’t he say something negative about the other girls? I think we all know the answer to that!

By FreeSpeech

April 11, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry…calling someone a weasel is now a racial slur? When did that happen? Was I sleeping?

Dang. So now, do I need to check the animal dictionary for what is racial and what is not before calling anyone a name? Is calling someone a “skunk” racial now? How about calling someone a “jackass” is that racial?

Please help me, I need to know!

By DD

April 11, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

I’m a little saddened by the things I’m hearing and reading. How many of you listen to rap? I’m sure Imus doesnt either and didnt learn that in a rap song. I’m sure Imus didnt learn it from hearing any black person say that to another person either. I’m willing to bet that the majority of you dont hear black people saying these sort of things to other black people. Most of you heard the excuse and ran with it.

I’m interested in knowing how many of you would share these views with the people at work your friendly with who happen to be black. I’m sure that you would be suprised to know that we dont walk around insulting each other with hurtful words.

Let’s keep things in prospective, these hurtful words were spoken about young, athletic, college women. If they were spoken about a few young women shaking their behinds in a music video, i’m sure we would all be a little more understanding.

60 year old men should be more responsible with their words. We should all know better than to go around repeating things ignorant young folks say (for those of you who believe it’s okay because rappers and comedians do it). Since when do we follow the examples set by rappers anyway?

If your children, wives, or husband came to you and said “I’m so fat” or “I’m so ugly”, does it make it okay for you to call them the same for the same of being funny..probably not

He needs to go.

By Elf

April 11, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

The comment was disrespectful!!! What has happened to having respect, morals and class. Imus is apparently lacking in all three areas.

By Ted

April 11, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this

Did any of you call for Dusty Bakers job when he made the racist comments like you did for John Rockers ?

Myself I think IMUS should be fired, He has been warned many times, but when you yes you Terence moore and the other African-American ajc writers start to treat all races the same when they make racist comments you will gain more respect with the viewers.

Im not talking about song writers and singers. Im talking about the AJC. So dont go off on some rap song crap.

AJC front page, ROOTs no song of the south ? why not.

AJC front page, Applogize for slaves, I never owned one, nor did I pay any of the Africans money to turn in there own people. So naa Im not saying Im sorry for something I never did.

AJC front page, BLACK history month, would it be wrong to just have a history month for all Americans rather than a black or white. Remember the day when someone wanted the seats on the bus to be for BLACK and White not for one or the other ?

What is United Negro College Fund ? is that racist if only black people can get that ? Remember the day when Black people was not allowed to go to same class as white people and that was racist.

What is BLACK Miss America ? is that racist if no one other than black women can get into it ? Remember the bathroom door said white people only and that was racist.

Black Panthers marched down the side road at the dome during a falcons game with hands and arms in the air such as the germans did saying black power.. is that racist when the KKK marchs and says White Power ?

White people are not the only people who are racist. And when you and the ajc start seeing it that way, you will gain more respect from your readers.

By Fred

April 11, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

How soon we forget the Duke Lacrosse bulls—t with the TWO Poverty Pimps, Al & Jesse. Now that ALL charges have been dropped and the nappy headed ho has gone on her way,the three accused should be filing the largest lawsuit against ole Rev Al & Rev Jesse so fast it’ll make ole Als dyed,fried and laid to the side HAIR stand on in. These two clowns have done more harm to the black community than any white person could ever do. See below especially the fire in 19195, he had no remorse then and he has none now, he’s a despicable person.

The Rev. Sharpton for example - in 1987, he led the Tawana Brawley fiasco, calling the white prosecuter a rapist and a rascist, and stating he would not rest until the whole world was brought to its knees and justice was served. Of course, we all know now that he lied, Brawley lied, the whole thing was made up to create a racial incident where none existed, and a suit was filed and WON against the Rev. Sharpton by the prosecuter for libel and slander.

1991 - The Rev. Sharpton incited a riot against Jewish people, when a Hasidic Jewish cab driver accidentally ran over a 7 year old black girl, leading a march of 100’s through the Jewish neighborhood chanting “no justice, no peace”. A Jewish student is surrounded during the march and stabbed to death by a mob of the marchers shouting “Kill the Jew”.

1995 - A black landlord in Harlem, the United House of Prayer, raises its rent on Freddy’s Fashion Mart owned by a white Jew, forcing him to raise his rent on his sub-tenant, a black-owned music store. The Rev. Sharpton incites another riot, setting up picket lines, making speeches that he will not stand by while “a white interloper moves a brother so another white can exand his business”. Sharptons pickett lines chant “burn the jew store” and simulate striking matches, and finally one of the protesters go into the store, shooting 4 employees and sets the store on fire. 7 employees die in the fire.

