Rick Badie / My Opinion

By Kasandra

December 1, 2005 06:55 AM | Link to this

Thank you so much for pointing out that it’s the PARENTS! I have been ticked off for so long that I have just about given up on our youth. My son is going through the same thing. He tries to “dumb down” so that he is accepted. When are we going to stop blaming white people for our problems and realize that we can excel. Our children are so out of touch with reality, its a shame. Parents, just because you have it hard, don’t let your kids succumb to the “ghetto mentality” that is keeping so many of our young people down.

By Dubois

December 1, 2005 06:57 AM | Link to this

Rick, what Mandisa is going through is typical of many high African-American achievers. Apparently the great education system in Gwinnett is not embranced by all. Mandisa is not the only African-American student who will experience this type of ridicule.

I know this is your opinion column, but lets extend this blame past just parents. When our President can attack affirmative action at the highest level yet not talk about the numerous athletes dunking basketballs and making millions for colleges, and are not extensively scrutinized about their qualifications-it is clear why education is not a priority.

That alone shows to Black youth that despite your high academic achievement, your ability to tackle someone on a football field puts you in a better position to get an academic scholarship that actually studying.

Just don’t blame the parents, but they are good start.

How much will UGA get in the bowl game again? I am sure all the Black athletes have 1300+ SAT’s.

By Larry

December 1, 2005 07:01 AM | Link to this

Rick,

A powerful testimony to what good parenting and a good child can become, regardless of the color of skin (seems silly to mention, as I write this).

The only exception I have is that this story implies that Mandisa is perhaps more of an exception than it insinuates. I am a “white” professional with numerous “black” professional friends—many of whom are celebrities in this city—and what you describe in Mandisa is commonplace in their children’s homes, ambitions interests. More to the point, in actuality the standards for a great many “black” families are in fact not that of what we are always witnessing on TV.

God job Mandisa! You have a well-earned and exciting future and this father of two young girls is very proud of you!

By Walter

December 1, 2005 07:02 AM | Link to this

Very eloquent piece Rick. Parents (of all races) have simply stopped being responsible for the upbringing and education of their children. “It’s the (fill in the blank here) fault my child is the way they are, I didn’t raise them like that.”

I was raised in a house that included my grandparents. I grew up learning from them that hard work, education and treating my fellow man with respect was the only way to live.

By James Stephenson

December 1, 2005 07:03 AM | Link to this

I remember reading about a study conducted in Colorado as to why African American students were not doing as well.

This African American researcher came back with exactly what Mandisa has experienced. Well the Colorado people swept the study under the rug. I wish I could remember the researcher’s name.

It is a shame, a self perpetuating problem. Thankfully Mandisa is not succumbing to this problem.

By don young

December 1, 2005 07:05 AM | Link to this

I say to the young sister just keep on going.The only thing Ebonics has allowed us as Black people to become are comedians and rappers and they are a dime a dozen. Ebonics will never get you to Wall street.

By Antonio

December 1, 2005 07:05 AM | Link to this

I can’t speak directly to this situation, but I wonder if Mandisa’s treatment is not because of her good grades/desire to excel, but rather a perception by her peers that she doesn’t act “black” enough. I can recall when I attended high school (not too many years ago) that I and many of my peers (which were black) took many AP courses, participated in extracurricular activities, and were still very popular with the remainder of our classmates. However, there were certain black students that were shunned somewhat for not embracing their culture. These students seemed to be more comfortable with others outside of the black community and this fact, not their desire to excel academically, was the reason that they were mistreated. Of course, this doesn’t justify the actions of the students, but it does offer another explanation to what might be happening to Mandisa. But as I previously stated, I don’t have enough insight into her situation to speak definitively.

By Mike Billips

December 1, 2005 07:08 AM | Link to this

Good column. But this isn’t a problem only smart black kids face. Anti-intellectualism is ingrained in many parts of American society, including middle-class white communities.

I attended a rural, 99-percent white high school in East Tennessee with a mix of college- and high-school-educated parents. I got along fine by never visibly trying to do well academically. I can’t describe what a shock it was to come to Georgia Tech and find that smart kids were not only everywhere, they were admired for their brains and even competitive about it.

