AJC.com > Talk of the town > Archives > 2007 > April > 16 > Entry
DEL.ICIO.USAJC’s Tucker, Klibanoff win Pulitzers
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Cynthia Tucker, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution editorial page editor, whose columns have inspired and enraged readers and public figures for more than 20 years, won the Pulitzer Prize for commentary on Monday.
AJC managing editor Hank Klibanoff also won a Pulitzer, for history, as co-author of “The Race Beat: The Press, the Civil Rights Struggle, and the Awakening of a Nation.”
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| Rich Addicks / AJC |
| Hank Klibanoff and Cynthia Tucker celebrate their Pulitzer Prizes in the newsroom of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. |
The third time was a charm for Tucker, 52, who was also a Pulitzer finalist in 2004 and 2006.
She was honored for writing passionately about voting rights, racial stereotypes, and African-American leaders who failed to live up to their potential.
In one column, she took on the topic of immigration from the perspective of a 7-year-old multi-ethnic niece who she described as “much like any other indulged child of the American middle class.”
“Call me biased,” Tucker wrote, “but I don’t get the impression she and her paternal kin are ruining the country.”
In a letter nominating Tucker, Julia Wallace, editor of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, called her a “fearless voice of reason.”
Klibanoff, 58, won with Gene Roberts, 74, for their behind-the-headlines reconstruction of how the press covered and impacted the Civil Rights movement in the South.
More than a decade in the making, “The Race Beat” detailed the long unacknowledged role of the black press, as well as the often diverging coverage by white-run Southern newspapers and Northern media.
Klibanoff and Roberts, both native Southerners, go way back together. Roberts was executive editor at The Philadelphia Inquirer for 18 years and hired Klibanoff in 1982 as a reporter.
“It certainly gave me a perspective on our business,” Klibanoff said of researching the book. “In these days when down is up and up is down, it gave me a greater appreciation for the importance of the core values of our business. I believe deeply in the value of a skilled, trained, professional press.”
• Complete report on Pulitzer winners.
• Video: Celebration in the AJC newsroom.
• Audio slideshow: Hear Tucker talk about her mother’s influence
Comments
Commenting is now closed for this entry.
By Mark
April 16, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia! This award is welll deserved. Your column is a breath of fresh air. Long may your career continue to thrive.
By Ken
April 16, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this
Cynthia, congratulations on your achievement. I am avid reader of your columns and I am pleased to see that you are being recognized for this outstanding award!
By WhiteHetroSexualRepublicanBaptistMale
April 16, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this
This just proves that idiots will present their own kind with awards. It is the only way they can legitimize themselves!
By ck hall
April 16, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this
I stopped reading her some time back as she is such a racist and so left wing that her articles have become sickening! If she epitomizes Journalistic awards, our press is in great trouble in this country. What a laugher this award is!
By Rahim Davoudpour
April 16, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this
Excellent job. Well deserved.
By BUM
April 16, 2007 3:22 PM | Link to this
Cynthia Tucker ROCKS!!!
“You shall know the Truth, and the Truth shall make you free.”
Amen, Sister Cynthia. Amen.
By ChrisD2
April 16, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this
Great. Just goes to show that racism pays off in this country—unless you’re white. Congrats Cynthia on winning an award for your left wing columns, overt racism, idiot conclusions, and anti-American agendas. Only a paper as bad as the AJC would actually keep you on the staff.
By Brenda
April 16, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
Congratulations! Thanks for writing about what may not be popular or politically correct but needs to be addressed.
By LEVON ALLEN
April 16, 2007 3:25 PM | Link to this
congrulation ms.tucker,you deserve this award
By Pat Sebo
April 16, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia, I have enjoyed reading your articles for years, no one is more deserving and no one better to represent the south or the nation. It was also a joy seeing you on the Chris Matthews show, intelligence, style and grace, characteristics of a true southern lady. Kudo’s to you!!
By Sharell
April 16, 2007 3:26 PM | Link to this
I am so proud of you Cynthia!! Continue to do an outstanding job for the AJC!!
By Joann
April 16, 2007 3:27 PM | Link to this
Sincere congratulations! I am just so proud of you. Nothing but admiration and praise for this significant accomplishment. YOU GO, GIRL!!!
By Shanthemanatl
April 16, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Cynthia!
We don’t always agree, but your opinions are always infused with a great deal of thoughfulness, common sense, and compassion. All three are rare in this day and age.
I just thought I’d get that out before all of the “Cynthia Tucker is an idiot”, “Cynthia Tucker is a bleeding-heart liberal”, “Cynthia Tucker is a racist”-types start chiming in!
By CLAX
April 16, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this
Let me be the Very First to Say: Congratulations Cynthia! I look forward to your appearances on Chris Matthews Show on Sundays. Your intelligence, reasoning and first hand experiences greatly enhance your abilities to speak on topics important to Americans and Southerners!