Lets also not forget when Jesse Jackson called New York City “Heimytown”.

By overit

April 11, 2007 3:41 PM | Link to this

How do you know that black people haven’t taken a stand agaist the lyrics in rap music? Remember the Spelman boycott? The Hip Hop summits they have every year? Just because it’s not covered by FoxNews doesn’t mean it’s not happening.

Also, considering the fact that 70% of rap music is purchased by white people, and bankrolled by white and Jewish people, it stands to reason that white folks are more supportive of that kind of language than black people.

By Neon

April 11, 2007 3:42 PM | Link to this

I have a statment to make to the NAACP and all the black leaders who are coming forth to crucify Don Imus. To all of you who stand up for black people who don’t respect themselves and have no respect for society. Before you put Don Imus on trial for his remarks, put all the Black people on trial who have made millions of dollars for calling black women ho’s, bithes, nig………and all offensive names you can think of that degrade women. Start with the comedians and rappers. Focus on cleaning up your own culture instead of worrying about what others are saying and how they are treating your culture. Stop defending blacks who want to stay ignorant and don’t want to respect themselves. I remember reading a scripture in the Holy Bible that says. “Love your neighbor as you love yourself”, in other words, start loving yourself first, then you can love others. When you don’t love yourself then that means you don’t care how you carry yourself, how you talk to others, and how others treat you. No, you don’t care what people think of you but don’t give them a reason to talk about you. Oh, by the way, I am a black man, so this is not a racist comment.

By Mike

April 11, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

what he said was wrong. But its protected free speech. He took the lines straight out of Spike Lee’s “do the right thing”. If Don Imus was black we would have never heard of this incident. Whats with the double standard!!!

By RE

April 11, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

“Let him stay, because unless you fire all of the rappers who use those same vulgar terms, you can’t fire Imus”

That is an ignorant and self-serving statement you can not compare rap music to racist propaganda.

When you buy a rap record, you make a choice to hear whatever the rapper is talking about.

When you listen to a public radio show or any other kind of informative medium you should not be subject to racism or any other type of prejudice.

P.S. HE WOULD NOT HAVE A JOB RIGHT NOW IF HE MADE A RACIST STATEMENT ABOUT JEWISH PEOPLE!

By Joey

April 11, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this

Foe once I agree with you. The comments were wrong. This is the only way Sharpton can stay in news.

By Lee

April 11, 2007 3:46 PM | Link to this

I’m just surprised that Terence Moore, following his usual line of twisted logic, didn’t say that Don Imus said a racial slur, therefore, Major League Baseball should hire a black coach.

By DTrain

April 11, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

remember when rappers rapped about what kind of foods they liked and their favorite pair of shoes?

By Kara

April 11, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Sharpton and Jackson don’t have any fame, money, or noteriety unless they are raising a stink about something. They survive on exploiting some peoples ability to get their dander up over nothing…rabble rousing keeps them in work..they serve no useful purpose

By Scott Case

April 11, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

RE I don’t care about Imus or Sharpton, but you just made yourself look like a complete fool. Go back and read what you wrote.

By RE

April 11, 2007 3:53 PM | Link to this

“By Mike

April 11, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

what he said was wrong. But its protected free speech. He took the lines straight out of Spike Lee’s “do the right thing”. If Don Imus was black we would have never heard of this incident. Whats with the double standard!!!”

IT’S SPIKE LEE’S SCHOOL DAZE, AND THAT REFERENCE WAS MEANT TO BE MALICOUS!

By Robin

April 11, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

For TrekkieBear You are a hypocrite in all forms of the word. You state that “white folks” cannot tell you what to say but then turn around and say that when you tell “white folks” what words bother you that they should just quit and not ask why. Um aren’t you doing exactly what you don’t want done to you?? Did everyone else miss the “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me” speech? We all say stupid things, black or white. Everyone has just got to stop being so sensitive about everything that comes out of someone’s mouth and play the big boy role and MOVE ON.

By Sick & Tired

April 11, 2007 3:55 PM | Link to this

Rh,

I know the english language may be difficult for you to understand, but slow down and sound out syllables before you blog. I said white kids were the ones spending billions, not that they were the only ones purchasing rap music. Time for you to check your facts, the fact that white teens have been the predominate purchasers of this type of music has been a tracked and reported statistic for a long time now.

I also said that record execs (black or white—not just the producers) are not being called on the carpet.

