Talk of the Town

By The Bee

April 2, 2008 11:32 AM | Link to this

Heck, if it helped him get his UTTERLY VITAL message across, then I’m not offended. We are facing a spiraling crisis of crime and violence among black youth (caused, incidentally, by the utter abdication of parental responsibilities by far too many black “parents”). I’m willing to try anything.

By Same

April 2, 2008 11:41 AM | Link to this

Typical racist…

By Scott

April 2, 2008 11:43 AM | Link to this

You have got to be kidding me…is it right??? Let’s put this into perspective. If a white judge ordered all blacks out of the courtroom to lecture just white defendants, Jesse and Al would be coming up the steps of the courthouse as he was lecturing. Who is in charge of things like this for white people, oh yeah, there isn’t one. We don’t have “leaders” sitting around, rushing to every soap box they can stand on….This man should lose his job simply for segregation. What a joke, is it right?? What a double standard with deal with here…

By RB

April 2, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

Thanks for publishing this story, but nothing will come of it. If this was the reverse, Jesse would be on the 5 o’clock news. Discrimination occurs against people of all colors. However, most blacks see discrimination against whites not as discrimination, but as “staying true to their own”. It’s heart breaking that people of all colors can’t learn to be more accepting of others.

By Skip

April 2, 2008 11:44 AM | Link to this

HOW WRONG! What do you think would happen if the rolls were reversed? The NAACP, SCLC, Jesse Jackson, and Al Sharpton would all be here protesting!

By Tee

April 2, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

Yes because white people dont understand what we have been through and the hard road we have to travel!!!

By MMMM

April 2, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

This judge should be removed from the bench! It would have already happened if he had asked a black person to leave the courtroom!

By BlackAvenger

April 2, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

It wasnt politically correct but he had seen enough and he made an emotional appeal - he’s only human and i forgive him for not being politically correct but there are plenty of non-black youth out there who need the same message

By Gilbert

April 2, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

Let’s put the shoe on the other foot and see if the other party would just stand by with a ho-hum mention in the newspaper. It shows that the apology no more fits the offense than making a sports anchorwoman get reprimanded on international news for making a meaningless comment. Double standard, I’d say!

By Mikey

April 2, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

What? No racist remarks from Jesse or Al? Oh, I guess that this is nothing to be concerned about when you consider that neither made statements about Jeremiah Wright! I guess racism is ONLY charastic of white people!

By John

April 2, 2008 11:53 AM | Link to this

It would be a totally different headline in the news if he were white and asked all blacks to leave. Racism in Atlanta will never stop until it is stopped by both white and black people. I see just as many blacks being racist as white but somehow in this city it is accepted. The black community should see this as a total slap in the face. How are blacks to be treated equal if there on leaders don’t want the “white man” to hear him scold them?

By judge

April 2, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Do you really believe justice is colorblind?If a white judge had done the same,he would not be given the benefit of the doubt.Why should Arrington?

By Mike

April 2, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Outrageous. If the judge was white, this would be national news…

By AmazonRed

April 2, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

I’d rather give him credit for even taking the time to talk to these defendents. I hope he made an impact with someone.

Instead of targeting race, he should have asked all the attorneys to leave.

By The truth

April 2, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

Hello racism. Imagine if a white judge had said that. I’m sick of hearing about how white people hate blacks when the total opposite is true. I’m sure libs will defend the judge.

By keith

April 2, 2008 11:55 AM | Link to this

No Arrington should not have made such a dumb statment. It’s bad enough the police racial profile, and only give traffic tickets in the city or in our cases the urban side of town. That’s why there’s always so many minorities in the courtroom. If they ticketed Buckhead/Sandy Springs like they do the west side of town, the courtroom would balance itself out. But nobody has the right to make a general comment like that. Not even if he’s my REAL brother.

By Kiljoy

April 2, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

The ends never justify the means. Arrington was trying to do a good thing but he did it the wrong way. Judges are not allowed to use race as a criteria for anything. He should be censored by the courts but allowed to continue as a judge. I applaud his intentions but he is a judge and as such should have used better “judge”ment.

By anita

April 2, 2008 11:56 AM | Link to this

No, Mr. Arrington was not right to ask the white attorneys to leave the courtroo. I respect his effort to attempt to reach the young black defendants that were before him. My thought is that the majority of them were black males. He probably was overwhelmed with what he saw before in that moment and simply reacted without any thought of repercussions or fallout from his decision. It happens daily that you’re watching the news and you are overwhelmed the vast amount of young black males and some females that are so self-destructive.

By John

April 2, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

Best case of rasicm I have seen in a long time. Shameful…

By ga_tech_92

April 2, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

That sort of thing makes good common sense; however, the world of hyper sensitive political correctness forbids such things now. I wish we could just have real talks and real common sense, but that’s not our country anymore…thanks to many ‘advancements’.

By JWL

April 2, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Is that not blatant racism on the part of his honor? What if the judge had been white man who had asked black attorneys to leave the courtroom? I’m sure there would have been outrage on behalf of the black community. Racism is racism.

By Reality Sets In

April 2, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

And the reality that every action is not specifically targeted to be racist sets in; sometimes people just don’t think about what their actions mean and they need to be educated.

The unfortunate unbalance is that this would cost a white person their job while a black person will not have to do any more than apologize.

How nice would it be if there were just EQUAL opportunity to educate EVERYONE in these situations instead of having people calling for jobs and headhunting. Instead we fire or dismiss one race for a mistake that every race makes at some point.

By Kevin

April 2, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

This absolute double standard is why so many people just throw up their hands when the topic of race comes up. If this were a white judge asking blacks to leave, there would be calls for his head.

Blacks wonder why race problems persist. This, dear readers, is precisely why.

By Mike

April 2, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

TEE,

when exactly are you going to stop using that old “well you don’t know what we go through” excuse? It is tired and worn out. It’s time to start taking responsibility for your actions and quit blaming other people or races. I have plenty of black friends who went to school, stayed out of trouble and make a better living than I do. They dont’t seem to be going through the same struggles as you. They are respectful of others and in return get respect themselves. Stop with the excuses…

By ESR

April 2, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Consider the Judges perspective from where he sits. Day in and day out he witnesses the parades of young black males with no plans for the future, no job skills, no direction come and go in this courtroom, headed to jail. I am sure he felt that drastic times call for drastic meausres. I say applaud him for his actions, do not criticize him. Bill Cosby is trying to do the same thing but he is up against the monolithic rap culture that has totally ruined black communities all across America. When you have more black males going to jail than going to college, you all beteer get off your butts and do something before you become extinct.

By gloria sherrard

April 2, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

County Superior Judge Arrington, how I applaud you for taking a stand, could save their lives…You do know if the attorneys don’t have cases, they don’t get paid… I have 3 sons and I am very, very proud of them. They are smart, very good looking and educated. I was in a similar situation with my nephew and the judged talked to him behind doors about his anger (father never around). So I say THANK YOU JUDGE ARRINGTON and if the young men are smart they will adhere to your genuine wisdom. Become a Judge, help someone in need and also respect and do the right thing for your FAMILY.

By court worker

April 2, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

If a white judge asked all black people in his court to leave so he could address the white people privately the crap would hit the fan! There would be talk of a racist judicial system, backdoor dealings etc. The judge may have had the best of intentions, but it was a poor choice.

By Ann C

April 2, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

His intentions were correct, his methods were wrong. He could have invited serious offenders back to his chambers with their lawyers. He could have gone to prisons to discuss life changes with all prisoners.

He foolishly gave fodder to white racists. He should have thought this through and he didn’t. He lacks judgment to be a judge.

By Lainey

April 2, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

Tee made a comment typical of a black with a major chip on their shoulder and attitude. Do you think as a black you have a monopoly on the hard road in life or difficulties in life?

By STMS

April 2, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this

We are ALL sweating the small stuff. I think Judge Arrington should be commended on his efforts to lecture, encourage and send a positive message to the defendants. Is there anyone else stepping up to the challenge to lecture these young black defendants, who are obviously repeat offenders? What seems to be the problem here? Double standards? Since it has not happened in the reverse order - we don’t know what would occur, we are merely speculating. Why is everything a person of power or influence say under a microscope. Clearly Judge Arrington meant no harm and did not mean to offend anyone. He and Bill Cosby should be recognized for the efforts in trying to put a positive spin to a situation that is clearly out of control. Jail does not rehabilitate - so if a Judge choose to lecture black male defendants and does not want anyone else to hear - what’s wrong with that? I just can’t see the problem - every situation that hits the NEWS is NOT racially motivated? Come on people - let’s move beyond the small stuff.

By TG

April 2, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Of course he was wrong. It does not matter who may or may not understand the black race’s struggles, segregating the courtroom was inappropriate. I suppose that I am obligated to mention that I am black, and I feel that Arrington was completely out of line.

By john

April 2, 2008 12:15 PM | Link to this

As usual there is a double standard. The topic of race has really only gotten worse over the years. “People” are not fighting for equality, they are fighting for seniority. It has become so sensitive that one can’t even talk about race without fear of the repercussions. Where was the out cry when the movie ‘White men can’t jump’ came out. What if that title were reversed? You think Al and Jesse and the rest of them wouldn’t be on the next talk show ranted about equality and holding society back with such derogatory titles and movies.

By Jay

April 2, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

The message was very much needed. The delivery tactics were unbelievable.

By S. Impact

April 2, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

I agree with the statement, ‘he should have asked all attorneys to leave.’ By asking whites only to exit, he racialized what was not really racial to begin with. There are so many other ways to reach out to black youth. He was very misguided in his approach. Also, he could say what he needed to say in front of the attorneys. Surely, if they are defendants in a criminal case, they’ve been more than condescended to.

By JJ

April 2, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

He could have said what he said in front of the white attorneys.

Tee What hard road have YOU personally traveled?

By ken

April 2, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

I am white and i don’t find it offensive at all, a bad judgement maybe but not racist, he was on CNN and he apologized and said he was going to repeat the entire episode for everyone. Whats amazing to me as a “white” person is how white people perceive everything and take it and run with it. Mr Aarington is no more racist than i am.

By mae

April 2, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

I’m with AmazonRed: the attorneys should have been sent out, not just the white folks. Still, I’m glad the judge took the time to try to talk to people who are obviously “not making good choices” in their lives. Here is what I hope the judge told them: stop having babies you can’t support, get the cellphone out of your ear, and earn an honest living!

By hunterj6

April 2, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

This would be a national headline for a week or more if it was a white judge asking black people to remove themselves from the court room. And I think all Americans can agree on that. But, oddly enough, I am OK with him asking the white people to leave the courtroom. If his motives were to connect with the individuals he wanted to lecture with hopes that they would listen and change their ways, then I think its OK.

By GA_Tiger Fan

April 2, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

STMS comments could not be more wrong! Try to imagine the outrage and coverage this would have received if a white judge asked all the blacks to leave!

By kunify

April 2, 2008 12:25 PM | Link to this

Protest until he resigns or is removed immediately. March on the courthouse needs to be setup NOW.

By WCD

April 2, 2008 12:26 PM | Link to this

Does anyone know if the judge really asked all “whites” to leave the courtroom or just all the lawyers? I want to believe he was trying to do a good thing and never meant it to come across as racist.

By BeBe KID

April 2, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Asking the white attorneys to leave the courtroom being considered racists is a classic example of hyper-sensitivity. Judge Arrington was not telling them to blame the white man or find fault in the system. Judge Arrington was supporting individual responsibility. You white conservatives should applaud Judge Arrington!

By DK

April 2, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

I read the judge’s explanation and I believe it, and I believe he was sincerely attempting to reach troubled individuals who are on a bad path, in the hopes that, at least some would be affected and straighten their lives out.

Unfortunately, his actions are a window into his soul, and I’m afraid, a window into the soul of a large portion of today’s African-American community. I can come to no other conclusion than that the judge see’s two groups of people, not one. This is the same reason that such statements as “you people” are divisive and misguided. We can’t end this segregation and bigotry until we ALL stop making these distinctions. Too many in the African-American community complain when this mindset is displayed by whites while giving a pass to those of their race who display this type of bigotry (ala Obama and the differences in the way he reacted to the statements of Imus vs. those of his pastor). That said, a gentle admonishment is all that’s called for here. I suspect that the public attention being focused through this article will suffice. I’m sure Judge Arrington is a good man who only wanted to help the troubled persons in his courtroom. Let’s all remember that hatred and angst will not end bigotry, only love, compassion, and understanding will accomplish this goal.