By CLAX
April 16, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
Let me be the first to congratulate you Cynthia. Your intelligence, empathy and genuine knowledge about what is important to Americans and Southerners makes your opinions important to the AJC and on the Chris Matthews Show!
By Sri
April 16, 2007 3:32 PM | Link to this
If a dunce like Cynthia Tucker gets the Pulitzer, it shows how useless the Pulitzers really are.
Oh, by the way, if Tucker were a white, male instead of a “female African-American”, one wonders if she would have been given this award…. Affirmative Action at the Pulitzers, folks…
By Jim
April 16, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
I don’t see how she did after the garbage I’ve read by her on our local paper. She only has one theme and that’s to bash whites.
By Ella
April 16, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
HOORAY! I’ve long admired Cynthia Tucker, her words of clarity and wisdom, and unmistakable presence on camera. Congratulations, you deserve this accolade and more!
By methinks
April 16, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Cynthia! In spite of the fact that 8 to 9 times out of 10 we will disagree, I can tell good writing when I read it.
By Chris
April 16, 2007 3:35 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to both winners, but as regular reader of Tucker, I can attest that she deserves this prize. A special congratulations to her — but also, a special thanks for her thoughtful, educational and informed commentary. We’re lucky to have her.
By Jim Osterman
April 16, 2007 3:36 PM | Link to this
Ok, I’m a homer. Congratulations Cynthia.
By ed
April 16, 2007 3:38 PM | Link to this
I am delighted to hear Cynthia Tucker has won the Pulitzer Prize. I read your colunm regularly. She attacks all the important issues head on. The one thing i like about her view points is she is not partisan at all, whoever needs to be critized and held accountable she is willing to confront the issue. Whether it is the president, congresswoman, preachers, county commissioners. ect. Congratulations Ms. Tucker, keep up the good. I enjoy watching you on the Chris Matthews sunday morning show.
By Scott
April 16, 2007 3:40 PM | Link to this
They will give anyone an award nowadays.
By Kathy E. Warner
April 16, 2007 3:45 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia Tucker! Well done!
By keith
April 16, 2007 3:50 PM | Link to this
she is the reason i don’t buy this rag, she is the most clueless, racist liberal in the paper. who gives this pulitzer out anyway, tweedle dee or tweedle dum
By John
April 16, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Ms. Tucker. It gives me great pleasure to see the responses of some of the ignorant people you often “call out”. Most probably don’t even know what a Pulitzer represents.
Keep up the great work.
By mellowfella1
April 16, 2007 3:57 PM | Link to this
Congratualations Cynthia !!! I personaly find your columns thought provoking and interesting to read. It’s a pleasure to read your well written commetaries that allow me to sort and infused with my own opinions. You are a WINNER !!!
By Thelma Green
April 16, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
Cynthia Continue to express the truth I commend you for a job well done. As I read your column one can’t help but admire your reasoning one can only say keep up the good work, however when the truth be written opposition is just around the bend. Speak well through your writing let the world know the truth really does hurt and racism is still alive. One cannot continue to take from writer what she has rightfully WON. Congratulations.
By Anonymous
April 16, 2007 3:59 PM | Link to this
Would you’ll take your “angry white guy” rhetoric elsewhere? This isn’t the place for it because she’s STILL getting the award!
Congratualations Cynthia, I look forward to taping more of your editorials here in my cubicle.
By cc
April 16, 2007 4:01 PM | Link to this
Congrats to both of you I real the AJC- online every day.
By Kiaserfia
April 16, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Ms. Tucker and Mr. Klibanoff! Congratulations to the AJC too!
By Brendan
April 16, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
I’m sure the AJC feels this is a full vindication of their support of Ms. Tucker. She certainly has endured the slings and arrows pointed at her throughout the years. And, let’s face it, people cancelled the paper in our office because of her column. Talk radio attacked her credibility, etc., etc. So, this is a big day of achievement and accomplishment for her. Congratulations.
By meh
April 16, 2007 4:03 PM | Link to this
Cynthia who? I only get the Sunday AJC…and that is only for the coupons. The rest goes in the trash.
By Got a gun?
April 16, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this
Cynthia just wrote a piece support strict gun control measures, meanwhile a crazy person just killed over 30 people at a University that just recently banned students and teachers from carrying weapons on campus. Makes you wonder how many lives would have been saved if a student or teacher would have had a weapon to stop this guy. Laws don’t prevent criminals and crazy’s from getting guns!! Thanks for that incredible wisdon, Cynthia. Oh, and congrats on your leftist award…..
By Pat
April 16, 2007 4:06 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Cynthia. I am so proud of you. Your editorials are courageous, thoughtful and insightful. This is a proud day for all Atlantans.