Lastly, it’s amazing to me how people like you are so easily rattled and forced to name call in lieu of a valid point or argument. Therapy usually helps with that.

By michael

April 11, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this

We all know that Don Imus is a idiot, yet he has received 100 times more publicity from all of the media attention. I would just like to know when the Rev Al is going to apologize to the Duke Lacrosse team. I remember how fast he showed up demanding that they all be sent to prison before the court had a say. Even the accuser had a troubled background at best. I bet that day will never come. This is the main reason Al Sharpton will never be credible with most Americans.

By B

April 11, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

I think he should be fired. Nobody wants to keep hearing you insecure, inadequate white men belittle and trash my people. You guys should have left well enough alone, but since you are weak and don’t have the stamina of a cat, you came to Africa seeking out the mighty and strong. You white people did not discover or build this country, YOU STOLE IT!!!and you had the design. You brought us here, broke up the BLACK family, your men raped our women and your women seduced our men.HYPOCRITS—-STROM THURMOND, etc. White women have been loving Black men since slavery, ask your grandmothers and great aunts if you think I’m lying. A fact that probably eats at your core. This so called ” animal” has some kind of magnetism that your women can’t seem to resist. I couldn’t even imagine being with a White man, with everything you represent. I think people like Don Imus represent a greater majority of what white people really think of us. You clown on us, but really lets look at the facts. I mean you guys have the highest suicide rate, you have your women literally starving themselves to death, because White america says they are fat. You don’t like Black, but will be the first ones to lie in a tanning bed to get a darker complexion(that pale white is not so cute, Huh!!!!)))Everything you do is to imitate black people. Your plastic surgery will never replace the beautiful genetics of a Black woman and your fertility clinics will never replace our ability to reproduce. You turn to medicine for things that are natural to us. My Jesus, is shade of my shade and has hair of my hair, so its a wonder we are feared. Direct descendants of GOD, so your blonde hair, blue-eyed depiction IS NOT HIM!!!! I mean its written in every bible in Black & White, but being the wordly people that you are, you changed his description to fit you, when you know your genetics does not represent anything Godly. White people always talk out the sides of their necks, you guys aren’t to be trusted no farther than I can throw you. All of you!!!!

By blah, blah, blah

April 11, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

I don’t think what Don Imus said was appropriate, but I don’t think he should lose his job over it. Like another poster said….if that be the case then Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Rappers and countless others across the ethnicities should be held to the same rules of conduct.

I think most people are sick to death of the double standard in play here. Most educated people recognize that it’s the same old bunch playing the card, but not adhering to the same rules they’re acusing others of not following. Can we focus on real issues.

What kind of message of respect is being sent to young people, regardless of color or sex, when the hip hop or rap music they listen to is full of lyrics that blatantly disrespect women and refer to them in similar terms for which Imus is in so much trouble. Music that advocates a disrespect for authority of any kind and propagates violence and often denegrates other races.

Let’s concern ourselves with fixing what is broke people. Let’s start with paying more attention to who our children’s role models are and demanding more from them! Most young people have never even heard of Imus, but they know 50 cent, P Diddy, etc.

By donnie

April 11, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

Will people please educate themselves, and stop excusing Imus behavior on rappers and whatever other excuses you need! I am 55 year old black male, with two teenagers 18 and 20. I don’t listen to the rappers with the language that they are referring to, so when are they hearing it, and why. We know why because they allow their children to buy the music, and then wait to be able to say that, hey you guys use that language. Well if you feel it is allright to use it, walk down to bankhead courts, and walk into the middle of the housing project and use Imus term, then call me so we can have a debate, from your hospital room, or the morgue!

By bruce

April 11, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

for one of the few times,i agree with mr. moore’s opinion on the don imus issue. why what he said was “stupid” and totally not funny,i do not think imus should be fired. the other two incidents mr. moore offered are no where near the same in my opinion. and the outcry is way overblown,for that i blame the media for fueling the fire.

By Greg

April 11, 2007 3:58 PM | Link to this

TrekkieBear…but it’s okay to make a movie called White Men Can’t Jump or White Chicks in good humor huh? You need to realize that Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson make blacks as a whole look bad and and accept it as humor. Heck, I’ve got nappy white hair and one of my black friends calls me pimp. OH…I’m SOOOO offended!

By jw

April 11, 2007 4:00 PM | Link to this

There was an email that went out last week called the ghetto prom.. IT was a bunch of black kids at the prom.

OH MY GOD!! Hell white people dont need to say a word, the black people make themselves like stupid.

By Henry O

April 11, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this

RAMBLE ON…Please turn it OFF.

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

RE, I’m a black man deeply repulsed by your comment.