By cory

April 2, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

First of all people do not know what racist is the definition is……1. A person with a prejudiced belief that one race is superior to others. That being said with the amount of crime in black community most white people see it as a black problem not an american problem. True his message was needed but for everyone and its funny how the ajc picked this topic for readers to comment.

By East Atlanta Prince

April 2, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

THANK YOU JUDGE MARVIN ARRINGTON!!!!! How was this a racist move when the judge simply didnt want to air dirty laundry in front of the white lawyers???

By Jay

April 2, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

By NCANTRELL

April 2, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

EVEN JUDGE ARRINGTON SHOULD HAVE NOT DONE THAT AT THE SAME TIME I IMAGINE HE WAS THINKING WELL LET THEM GO OUT FOR A FEW AND LET ME TALK TO THESE BOYS CAUSE ALL I SEE IS BLACK BOYS GOIN TO JAIL!!! HE DOES NOT SEE A LOT OF WHITE KIDS GOING TO JAIL. THEY NEEDED A GOOD TALKING TOO. IT DID NOT CONCERN WHITE PEOPLE AT ALL. IT’S NOT LIKE THEY ARE GOING TO HELP GET THE MATTER RIGHT. SO HE JUST TOOK IT UPON HIMSELF TO TALK TO THEM WEHN HE SAW THEM. HE WAS WRONG CAUSE THAT IS A PUBLIC FORUM, BUT HIS DEED WAS GOOD. PLEASE FORGIVE HIM. HE WILL DO IT AGAIN AND NO ONE WILL BE ASK TO LEAVE. I BET YOU WHEN IT HAPPENS AGAIN THE WHITE PEOPLE WILL COMPLAIN ABOUT IT THEN TOO. I KNOW HOW THE JUDGE FEELS CAUSE OUR BOYS ARE HELPLESS AND THEY ARE NOT GETTING ANY BETTER. WE DON’T NOW WHY????????

By spfuller

April 2, 2008 12:40 PM | Link to this

He is on the front lines day in and day out. He sees black folk going to prison almost everyday. He takes the the effort to talk to the criminal defendants about not being criminal defendants anymore and a white person is offended by this. Give me a break. It’s nice to hear someone thinking outside the box.

By Lunatic Fringe

April 2, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Talking to the blacks while they are in the courtroom is like closing the barn door after the animals have gotten out. Perhaps the judge should address the dis-advantaged blacks while they are in school. He better get them at an early age though since the graduation rate for inner-city Atlanta children is less than 50%.

By red1977

April 2, 2008 12:43 PM | Link to this

Asking the whites to leave was a bad idea. Lighting a fire under some of these perps was a GREAT idea. Hindsight is always 20/20 and I know he will suffer the consequences of what he did, but I TOTALLY UNDERSTAND WHERE HE IS COMING FROM. So many people complain about Cosby airing our dirty laundry, maybe that was his train of thought. It was wrong because of the position he holds but desperate times calls for desperate measures. The problems in the “black community” is everyones problem and we should all be wondering what we can do to help!

By Me

April 2, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

As a black individual, I completely understand why he did this. It is a difficult concept for whites to grasp because there is a double standard present, some will still believe they can understand it, but they are fooling themselves. When blacks school other blacks in front of whites, it is seen as an act of self-hate because you are putting down blacks in front of those who collectively, already view blacks as less. This is the reason so many blacks dislike Bill Cosby, Larry Elder and others. If a white judge did this it would be seen as racist because the history of this country. So I have no problem with what the judge did.

By Tonia

April 2, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

All I can say is Thank You to Judge Arrington, as in the past and most frequent blacks have been admonished, chastised, and sentence in front of many whites. But to clear a courtroom where it is just him and the young creates and environment where one man of stature and intelligence is able to tell men who are again about to be chastise and sentence for a crime that they need to adjust their lifestyles and proceed in a different direction other than the negative one their on right now.

By Stormie

April 2, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

While I dont agree with Judge Arrington segregating the courtroom to make his plea to our black youth. I’m glad he took it upon his-self to speak to them. Whatever their crime, it was part of their punishment to appear in a court of law, not a black or white court of law. What they did or didn’t do is not being kept a secret so the Judges appeal to the kids should have been public as well. If Judge Arrington feels that strongly about the fact that 99.9% of the defendants in his courtroom were black then he should take it upon his-self to work more closely with them before they end up on the wrong side of the law. The saying is that “it takes a village to raise a child”. His bio says he’s from Inner-City Atlanta, he’s should work with the children from his old neighborhood or some other outreach program. Show black youth that they can make it out of their current situations, that there is a better life to be had, dont shut out a part of the people because they are not black. He had no idea what impact his statements might have had on a white lawyer in attendance. It could have inspired them to reach out, we’ll never know. You’re not doing your part until you reach out to the children on the ground floor. Dont wait until they’re in a courtroom and lecture them.

By Robert

April 2, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

There’s a reason Judge Arrington is a judge. He is a “village elder.” He felt it his responsibility to speak out about what he knows, first hand, is destroying a community. The behavior he criticized is toxic, and any rational person knows it. He is ABSOLUTELY RIGHT. I applaud his courage.

By BlackLeader

April 2, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

Yes…he should be removed and it is a double standard. I think that if we as blacks..african americans…americans want to be treated the same…we need to play by the same rules. Jesse and Al need to be calling for him to resign and I think doing it LOUD!.

By Mr. R

April 2, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

200 years of injustice by the “JUST-US” white system. Now you know how it feel to be on the other side of the bench. The “Barbie Bandits”; one get 2 years, the other probation and refund $2,000.00. HELLO… didn’t they rob the bank on their free will? $11,000.00+ and get to keep $10,000.00? While the Black guy who suppositly made them (by mind control I guess), gets 25 years? 10 years automatic for theift. Hello… Barbies robbed the bank!!!! No automatic 10 years for them! Don’t cry “RACISM” if you not going to take in account the whole corrupt system towards minorities and favoritism towards whites.

By Bill

April 2, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

His heart may have been in the right place, yet it was definately wrong since we all know if it had been a white judge requiring blacks to leave the room all h*ll would have broken out. He should as a judge have better judgement and he should be at the least rebuked for his actions. The same white judge would probably have been disbarred. It must be fair all around.

By Travis

April 2, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this

I applaud Judge Arrington for his actions for two reasons. First, as a positive African-American role model, he took a stand to try to better young people. Second, when confronted with a different opinion and viewpoint, he had the courage and wisdom to review his actions and concede that a different course of action may have been better. We see too little of both these days.

By Barry

April 2, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

So in a rural county where the court rooms are filled with 95% whites the judge should be able to usher out the blacks?

By Lunatic Fringe

April 2, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

The AJC is censoring comments.

By Hmmm

April 2, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

If there were more Bill Cosbys and more Judge Arringtons to be role models for black youth, this would be a much better place. Call it racist, but it’s backed by fact. Check out Atlanta’s and the metro area’s jails and see who is locked up and for what. (It’s public information.) DeKalb County Jail alone is 98% black.

By Carol Kellam

April 2, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

Ken:

I agree with you. It was not intended to be something racial. Both races take comments and run away with it. We need to learn to dessiminate truly mean racial comments and acts from misjudgement of words or actions. I’m black, and quite frankly I am sick and tired of people not being able to say what they want. If that’s how you feel, then say it. Chips are going to fall no matter what, but every comment a person makes, especially those in authority, should not always be turned into a national racial disaster.

By Impressed

April 2, 2008 12:54 PM | Link to this

Judge Arrington cared enough to step forward and address a problem which affects us all. He learned, and has publicly stated, that his method was poorly chosen. Fair enough.

I am IMPRESSED that we finally have a city official who cares enough to do the right thing. This ridiclous public outcry only reinforces the “play it safe and keep your mouth shut” attitude so many of our leaders seem to live by.

I applaud and appreciate Judge Arrington’s attempt to take the riskier, morally correct action.

So many victims, so few leaders…

By AHL

April 2, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

As a white attorney who has practiced in front of Judge Arrington on several occassions, I can assure you that he meant absolutely no ill will to the white attorneys who were asked to leave.

In retrospect, I am certain he now sees that he made a poor decision, but we must look at his intent. The judge was not trying to insult or demean white attorneys; rather, he was clearly trying to speak frankly as a strong African American role model to the young black men in his courtroom. His intentions were good.

Those of you who do not work in the legal system and do not witness the scores of young men that pass through a courtroom each day may have a difficult time understanding the frustration that mounts in this situation. I know that the judge cares deeply about this community and was simply trying to offer the wisdom of a successful and well-respected black man to the young black men in his courtroom that have strayed from their responsibilities.

Judge Arrington has long served this community with distinction and integrity. I would emplore you all to accept his apology and give him the benefit of the doubt.

Thank you.

By Conga

April 2, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

What if the judge had been white and he asked all black people to leave so that he could talk to the white defendants?

By mike

April 2, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

So sad to see Whites rush to form an opinion on an issue they could not possibly understand. The african American youth is at risk moreso than the cauicasisans. This was a plea from a man who grew up on these same streets and i applaud him for it. But just like everything else in this city and this country. If Blacks to something together, to uplift the race..there’s a cycnical white nearby ready to pounce in the name of political correctness. Where is this same political correctness when those black youths pass you on the street? Why not spend some of your mousse’ money on helping to build parks and rec centers to keep these troubled youth off the streets?You people are funny..George Bush-ism at it’s finest….

By Blkshepherd

April 2, 2008 1:04 PM | Link to this

I dont care for judge arrington and yes I am black. i probably would not have cleared the court room..but i would have given the same lecture. I am so dismayed, and embarrassed by young black its enough to make me cry a river. whats worst is there are blacks that are racist against other blacks..(its called the crab theory)many blacks are jealous hateful and envious of each other(i witness this almost weekly) We are on a self destruction course. Many(young men and women)are clueless, disrespectful, loud, rude, crazy, stupid, and out of control. Yes, his Message was clear and concise and the truth. His method was shoddy. But as I stated..I dont care for his ethics on how he goes about handling things. But his message, sorry,(as simon cowell would say)is Dead on point. We(the young blacks) are destroying ourselves and headed for the endangered list if we dont change course. My post is not intended for an agreement or disagreement. I could care less. Somethings need to change in the black community begining with our attitudes towards each other. Its not the white man that is our enemy(atleast not in this century maybe 1865, this is 2008, and the hate we have for each other is shameful and overwhelming. We have replaced the white man as OUr own worst enemy. guess I will turn in my black card now and be kicked out the black race. thats cool..i am a loner anyway.

By L'Wren

April 2, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this

The same White people complaining about Judge Arrington’s actions are the same ones who bytch and moan about how Black people should encourage our people to do better. And to do the right thing.

So maybe his actions were not PC, but it was, at the time, the right thing.

By Toot

April 2, 2008 1:06 PM | Link to this

The Judge comments was right, his approach was wrong. That day was not the only day that the Judge saw 99.9% blacks in his count room, every day he probably see 99.9%, that day he decided to help 99.9% that came to court that day.

By Mike

April 2, 2008 1:08 PM | Link to this

^Judges should not be activists, they should interpret the law as it applies.

By Tonia

April 2, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Yes Barry, he better have a one on one with these young men because the behavior of committing crimes and thinking you will not have go to jail has become all to prevalent. Somebody preferably a Judge of the Courts needs to tell these young men that if they come to court for committing a crime they will have to go to jail, so get a new direction, leash on life and do something beneficial for themselves and for society.

By webspinner

April 2, 2008 1:10 PM | Link to this

If the judge were white … If the shoe was on the other foot … yada, yada, yada. Hello. With minorities making up 99 percent of the defendants entering the courtroom, day after day, it seems to me that trying to talk some sense into these knuckleheads before they break the law again makes a lot more sense that recycling them through the CJ system over and over. Yes, he should not have kicked the white lawyers out. But people, please, this Jesse/Al knee-jerk reaction is old news. Get some new material, whydontcha.

By L'Wren

April 2, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

The same White people complaining about Judge Arrington’s actions are the same ones who bytch and moan about how Black people should encourage our people to do better. And to do the right thing.