By Don
April 16, 2007 4:10 PM | Link to this
I almost chocked when I read that Cynthia Tucker won a Pulitzer! She is the most biased, radical and downright untalented and clueless columnist I have ever read! And judging from the weekly letters to the editor, I’m far from the only person who feels this way. I understand it’s a columnist’s job to rile up readers who both agree and disagree with them, but she is predictable and monotonous, beating the same drums week after week. There are so many talented and thoughtful columnists out there — what a shame.
By Brian Hunt
April 16, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
Congrats Cynthia. I’ve been reading your columns since I was in high school (almost 20 years ago). Good for you.
By ED
April 16, 2007 4:11 PM | Link to this
I guess Cynthia beat out Al Sharpton to win. I quit reading her column years ago…..
By Ric
April 16, 2007 4:12 PM | Link to this
I don’t always agree with what she says, but I will fight to the death for her right to say it. Cynthia Tucker writes about subjects with no easy answers and little agreement. It takes guts to write these articles and I commend her for it. Congratulations Cynthia.
By DumbassLiberal
April 16, 2007 4:13 PM | Link to this
Morons giving morons awards. Nothing new here..
By Chris
April 16, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this
It is a sad, sad day when someone as racist as Cynthia Tucker gets such a prestegious award. It not only is a sad commentary on the idiots who present this award, but it also assures that we in Atlanta will have to continue seeing her racist tirades appear in our paper.
By KenFromCalifornia
April 16, 2007 4:16 PM | Link to this
congratulations, ms. tucker. it is always a pleasure to read your columns each week. i am very happy for you in receiving such a prestigious award. your commentary is always fair and balanced…people may not like what you say, but there can never be any dispute as to your accuracy. those who feel discomfort in reading your words should take a good hard look at themselves to see why your voice hits home. you have a true audience here in california…we congratulate you on your prestigious accomplishment.
By Kim
April 16, 2007 4:20 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia! I enjoy reading your column, and the Pulitzer is well deserved. Keep your voice! It speaks for many of us.
By S.Pettigrew
April 16, 2007 4:24 PM | Link to this
All I can say is Cynthia Tucker needs to get saved. She is the opposite of everything God says a women should be and do.
By Fred
April 16, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
What a TOTAL JOKE. I used to get the Sunday paper, but after reading the editorials and seeing the race card played on EVERY issue and seeing how racist Ms. Tucker is, I just couldn’t see wasting my money any longer. She is a total shame to the Atlanta area…along with your disgusting Lukovitch cartoonist. If I’m going to read a liberal paper, I’ll go for the NY Times.
By laughable
April 16, 2007 4:36 PM | Link to this
An award to anyone to anything. Gross.
By R. P.
April 16, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
Cynthia: I read your column all the time and I’ve always enjoyed your remarkable insight and conversational writing style. Even when I don’t agree with you, I have so much respect for your opinion, that I usually stop to reconsider my own. Very often you show me a perspective I failed to see at first. Thank you for that, and congratulations!
By Andy
April 16, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
The liberal news media chose to recognize Cynthia for her work in race baiting and this is considered newsworthy?
Cynthia, you and your peers at the AJC along with the City of Atlanta are doing such a fine job with your racial agenda that not only is the City of Atlanta physically shrinking in size but the Corporate 1000 are no longer choosing Atlanta due to “traffic congestion”.
And all along I thought it was because Atlanta was known as a city historically known for practicing reverse discrimination.
By Congrats
April 16, 2007 4:40 PM | Link to this
I believe Cynthia Tucker, who I see weekly on The Chris Matthews Show, is from Monroeville, Alabama. Or thererabouts anyway. LOL
CONGRATS!
By Shannon, M.Div.
April 16, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
Congratulations! What an exciting honor for you and for the AJC! You rock! Just being a finalist for commentary is huge, but winning the Pulitzer must be a dream.
Enjoy the spelling, punctuation, and logical errors of your detractors. Well, you’re probably above that. I’m not, and I’m reading them with glee. You’re one of my main reasons for subscribing.
By Jim
April 16, 2007 4:43 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Cynthia. Apologists for Bush and gangsta rap hate your guts. You’ve got all the right enemies.
By J C Manning
April 16, 2007 4:47 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia for winning the Pulitzer Prize. We don’t often see eye to eye but I give credit where credit is due. Good luck.
JC Manning Muscle Shoals, AL
By White Heterosexual Middle-aged Independent Male
April 16, 2007 4:49 PM | Link to this
Well done and richly deserved. Many who read newspapers do so only to have their opinions validated. When the words go against their beliefs, they are quick to label and libel. Your gift of making people think is special. The Pulitzer Prize speaks for itself and needs not the approval of nincompoops. Congratulations!