Studious black kids get a double dose of disapproval, labeled both as nerds and oreos. But the most effective message of encouragement applies to all kids: Don’t sweat high school popularity. Wait ‘til college, where smart will be cool.

By Ms. P

December 1, 2005 07:14 AM | Link to this

I’m 45 years old and went through the exact thing that Mandisa is going through now. Imagine this nonsense 30 years later. I was in school to do one thing - LEARN. I wasn’t there to cut class, get into fights, smoke, hangout with the cool kids, or get into trouble or disrespect the teachers. I graduated 13th in my senior class, graduated college and am now very successful. Kids used to call me an egghead, but you know what? this egghead, earns over $100K per year, owns 2 homes, travels personally and professionally, and lives a very happy life. To Mandisa - ignore those kids, let them continue to be cool and see where they are in 10, 20, 30 years. If these kids were so “cool” then they would accept Mandisa for her intelligence and individuality.

By Marc Marton

December 1, 2005 07:21 AM | Link to this

Until we, as one society, overcome the myths and other falicies associated with culture and “heritage,” all of these issues will be self perpetuating. What is the point of “blackness” and why should it matter? It’s a terrible burden people have placed on themselves it a lot more destructive than prejudice. As for kids dumbing down, it’s not a phenomenon affecting Africn Americans only. It’s a big part of the youth culture.

By Pumpkin

December 1, 2005 07:27 AM | Link to this

This reminds me of my experiences in the 70’s in school. I am now 40 and I still remember this like it happened yesterday. I played the violin in the 5th grade and I absolutely loved it! I did very well in school. I was placed in advanced classes because of my academics. But my black friends constantly accused me of “acting white”. I never told my parents this. As a result, I gave up the violin and begin to “dumb down”. It’s still very painful to me all these years later. When are we going to stop this?

By Charles F

December 1, 2005 07:32 AM | Link to this

The real shame of this is how it plays directly into the hands of those who would prefer to see black folks held down, held back or just plain passed over. The bigots who fought to keep black kids out of public schools must see this as a reward for their patience. Think about it. Black kids who intentionally flunk out of school because it’s not cool to be intelligent. Only the Klan could have come up with such a plan and yet, they aren’t the ones who did this time. It came from within. Still, it’s easy to keep blaming white folks for black failures, that doesn’t take too much intelligence!

CF

By Darlene

December 1, 2005 07:34 AM | Link to this

I understand the frustration that this young lady is having. My son was number 4 in his class at Norcross High School. He kept it hidden from most of his friends until one day he was busted by his coach. His coach couldn’t believe that a young black male and athlete was intelligent enough to be number 4. I remember he liked this one young lady at his school, but she didn’t want to be seen with a nerd. I advised him that at their age image is important to girls and that in later years she would be looking for someone who is going somewhere in this world. My son graduated with honors, received numerous academic scholarships offers and is now attending college on a full academic scholarship, tuition, room and board. He will be graduating next year. So girl do what you got to do.

By Mark

December 1, 2005 07:34 AM | Link to this

Is it really a surprise to anyone how high achieving blacks are treated? I hope not and I don’t think so. The only surprise for me was to see this type of story covered in an Atlanta newspaper.

By Paul Scanling

December 1, 2005 07:35 AM | Link to this

Mandisa is facing discrimination and is handling it better than most 15 year olds. She will succeed because she has parents who raised her to value education. The other students ‘dis’ high achievers and it is they who will fail in life. Of course, they don’t have to achieve in a society that allows them into good schools with lower grades but the right skin color. They don’t have to achieve in a society where they can get job interviews just for being black. They’ve figured out the system and know what the minimum they have to do to get by can be.

LIke several people who posted, I believe blacks can achieve at a very high level. I also believe that affirmative action sends the message, to both blacks and whites, that blacks aren’t capable of achieving at a high level and have to have help.

That is not a message that we should be sending because I believe it is wrong.