So maybe his actions were not PC, but it was, at the time, the right thing.

By MikeB

April 2, 2008 1:13 PM | Link to this

DK- I could not agree more……… I would add that Judge Arrington seems to be genuinely embarrassed by what he see’s in his court room. while his methods are questionable ( I don’t agree with segregating the court population)please let his message resonate with every child/young adult in the habit of making the kind of decisions that put(or could put) that individual before the court. Black, white or purple.

We as a society need to “call it like it is” more frequently. We need to insist on responsibility and accountability for our actions at the expense of political correctness.

Some people blogging here won’t like the world once it evolves to this way of thinking, they won’t like things such as “being held accountable for the actions of their child” but this is what is neccesary to stem the tide of deplorable behavior and actions we read so much about.

Step up Atlanta and influence your circle of family, friends, acquaintences, associates, neighbors, and colleigues. Regardless of color, ethnic background, sex or persuasion.

By publicenemynumberone

April 2, 2008 1:17 PM | Link to this

Here’s a little different “twist”. What if a white judge sent the whites out and told the blacks to “shape up”? I’m sure that would go over well!

By Jim

April 2, 2008 1:18 PM | Link to this

Two things;

First of all, had it been reversed, he would have immediately been crucified. Suppose he’d kicked out a black lawyer or two so he could go one one one with a white defendant?

The most telling part for me is that he kicked WHITE lawyers out of a room full of BLACK defendants.

Personally, I think it was the right call, but it should work both ways.

By suzanne

April 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

His intentions were good. He was only trying to do the right thing. I think the entire thing has been blown out of proportion. I am white, and this does not offend me at all. Let’s try to focus on bigger issues, and not this judge, who is only trying to help.

By Z

April 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

The man should be removed simply for failing to realize that the racial balance of defendants in his courtroom have been overwhelmingly black for the entire time he’s been on the bench. Which has been… how many years?? Is he just now paying attention? Is he just now becoming interested in the human condition he passes judgment upon? Or did he think all this time that, in his bigoted mentality, that having mostly black defendants is a good thing?

By Claire

April 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

Reverse discrimination is alive & well in Atlanta. I’ve experienced it many times in stores, banks, restaurants, etc. Blacks feel justified due to the past but intolerance & racism is never justified, no matter who is practicing it!

By ron

April 2, 2008 1:24 PM | Link to this

I find this hard to believe.A judge has something to say to the black community that he can’t say in front of white lawyers?What was it?Points on how to win the case?Judge Arrogant shouldn’t have done this.

By Jay

April 2, 2008 1:26 PM | Link to this

I’ve been in his courtroom before (as a spectator). He does some weird stuff—for instance while I was there he stopped the testimony of a witness (a young black guy), and took the guy out into the hallway between the courtroom and the judges’ offices, and lectured him. I also don’t think he is the most respected judge by either his peers on the bench or the bar in general. So this misstep is not really much of a surprise to me, coming from him.

By RB

April 2, 2008 1:28 PM | Link to this

It seems the comments carry the tune that black people will only listen to other black people. Did MLK limit the receivers of his message to black people? No. And neither do Jesse and Al when they appear on national network TV. Why? Because for true racial equality, whites have to be open to listen to blacks, and on balance, blacks have to be open to listening to whites.

By Vinny

April 2, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

As a white person, I commend Judge Arrington for his actions. He was obviously frustrated and needed to get it off his chest. We need more people like him in leadership positions willing to speak out and say it like it is!!

By BTITH

April 2, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

To all who defend this man, think about your reaction had the judge been white and ordered out all black lawyers. Yes, that’s how it feels!

By jackie

April 2, 2008 1:30 PM | Link to this

Yes!!!!! Judge Arrington was RIGHT, his actions showed genuine concern. His motives were to connect with the individuals he wanted to lecture with hopes that they would listen and change their ways, and not feel as though they were being put down. YES!! He was right.

By Kevin

April 2, 2008 1:31 PM | Link to this

Ann C: To say that “He foolishly gave fodder to white racists” is not only incredibly insulting, but demonstrates your sheer ignorance on the matter. I’m certainly not a racist, but I was very much offended by the judge’s actions.

Your implication that only white racists will be bothered by this is sickening.

By BAD DOG

April 2, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

you know i think what he did was right because we as Black Folk have to clean up our house first then we can go outside of it but the young guys out hear don’t hear anything you say to them they know everything. I think him being frank with them is better than locking them up. More Black Men should step to the plate as well

By Me

April 2, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I am white and could care less if I was asked to leave. He had a GOOD reason to say what needed to be said, so its not that serious people my god!

By Lori

April 2, 2008 1:39 PM | Link to this

I am incredulous that after all I hear blacks complain about that this could happen without the judge being thrown out… He could have said whatever he needed to say in front of everyone… the reciepients of his words should not have gotten special treatment. I am so sick of hearing about african americans and their hatred of the white man… when will all of this stop… no body owes anybody anything…we need to quit supplying financial support to people who choose to quit school and not get a job… my gosh… work isn’t that fun for anyone… i go because i want to pay my bills… i am sick to death of reverse discrimination

By Scott

April 2, 2008 1:41 PM | Link to this

Hey Impressed, Were his chambers too busy that day to be used. This is a case of grandstanding and abuse of power. He should lose his job, simple as that. Does anyone know what his message was? Does anyone have that on record? I would love to get those, I am sure there were quite a bit of “them’s” and “us’s” thrown around which would seal his fate. Whether you want to admit it or not, he has now chosen to be part of the problem.

By juliamp

April 2, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

While I applaud Judge Arrington for speaking up to the black defendants and encouraging them to turn their lives around, I think he was wrong to send whites out of the courtroom. Hopefully one day, soon, we will see an end to all the racist trash whether it is from whites or blacks. Thankfully, I believe it is a small number of each race that continue to spew this venom and that most people wish we could all get on with living life to the fullest instead of being bogged down with such nonsense.

By Leonard

April 2, 2008 1:46 PM | Link to this

When is the Bar hearing to revoke his law license. When is the censure hearing to remove this racially biased person from the court. Now, every non Black person convicted in his court has a valid reason to appeal … “If you aren’t Black, you get treated differently.”

By JJ

April 2, 2008 1:47 PM | Link to this

Lunatic Fringe Maybe Judge Arrington should be addressing the PARENTS of these kids!!!!!

Quit blaming the system, the schools, etc, and start looking to the parents and holding them accountable for these kids.

By Netta

April 2, 2008 1:49 PM | Link to this

There’s a time when some of us Black folk say some things to each other and use some words we would not dare let others hear, not just White but some Blacks as well. I know I do. It seems to be the only language these thugs understand. They won’t work, won’t go to school, and stand around the 5 Points MARTA station and convenience stores peddling dope, disrespecting women, children, and themselves. And over and over where do they end up…back in a court room if not the cemetery. If it were left up to me, I’d ship them all off to Iraq, sagging pants and all, and put them on the front lines of combat. More power to you, Marvin!!!!!!!!

By Judy

April 2, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this

Any person, white, black, green or whatever, who winds up facing a judge on criminal charges, could probably use a “what are you doing with your life?” lecture. The fact that Arrington seems to only care about the lives of black defendants is clearly bigoted, racist and completely irresponsible—it has no place in a courtroom which must be colorblind. Indeed, Arrington’s acton’s reinforce the perception that blacks are helpless and inferior. If he has a personal concern, he can express it on his own time. As an African-American woman, I feel Arrington’s stunt is ultimately counter-productive and provides fodder for white, Archie Bunker-types to say, “see, you black people are helpless and inferior.” He should not be on the bench if his judgment is so poor as to lead him to do something so outrageous. I remember his “passing” insult to Mayor Campbell. Arrington is a racist. There is no place for bigotry—white or back—in a courtroom.

By Brian

April 2, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

As a 33 year-old white male, this is not offensive in the least. no harm or bad intent was meant. Let’s lighten up.

By Sick and Tired

April 2, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

Arrington tried to do the right thing but tripped up. He could have just as easily scolded the defendants with the “white” people in the court room. There was no reason to excuse anyone. If there is to be equality in this world, then everything should occur without regard or mention of race.

I have seen plenty a “white” judge scold “white” defendants without excusing the “black” man from the court room. Yet all the blacks on this blog are quick to defend him and say it was necessary because they have been down a “hard road”.

Come on people…call a “spade a spade”. You defend someone like this when what he did was clearly wrong and you wonder why race is still an issue in society today. The reality is, discrimination is directed towards whites now more so than against blacks. If this had occurred in reverse, the “black” community would be raising “holly you know what” claiming they had been “singled out”, “discriminated” against, and generally “humiliated” when asked to leave a public place because of the color of their skin. Quite honestly, that is the right response to have. So why don’t you have it in this case?

“Man-Up”, see it for what it is, and you will garner a lot more respect than you will in trying to defend a “black: judge who obviously made an error in judgement.

Arrington needs to pay the price with a suspension w/o pay (not permanent) just as a white judge would been forced to do had it happened in reverse. Actually had it happened in reverse, a white judge probably would lose his job premanently so as to quite the likes of Jesse and Al (the biggest discriminators in the entire world). Distance yourself from these yoyos and you will gain a lot of credibility instantly.

By Michael Savage

April 2, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

DIS-BARR THE RACIST !

By Rusty

April 2, 2008 2:02 PM | Link to this

This was just incredibly stupid. Forget bad judgement,this was just stupid. Black lawyers wouldn’t have extended the same courtesy of actually leaving. Remember Sen. Vincent Forte at the Grady Board hearings and the shouts of “break it down”.If this had been a white Judge, this would be a very big deal.

By Rob

April 2, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

Yes he was wrong. Because He Had know right to say anything. He should have never told White attorneys to leave the court room. If they want to do something about the issue they need to create jobs and see how other people are livling and think about waht they say before they say it. Remember when it’s all said and done. He’ll have to satnd in front of GOD to.

By Stormie

April 2, 2008 2:05 PM | Link to this

Just because he’s a “Village Elder” doesn’t make him a “Village Leader”. He is a Judge for a reason. He’s a Lawyer and he put in his time, worked good cases and was nominated to be a Judge. What does that have to do with the realities that our youth live with everyday. If this “Village Elder” felt so compelled to speak with our youth then he should gone to their neighborhoods, school and churches and deliver his messages. He’s a Judge and I’m a tax payer. I’d like my money used correctly. Dont get me wrong, I am a black female and a mother of 3 children, 2 or them are boys. If my children were doing wrong and there was someone in authority that could speak to them, help me to put them back on the right path, then I welcome that person…. but there is a time and a place AND that wasn’t it. That’s all I’m saying.

By atlcnst

April 2, 2008 2:12 PM | Link to this

I’m happy that someone posted the definition of a racist. People should be proud to have someone on the bench that’s wants to take the time out to lecture to our youth. If you want to protest then gather your supporters and do so. Coming on here on your virtual soap box doesn’t help anyone. More than likely you want help anybody.

Because you have black friends or associates, doesn’t make you black and it doesnt make me white. With that said, respect people cultures overall and if its for the good then leave it be.

By White Guy

April 2, 2008 2:16 PM | Link to this

I forgive Arrington for it. Just don’t do it again.

By sunny

April 2, 2008 2:20 PM | Link to this

I know some of you have been waiting a long time for a black man to make a move like this, Well I feel he did nothing wrong, He was only givig them a good old fashion talkin to. You see it more blacks in jail then white, Whites get don’t serve time likes blacks do, So what the harm in try to tell someone right from wrong,we don’t this could be a lesson learn and they may never go back to jail again. You know more blacks have been killed for killing a white person but I never seen a white person go the CHAIR FOR KILLING A BLACK PERSON AND THAT’S A FACT. AND I DON’T WANT TO EVEN TAKE IT BACK SLAVERY.

By no justice no peace

April 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

when white judges are seeing the number of white defendants in their courtroom as judge arrington sees black ones, they too are free to ask whomever they feel needs leave the courtroom. that’s why so many “white collar” crimes get pushed under the rug now b/c white folks are known for handling their stuff behind closed doors. white judges don’t have to ask anybody to leave b/c they will do what they want regardless to accomodate their people. remember the barbie bandits!!!??? hello???? ten years probation for a federal crime? come on now….some of you folks need to get over yourselves.