You don’t have to buy the record to hear rappers denigrade our women and each other. How dare you give them a pass! The radio stations lightly censure the words used in the song, but you know what they’re saying. Its also greatly depicted in our videos. You of all people should know better than to defend any type of degridation of blacks no matter where its coming from. How do you think Imus knows to use”nappy headed hoes”, you think he buys the record?

P.S.I WATCH IMUS IN THE MORNNG EVERYDAY AND HE AND HIS PRODUCERS ROUTINELY MAKE COMMENTS TOWARD JEWS,CATHOLICS,WOMEN, AND EVERYBODY ELSE. THE ONLY DIFFERENCE HERE IS THAT THE MEDIA IS EXPLOITING THIS AND ALL THE CRYBABIES ARE FALLING FOR IT.

By Anonymous

April 11, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

If Don Imus were black he wouldn’t have made those comments on his talk show for the world to see and hear. We already know that we can’t do and say things like white people and get away with them. And for the record, black rappers make up a small majority and do not represent black people as a whole. Trust me, what they say and do is not gospel in the black community. And for the record, Black people didn’t come up with words “nappy deaded,” “jigaboo”, “nig**r” and others nor their hate-filled meanings. White people you’re not stupid, you know exactly why we have a problem with what Imus said. I would however, suggest that you NOT use the slur “nappy-headed ho” in mixed company.

By Q

April 11, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this

For all of you out there that think people are making this too big of an issue…

what did you think about Tim Hardaway being fired??? Were you outraged about that???

What about others who’ve been fired for making derogatory comments?

How did you feel about Andy Young losing his post with Wal-Mart after he made his comments?

It’s about fairness…if you felt it was fair for them to lose their jobs, then you should feel the same with Imus.

If you don’t, please ask yourself WHY?

By Henry O

April 11, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

If minorities would put the same effort into improving themselves as they do to try to improve white people they would be much better off.

By ThompsonLee

April 11, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this

Al Sharpton has a sharp tongue and Jesse Jackson is a jackass as they continue to fraudulently champion the cause of so-called injustices in the african-american community. As soon as racial epitahs are spewed out by someone out of nowhere comes Sharpton and Jackson like the lone ranger and tonto to seize their minute of glory. Their lives are wasted and would be even more meaningless than they are if they didnt have some cause to fight or try to right some so-called injustice. Notice how neither of them have ever apologized for their wrongdoings. Don Imus is a jerk and should be fired for the insensitive and degrading remarks that were said. Imus should be held accountable for this actions. Of course, Imus cannot retract those words but at least by meeting with the Rutgers women he can at least attempt to straighten out what damage has already been done and try to make amends from this time forward. Terrence Moore is wrong as usual. Imus should be fired immediately for his insubordination.

By ab

April 11, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this

This is to “B”, I’m glad your view is that white women cant “resist” black men. Oh wait, that is not what is in question here Malcolm X MORON! Shut your mouth.

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this

Henry O,

Good comment. That will be difficult as long as the media makes excuses for us.

By Watch It

April 11, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this

Heny O, u better watch it….ur children are trying to emulate us!!!! I guess they’ll be bringing down the white race.

LOL

By Ana

April 11, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this

Black folks did not create the term N**** to describe themselves years ago - white folks did, and they’ve been using it still over the years, passing it down to their children and friends. And nappy-headed is another term used in substitute but still meant n**** when Imus said it. The black community took the worst word used against them, and some decided to laugh rather than cry over the term. If a disadvantaged community decides to embraces it and use it within their community, it’s their choice. It’s not what blacks are teaching others, it’s what whites taught us; we have every right to be upset if they turn back the hands of time as if we didn’t put money into their pockets. Other disadvantaged groups can laugh amongst themselves with deragatory terms, but would equally be upset if you put them down as a Jew or S** rather than use it as something to lift them up. And white folks need to stop acting like they’re “helping” us by suggesting we change the way we address or describe ourselves. They need to look in the mirror about their own dark hearts and minds. If they want to help, all that old money should be dispursed to those families who really did all the work. We may not always agree with Sharpton, but how many others are brave enough to take a stand for change? Regardless if Imus keeps his job, I appreciate him for being honest in basically announcing to the world that he is a racist whose heart will never change.

By wise

April 11, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this

Nobody called for Donald Trump to fired from the Apprentice when he called Rosie fat and ugly. It’s called free speech. You have to take the good with the bad. This why I think so many whites don’t understand all the uproar. Let’s be honest, as blacks we can come across a little hypocritical and contradictory.