By bly

December 1, 2005 07:36 AM | Link to this

The real shame is that “being like whitey” is looked upon as a bad thing. All cultures have their problems, but the more we split things up the worse it’s going to get. And to be blunt about it, being like whitey sure beats being like blacky, most of the time.

By LaTeekey

December 1, 2005 07:41 AM | Link to this

This is why is a more important for parents to encourage there children to be more focused on there education than fashion and popularity.

By frank

December 1, 2005 07:44 AM | Link to this

Plain and simple, this is nothing new and will never go away. I blame the PARENTS of the kids wanting to downgrade someone for wanting to acheive. Those kids should be trying to learn from Mandisa. It happened to me, my cousin, etc. Low self esteem, and trying to bring down everybody around them. Shame, Shame, is this how the bible tells us to act.. NO way. That type of mentality has hampered not just the black. race, but human race. Mandisa, keep striving to achieve goal in life and remember those people are NOT your FRIENDS.

ebonics = poor english skills + communication skills + thought skills -locgical and rational thinking = unemployed/underemployed

By techboy

December 1, 2005 07:45 AM | Link to this

Great article. This is nothing new, and just unfortunate. However, Antonio makes an interesting point in his post. I feel African Americans are the one group where our culture is criticized and evaluated the most harshly - and a lot of it is just. It should be noted though that many other groups experience the same kind of prejudice against their own “nerds” and those who perceivably do not fit in. This is not as simple as people make it seem, peer acceptance is a powerful force. I do feel that Black culture has to adopt a policy of education first just like so many of our sister groups and immigrant groups who come to the US and succeed. At the same time, I would encourage Mandisa to explore her roots and see if she can connect with those of her own. I doubt all of them are against her (as she even stated), and I know quite a few blacks from Parkview here at Ga Tech and they value education to the most. This whole situation is just a sticky mess, but with more discussion on the national front – we can make progress.

By Chris B.

December 1, 2005 07:45 AM | Link to this

“How much will UGA get in the bowl game again? I am sure all the Black athletes have 1300+ SAT’s.”

And in contrast, there are several guys on the GT football team who have scored well over 1000 on the SAT. A few have scored over 1400.

By Karen Armsby

December 1, 2005 07:46 AM | Link to this

Thanks Rick, I agree with your comments, and I agree with Mike Billips that it’s not just a black problem, but across the races there is an anti-intellectual bias and culture in high school student populations.

If there are enough smart kids who aren’t afraid to excel at a school then they will probably all be in classes together and they find their friends among other smart students. But they are recognized and labeled and shunned, and sometimes beat up because they are smart and they dare to study and get good grades.

IMHO it’s growing pains that manifest as envy and jealousy and the attempt by kids who don’t consider themselves smart to prove their own worth. They attempt to prove their worth by how they dress, who they hang out with and date, how they act or act up, by the cars they drive, and the drugs they deal.

It’s not just a black thing, you just gave us a black example. It’s anti-intellectual bigotry. And most smart high school kids have experienced it.

By Kenneth

December 1, 2005 07:49 AM | Link to this

Rick - Great point, thanks. I have heard Bill Cosby make the same point and he received a great bit of criticism for speaking out. Hopefully you will be heard. Dubois just had to go political with this. It is not the presidents fault that athletes are so exaulted. Affirmative action does more to hurt our race than to help it, it says we are not smart enough to get a job on our own. Also, the current administration has put more blacks and minorities in higher offices than previous presidents, especially Clinton, who claimed to be the “first black president.” What we need is stronger, smarter black leaders. Keep stepping up Rick!!

By Dar

December 1, 2005 07:50 AM | Link to this

Wow. That was painful. Painful because at 36, I’m reading what I experienced in the 80’s at high school in Cobb County. I was ostracized and maligned constantly by the other black students for excelling and being in advanced classes with white students. I played the clarinet, took Latin and reveled in my love of Duran Duran and the Beatles! Still do as a matter of fact! My father valued education above all else and refused to allow any off kilter English to be uttered in our home. Alas, this was not the case in the few other black households in our neighborhood. That this is still happening is deplorable and such a handicap that I honestly have no idea where to even start trying to fix it. Mandisa, go forward. Be strong. Your life will be the better and the richer for it. You are most definitely not alone and God will see you through.