By hadababyitsaboy

April 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

Charge this error in judgement to his head and not to the judeges heart. Based on Judge Arrington’s past he has shown no signs of being racist. He was merely appealing to a group of people that have shown a propensity for irrational activities for whatever reason. I truly believe if the level of crimes was the same in any other community he would have don e the same thing. Racist no concerned yes!

By Bradley G

April 2, 2008 2:24 PM | Link to this

The black community needs more men like Mr. Arrington. I applaud him. Somebody please explain to me why that’s racism. To this poor, South Georgia white boy, a black man of authority trying to get black defendants to rise above their current situations with a heartfelt lecture is not racism.

By pdm

April 2, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

While it might not have been the most PC thing to do, I do applaud Judge Arrington’s actions. Judges are human too and I don’t think this is anything more than someone being overcome with a sense of humanity, putting their “title” aside and wanting to make a difference in the lives of others.

By RickNole

April 2, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

I have to give him kudoes for saying what he had to say.

But it was at the wrong time. Asking the white attorneys to leave was definitely the wrong move. So yes there is a double standard. If this were the reverse, it would have been all over the news.

With that being said, this is not the first time that a judge used his authority to have “uncharacteristic” behavior, anybody remember that nimbicile that presided over the Anna Nicole Smith trial??

I think this was simply an emotional moment in where he vented his frustration. And I being a black Attorney understand what he is saying and too understand the frustration.

But this whole, “you dont know what we go through” argument really needs to stop. Judge Arrington hopefully learned from this and if he wants to make such a message, to find another platform. Other than that, keep on preaching brother!! Its time to stop blaming the white man and the judicial system!!

By Lynn

April 2, 2008 2:28 PM | Link to this

I say, “Thank you, Judge Arrington, for “stepping up and doing what you thought you could do and saying what needed to be said”no matter how it was done. We need more respected black men to take an interest in what is happening to our young, black males. This was not racist but just good common sense. Again, thanks.

By AJoke

April 2, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this

I see where the judge was coming from but that message needs to go out broadly. More importantly, the message of enforcing current laws (EQUALLY) would really help. In addition, the practice of passing or considering laws that specifically target minorities should stopped immediately. One major example would be the sagging pants ordinances that are being considered and passed like hotcakes. Granted, I am definitely one for taking responsibility but I really wonder if the cards are unfairly stacked against minorities the majority of the time. Why is that???

By Andre

April 2, 2008 2:30 PM | Link to this

He was right in the message that he was sending to those young men, but the way he approached it by asking the lawyers to leave isn’t correct. It was the wrong way, not like those lawyers really cared anyway, they’re getting paid by our tax dollars. But what’s gonna happen? Do you think he was being racist by asking the white lawyers to leave? He wasn’t right to ask them to leave at all. Nothing is gonna happen to Marvin, we all know he’s a well respected Judge. Keep doing what you do Your Honor, just don’t make anymore mistaked in the future.

By Ghostwriter

April 2, 2008 2:32 PM | Link to this

I agree with Kiljoy. Although I understand Judge Arrington’s intentions, judges who should be upholding the law are not allowed to use race as a criteria in anything. The proper place for Judge Arrington to do this (which I think is sorely needed in our community) is his church, community meeting, or even in a holding area when he is not on the bench.

By LJ

April 2, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

STMS, you are kidding are you not?

I am white, I understand what the judge was trying to do and DO commend him for his concern. I love Bill Cosby…his wisdom crosses every “color” line and fits everyone on this Earth. However, for you to try to convince people that we would not know how this situation would be handled if the judge had been white and he asked the black lawyers (or every black, the story is different depending upon where you read it) to leave for a few minutes indeed YES, the ACLU, NAACP, Jackson and every other person whose livelihood depends upon keeping the masses stirred up and playing the “race card” at the drop of a hat would be lined up on the courthouse steps aggitating anyone they can get their hands on.

Come on, you truly cannot be serious! And those who say that the majority of people encarcerated in this area are black and it’s all because the blacks are being profiled and targeted? Common Sense (soon to be buried for lack of interest) dictates that if you live in an area where the vast majority (say 80-90 percent) are black doesn’t it stand to reason the majority of those in jail would be black? The same holds true for any other race that is the VAST majority in a certain area.

I wish Bill Cosby could live forever because the day he passes on is the day all races will suffer!

Again, I commend the judge for his concern about the young people. I just sorry he chose to do what he did. It truly was an unfortunate error in judgement…and I ask if it every happens in the reverse… that people handle it the same way. Unfortunately those who refuse to take responsibility for their own lives, who blame everyone but themselves for their life choices; and those whose livelihood is based upon keeping those very people stirred up (I wonder what they would do if they ever had to get a “real” job) would certainly not let the opportunity to riot and otherwise act out their level of intelligence go by. I know well-educated, and some not so well-educated, blacks who are totally frustrated by the actions of those people.

A good example of uneven “justice”? Exactly how long is it going to take to try the man who murdered (in front of eyewitnesses) a judge, a court recorder, an FBI agent who was just trying to renovate his home, etc. But you see, the judge and the other two were white and he is black. They’ve totally drained the coffers of the public defender’s office and made a total mockery of the “justice” system.

I wonder if this would have been the same scenario if the judge, etc. had been black and the defendant white? I’m still blown away at the attitude of black churches who say they have and can talk hatefully about whites within their church’s walls. In a CHURCH of all places! No person who preaches pure hate from the pulpit is a minister. He is nothing more than a purely hateful racist.

Racists, no matter what color (and all colors DO have racists and radicals) should not be tolerated.

By Mother

April 2, 2008 2:34 PM | Link to this

I keep reading comments that the courtroom was not the proper place to make his plea to the young african-american males. Where would you suggest he make his plea? After they’ve been locked up and serving time for umpteen years? No, he should not have segregated the courtroom, but like someone else said, desperate times calls for desperate measures.

I’ve been inside of a courtroom where juvenile offenders are brought in wearing handcuffs and shackles on their feet. Some no more than 10 years old. Maybe a parent, grandparent or guardian or no-one at all is there for them. Every attorney, the court reporter, and the bailiff are ALL WHITE. No, they should not have committed the crimes that got them in the courtroom in the first place, but until you really know what circumstances these kids are facing day to day, please do not judge them. You can’t blame them totally. It’s their parents that should be held totally responsible. It’s hard to reach most of these kids to sit them down to have a chat. They’re not going to the local community centers, church on sunday or a structured event that tailored to address their concerns. It’s because they feel no-one really care about their concerns.

I’m sure the judge did what he thought was a good thing at the time; however, he made a bad decision is asking those he asked to leave the courtroom. If you’re going to crucify him, do it for the right reasons…calling him a racist for what he did is over the top.

By NoWay

April 2, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

Two comments. First Judge Arrington had a good purpose in his heart and we need to hear a great deal more of this talk from the leadership in the black community. There needs to be a lot more truth telling and a lot less hiding behind “what we’ve been through”. Second, if it would be racist for a white judge, its racist for a black one. You have to have the same rules for both.

By Bravo

April 2, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

I keep hearing the “it takes a village” phrase in the African-American community to raise a child. With an “overwhelming number of blacks” in the court room, maybe that approach isn’t working.

Bill Cosby may be on to something: try the “it takes two adult parents in the same home” instead of the “village” approach. Obviously the “streets of the village” plan is not working.

By Brandon

April 2, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

He should be fired plain and simple. If a white judge did this it would cost him or her their job.

By THEO

April 2, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

So much for justice being blind. Why not give the same speech to everyone? I wonder if the sentences this judge is handing out the same for all!!!

By Larry

April 2, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

A ‘mistake’ like this would have cost a white judge his job plain and simple. Of course it was wrong but he’ll get away with it.

By BigB

April 2, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

Judge Arrington did the right thing because he needed to talk those defendants in an honest, down to earth, fatherly fashion. We can talk about equality, discrimination, whatever but there are some issues that some groups face that others don’t.

It’s a fair question to ask what would have happened to a white judge that expressed the same frustration and cleared the courtroom in the same fashion. Personally, I wouldn’t have been offended if a white judge would have chastised without using inflammatory language. Whites should be able to point out what’s wrong in society without automatically being labeled a racist.

By the way, for those of you always bringing up Jesse or Al, please pay attention: JESSE NOR AL SPEAKS FOR ALL OF BLACK AMERICA!!! Many blacks feel that they have jumped at so many issues (some not warranted) and that they both come off as media w******* & boycott bag men, that their credibility has been shot. Black America is too large and too smart to be lumped together as one homogenous thinking group.

By BW

April 2, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this

I think this is being blown way out of proportion. I first read the story on Yahoo News where it said he kicked out the lawyers mostly white. It seems to have already progressed to “white lawyers”. I guess the headline “Judge kicks out lawyer to talk to kids”, wouldn’t warrant too many clicks.

By David

April 2, 2008 3:01 PM | Link to this

I challenge this Judge to speak equally only to whites sometime.

I can’t believe I wrote that…but that sad truth is that I imagine that “Separate but Equal” was alright with this man as he grew up.

My head is about to explode! This is the single-most crazy (and almost speech-less…pardon the pun) situation I think the City’s been in in quite some time. YIKES!

By Corde

April 2, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

We have missed the point…In an overly politically correct society, we have become insensitive and unaware of the differences between ethnic groups. There are certain things, as a community, that were always said behind closed doors and dealt within the community.

We were angry at Bill Cosby for telling the truth so everyone could here it now we are angry at Marvin for saying it in private. So when and how are we gg to tell the young African-Americans that they are being pimped and tricked by the popular media to become young thugs. When are we g to tell them that if they don’t go to school, they will go to jail where we overpopulate. When are we gg to tell them that we are rapidly gg backwards into slavery, mentally… Sadly, we have missed the point Again… Thanks Marvin for keeping it real because my parents always did and I am a productive citizen of society.

By Jessica

April 2, 2008 3:03 PM | Link to this

This case was national news. It was on CNN (AC 360)last night. Was it right? NO!Do I understand? YES! Did it need to be done? YES! Should he be disciplined? YES! Should he lose his job? NO!!

By ShortyRedd

April 2, 2008 3:10 PM | Link to this

It’s about time! Stand up and be counted! I am a former courtroom clerk and it’s far too common for blacks especially our Men to be in the system for trivial things.

We need our Men. I live in Michigan but support the Honorable Judge Marvin Arrington on his stand.

Stand for something or you will fall for anything!

By lea

April 2, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

I think Judge Arrington was SO wrong to do this. His heart might have been in the right place, but his actions defy reason. He can’t do what Bill Cosby does… Bill is an entertainer. Marvin Arrington is a JUDGE serving the PUBLIC. If he feels so strongly about his message, it needs to be delivered within the context of his church or some other organization in which he is a volunteer, and not a public authority figure. He’s apoglogized, though, so we need to let it be.

By Chandler

April 2, 2008 3:23 PM | Link to this

I love what the Judge did, someone needs to try tell YOUNG people (no matter what race), especially those who have made it that far into the court system, something.
I don’t begrudge the fact that he asked white people to leave, that to me is an example of leadership by the Black Community member/leader, (just not well thought through). What I do have issue with is that Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton aren’t here screaming “RACISM”. Seems to me like selective action on their parts.

By lea

April 2, 2008 3:28 PM | Link to this

Although Judge Arrington’s intentions might have been admirable, his actions were wrong— within his role as a judge and public servant. He should deliver this race-based message as a volunteer or a member of his church. The court room was not the appropriate venue for his actions. As a black woman, I cannot condone his approach, although I believe his intentions were the purest.

By Native Southerner

April 2, 2008 3:29 PM | Link to this

No matter how Judge Arrington handled it, there would issues. Someone would complain. The fact is, what he said to the people left in the courtroom was absolutely correct. It’s that simple.

By lynn

April 2, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

Only a black could get away with such a racist act. What if the table were turned? It would be all over the media how a white racist judge ordered all black people to leave his courtroom. Imagine the scene then…..screaming , yelling and calling the ACLU or naacp. Just another typical act of reverse discrimination that the liberal TV media won’t run for the public. This judge should be disbarred….After all, isn’t segregation illegal????? Maybe we should quote obama….”Just a comment a typical “black” person would make”. Who is the most racist?