By Mike
April 16, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
They need to change the name of the prize to the Pulitzer Prize for Liberal Commentary.” Look at the last 5 winners
2007 Cynthia Tucker 2006 Nicholas D. Kristof 2005 Connie Schultz 2004 Leonard Pitts Jr. 2003 Colbert I. King
Wow, lot’s of diversity there! All the way from angry liberal to wacko liberal!
Bottom line is that the surest way to win an awards these days is to be as liberal as possible. These awards are meaningless.
By Peter May
April 16, 2007 4:53 PM | Link to this
Hank- Congratulations from the lesser half of the May-McNamara writing family. (Does this mean I have to buy your book now?) Great job. Peter
By Gerald West
April 16, 2007 5:00 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Mrs. Tucker. Your supporters are admirable and your detractors are abominable. Keep up the good work!
By NOTESINGER
April 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Kudos to you, Ms. Tucker, for winning the Pulitzer. I’ve learned a lot from your articles in past years, and your perspective always enlightens. Well done!!
By MOKirk
April 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Hank! We are thrilled for you and your family. Enjoy this moment!
By Not an Al-Jeezera Chronical reader
April 16, 2007 5:01 PM | Link to this
My, my! Bad news: Those of you with severed brain stems that congratulate Cynthia and the AJC and just can’t stop oohing and ahhing over her rantings may someday be old enough to vote. OH MY GOD!!!
By Ole Man Bourbon
April 16, 2007 5:08 PM | Link to this
Dear god.
By sw
April 16, 2007 5:09 PM | Link to this
She’s racist? Personally, I don’t see that. I think she’s just misguided. And winning an award doesn’t mean you have talent - look at the Oscar’s.
By Tim Garrett
April 16, 2007 5:15 PM | Link to this
I don’t understand the comments about Ms. Tucker being racist. One of the reasons why I respect her is that she is not afraid to speak out about racism and homophobia across all races in Georgia and the country. She has written eloquently on numerous occasions of how African American leaders have fallen short due to their own shortsightedness, fear, or greed. She has a take-no-prisoners attitude when she confronts ignorance regardless of skin color and she has demonstrated compassion for ALL people who are in need. Has she sometimes shown a bias towards the African American community? Perhaps.. but guess what? That is the prerogative of an opinions editor. Who out there can say that in the same position they would never show some type of bias towards their own race? The views she expresses are her opinions. They are based on her interpretation of facts and they are meant to challenge people to action. If that action is to agree with her and support her, great. If that action is to disagree and to provide facts that oppose her views, then that is also great. Regardless, communication and discourse is what eventually causes positive change and growth in our country and helps us work towards a better understanding of each other. You have to admit, like her or hate her, when it comes to creating opportunities for spirited discussion, Ms. Tucker is a hands down winner. Congratulations.
By Pam Bordelon
April 16, 2007 5:19 PM | Link to this
Cynthia, Congratulations! It’s nice to hear a fellow Auburn J-School grad has done well. Pamela Richardson Bordelon AU Class of ‘77
By Deborah
April 16, 2007 5:23 PM | Link to this
Hey Chris - I’m not sure who you are calling an idiot. You can’t even spell prestigious. LOL.
By Scott
April 16, 2007 5:27 PM | Link to this
It is because of Tucker and Bookman that I have cancelled my subscription to the AJC.
How much for the expensive champagne? Perhaps Boones Farm would be more appropriate since thagt is the socioecomonic level you align yourself with.
By Chris Touchstone
April 16, 2007 5:28 PM | Link to this
Al Gore wins an Oscar. Hilarly Clinton wins a Grammy. Jimmy wins a Nobel. The Dixie Chicks win 4 Grammys Cynthia wins a pulitzer. Makes you wonder doesn’t it?
By ChrisD2
April 16, 2007 5:29 PM | Link to this
Great. Just goes to show that racism pays off in this country—unless you’re white. Congrats Cynthia on winning an award for your left wing columns, overt racism, idiot conclusions, and anti-American agendas. Only a paper as bad as the AJC would actually keep you on the staff.
By NOTESINGER
April 16, 2007 5:32 PM | Link to this
Kudos to you, Ms. Tucker, for your Pulitzer Prize. I’ve learned a lot from your articles, and your perspective has always been thought-provoking. Carry on ….
By Bruce
April 16, 2007 5:41 PM | Link to this
Keep up the good fight in GA. because reading some of these vents show just how sad life must be for angry white men.
By drsoul
April 16, 2007 5:42 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia…. do not pay mind to the babbling critics..they do not understand your points in the first place, nor are very comfortable within themselves to shed any new light of thinking and comprehension.. your voice does not have to satisfy everyone, as that is not what good commentary is about…and those who disagree, unfortunately, are not of the mind to simply disagree and maybe learn, but dig their holes deeper with their mirrored cynicism.. continued success with your opinions and may they be plentiful more.. the critical will only continue to bury themselves deeper into their own mindless morgue.