By Mr. White

April 11, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Hey B,

Why is your continent-Africa-still living in the stone age if you people are so smart? Why do most of your people live off of the government? Why do your people kill each other for somebody looking at you the wrong way? If you are so powerful, how did a weaker people go 6,000 miles to your homeland, take you against your will and make you do their work for 250 years? Why do you people have children like puppies and then expect the taxpayers to support them? Jesus was a Jew you uneducated moron, and Jews are as white as the pure snow. Quit fooling yourself.

By FreeSpeech

April 11, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

B, reading your post, you most eloquently and perfectly defined prejudice, bigotry and racism better than anything anyone else has ever said. You have expressed in one single post your bigotry towards whites as a group of people, your prejudice of an entire race of people, and your racism in your belief that one race is superior to another.

Thank you for so perfectly outlining those three definitions. You are wonderful.

By toney

April 11, 2007 4:17 PM | Link to this

Don is a biget who needs to go. stop talking about freedom of speech, i also have the freedom to protest. If someone white wants to protest rappers or comedians, go ahead. Al and jesse arent the reason blacks are upset about imus, his comments are. Whites only want to bring up al and jesse, so they can talk about them and not the issue of imus. Black aren’t upset because al and jesse are blacks are upset because blacks are upset. even blacks who dont agree with al and jesse agree with him here. this is about imus not them!!!!!

By Danny

April 11, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

It was interesting when Al Sharpton pointed out that Don Imus’ statement that other people did the same thing was a pretty lame excuse for bad behavior. How many times have we heard that statement come out of the black community to justify their behavior?

There is a definite double standard that is being called for by the black community. How long doe you think New York City would allow whites to perform the rascist rants that are done almost every weekend by Black Muslims on Broadway sidewalks in NYC??

By Quint Hawk

April 11, 2007 4:18 PM | Link to this

I always knew we would never see eye to eye of my Atlanta Falcons and Camden County Football…but this? Why do we confuse “art” with responsible journalism. As a father and husband, there is no excuse for allowing the degradation of our women and children by anyone. I don’t need to know that he has changed. He has to look himself in the mirror. The change is not for you, me, or the Ruckers basketball team. It is for his self growth, maturity, and salvation. I need to know that he does not have a platform any longer. Once the line he has crossed has established consequences, these types of dividing debates will not be an issue. It seems pretty strange that we as a people can’t agree on him leaving but the sponsors seem to be singing in unison. Those smart marketing guys!!!

By bad

April 11, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this

See what you’ve done Terrence Moore? You have once again succeeded in bringing out the racist in people. Terrence, why don’t you just keep your fingers away from the computer and keep your comments to yourself.

By De in Las Vegas

April 11, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

pliggerneeze: You are so right. Do they work I know they live off my contributions and do nothing. I hope the Rutgers girls don’t have them in their little meeting with Imus.. I’m like you get Sharpton off the air NOW! Or better yet make his gray process looking weave come on and apologize to the Duke LaCrosse players for listening to that “nappy headed pole dancer” tell lies.

By trune44kl

April 11, 2007 4:21 PM | Link to this

Yes, don’t fire him, it shows how some white people really think…………Why can’t we just get along. First of all, its freedom of speech and no matter how vulgar it was, he hasn’t violated any law just a moral ethical code. No FCC rules violation here, maybe an internal company ethical violating. He has said worse in the past.

Imus is disgusting and his sponsors are doing the correct thing and Al Sharpton needs to crawl back into the ground like the snake he is. Obama is overshadowing this clown and now Imus has given this pimp a media cause. There is NO SINGLE BLACK MEDIA JUST LIKE THERE IS NO WHITE LEADER. Is Jerry Faldwell the leader of the WHITE COMMUNITY.

Just great, the leader of the black community in his own &*^^%!!! MIND…..

By Jesse's Girl

April 11, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

I am so sick and tired of this crap. Did you actually use the word “repent”? Are you serious? He’s a shriveled up radio host, not some candidate for Roman Catholic appt! Someone please tell me WHY it is acceptable for black people to reference white people in any way they choose? There is not one single black entertainer, with the possible exception of Denzel Washington, who does not take shots at white people in their acts, songs, enterviews…what have you. But the second a white person slips up, a public flogging is encouraged. We are either all held up to the same standards…or not at all. One group of people cannot have the right to say and do whatever they damn well please while another has to be the picture of pilitcal correctness on steroids! Its ridiculous.

By Bea

April 11, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I feel that the punishment should always fit the crime. If it were you Mr. Moore who made such ugly inflammatory remarks about white women, or even about gays do you really think for one minute that some white commentator some where would say “don’t terminate let him stay”? I don’t think so! But if you don’t believe me you can put it to the test and see what happens!