By Stephanie

April 2, 2008 3:32 PM | Link to this

If you did not like what the Judge did then Single Mothers and Dead Beat Dad’s save your money and your sundays.If you can’t teach your children right from wrong then why are you angry when someone else tries too. Good Job Judge, go to the schools and try to save those first.Don’t give up on OUR young black men, please.

By Boots

April 2, 2008 3:33 PM | Link to this

Can’t understand why you guys can’t get over the Barbie Bandit thing. It wasn’t a bank holdup. It was an inside deal. The girls walked up to the window and the guy who planned the whole thing handed them the money.

Anyway, this thing cuts both ways.

T.I. is getting a sweetheart deal as a convicted felon for possessing an armory of freakin’ automatic weapons.

And, let us not forget O.J. walking away from a double murder.

Adios and obey the law and there’s no problem.

By linda

April 2, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

Everyone is talking about what is the shoe was on the other foot, well let’s not forget that White Judges have been wearing the other shoe when they have a white and black defendant before them charge with same crime and the white defendant gets less time, that’s what I call being a undercover racist sitting on the bench. What Judge Arrington did took great courage, because someone needs to talk to our young black kids and stop sending them to jail. WE CANNOT FORGET HOW ATLANTA POLICE LIED AND TRIED TO COVER UP THE WRONG THEY HAD DID, because everyone what has been charge with a crime is not guilty, sometimes they stand before Judge because the arresting officer has told some kind of lie to place them their, and yet some have committed a crime, but some of these kids have had no one to every talk to them and show that they cared, what if this was your child, you would be begging someone to talk to them and not send them to jail. O I FORGOT THAT YOU WHITE PEOPLE HAVE PLENTY OF MONEY AND YOU PAY YOUR WAY OUT OF TROUBLE. So Judge Arrington please keep doing what you are doing keep talking to these young black defendants.

By randall

April 2, 2008 3:36 PM | Link to this

I see this as no different than what the Rev Jackson and Sharpton would do or say. They can do and say whatever they chose,but let a white man say the very same things and boy it hits the fan as racist. The Rev’s would be all over a white judge.Its time for all this evil to stop,we are all equal in God’s sight.

By KDMack

April 2, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

Judge Arrington meant no harm or foul to the white attorneys representing those black defendants. I applaud him for at least making an attempt to speak with them as they probably haven’t listened to anyone else. Please understand that a successful white man would never be able to get his point across to that group of people; however, it may have been ONE of those defendants who took that lecture to heart. We must understand that the Judge was raised in a “SEGREGATED” America and he beat the odds. I challenge all the white people who feel the Judge was racist to mentor those men and take them to your country clubs, churches, block parties, etc. If not, let him address the folks that are making you and everyone else unsafe. Also, note that Jesse nor Al speaks for the entire black community. If you took time and got to know your black neighbors or colleagues you wouldn’t make such ignorant comments….

By MCJ

April 2, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

I have met Judge Arrington. I believe he is a good man whose heart is in the right place. Suffice it to say that this wasn’t the best idea he ever had, but it was done out of kindness and hope, rather than hate. Let’s just move on.

By Atlanta

April 2, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Only Marvin Arrington would do such a thing. Oh well. They probably needed it. GO MARVIN!

By Randall

April 2, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

Bravo Judge Arrington, Bravo! I have been in a Fulton County courtroom and 99.9% of the defendants are Black and from the looks of it, are impoverished and seemingly ignorant. Bravo for saying what needs to be said!

By Sorry

April 2, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

Everything have to be racist. I do not have a problem with it and if a white judge decided to do the same thing. I wouldn’t call it racist, but a heart felt moment that he believe that he had to deliver at that time.

So my Atlantans, please get over it. If the role was reversed, wouldn’t no black leaders be at the door for something that was totally right to begin with!!!

By Twindivamomma

April 2, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

I think it was a necessary evil. I agree he should have done it a long time ago. If parents were doing their jobs, then he wouldn’t have to scold grown folks!! Go Arrington!!

By Jesse

April 2, 2008 3:45 PM | Link to this

This was a gov’t sponsored segregation. I’d have to believe that some sort of Federal law has been broken here.

By Patriot

April 2, 2008 3:46 PM | Link to this

I thought judicial proceedings were to be in public. Guess not….Secret proceedings…this is being defended by you folks that are all up in the air about trials of terrorist in Cuba. You are all a bunch of hypocrites….you are as racist as the rest of the goobers in Fulton (little africa) County.

By Kris

April 2, 2008 3:52 PM | Link to this

I totally agree w/Lynn. Only a black person could get away with this. How is this helping “racial tensions”? Had this been a white judge, CNN, FOX news and every other national news show would have been talking about this for at least a week. Not to mention Al Sharpton, Jessie Jackson, the NAACP, etc all having to voice their outrage. When are whites allowed to voice their outrage without being called racist, especially in the South? Just look at the prime example of Obama’s “minister.” Had that been McCain going to a white church with his minister spewing pro-white and anti-black comments, he most likely would have been forced from the presidential race. Wake up America!! What do you think having Obama as President will be like? This is an absolute and complete outrage.

By Hank

April 2, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

As a “white” I have absolutely no issue w/ what the judge did. Anyone who has done any jury duty downtown knows that 99.9% of all defendants down there are black. This judge sees the same recidivist young blacks through his courtroom time after time; the offenses getting worse as they get older. He simply reached an overflow point and decided to direct his remarks to those most in a position to benefit from them. Alot of these defendants are dealt a challenging hand in life and living where they do exascerbates the chances of them getting in trouble more often. That said, I am not offended at all by his actions and if he helped 1 of those kids see the light, my hats off to him.

By steve

April 2, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

I have mixed feelings about this. When i first heard it i thought ” what a racist act”. But after reading the story i have to applaud the judge. Even as an attorney myself and knowing that this is not exactly proper for a member of the bench, i think the judge simply got tired of seeing so many young black men who throw their lives away, destroy the lives of others and have their behavior explained away by Jesse Jackson and his ilk. I’m white and i don’t think the judge is racist, he simply wanted to have a frank moment with members of his race. Bad judgment… excellent intentions.

By RCH

April 2, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

Jesse! Al! where are you. Someone should be fired.

By Rich

April 2, 2008 3:55 PM | Link to this

TYPICAL

By Mark

April 2, 2008 3:57 PM | Link to this

This racist fool must be removed from the bench. Had it been the other way around, racists Sharpton and Jackson would be all over this. Blacks should be banned from public office. Look what happened to Mayor Bill Campbell, Marion Barry, and now Willie in Memphis. The only thing blacks can run is their mouths. They are liars and thieves….

By cory

April 2, 2008 3:58 PM | Link to this

Its funny because most white people don’t feel the problems the in the black community are in any way related to them but they fail to understand problems with the black community, hispanic, asian and any other community is an american problems so it affects us all. Its not a them problem or an us problem its our problem.

By Boo

April 2, 2008 4:01 PM | Link to this

It’s not mean if it’s true.

By Gerald

April 2, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

To Mr. R: Bringing the Barbie Bandits into this conversation is moronic. First of all being a black male working for a bank in loss prevention I can actually speak intelligently on the subject of bank robbery. If you understood the laws around this you would know that the reason the black male “mastermind” of the operation got more time is because he is a bank employee and the law clearly holds more accountability to persons working an insider job. Judge Arrington made a very poor choice in asking the white member of the courtroom to leave. Most of black America just wants to be seen as the same and you can’t have “same” if we are making distinctions. I think his heart was in the right place just not thought through. I agree with a lot of people on here who’ve said he need to go talk to these people in the schools before they show up in his courtroom. And whether any of us wants to admit it or not, yes, had it been a white judge asking all blacks to leave we would all be ticked off and looking for this judge’s job. We’ve made great strides but we’re not there yet and that goes for all races, mine included.

By nita

April 2, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

He was wrong. Although he did it out of concern for the state of the young black males, it is a message that all need to here. I don’t think it really matters too much when the police continue to arrest black men at an alarmingly higher rate than white men. When the police start metering out equality in the arrest rate then the court room’s racial makeup will become more equal. only a fool would believe that black people commit more crimes than white people when they out number us 83% to 17%. its like the lie that white people actually think that more black people are on welfare than white people.
He was wrong but his intentions were justified.

By Watchman

April 2, 2008 4:09 PM | Link to this

Ridiculous!!! How can this become a race issue. Judges say and do things all the time. If the judge needed to talk to the Black kids in private, so what. If he needed the women to leave and chastise the men then so what. Stop being a bunch of idiots and see that this was to help these folk. Folk like a lot of these that are making comments are the reason why many young folk are like they are. Talking about he should be removed from the bench, GET REAL!!!! We need more sessions that are to help.

By Sarah

April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

The guy spoke the truth. Period.

By Valuing Diversity

April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Why could whites not be in the room for his message? Was the judge going to be embarrassed if whites heard his message? Was he concerned about the delicate self esteem of the black defendants? Did the judge think that the black defendants would better heed his message if it were just between the brothers? Was the judge worried that the white attorney’s would his prejudicial message against him during their trials? Was the judge exposing a preference for segregation?

By dd

April 2, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

Lynn, “only a black”? You are the most racist!

What exactly is your complaint? Havent you noticed, it was a black judge who ordered attorneys out of the courtroom and IT IS all over the media with people screaming and yelling racism, fire him, etc. Let’s not even mention the media attention on Obama’s pastor for his comments that you swear Obama himself made if you paid any attention to the media and blogs.

To answer the question, i dont feel the judge did anything wrong, the message wasnt meant for the people who were asked to leave the courtroom. If I were in that courtroom, I would not be offended if asked to leave. I’m sick and tired of Young black men committing crime, and killing each other, we need more men and women of all races that are willing to speak to the youth.

Instead of Criticizing the Judge who “tried” to help a demographic that desperately needs to be reached out to. We should be having dialogues about what what each and every one of us could be doing to help.

By Paul

April 2, 2008 4:13 PM | Link to this

As one who knows Marvin Arrington, I don’t believe he meant this as an insult to the other races in his courtroom or represented on this blog however I believe just like white judges who impose lighter sentences for white men versus black men, it was and is totally unfair but to a certain degree they identify with their respective race. Having said this, all judges are human and when you’re in a situation where you’re deciding the future of someone else, it can and does affect you. It’s real easy to write this off as another racist moment rather than an apparent wakeup call (Which is really what he was giving them). Anyone on this blog that can’t understand that probably hasn’t had to step foot in a courtroom and needs to not comment on something they know nothing about!!!!!

By TheRightThing

April 2, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

In light of the continued problems with black youth and young men specifically, Judge Arrington did the RIGHT THING.

By WLF

April 2, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

I dont thank the judge was right for what he did by clearing the court of whites. I also see how different people see the situation through different perspectives. Blacks do not have a 400 year history of oppressing whites in this country. There or no white civil rights leaders so who is going to do the complaining.

By Xavier

April 2, 2008 4:17 PM | Link to this

For those who complain of a double standard on this lets see white woman gets killed or missing it makes national news ever seen a black,hispanic,asian woman who is missing or killed make cnn,fox news, cbs,msnbc, or abc. They are different sentences for those caught with crack than those with powder cocaine.

By th

April 2, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

What was racist about what he did? White people were discriminated against because they could’nt hear the lecture he gave to the black defendents. Give me a break!!! Crime and poverty has plagued the black community like no other..so this messages was to black people. If a white judge wanted to call a meeting with all the white prosecutor and lecture them on not being racist and applying the law equally,I’m sure every black person in that courtroom would happily step out the room for a minute. The fact that your screaming that this judge is racist underline the position that can’t relate because you never had to deal with it. I’m sorry…I guess the white folks were deprived of there right to watch us get lashed!I mean tongue lashed.

By Chappie2121

April 2, 2008 4:27 PM | Link to this

While he may have wanted to say something to the Black community, I feel it was wrong for him to resegregate the courtroom. If a white judge did that, he/she would be labeled as racist, disbarred, and lose the job and any credibility that he/she had. I can’t believe that we would allow this to happen and sit back and not do anything? If i remember correctly, doesn’t civil rights and liberty count for all citizens, not just one group (I wish it were equal for everyone, but I know it isn’t)?