By Michael
April 16, 2007 5:43 PM | Link to this
Ms. Tucker is a great treasure. We are lucky to have the benefit of her thoughtful opinions, and it is a wonderful thing to see her get the recognition she deserves.
By bubbareader
April 16, 2007 5:49 PM | Link to this
I don’t agree with everything she writes but she can indeed inspire critical thinking, Congratulations Cynthia………
By Wausheen
April 16, 2007 5:50 PM | Link to this
Congratulations!!!It has to be hard to write about the many issues we face in this country.
By Hope Gone
April 16, 2007 5:54 PM | Link to this
It should be clear why newspaper readership and circulation are declining….it’s not all due to the Internet. One never really has to read Ms. Tucker’s column to know which side of the issue she will take…it’s always a given.
By Bessie
April 16, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to you both!
Cynthia Tucker wrote an article that appeared in my textbook for COM 120 about the death penalty. She is the reason that I subscribe to the Atlanta Constitution by e-mail and she is the person who inspired me to write my research paper on the death penalty due April 29th.
As to the sour grapes, they make good fertilizer maybe.
I don’t recall reading any articles by the far right that were noteworthy enough to win any kind of journalistic prizes, even though the articles were lengthy, were punctuated correctly and even neatly typewritten.
I think the reason is that they lack empathy and compassion and have an intense focus on the bottom line. Boring, boring, boring.
Congratulations to both journalists and to the Atlantic Constitution.
By Arlene Morgan
April 16, 2007 6:00 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to Hank Klibanoff and to Cynthia Tucker, both former Philadelphia Inquirer colleagues, for their wonderful work in dealing with the racial history and health of America. Recent news events illustrate how important their work is to helping Americans see themselves as “us” rather than the “us” and “them” portrayals we see too often in the media.
Arlene Morgan, Associate Dean, Columbia Graduate School of Journalism and director of the Let’s Do It Better! Workshop on Journalism, Race and Ethnicity.
By fer
April 16, 2007 6:24 PM | Link to this
Oh, Cynthia, a Pulitzer at last. You’ve deserved it so long. How wonderful! As you say in your audio, your journalism major worked out right well. Enjoy!
By Gary R Lowe
April 16, 2007 6:34 PM | Link to this
Outstanding!! On a day of terrible news from Virginia, and continuing terrrible news from Iraq, it is so encouraging to know that a most sane voice is recognized and awarded!! You are a reasoned and challenging voice in our all too unreasoned and lemming-like current cultural context. You are most deserving and my wife and I continue to look to you as an anchor of reason. Thank you, and continued good fortune and clear insight. Gary R Lowe
By Famuan
April 16, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to both!!
By cliff zeider
April 16, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Hey, Congratulations Cynthia, I would never figured you for that old. Cliff
By Don
April 16, 2007 6:49 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Ms. Tucker and to Mr. Kilbanhoff. I am not familiar with Mr. Kilbanhoff but I do read yyou often Ms. Tucker. I may not disagree with you all the time but you say in a manner that is cogent and well reasoned. Again, congratulations. Its about time you were recognized in this manner for your great work.
By Wrkgma
April 16, 2007 7:10 PM | Link to this
I am proud to be an African-American woman. Thank you, Cynthia!
By Former Subscriber
April 16, 2007 7:12 PM | Link to this
Add my name to the list of folks who stopped subscribing to the AJC due to the lack of political balance, not just on the editorial page, but from the front page on back.
I don’t begrudge Ms. Tucker’s Award. After all, the losers in life need a voice too, and she provides a loud one. Hopefully the AJC doesn’t mind going out of business due to it’s liberal agenda and subsequent loss of readership.
By Carol Alexander
April 16, 2007 7:46 PM | Link to this
Cynthia, You make us all so proud. I know that Uncle John,Aunt Lucille, Mama and all of the ancestors are smiling!! Keep on keeping on! Carol and State
By rozzie
April 16, 2007 7:58 PM | Link to this
Congratulationto Ms. Tucker! You are the best.
By al Collins
April 16, 2007 8:01 PM | Link to this
now that you have won the pulitzer you can study about FDR. your claim the public did not know about his polio was wrong. i was 9 years old when the march of dimes was set up and knew he could not walk.
By Norman
April 16, 2007 8:07 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Ms. Tucker!
Your commentaries often make me say “Amen!” They are well-written, thought-provoking, and dead on point. As for your detractors, well, don’t stare into the abyss of their minds.
You are both classy and attractive. Now, that’s a dynamic duo!
By lz
April 16, 2007 8:15 PM | Link to this
Now we can hope to see Cynthia at the World Series of Poker next year. She’s made a career out of playing the race card over the years.
By Don Imus
April 16, 2007 8:16 PM | Link to this
Pulitzer? Pull my leg is more like it.