By JJ

April 11, 2007 4:23 PM | Link to this

I don’t know what planet some of the bloggers or from. I am talking about the ones that say blacks don’t talk to each others with the slang thats heard on rap songs. I am black and I hear It all the time among other blacks toward other blacks and other races. When one can admit the truth healing can start to happen. Don’t be in denial.

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Ana,

I know a good psychologist. Anyone that blames their own actions on someone else needs one.

I have control over my mind and speech. Just because of ancient history, doesn’t mean I have to emulate anyone else. Right now, the only people teaching our black kids how to talk is us, and that’s where your focus should be. Not in a past that you can’t change.

By Richard

April 11, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

Terence you are the biggest Uncle Tom that I have ever came across in reading. To write “Let him stay, because unless you fire all of the rappers who use those same vulgar terms, you can’t fire Imus”. This is the worst statement that I could have ever imagined you writing. Using your same case in point, if any other radio jock/TV personality made the same statement about women in general they would have been FIRED before their show ended. There are certain times, & places that you would make comments, and on a syndicated broadcast show is NOT one of them.

Lastly referring to rappers, if you listen to any rap song, you have never heard rappers referring to women as being “nappy headed hos’; however rappers do use the word “ho”. Neither of which are good, but both have different meanings

By JoMama

April 11, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

overit

White people do buy the music (so do blacks), but black live the music.

By BJ

April 11, 2007 4:27 PM | Link to this

To: I Wonder IF — YOU GO GIRL!!! Oh, wait, is it okay for a white girl to say that?? ……

Can’t we just all get along?? Oh, crap, I can’t say that either…

Um, ok…. I agree with you wholeheartedly, you hit the nail on the head, you rock…..

Peace :)

By FALCON1

April 11, 2007 4:28 PM | Link to this

Funny some of you mention rap lyrics that degrade woman (i strongly agree with you all that it is horrible), however Black people are not the only ones putting $$$$ in these rappers pockets. It’s the suburban white kids that purchase 70% of rap music. If you listened to rap you would know that men are referred to as B%$$& & Ho’s in rap music as well (does not make it right). Hopefully some rappers will take a stand and get rid of some of the degrading lyrics out of their music. We’ll see!

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 4:30 PM | Link to this

JJ,

Some of us are not mature enough to be responsible for our actions. Of course, we talk that way to each other all the time, but for some crack induced reason, we think others aren’t suppose to do it. It is this type of thinking that keeps us at the bottom of everything.

By caz

April 11, 2007 4:34 PM | Link to this

to grampus, you asked if any other race besides white’s have used deflamotory remarks ie comedians.are you kidding???? i’ve been to the uptown comedy club on numerous occasions and have heard numerous slurs towards any and all races!!! but that is comedy right! imus is a poor mans comedian, but a comedian none the less. if you listened to what he said,he said it about the rutgers girls team,right? were there any african american females playing b-ball that night for the tenn team? it was a joke that was’nt funny,period.

By SoccerMama

April 11, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

I am a white female in East Cobb. Those comments by Imus made me furious.

Those girls worked their asses off to accomplish something most college athletes only dream of and he p** on it on a nationally broadcast radio show which then turned into national news.

A time when they should be celebrating their team and their trip to the championship game, this guy insults them in an incredibly nasty way.

So as a mother, I am glad he has taken so much flack. Those girls did not need to be dragged through this, and the press is relentless. It did take the glory away from them in some respect and he deserves to be embarrassed publically, same as he did to them.

I think that what is considered offensive is judged by society’s norms. In my grandfather’s generation, racial and sexist slurs were okay by society. Now we have reached a point that they are not okay. That has happened because of outrage from those offended.

Everytime something like this happens, the outrage reinforces these norms. We have too many things that ARE okay these days that were not in the past. If you want a decent society, you let the outrage run its course.

As far as the young women’s comments on what happened, if they feel it, its valid. No one can tell a victim (and they were victims in this) how they should or should not feel. They will get over it but a public humiliation like this would not be easy to swallow. Especially when it comes on the heels of such wonderful accomplishments.

Yes, Sharpton is taking advantage of this but I don’t care. Yes, he should go after rappers and I would have much more respect for him if he did. That still doesn’t mean that Imus or anyone else gets to say “enough”.I think every single time someone in the public eye or someone sitting next to me makes a comment like that, they need to take everything anyone can dish out.