By chatarri

April 2, 2008 4:32 PM | Link to this

As a 46 year old white female, raised on the poor side of town in the mid 60’s 70’s with many black friends, I agree with Arrington. I was called names as a child due to having more black friends than white - mom was a single mom and she struggled. I worked, somewhat as Arrington, put myself thru college and have an excellent career. However, even though they saw how I lived, how I was raised, there are some of my black friends who are still in the old neighborhood, not working most of the time, who tell me I only got ahead because I am white. I’m sure that means Dairy Queen, Waffle House and all of the other places I worked didn’t hire blacks, so they couldn’t work their way through school to better themselves. I am not racist. There are lazy/uneducated/pity party people of all colors. I’m just glad there are the Cosbys and the Arringtons telling one of the colors to get off their butts and quit blaming the white man. I now work with several black women who feel the same way. They’re tired of dating black men who they say are more racist than any white they know.

By LJ

April 2, 2008 4:33 PM | Link to this

Me - Hmm, I am glad you assume I would view his talking to the young black men as a form of “self hate”. I always thought the reason some blacks (note I said SOME) dislike Bill Cosby is because he expects his “people” to take control of their own lives and stop blaming any and every one for their failures. How do you explain the many very successful, and even moderately successful, blacks who make no excuses and expect nothing less of their fellow blacks?

Oh, that’s right, they are considered “Uncle Toms”, so that just goes to show - those who refuse to take responsibility for themselves will forever remain in the “you owe me” mindset. Generation after generation.

I can just imagine how totally frustrated Mr. Cosby must be, to see many of his own people just plain refuse to come into the 21st Century. Without people willing to take their lives in their own hands, there will never be a solution.

By Mike

April 2, 2008 4:34 PM | Link to this

I admire Judge Arringtons attempt to make a plea to the black youth before him. Obviously he picked the wrong venue but way too many of our black “leaders” remain silent on the attitudes and choices made by these young men. I encourage Judge Arrington to continue to be a voice for change, and to be one whom fills the leadership void facing our community. These young men would be better served to hear his message before they reach the courtroom.

By pat

April 2, 2008 4:35 PM | Link to this

Blacks cannot be racist, only white can be racist. It’s the law.

By dirty white boy

April 2, 2008 4:36 PM | Link to this

Judge Arrington is right. This is a black thing. Whitey don’t get it.

By klj

April 2, 2008 4:39 PM | Link to this

I think that what the judge did was in order. The surroundings may not have been the best. I am sure that he doesn’t have the time to beat the streets and neighborhoods and tell those young men the things that their parents, uncles, aunts, grandparents, pastors and other should be telling them. It was not a matter of race but rather a matter of self help and discipline.

By Cooter

April 2, 2008 4:45 PM | Link to this

I could care less how it is done, but somebody needs to talk to these young Black males. The state of that community is just down right pitiful. If that is what it is going to take to turn things around, then so be it.

By GA_Tiger Fan

April 2, 2008 4:50 PM | Link to this

By Brian

April 2, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this

As another white male, it really doesn’t offend me either. What bothers me the most is that if a white judge asked the blacks to leave the court room there would be riots in the streets and he would loose his job.

By Dumbing Down

April 2, 2008 4:51 PM | Link to this

Affirmative action at its best. At least Arrington wasn’t sleeping on the bench (again!). There were far too many better qualified individuals to be placed on the bench, and the “community” felt sorry for him since he was out of office… thus, here he be! The usual ATL joke, or joke of ATL!

By Dale

April 2, 2008 4:58 PM | Link to this

Why are there no white “activist” standing up for the white people? Because there are NO WHITE ACTIVIST. Whites are so afraid of being labeled racist that they will not publicly comment on anything a black person does. It is not PC! I sent a vent in about this the day after it happened and you can bet that it was not printed in the vent. Some topics are still taboo. My question is why has it taken this long to even get a dialog going about this? This happened last week! A white judge would have been run off the bench the same day. Welcome to the new and improved “ATL”!!!!!!!!!

By Attorneys would be on the news already if they were black!

April 2, 2008 5:01 PM | Link to this

Who are these attorneys? Where are they, and why haven’t they been interviewed??

If they were BLACK attorneys who were kicked out, they would have their faces all over the national news by now as heroes.

But they are “just” WHITE…….so, where are they, and why isn’t the AJC interviewing them????????

By JustAThought

April 2, 2008 5:04 PM | Link to this

So let me see if I understand…… During this “empting” of the courtroom, he did not make any rulings (innocent or guilty), he did not suspend any sentences, he sent them ALL to jail. But you think he should have had them “ALL” meet him in his chambers with no white people/lawyers present. He did the right thing (they where all still cuffed/bounded). Since no record of what was said, it was just like he was in his chambers. A Judge is allowed to have a personal conversation with any person/persons that appears before him/her. So if he would requested them all to meet him in his chambers, that would have made it different? Where is the racist act? Thank you Judge!

By bystander

April 2, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

I’m a white man and found nothing prejudiced or racist by the judge’s decision. There is a lot of concern amongst blacks about the rise in crime committed by black youth. He was only doing what he thought was best. If I were black and in that court room I would have wanted all whites, Asians, Latinos, etc to leave also. You never know what kind of comments could arise in the courtroom causing further issues!

By D

April 2, 2008 5:07 PM | Link to this

horrible stuff, double standard, type of thing that keeps racism going in this country. I would bet the farm that MLK would not have liked this. segregation pure and simple, just think how those people felt that were ordered out of the room, there was a time when the BS wasn’t so high and black people didn’t use the race card to their advantage and that was the time when black people knew and understood how wrong this is, but those times are gone. I for one miss you very much Martin.

By mike

April 2, 2008 5:10 PM | Link to this

The judge probably made a bad decision in having whites leave the courtroom but it doenst mean he should loose his job like some idiots here are saying. Are you kidding????!!!!! This issue isnt about having folks leave more so then its about trying to talk some sense into these worthless gangsta kids that are obviously repeat offenders!!! For that he should be applauded!!

By Lynn

April 2, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

Racism is racism no matter how you twist it. This was on CNN 3 DAYS after it broke (a month after it happened). Had Arrington been white, this would have been on the five o’clock news the same day. Oh, and I said the DAY it happened, that the Barbie Bandits sentence was absolutely ridiculous! Both of those girls she have served serious time!

By Delta Girl

April 2, 2008 5:36 PM | Link to this

If you have been in any court room in the last 15 years, you would have no problem with the message Judge Arrington delivered or how he went about it. He was reprimanding a group of young African Americans to re-direct their lives. It was a “family” conversation and I applaud him for doing it. Try to see the good that it will probably accomplished. Nobody got hurt. It may change a young person’s life.

I wish more judges saw this as part of their responsibilities.

By Jeff

April 2, 2008 5:40 PM | Link to this

I think his mind and heart were in the right place and he obviously delivered a message that was heard. His execution was slightly off but no real harm done. I admire what he did.

By JJ

April 2, 2008 5:42 PM | Link to this

What a fantastic message and what a wonderful role model for young black men. Was it the right thing to send whites out of the courtroom? No. Will he do it again. No. But look at the message, people! That’s what is important here!!! Arrington is sending a message to the black community that I feel certain all of us, black or white, on this forum would agree with.

By mamaj

April 2, 2008 6:02 PM | Link to this

First of all you must consider the intentions of the judge. In no way do I think that this man’s intentions were to hurt ANY race of people; only to help. It may not have been done in the most politically correct way, but he should be given credit for even bothering. I am a Black woman, but I would not have a problem with a White judge doing the same thing, if he sat there day after day seeing what amounted to the extermination of a group of young men of his race who have no clue of how their actions are affecting them and society. You are wasting your time calling for him to be kicked off the bench, or wondering where Jessie and Al Sharpton are in this because it serves no real purpose-just fodder for your own misguided hatred. Some of you wait with bated breath for someone to make an error in judgment, and instead of looking into the person’s intentions you go for the “Almighty Race Baiting”. Shame on you! It must be Hell living in such a perfect unforgiving world as yours!

By Lil Bit

April 2, 2008 6:12 PM | Link to this

Please explain to me why this this racist. If he asked all the whites to leave the courtroom for puposes of giving the blacks in the room a stock tip, or to say something that would benefit a white person had they been in the room to hear it, then I would say that was racist. But to send folks out of the court room because what he had to say would not impact them one way or the other, is not racist. I would not have a problem if a white judge asked me to leave because there were a room full of wife or serial killers in the room that he wanted to address. What he would have to say to them, would not improve my life in one bit (unless I was a future target of a serial killer)so why sit there and listen to it. Sounds like some really nosey folks that has to know what it going on at every minute.

By It wasn't racist

April 2, 2008 6:16 PM | Link to this

If the judge had kicked out the white people and then talked bad about them, then it would have been racist.

Ask yourself this white folks: If there were never any white people in the court room, would it have been racist? I’m sure he didn’t disparage you during his sermon so don’t be offended. It ain’t about you.

He scolded those morons who needed to be scolded. I’m on his side. I’m sick of seeing these idiots committing crimes left and right.

By george

April 2, 2008 6:20 PM | Link to this

Let me get this straight— the African-Americans who remained in the courtroom gave the judge a standing ovation. Somebody is complaining. Who is it? Did the white criminals and their families who were excluded want the judge to read them the riot act also?

The duty of the judge is to dispense equal justice to those who come before him (which presumably he did) and to try to make our community a better place (which seemingly he did as well). I am sorry, but I do not understand why anyone is taking Judge Arrington to task on this issue.

By Dwayne

April 2, 2008 6:31 PM | Link to this

I agree with Judge Arrington 100% It is sickening to see the number of young black men shackled by chains going thru the court system. Many people may not agree with removing the white folks from the court room, but the strong words he probably chose to use were not meant for the ears of white folks. Just like you don’t understand why he removed the white folks, you will never understand his message.

By Dee

April 2, 2008 6:32 PM | Link to this

I support Judge Arrington. I understand what he did and the points he was trying to get across in his court room. I’m glad he took that position.

By David

April 2, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

I’m white, and I’m not offended. Like the judge says, his heart was in the right place. He was just going to try to help those kids. True, if this was reversed and it was a white judge ordering blacks out to talk to white defendants, the judge would be crucified by the media and probably driven from office. But that would be absurd, too. To Judge Arrington, I say, good job!

By Chris

April 2, 2008 6:35 PM | Link to this

I am white and I was not offended by the move. I believe we are making a big deal out of nothing.

By Earl

April 2, 2008 7:02 PM | Link to this

As an attorney, I can say that the judge would have had to have me removed by force to get me out of that courtroom…no way am I leaving my client. The judge made a mistake- a dumb mistake…let’s all try and live and learn.

By snoop

April 2, 2008 7:19 PM | Link to this

I am glad he lectured the defendants but the proper thing to do would have asked the attorneys (all of them) to sit down and address the defendants. There is no excuse for singling out WHITE attorneys vs. BLACK attorneys and making them leave. I think that is unethical to address a defendant in the absence of his attorney and the attorneys could not refuse. Apologize. Issue a quick statement that under no circumstances is that a proper thing to do by anyone. People make mistakes. Not sure if he is a good judge or not….and maybe his record should be reviewed.

By Tina

April 2, 2008 7:43 PM | Link to this

Thanks Judge ….. Our young black males need to hear the truth. The judge was only trying to discuss & keep family business within the family. But if everyone wants to hear it, then so be it. But don’t stop talking to our young black males.

By josebenzaca

April 2, 2008 7:59 PM | Link to this

Are you people absolutely crazy? With the trouble black youth are having any attempt to correct their behavior is a very good thing not racist. Racist hell, it was a man trying to help a group of young men.

By Dale

April 2, 2008 8:05 PM | Link to this

Marvin Arrington was WRONG! WRONG! But his heart was kinda in the right place. But it failed. Shame cannot be diluted by Black solidarity! Shame is from the entire world. Segregating the court room left the kids with the impression that somehow, the white guy was the enemy. WE are not! Besides, it is blatantly disrespectful of the public’s access to court procedure. I still like the Judge. I am glad to see he regrets his action.

By Attorney Jake

April 2, 2008 8:28 PM | Link to this

One thing I have not seen: Judge was telling some attorneys to leave their clients so that he could talk to their clients without them present.
THAT was wrong. Segregation based upon race, is wrong. Content of his speech, motivation for his speech, his desire to try and smack some sense into those young men: those were right.