By Dennis G. Berdanis
April 16, 2007 8:17 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia, Whether I agree with you or not (most of the time I do) you are always passionate, interesting and provide a viewpoint not often expressed elsewhere in the print media.
By william
April 16, 2007 8:41 PM | Link to this
This is an April fools day joke right?
By Allan
April 16, 2007 8:46 PM | Link to this
Congratulations, Cynthia. It’s long overdue.
Those on the right who criticize you apparently never read your columns enough to understand that you criticize wrong doers, with no consideration given to their political leanings.
By zombieboy
April 16, 2007 8:54 PM | Link to this
Must be great to be an editor for the AJC…all you have to do is spew the talking points for The Democratic National Committee, ACLU, NAACP, USSR,…..and get paid the big bucks.
By Drew
April 16, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this
Cynthia, would you consider running for President? You are a voice of reason in a time where every Tom, Dick and Bubba have something uselsess to say…usually backed by their hatred. Way to go!!!
By George Hale
April 16, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia Tucker on achieving the Pulitzer. You are an inspiration; always thought provoking, always challenging, please don’t change. I mean: Continue to grow and get better but stay on the path you’ve chosen…please.
Congratulations Hank Klibanoff on the Pulitzer! As Calvin Broadus (Snoop Dogg) might say “…not bad for an old a*s white guy”.
By paul
April 16, 2007 9:14 PM | Link to this
congrats tucker, you just set racism and segregation back to step one. you try to impress everyone w/your third grade vocabulary but i doubt anyone in your audience can even understand what you are saying. good job for an extremely angry person. the meaning of the award has taken an all time low.
By saburley
April 16, 2007 9:45 PM | Link to this
Congrats Cynthia!
You are a role model for little black girls everywhere who dream of one day impacting millions with their words.
Thank you for keeping alive the art of good old-fashioned debate.
If people were not so focused on having their own personal opinions validated, they would be able to read your column and then might expand their reasoning and thinking capabilities. If nothing else, they might eventually come to understand the concept of agreeing to disagree without rancor.
By Elle
April 16, 2007 9:47 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Mr. Klibanoff.
As far as Ms. Tucker is concerned: “She was honored for writing passionately about voting rights, racial stereotypes, and African-American leaders who failed to live up to their potential.”
I hope that she did a lot more research for the “African-American leaders who failed to live up to their potential” column then she did for the “African-American men are lazy” column.
In the “African-American men are lazy” column she accused African-American men of being lazy because they refused to work in her mother’s (I believe) home (doing construction) for low wages.
I read the story and it sounded like she was angry. As a result she condemned… and fed the stereotype of African-American males are lazy.
All because a couple/ a few locals refused to work for “low wages” in the reconstruction of her mother’s home? That is “poor” research for a column. Maybe it was an opportunity to expose her opinion to the rest of us.
To condemn a whole group due to a few people that refused to allow you to use them, is pretty sad. That does not sound like “good” journalism to me.
I stopped reading her column after that. It was my first and last time reading her column. Just my opinion!
By R Allenbaugh
April 16, 2007 9:51 PM | Link to this
Surely this is a joke?
By Michael
April 16, 2007 9:59 PM | Link to this
This is exactly the reason why I only get the paper on Sunday and Monday during football season. For the sports page only. The left wing slant of the paper is why I stopped buying it daily a long ago. Keep up the good work Cynthia. Because of you and your whole left wing agenda, (far different the the majority attitude of most Georgians), you might win another pulitzer prize in the AJC Wednesday paper. PS. Winning an award for left wing rants from left wing friends does not really make it a big award. Just your frinds saying “way to go!”
By Sharyn
April 16, 2007 10:02 PM | Link to this
Have any of the one-dimensional critics here actually read the columns posted for which she was honored? Obviously not. She takes no prisoners and takes on all subjects that matter - includng rappers, black politicians and yes, the current administration. That’s the mark of a truly gifted opinion writer, which we are blessed to have at this paper. Congrats to you, Cynthia, and also to Hank.
By elvis haslem
April 16, 2007 10:15 PM | Link to this
This is great news I often read Ms. Tuckers commentary and am happy for her.
By bob
April 16, 2007 10:30 PM | Link to this
The award comes from yet another left wing organization. After subscribing to AJC for 30 years I cancelled about 7 years ago. Not specifically because of Cynthia but because of reporting that only reported the leftist view of the world. Its pretty obvious from their recent layoffs and subscription cutbacks they should be serving another market than Georgia. The AJC serves about 25% of its LOCAL market - not a winner when you are the only major daily in town, especially since polling indicates that the main reason for this is their sports page. Word is they are losing advertising so fast they may not survive except for inside of 285.
Oh well. Some biz models win and some lose. It will be interesting to see if AJC survives. I’ll miss their sports page.