By Tamara

December 1, 2005 07:53 AM | Link to this

This was an excellent article. It is sad that our children are more in tuned to various rap artists instead of real art. But when parents are too busy working 2 jobs to keep our children in worthless material items that they really can’t afford, it leaves little time to teach them real values at home. Or they are simply not teaching them at all. I went through the same thing this young lady went through but when it was all said and done, I’m one of the few who have a successful career and a beautiful family instead of a broken family and a dim outlook for the future. Mandisa seems to be a wonderful child and I hope she continues her path and one day become extremely successful at whatever she desires to be in life.

By HP

December 1, 2005 08:03 AM | Link to this

I honestly don’t think it is a black or white thing. It’s called peer pressure and it has been around forever and comes in all creeds, ages, colors and races. If Mandisa chooses to succumb to it then it will be by her own choice. If she is a strong young black woman, then no one can make her do anything that she does not want to do or be anything other than what she is (which happens to be an intelligent black woman). She should not have to apologize to anyone for being intelligent or quote unquote “different”. Mandisa’s parents should be adamant in explaining to her that the only person that she has to be happy with is herself. If she is truly happy with herself then what others think won’t even matter. The harsh reality of life is that people will be judging each and everyone of us, including Mandisa, by what we do, what we wear, where we live, what we drive, how we speak and how we look, etc.. etc.. as long as life goes on. It is up to each individual to decide and make the distinction of which judgements matter and which don’t. I would expect that at this stage in her life Mandisa’s parent’s would help her with that distinction and that as she gets older and matures she will be able to easily make them for herself.

By Gregg

December 1, 2005 08:05 AM | Link to this

Mandisa should not be detered by the ignorance that breeds contempt for achievementand self hatred. Her experiences are much the same as those I experienced in high school 25 years ago. I suggest she reads Richard Wright’s “Black Boy” and know that she is not alone.

By charles george

December 1, 2005 08:06 AM | Link to this

Thank you for that article.It’s the truth.I was born in Trinidad,finish high school and college all by the age of 22.Iam currently living in lawrenceville. I have always strive to tell my 2 teenage stepsons that you have to finish high school in order to function just marginally in this society.Their friends with their destructive behaviour is seen as cool to them.I also told them that their friends behaviour is nothing more than life imitating art,just mimicking what they see in the rap videos and what they hear on these cd’s.You have to learn to define yourself, don’t let some dysfunctional buffoon tell you how you have to live,dress and act. I told them i do not allow anyone to define me, scince i work for myself,define my time and call no-one boss.This takes creativity,intelligence,self confidence and discipline.There were more black inventors under segregation than now.Why so?We as black parents need to be pro active and start protesting with our wallet against these recording artists,record labels,producers,distributers that the self destructive images they portray of us will no longer be tolerated. Don’t give your kids the money to buy these destructive forms of entertainment.They(recording companies)have freedom to produce it.We(parents) have freedom not to buy it

By Craig

December 1, 2005 08:07 AM | Link to this

I went through the same thing in school and it still remains with me today. I am 48 years old.

What I find to be interesting (and sad) is that 90% of the people who harassed and tormented me are now dead. Most due to drugs and violence.

Just last week my 8 year old section 8 neighbor said I “aint nothin’ but a white boy” because I “talk like one”, pick up papers they litter my yard with, cut my lawn and hedges and keep my dog on the leash! It does not seem to end.

By Anita

December 1, 2005 08:09 AM | Link to this

Great column, Rick. I have a 10th grade daughter (white) at Parkview that is interested in everything Mandisa is interested in (even in going to school in NY, where my daughter’s dad’s family are), but they are not friends. I wonder why? My daughter is not a racist, and I will assume Mandisa isn’t either, but it’s curious to me why they are not friends. I am going to ask questions. I wonder if it because there is an atmosphere and cultural vibe there that makes it easy to be, and even promotes silent stereotyping and segregating among the races (and genders/GPA/whatever). As good a school that Parkview seems to be, let’s rememebr that it’s the people that populate it, and in the end, we’re all just mere imperfect humans. Maybe things can change a little from your column. I will do my part.