By James White

April 2, 2008 8:34 PM | Link to this

Its a court of law not a place to hide the wrongs of blacks from the eyes of whites. We are one nation under God. We should all be one people under Christ our Lord. He should be removed from the bench. The man is a laughing stock. His intentions were not of common sense but disrespect to all people.

By D B

April 2, 2008 9:50 PM | Link to this

I sit here reading this in disbelief and mt heart aching for my children,which I have tried my best to raise “color blind”.They really will catch the brunt as this race issue keeps snowballing. I am so disenchanted with the one way political correctness machine . I do trully believe Judge Arrington had honorable intentions here but none the less he was wrong.

By DS

April 2, 2008 10:34 PM | Link to this

What did he ask the Asian and Hispanic people to do?

By Ron

April 2, 2008 10:48 PM | Link to this

What a racist!! Marvin Arrington is nothing short of a bigot to ask white people or people of any race to leave a public government room (or private room for that matter). His remarks about it being a “cosby moment” is a cop out to his crucial mistake and his verified attitude to treat people unequally. He should be demoted to a clerk instead of a judge. It is what it is….a large number of black people he was facing for crimes committed that he was to judge. If he feels compelled to discipline them, he should do so in total public. And the plaque on his desk that says, Even when I’m wrong, I’m right says volumes about his unprofessional and imature attitude and disposition.

By Tank

April 2, 2008 11:00 PM | Link to this

Hate speech from the pulpit. Segregation from the bench. Racism is rampant in black America. Where is the outrage? If these whites, there would be rioting in the streets.

By mel

April 3, 2008 1:08 AM | Link to this

Hey white people…get a clue. Judge Arrington may have saved your life in that courtroom.

Like someone said…you can’t have it both ways. You can’t cry out for black people to stand up and make stop the crime, then complain about the way it’s done. If even one of those young men stops killing and robbing, then the decision Arrington made was the right one.

By Patty

April 3, 2008 7:12 AM | Link to this

I haven’t read all the blog yet but I see where its going. With everybody hollering racism,the first entry I read remarked about a white judge asking the blacks to leave well in my opinion this would probaly not happen because a white judge would not lecture the people because ‘White people are always right’ So wrong but that is what they think everytime there is a crime commited even before the investigate you will hear people ‘Oh its them blacks again’a entry made said something to the effect that black parents are not raising there children well. Everything come down to black this and black that. If the white would just take off there blinders and realize that there is good and bad in every culture maybe then racism would go away.As for what the judge did I agree, we were always told never hand out harsh words with others around cause it gives more for the others to use against them.I am Native American mixed with white.

By GaLiberal

April 3, 2008 7:27 AM | Link to this

Lots of noise and most of it just utter nonsense. First, it was not ‘racist’ to ask these lawyers to leave the room. Anyone that says so is just demonstrating their covert racism. See rants by Dumbing Down, Dale, Scott, Skip, Gilbert, and many others. He wanted to get across a very important message and didn’t want the perception of playing to the white lawyers; being an Uncle Tom. He didn’t have any legal discussions with the defendants so the lawyers really had no right to be in the courtroom. It many not play well with the racist, entitlement elitist Rethuglicons (see the many posts calling for removal), but it wasn’t wrong.

When you vote Rethuglicon, you vote against your own best interests. And the racist rants here are living proof.

By Gene Lewis

April 3, 2008 7:45 AM | Link to this

Judge Arrington

Although many folks would not understand this, I still a supportive. Your focus was on reaching those young black men. Your chance of doing that with just black folks present was much greater. It too bad that our climate of being politically correct prevents you from using tools that you know work.

Thanks for you focus on these young black men. They need you. Please consider continuing to use your judgment as a black man. We need folk like you now more than ever.

By Debbie

April 3, 2008 8:14 AM | Link to this

People need to get over being offended by everything. I am white. He meant well & was trying to accomplish something positive. Let’s stop getting all in an uproar about everything that’s done nintentionally.

By Lea

April 3, 2008 8:49 AM | Link to this

In a society that does not understand the cultural ways of its people, and knowing that our society is not a one-size-fit-all society, I beleive the judge did what was needed. Everything is so scrutinized these days based on personal biases until what’s really needed is often the road less taken.

By Citizen

April 3, 2008 8:58 AM | Link to this

I admire Judge Arrington for his straight talk. He spoke from “his” conviction of his heart before “their” conviction. I liken it to a wife/husband choosing not to admonish one another in public…it was a courtesy. It is regretful yet telling that the audience spoken to was almost totally black. To make excuses for poor behavior only enables failure, time to pull themselves up by the boot strap and face the challenge to become productive citizens. It can be done. I wish them well and hope they listened and took it to heart.

By troubled spirit

April 3, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

let’s be real! how many of us are in that courtroom day after day watching young black defendents go to jail…innocent or guilty?? that judge sees more than what we see everyday! and he got tired of seeing that! no one is going to help our community but us! and we are not doing a great job at it! people can say that its reverse racism but what r u doing to help stop the constant revolving door of these kids coming in and out! those lawyers are making money off of those cases….why is it that when someone from our own community gets scolded for doing what is NEEDED IN OUR COMMUNITY! ONCE AGAIN….NO UNITY AMONG WITHIN OUR OWN COMMUNITY!we don’t pray as a community anymore….we don’t share as a community anymore! the world sees this! they laugh at us! if we don’t take care of ourselves……WHO IS GOING TO DO IT! we got to get back to our roots! The ‘village’ has got to step in and we got to say something to our community! we got to not let the media/world make us feel bad about ‘chastising’ our own…..we gotta take back our community!!!! people can shout racism all day long…the truth of the matter is that the African American commnity got to stick together…..for the Right reasons!!!!!!! luv 2 u all!

By bob

April 3, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

I take my hat off to Judge Arrington for his efforts to correct the wayward ways of the young people in his courtroom. If it is necessary to remove the white folks from the room in order to get his message across, then send the white folks to Starbucks for a half hour and send the message. This was not a discriminatory act. It was a means to be sure the judge’s communication was heard in a medium without distraction.

By dawnmarie

April 3, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Mr. Arrington.

It is about time some black leader took the time to put all the PC bull aside and speak what needs to be spoken.
It is not surprising to hear people asking for his resignation. Those people are the same people that believe this world is fair and without prejudice. Yes, if a white judge had done this, we would probably be hearing from Rev. Jackson and Rev. Sharpton. However, if his message to the young offenders was one of “get your sh*t together”, we would have to applaud him. Most young black offenders won’t take heed to a lecture from a white judge and the same for white offenders. Judge Arrington did a wonderful thing and I personally thank you from the bottom of my heart.

By Not Guilty

April 3, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

His message was to young Black Males. He was taking his responsibility as a mentor seriously. His audience was Black because his message pertained only to Black males. I doubt if his message would apply to White males in the same courtroom.

By psw

April 3, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

This country has gotten so parinoid that someone should feel left out. Who is more qualified than Marvin Arrington to have a serious discussion with black youth about their behavior? And why do whites have to be in the room? Maybe a white judge should have the courage to do the same thing to white youth in trouble. I for one applaud Marvin Arrington for taking a stand.

By kelvin

April 3, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

Hypocritical readers… If he just gave out stiff punishments without trying to change and educate - then he would be viewed as a ‘sell-out’ or ‘someone who has made it and doesn’t care about his own race.’ Since he did make an attempt then he is ‘racist.’ He knew by sending out the white people, the kids would be more wiling to listen because they wouldn’t be embarrassed. I commend him for using his position to try and help, just like I admire Bill Cosby for doing the same.

By Beverly

April 3, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

I have one thing to say your Honor, Amen!

By Earl Usry

April 3, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

I respect & admire Marvin Arrington. He has handled this “issue” well, and I wish he would run for mayor again.

By diana

April 3, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

i say that it is discrimination no matter what he says; if it were the other way around, we would see it on the news and in the paper for the next month or so……..

By Shavonda

April 3, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this

Sad but true each race has its problems. Why are hispanics able to have hispanics only club and blacks have black only clubs. It is or duty to help the human race. The judge was absolutley right. My husband is of the white race and he tells me all the trash that white say about people of color. It is just some things that should be left private.

By Sarge

April 3, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

This is a hot topic (to say the least) During the 2nd World War Germany was beating the crap out of England. In an effort to rally his people, Winston Churhill gave a speach (one of many) Churchill lamented that although they were out gunned and out manned, They would pull through. Because the one thing the English had that couldn’t be taken from them was “HOPE” That is what’s wrong with these Black youth- They have no Hope! and they have no LEADERS to give them any vision of hope! Untill this changes they will continue to live in despair! I applaud this Judge for trying to be a Leader. We need more like him!

By Ken

April 3, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this

I’m a white guy, and I’m not in the least bit offended. Bill Cosby was right on all counts. I’m sure teh Judge’s message to them was very wise as well. I think a lot of white kids could benefit from the same message, so Judge, next time you feel the urge coming on, give us advance notice so we can broadcast it into the schools.

Ken

By GC

April 3, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

What I would like to know is, what was it in this “message” hat white people should not hear? And if it was such an important message should not everyone hear it?

By LC F*,Jr.

April 3, 2008 12:53 PM | Link to this

I am at a loss as to why Judge Arrington now thinks he spoke inappropriately. Black America really needs to come to grips with this so called “black” thing. When the world is passing us by, and Judge Arrington is in a position to know, we need somebody to stand up and speak out. Judge Arrington, you did good! Next time? Do it again, Judge!!!

By george

April 3, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this

Judge Arrington’s actions were completely out of place. A judge is supposed to enfoce the law, not break it. So many people lost their lives and went to jail to end racial discrimination. What gives him the right to go against the law. If, he has witnessed the ill’s of defendents’ in the past, why hasn’t he taken action previously. He is a native of Atlanta who knows the problems of the city. Instead of touting the fact that he opened the first segregated law firm in Atlanta, why has he not used his connections to create a foundation for toubled youth? What tangilble evidence can he show that he has actually done something other that just talk. Why has he not voided his courtroom of blacks and delivered the same message to white kids? Or removed black and white kids and talked only to hisapanic kids. A judge is supposed to be the highest of leaders in the community. He is sending the wrong message to our children. In my opinion, has behaving like the defendents, ” you don’t have to think with your head, think with your emotions and act on them. I don’t think that Emory University is very proud of him right now. If, it his deisre to be a judge, he needs to familiarize himself with the law, and practice accordingly. I am very disappointed in his actions and probably will not vote for him again.

By GC

April 3, 2008 12:59 PM | Link to this

I hear about “He Did What he Thought Was Best”. Well that does not make it right.

There was a time when women weren’t allowed to vote, because someone thought “it was best” There was a time when blacks weren’t allowed to vote, because it was thought by some “it was best” There was a time when segregation was the law because someone thought “it was best”.

Just because someone things it best does not make if best or right. It would have been better to include everyone and set an example on how out society should work.

“Judge people on the content of their character not the color of their skin!”

Judge Arrington decision is a set back but not surprising to me since I live in GA and encounter black racism everyday. It seems it’s becoming fashionable.

It does not matter how you sanitize it. If it were the other way around, all hell would have broken lose and rightfully so.

By D. Brooks

April 3, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

I agree with most of everyone on here. It was a good thing that he care enough about them kids to want to talk to them. But, what if they were white kids? Would he have cared about them as well?

By gc

April 3, 2008 2:03 PM | Link to this

As fascinating as it is….this is not an issue of racism rather than it is humanitarian. I believe more than anything that this judge’s heart was/is in the right place. After all, there are so many people- more less judges- who don’t care to address the issues pertinent to the root of why offenders actually are driven to commit crimes, rather they’d just remove them from society in an effort to forget all about it, failing to realize that removal from society does not just rid the problem more less address it. That’s why the cycle is so continuous. If more people weren’t so afraid of not being so politically correct, then maybe they’d be more equipped to take a stand, even if it sometimes means encountering a little controversy. I believe that this judge should be celebrated and not ridiculed. After all, he is one of few in his position who is at least making an honest, heart-felt effort to potentially make an impact in the lives of those with whom he may preside over in court. And besides, he did not allow his compassion towards these offenders to blind-sight him of the fact that whatever crimes had been committed STILL had to receive just penalties as governed by the laws of the state.
Someone made a blog about the Barbie Bandits’ ruling…Now if there should have been any complaints, this is where those complaints should’ve been projected. The judge in that case allowed her compassion for one of the girls to move her to under-rate and under-sentence this young lady for a very serious crime; this type of action if anything would definitely send the WRONG message to offenders. It could give them the impression that if you are cute and commit a crime, despite the level of seriousness of that crime, you will not necessarily have to still be held accountable by law for that crime as long as you weep and immediately appear to be remorseful for what you did! NOW, THAT’S A REAL…PROBLEM!!!!!! So, address that!