By Sue Certain
April 16, 2007 10:41 PM | Link to this
I have been waiting for Cynthia Tucker to win the Pulitzer Prize…I believed it would eventually happen. Her original, bold, and thoughtful columns make her the spiritual heir (heiress?) of Ralph McGill, carrying on the tradition of the “lying Atlanta newspapers”. I agree with her about 95% of the time, but never could say it so well. Way to go, Cynthia!
By SA
April 16, 2007 10:46 PM | Link to this
Congrats to the editor of the best-written paper in America, no the world.
By Jeannette Glynn
April 16, 2007 10:51 PM | Link to this
Terrific! Congratlations! I am always so glad to see you when you are on the Lehrer News Hour, too.
By Andrew Watson
April 16, 2007 11:51 PM | Link to this
CONGRATULATIONS MS. TUCKER!! I wish I had stopped by earlier so that my thanks would be higher on the list. I don’t think I have ever met a Pulitzer winner before, and I don’t know of another writer who I enjoy reading more. Even on issues about which I think myself well informed, you always bring new insights and information to even the most familiar debates.
Please keep up the fantastic work
By Laura
April 17, 2007 12:00 AM | Link to this
I grew up in Monroeville, Alabama, too, and I knew Cynthia’s family. Yes, her mother is just that great…Mrs. Tucker was my English professor at the local junior college. Yes, her father was that great…he inspired my brother to become a junior high school principal too. Yes, Cynthia’s brother is just that great….a respected physician, he was always top of our high school class, and also lots of fun to be around. The entire Tucker family rose to the top academically in a little southern town that at the time didn’t boast equal opportunities for all races. I may not always agree with Cynthia’s politics, but I know where she came from, and I know that her family expects nothing less than her very best. Congratulations, Cynthia! You make me proud to be from Monroeville, Alabama.
By Susan Crighton
April 17, 2007 12:13 AM | Link to this
Ms. Tucker, Congratulations!!! You are truly one of the most insightful journalists in print today. I buy the Constitution to read your column. You are an inspiration to all Americans.
By Chelle Cohen
April 17, 2007 3:34 AM | Link to this
So much for thinking highly of the Pulitzer Prize. Tucker is why I no longer take the paper. She has no class
By Susan
April 17, 2007 6:12 AM | Link to this
You go, girl!
By Connie Collins
April 17, 2007 7:44 AM | Link to this
Cynthia, Congratulations for a job well done and much deserved. I admire your courage, intelligence, and ability to speak your opinon with such eloquence. The fact that you have critics is simply proof that your opinions are valued. Keep on! We’re so proud of you!
By Rando
April 17, 2007 8:06 AM | Link to this
WHAT A JOKE!! I no longer have any respect for a Pulitzer Prize winner. Did you see the article in print that was 1 of 10 that was considered?
It was anti-GOP Bul* about how proving your identity is too much of a liability for a black voter.
Cynthis Tucker reaffirms my opposition to affirmative action - this is given to her only because she is a black liberal lackey.
By Rick in Lawrenceville
April 17, 2007 8:13 AM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia!
However, your comments about illegal immigration are based on emotions and not fairness to the American taxpayer. Why should taxpayers subsidize CHEAP LABOR for American business?
By Gerald E Kerns
April 17, 2007 9:23 AM | Link to this
Long overdue award. You can always tell the quality of a person by the enemies he or she has. Right wing racists. Anti-Intellectualism Writ Large. Those are Tucker’s foes. It has been a pleasure to read her insightful columns over the years. Long may she use her pen.
Gerald E Kerns Cincinnati, Ohio
By Elvert A. Howard Jr.
April 17, 2007 9:32 AM | Link to this
Congratulations to both of you. Cynthia, I live in Chicago and look forward to reading your columns on the web every Wednesday and Sunday. Your intrepidness and your thoughtfulness are such an asset to your profesion. Wishing you continued health, prosperity and success in your career.
EAH Jr.
By D Brown
April 17, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
Congratulations to both of you! Cynthia, I’ve been reading your column for years and relish the insightful viewpoint you offer on hard hitting issues, often “saying” what others should be “doing”. I respect that your reasoning is neither from the left or the right, but of the “thinking”, voicing fairness and equality. May you continue your journey of empowerment through your writing.
By Marcia Hagen
April 17, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
Congratulations, Cynthia. I read your column in the SF Chronicle, and my daughter lives in Atlanta. I have learned a lot from your well-written, thoughtful columns. Long may you contribute to our democratic dialogue.
By reebok
April 17, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Congrats to both of you! Ms. Tucker, I always read your columns and I virtually never agree with you…however, you always take a nuanced, intelligent approach. I don’t have to agree with a viewpoint to respect it, and I definitely respect your talent. Kindest regards.
By DeeJay
April 17, 2007 11:30 AM | Link to this
Congrats to you both.
Cynthia, your articles are very insightful and professionally presented. I don’t miss the opportunity to read them - nor does a friend of mine who lives in Washington, D.C. She often sends me links to your writings before I get to them.