If a black DJ had called the Georgia Gym Dawgs a bunch of Bleach Blonde sluts on a popular AND national radio show, I guarantee SOMEBODY would be howling for his job AND it would be in the news. And the same people that think this Imus thing is overblown would be the ones pushing it in the news because the first words out of their mouths would be “If a WHITE DJ had said this about African American college athletes…”

By boots

April 11, 2007 4:37 PM | Link to this

TrekkieBear:

As a fan of Imus, I have condemned the words of Imus and the stupidity of what he said.

However, I’m really p** that Imus was stupid enough to hand his head on a silver platter to two of the most blatant racists in the country, Sharpton and Jackson.

I deeply regret the hurt that was caused the youg women of Rutgers, but deplor and detest the arrogrance and opportunism of those who lurk in the shadows poised to jump out and take advantage of any unfortunate situation —- while ignoring a legacy of racism and negative stereotyping at their own hands.

By Power of Light

April 11, 2007 4:38 PM | Link to this

Richard,

Either you don’t listen to rap or you are a big fat liar. I’ve heard worst than nappy headed hoes. How about b*tches,tricks, chicken heads, and the endless use of vulgar sexual references to our women by our men.

What the hell do you mean the meaning of calling our women “hoes” is different with rappers. When is hoe positive? You are part of the problem and that is a lack of accountability within our communities.

By Dave

April 11, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this

As a member of the white race, let me say that I have heard no one defend Mr. Imus. The comments all center not on the message that racism and sexism are bad but on the bearer of the message. Al Sharpton is a man who never met a racial controversy he didn’t like or could exploit for his own gain. Kinda of ironic he is staging his protests in the city he once referred to as Hymietown.

By JoeBobCracker

April 11, 2007 4:41 PM | Link to this

You blacks don’t need to commit suicide. Hell man, ya’ll kill each other all day long for nuthin’. But I will admit that ya’ll re-populate faster than rabbits. And please don’t waste your time trying to get an education. Just become an athlete or a rapper and go for the ho’s and the bling! And don’t forget to look at what goes on in your beloved African homeland everyday.

By its all a crock

April 11, 2007 4:42 PM | Link to this

race, schmace…

All of this is just a crock. Imus called some girls a nasty name. Who cares? Why do you care? who is Imus to you? Who is Imus to them? Why is anyone making a deal out of this? Imus is just a nappy headed old fart who doesn’t matter to anyone.

You know what does matter in life?

Will the Braves get a decent starting rotation.

Will I be able to support my family for the next few years?

Will we ever get a congress and President who actually cares about the country and the people instead of corporations and themselves?

Will the Muslim world ever learn that we are not their mortal enemy and will we ever figure out a way to live on this world in peace with them?

Will Sanjaya ever get voted off American Idol?

Will Michael Vick ever become the QB he has promised to be?

Will I ever give my wife all that she deserves?

Will I ever learn to grill the truly perfect steak?

Will I ever get to go fishing for that marlin that I have always wanted to go for?

Will my son get accepted to the college he wants to choose?

Those are the things worth worrying about, and not what some person who I dont know, who I will never know, and who I will never care to know, says or doesn’t say on a radio show.

By Quint Hawk

April 11, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

My plea to the unidentified bigots within this blog.

When referencing the weakness, the laziness, the violence, the ignorance, the cowardliness of my people…of any people. At least have the gumption to not hide behind an alias or screen name. Let it be known from pillar to post the way that YOU feel. Not just in the blog or whispering around the water cooler. Wear your feelings on your sleeve. But be careful, someone may ask you to roll those same sleeves up. What will your response be then? What ever it is, say it that moment with the same vigor and conviction. I hope it’s worth it to you.

Signed…..Hell you see my name!!!

By Nardo

April 11, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this

Like it or not white,Mexicans,chineese,etc. stick with their own kind and if made mad enough blacks will be that ni@#ga and if push come to shove and slavery comes back in to play you will be amazed at how many would own blacks and to those who wouldn’t I commend you on that. No other race other than blacks have faced what our people have face for many decades of our generation and have no true place to call home example mexican have mexico and etc. We as a race is still searhing for idenity trap in a world where we are quick to turn on one another we’ve been wronged all our lives, how many innocent white men etc. do you see in prison. Slavery existed and in another form it still exist. Those were innocent college women playing their hearts out for a sport they love, so what gives him the right to speak on them that way. Had a black man did it to a team of whites he would catch h@ll. And what upsets me most is you have blacks trying to reason with this crap; but I guess if you had house nig$%% selling out back then, then how can you expect any different today. I don’t hate your people, but I love my people and for my ancestors who died for me and my people we have a right to defend them innocent girls. Its not about the rappers and etc its about them innocent girls.Hate me or Love me who gives a sh(t I’m down with me and mines until I’m gone and in the grave.