By AB

April 3, 2008 2:25 PM | Link to this

I,am a black male that is tired of my people commiting crime on my people. Someone needs talk to my people about the crime that they are commiting on blacks. If the crimes were being commited on white people I would assure you that they would create some type of law that would be aim at just us.

By Wayne

April 3, 2008 2:42 PM | Link to this

I always thought the judge on the bench was in charge. It’s his courtroom

By Ckingtruth

April 3, 2008 3:04 PM | Link to this

I’m very happy Judge Arrington said and did things exactly the way he did it.

He had a specific target audience in mind when he made his statements. Why not remove people for whom his comments didn’t apply? He did what he felt was right at the time. If his message made an impact on anyone’s life in that room I say it was worth it.

By Lois

April 3, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

Mr. Arrington’s reason for a “blacks only” tounge lashing are irrelevant in this day and age. The gangsta/hiphop culture has invaded much of society. My children acted out more in public than at home because that’s where they thought they could get away with it. I quickly learned that my embarrassment was best remedied by a quick and PUBLIC rebuke. Everyone needed to hear his remarks.

By Mara

April 3, 2008 3:17 PM | Link to this

He’s a freakin’ JUDGE and he should be adjudicating. He’s supposed to be dispensing justice and interpreting the LAW not moralizing and lecturing.

If he wants to give personal advice to criminals, he should do it on his own time and not as an officer of the court. When he’s on the bench he’s on the tax-payers time and he shouldn’t be wasting it giving speeches.

By Ckingtruth

April 3, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

It amazes me that white people take offense at this and think that blacks would have objected had the shoe been on the other foot. WHY?

I don’t know what Judge Arrington said to the people he made leave, but after I found out why I certainly would not have had a problem with it. What’s racist about it? He was lecturing people with bad behavior who happen to be black. He was tired of it, and decided to do something about it? Explain to me what’s wrong with it.

Had it been a white judge who said the same things to blacks, then you probably would have Jessee and Al there. Judge Arrington said to these people what some of their fathers, uncles, or cousins should have probably said a long time ago. But it’s never to late.

And being a person who really hasn’t been an Arrington fan in the past:

I COMMEND HIM FOR HIS COURAGE! KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!

By creev

April 3, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this

I think the accused would pay better attention if they were the only ones present. With the courtroom full it may have appeared that the Judge was playing to the gallery.

He also did the right thing by repeating his remarks to the whole courtroom the next day. My gut says this is one great judge with a good bailiff/court clerk.

By angel

April 3, 2008 4:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks Judge Arrington, you will never know how many of those you saved by talking to ‘em. It would be great if others could follow suite. And it wouldn’t matter if the judge was white…there’s no wrong when doing something good..Get over it!

By VeeCee

April 3, 2008 4:28 PM | Link to this

I see absolutely nothing wrong with what the judge did. His message was directed to a particular segment of the individuals in his courtroom, and I think he was well within his rights to excuse those who weren’t members of his target audience. In these days of political correctness run amok, every action has to be filtered through a prism of second guessing by those who have no clue of the realities, but somehow deem it necessary to take offense. The judge has nothing to apologize for.

By wink

April 3, 2008 7:24 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry, I hate to sound like an echo, but if this were a white judge and he asked all of the African-Americans to leave, Atlanta would be all over the national news…..protesters galore, led by Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson, demanding that the Judge be removed from the bench. This has nothing to do with how people were treated in the past; this is the present and this is nothing but a double standard

By Interesting

April 3, 2008 7:39 PM | Link to this

I saw this judge being interviewed by Anderson Cooper and although I have all sorts of other “issues” with this judge (which I still can’t believe he is), which I will get to in a minute, I understood his reasoning regarding asking white people to leave the courtroom. What I don’t understand, however, is, doesn’t this judge have a chamber? Wouldn’t it have been more appropriate for him to deliver his “secret,” “black-only” message there? Asking people to leave the courtroom who had every right to be there is a problem, and even Judge Stupid admited that it wasn’t a very smart move on his part.

Can we now talk about why this man was elected a judge in the first place? He was being interviewed by Anderson Cooper on national television and was CHEWING GUM!!! Further, I was shocked by his inability to even speak properly. And his rudely cutting off Anderson was just plain ignorant. He was given the chance to defend himself and instead of being humble and polite, he chewed gum, spoke like a uneducation moron and was rude and appeared ignorant.

By Hank

April 3, 2008 7:47 PM | Link to this

I voted for him when he ran for mayor. He is trying to do the right thing - let’s not sweat the small stuff.

By lea2

April 3, 2008 7:55 PM | Link to this

In response to the comment from Wayne about “it’s his courtroom,” it is not his courtroom, it is the courtroom representing Fulton County. He is an officer of the court and is supposed to uphold the laws of the State. What he did was wrong, and if the tables had been turned and a white Judge had removed the African-Americans from the courtroom, I don’t doubt for a minute that Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton, among many others, would have been called for his dismissal from the Bench.

By Free to be me

April 3, 2008 10:36 PM | Link to this

First of all, Judge Arrington is a Native Atlantan. He grew up with and around my family. He has seen this beautiful city go to hell in a hand basket literally overnight in my opinion due to bad children and bad parenting. Who out there is not tired of waking up to news about something going on and that something involves young people, whether Black or White. I feel as if Judge Arrington has had enough. I know I have. This political correctness is going to send all of us straight to you know where. It use to be a time that the adults could teach or talk to a young person and no one got offended. It use to be a time when everyone would be behind the adult when that adult was trying to change a life for the positive. Just in case you didn’t know, regardless of what color a person is, we taxpayers are footing the bill each time one goes to jail for some stupidity. Seems like we would welcome anyone attempting to make a difference. Black folks got mad at Bill Cosby because they accused him of putting our business in the streets and he didn’t ask any white folks to leave the room, turn the television off or turn the radio off so they wouldn’t hear him, so what is the problem with him? Black folks are in denial about the plight of our race. We commit more crimes,we have bad schools, bad neighborhoods, you name it and everyone is concerned about political correctness. Black folks if you think whites are concerned with our progression, get a clue and white folks if you think the down fall of our people will make this world a better place for you, get a clue. We are all in this together. This is not going to get better until we realize that when we all succeed, we all win. I am tired of footing the bill for the prison system. I would much rather see these young people Black or White do something with their lives. We need them for the future of this world. The heck with political correctness. Judge Arrington, you are my hero. Next time, tell the white folks to stay. But then of course, you will probably have the Black folks tell you the same thing they told Bill Cosby. You can’t make people happy. When GOD tells you to do something, do it. He worked thru you that day. Somebody had to say it. I will pray for you. You are my hero.

By ceddy

April 3, 2008 11:18 PM | Link to this

I am so proud that Brother Arrington took a stand and spoke a word of wisdom to our African American Brothers who are constantly caught up in the legal system. White people get over it, it’s sad that you have to be forever reminded what your fore fathers have did to the black race ,many of you have murdered, killed and molested and committed incest, sin, sin and more sin, Please sit down and shut the hell up and let’s us for once take control of our own problems. You should be worried about your sorry a## president, Barbie Bandits, Stupid War and this high A## gas that’s out of control. It’s mayor Arrington’s Coourt Room , so let him do as he please. Thank you !!!! SO MUCH FOR SHOWING THAT YOU CARE!!IT’S ABOUT TIME!!!

By Noelle

April 4, 2008 12:16 AM | Link to this

I think he was wrong to ask the White judges to leave but I applaud his intentions. Somebody needs to step up and tell these kids something. They are totally out of control and an embarassment. I get sick of looking at them walking aroung looking and acting a D fool. The crimes they are commiting are terrible. I say send them to Iraq to fight the war.

By Olen

April 4, 2008 2:28 AM | Link to this

I agree with RB and Scott completely! In our land of double standards, a black can say and do almost anything and use the “race” card or the “you don’t understand what we have been through BS” without any backlash. If this had been a white judge, the marches would be going on as we speak to address this racial, segregational comment. I assume I can go into a public or government facility in the future and simply say to everyone that I want to talk with the “white people” and for everyone else to leave! RIGHT!!!!!!
Arrington is no more protected under the civil rights laws than anyone else! What he did is against the laws of this country and if he is a “real” judge, he knows that and should resign as it is apparent he sees the law in one color! But, after all, this is Atlanta and I am sure he will be commended by the “black” community for his segregationist approach! He proves that after all these years that segregation is alive and well - especially in Atlanta!

By tilla

April 4, 2008 4:47 AM | Link to this

EXCUSE ME, But isn’t that HIS COURTROOM, isn’t he THE JUDGE, I would think he has the power to ask whom ever he wants to leave HIS COURTROOM. HELLO, HE IS THE JUDGE. IF he asks you to leave HIS COURTROOM, then that’s exactly what you better do. He has that power. I agree with him and Bill Cosby 100%. Something has got to try to get these young people in line.

By rd

April 4, 2008 7:22 AM | Link to this

We should not be hung up on black or white, but try to do what the Judge did. He was thinking about right and wrong. We cannot help what a certain group of people would do, but we should try to do what is right. Thank you Judge for your concern!

By David

April 4, 2008 7:47 AM | Link to this

The comments on this blog show the divide between the races that still exist today. Arrington is guilty of racism, plain and simple. There is no way to change that fact, whether you agree or disagree with what he did. He did try to correct his wrong by addressing the entire courtroom during his next lecture but, only because he was criticized for his previous tactics. If he had not been criticized, I have no doubt that he would still be clearing the “white folks” from his courtroom for his tongue lashings.

By Ashamed

April 4, 2008 8:27 AM | Link to this

It is amazing how one man’s attempt to do a good deed, has brought out the race baiters again. This blog is typical of the issue our society has with race. We put on this face of government imposed tolerence, but underneath their is little desire to understand each other. A lot of these comments are shameful and in poor taste. Politically correct is what has gotten this country in the mess we are in. Do not criticize a person for doing, criticize the ones who don’t. I ask this, what are you doing to help? or make things better.

By What's Real

April 4, 2008 9:15 AM | Link to this

I can see why white people would say that if this was the other way around then the headlines would be different, and us(blacks) as a race would be selfish for not understanding that. But there was a comment above that mentioned us coming from a “long” road-and that is so true. Other races, please understand that less than 50% of our young black men only graduate from high school. 5 out of 10 black men are more likely to end up in jail before the age of 20. Should I continue the statistics? I think that’s enough. Most of the neiborhood (violent)crime in Atlanta is usually a black male. (That’s just my opinion) Although I am a young black male at the age of 24, I have never been in any of this criteria. Imagine how much crime can stop if more of our black fathers would step up and be great men along with being great fathers that tie in with the American Dream. The judge wouldn’t have need to do what he did. Please don’t take it personal, becasue our young black men are becoming more of a statistic. It even shapes the way police officers look at us in certain areas. Again to the white people that are offended, please don’t take it personal…he was not only trying to make a change for the young black men, but for the entire City of Atlanta.

My hats off to you Judge.

By InTownGal

April 4, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

I applaud his courage. He has a responsibility to speak out, we clearly have a problem in Atlanta and he only wants to address it. Everyone needs to STOP with the racial crap, quit being so damn sensitive, I’m glad someone of authority and color had the guts to say it, b/c it is the TRUTH!!!

By Truth Believer

April 4, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

I am sorry that Judge Arrington sent the white lawyers and other away from the coutromm- that was not right and fair. However, I think his message to the young blacks was very much warranted. The only thing he seems to have missed is that young white kids, Hispanic kids and all sorts of races in between have their degenrates and all could possibly have benefited from his message. My fear, though, is that he was “preaching to the choir”. They already think they’re hitting all the right notes, it’s the pianist that’s the problem. May God help us all. By the way, who’s playing the “race card” now?