Again, Congrats on your well-deserved award.
By Shake 'em off
April 17, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Amazing that all of the people who don’t read the AJC because of you have not only logged into AJC.com, but also clicked on a link to an article about you.
Shake the haters off.
By the way, Cynt, you don’t look a day over 35.
By John Turner
April 17, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this
As a former colleague on the AJC metro staff, I am so proud of what you have accomplished. Congratulations on a well deserved honor and keep on calling ‘em like you see ‘em.
By JOHN DICKERSON, MARIETTA
April 17, 2007 11:46 AM | Link to this
CONGRATULATIONS MS. TUCKER. YOUR PULITZER WIN IS RICHLY DESERVED! KEEP UP THE SUPERB WORK.
By gttim
April 17, 2007 12:25 PM | Link to this
Congratulations! It is a well deserved award. Thank you for your columns and your hard work exposing serious issues.
By Scott Brisendine
April 17, 2007 12:26 PM | Link to this
This Liberal prize is awarded to an ultra-liberal newspaper editor, who in the past stated things like that if you are a conservative Republican, you must be a racist, and other similar drivel. Yes, congrats to Cynthia and other worthy recipients (Jimmy Carter for the Peace Prize—remember, he cannot stomach Israel—so isn’t he racist, too?).
By Sheryl Vazquez
April 17, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia !!!! From Jose, Irene and Sheryl We are so, so proud of your honesty and courage. Please keep it up. This is just the beginning of many awards to come.
By Alex
April 17, 2007 12:36 PM | Link to this
Congratulations Cynthia! It doesn’t matter whether I agree with you or not. We are supposed to have FREE SPEECH in this country and you embody that principle. Maybe Atlanta would be more of an international city if we had more people like you willing to speak out.
By Judith Demkow
April 17, 2007 12:53 PM | Link to this
As someone who resides a great distance from Georgia, I have subscribed to the e-mail version of the ACJ for years, all because of your brilliant and fair-minded editorial essays, Cynthia. There’s nothing “racist” about you or your point of view. You are indeed “a beacon of light” providing a voice of intelligent reason through many a turbulent storm. Congratulations on winning this well deserved award.— Judith Demkow (Florida)
By shibuii
April 17, 2007 12:57 PM | Link to this
Who knew that the same people who choose the Nobel Peace Prize winners choose the Pulitzer winners?
By Jonathan Jones
April 17, 2007 1:09 PM | Link to this
LADIES FIRST:! The pic in the paper had the man’s name and pic first. What happened to our manners? LADIES FIRST!! MY GOD! WHAT WOULD YOUR MOTHER THINK!!!Congrats anyway. JAJ
By Concern
April 17, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this
How can a Chief Editorial person receive a Pulitzer when the ajc is losing 7% subscriptions every year, second only to a San Francisco paper? The ajc and MS Tucker are the leading forces in racism in this State. She is driven to work in a limo, she sponges off CNN and her writings are PREJUDICE.
By José Blanco
April 17, 2007 2:07 PM | Link to this
To Cynthia,
Congratulations! The ad today talked about the AJC and Staff being proud…tremendous! Yes, and Atlanta, and Georgia, can surely be proud. I want to express that I am honored - and I look forward to reading your notes - the wisdom - of the day providing centering and direction. Thank you for that.
By Jason
April 17, 2007 3:07 PM | Link to this
Okay I keep hearing all these negative comments about Ms. Tucker. But where is your proof of racism, igonorance, and far left views? And don’t get stupid and say just read her stuff. Talk about specific article or quotes of her’s, stuff that anybody could read and say “yeah” that’s racist, far-left or ignorant. And actually support your argument. I get tired of conservatives and liberals only spitting out things their masters tell them “oh she racist cause she wrote article about how bad black people get from white people.” then you in turn prove her point by making ignorant comments. Oh yeah why are so many people saying they don’t read this media but then are actually making comments on it that shows you that you might be stupid and might to tested for it.
By Bill Owen
April 17, 2007 3:10 PM | Link to this
Nicely done, Ms. Tucker. Your contributions on the McNeil/Lehrer News Hour are always insightful. I am pleased that you have been recognized…
By Charlie
April 17, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this
Of course Cynthia won. She’s black. What did you expect.
By Stuart
April 17, 2007 4:08 PM | Link to this
Well deserved!! Cynthia Tucker’s commentary is some of the most insightful and truthful around. If she upsets the neo-cons, hip-hop misogynists and homophobes, you know she is getting though.
By Dave Thompson
April 17, 2007 4:55 PM | Link to this
Congratulations to both of you. I have especially enjoyed Cynthia’s columns for many years and I especially enjoy the way she skewers the pomposity and sanctimoniousness of the right. Many thanks.
Kind regards,
Dave Thompson