By J C Manning

April 11, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Blacks like you, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are just as biggoted as any white person. If Al and Jesse don’t keep the poor, uneducated, drug dealing pimping n**** riled up they would not have a job. Jackson’s racial slur towards the Jews and his personal admittance that while working his way through college spit in white folks food. As a matter of fact both Al and Jesse are nothing but n**** them selves. I am tired of all this damn policical correctness and you damn blacks wanting money from the governmnent for slavery that you have no right to. And yes, there are many black females that are ho’s, how many of them begin screwing at a very young age and producing babies at the ages from 11 years old and up. (Is this a part of the black culture?) Yes, there are white kids that are just as stupid and sorry but most are black kids that are so stupid they could not poor p** from a shoe with the directions written on the sole of the shoe. Get real, blacks are going no where because they don’t want to get an education, get jobs be a positive influnece in the community. And the black leaders today aren’t doing anything about it, except maybe Bill Cosby which most blacks hate. Today, if a black boy or girl makes an effort to be successfulin school the stupid and dumb blacks call them whittey. No wonder you people are so screwed up and going no where.I really would appreciate a response from you to dare show me I am wrong. JC

By Quick Question...Anyone?

April 11, 2007 4:44 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know what time the Sharpton/Jackson press conference is regarding their apology for fomenting nation-wide racial tension over the Duke Lacrosse rape allegations that were cleared today?

I don’t want to miss it.

Thanks.

By chris

April 11, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

Terence- Once again you have shown us who the real bigot is! The vitriol that your column produces is evidence of that. Then again, you’ve been consistent at doing this since you’ve been at this paper. You’re their shock jock. It’s why they keep you.

By M. Anntionette

April 11, 2007 4:46 PM | Link to this

Good Terrence At least you’ve created dialog. I loved reading the various perspectives as I scrolled down. I hope each blogger look into a mirror and ask themselves WHAT AM I DOING TO CRUSH OUT RACISM AND SEXISM IN THIS WORLD?

By NateJupiter

April 11, 2007 4:50 PM | Link to this

Don Imus has been a racist biggot for 30 years on his radio show. Why did it take this long for people to start realizing it. Imus’ sponsors are pulling out now because they dont want their names associated with a cold-blooded racist. Imus may be a spokesman for the KKK. Imus should be fired and removed from the air by the time his two-week suspension is up.

By T Moore is the poster boy for.....

April 11, 2007 4:51 PM | Link to this

Racism…He can’t not anyone as an individual, only the color of his skin. Anyone remember when he called out the Braves for not having enough “American Blacks” on the team following David Justice’s departure. I guess Andruw Jones didn’t count because he was from Curaco. Grow up Terrance, your no better than the other guys who take advantage of race relations like the over-exposed hypocrite preachers Jesse and Al. If everyone got along all of them would be on the corner begging for $$, because they have no other skills.

By James Adams

April 11, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this

As an African-American, I am appalled by the language of all white people. Growing up in Canada, being of Dutch ancestry, I was subjected to many slanderous insults. If I had a dollar for every time someone called me a Daygo. Id be a wealthy Mexican. When I spent my time in the horrid concentration camps of Germany, eating Sno-Caps and making out with Anne Frank, I would lament at how mean that ‘nappy headed ho’, Hitler was being to all of us Frenchies. As my pappy would always say, “Dont trust Whitey”. He always hated the Yankees, but for some reason he always directed his disdain at Mr. Ford. When we as Chinese people grow up, and quit putting pee-pee in people’s Cokes, then we will truly know what Dr. Martin Luther King meant when he said, “Hurry this up, honey, Corretta’s going to be home soon”. Cioa!!!!!

By Titothebear

April 11, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this

Rev. Pokechop will be appearing at Emory University this evening. No doubt, he will be expounding upon the Imus situation and how he’s on the case. The fact is the Rev. Corpulence is not defending the race, he’s promoting himself. It’s as plain to see as grease on his car’s headrest. When was the last time you heard Pokechop or the Rev. Baby Daddy criticize Louis Eugene Walcott, also known as Louis Farrakhan for his characterization of white people as “devils?” It hasn’t happened and it won’t! Don Imus does not deserve firing and I hope he won’t be fired. Rev. Cholesterol is the one who should be discharged. Come to think of it, who hired his big behind to begin with? Who put him in charge? I reiterate, ‘em was some nappy headed hos on that Rutgers basketball team.