By Erik Marks

December 1, 2005 08:10 AM | Link to this

Great post. It’s about time someone brought this up…

I grew up in South Dekalb. I attended the elementary school in my neighborhood, until my parents realized that the school wasn’t challenging me academically. So in 6th grade the put me in the “M to M program”. I ended up going to 7-8th grade at a school in Tucker. This was the late 80’s so Tucker was still very white. I instantly dropped several reading and math levels. At my black elementary school I was considered an overachiever. At the white school I was considered normal.

When it was time for high school, I begged my parents to let me go to Southwest Dekalb or Ceder Grove. I was tired of the subtle racism I recieved at school from the White kids in Tucker. We compromised and I ended up going to Redan in Stone Mountain. At that time Redan was about 60% Black, 40% White. The Blacks who went there were considered the cream of the crop, middle class black. Yet even so, Redan, SW Dekalb, and Cedar Groove all shared on thing in common. Lot’s of middle class Blacks kids from good families - very little academic achievement. It was simply not cool to make good grades. I remember going to college - one of my roomates had Jamacian middle class parents, and he was from Orlando. He said it was the same thing at his Orlando high school. His middle class black friends wanted to be “thugs” and “hustlers” even though they were middle class. One thing we had in common - we were both able to do okay in high school, but hide our academic achievement from our friends. To do so was necessary to maintain social status. Today we are both successful engineers.

The bottom line - I think this problem is serious and systemic to the Black community. White people think the same, and flee to private schools or white neighborhoods when Black enrollment at their child’s school gets to high. I can understand when kids from the projects turn to thuggish ways (I can understand it, but I don’t condone it). I can’t understand when middle class kids from good homes do the same.

By B.C.

December 1, 2005 08:10 AM | Link to this

We are a community without hope. Unfortunately this has alway been an issue within our community. It’s hard to find peace in trying to achieve when your own peers don’t seek to understand the changes that individuals must make in order to survive in this society. Though it’s tough to see our children grow up and maintain the ignorance that our parents and grandparents possess, there is a growing number of young minds who are motivated to actually have dreams and to try to achieve them. I’m not saying that those people who actively choose to not go to college and have a career are wrong. We need people with trades and skills. But to echo Rick, i think this issues falls on the parents, the grandparents the neighbors, the teachers and the politicians. We have to hold ourselves accountable. There is an old adage that says,”if you want something done right, do it yourself.” As a community we are always seeking for someone outside to do what we ourselves need to do. Even as individuals in our day to day lives, we would rather have someone else raise our kids, and we are just forced to feed and shelter then until they are 18. People understand that you are raising a man/woman. You have the opportunity to take the best traits out of all your experiences and to teach them to someone else, so that they in-turn can fully appreciate and add to the world that we live in.

By Michael

December 1, 2005 08:10 AM | Link to this

I am currently having this issue with my son. He is the only one in his “crew” who has had straight A’s. I have had to check him a few times when he tries to lower himself to their level and do as they do. It’s a struggle and he’s just in middle school!

By Sheila

December 1, 2005 08:13 AM | Link to this

The problem this young lady is facing is nothing new. It’s been around for decades. It’s the result of african americans seeing themselves through the eyes of others! It is why we’ve in the past straightened our hair, attempted to lighten our skin,etc… So yes, kids have watched a generation of Parent’s try to fit “in” and adopt a standard that was set by the majority. I think it’s called “peer pressure” and it doesn’t just affect the attitudes of children!

By Alex

December 1, 2005 08:14 AM | Link to this

The attitude displayed towards Mandisa, it seems, has exsisted for generations in Metro schools in the wake of integration. I graduated from Duluth High in 2002, also in Gwinnett. Maybe it was because I wore A&F and American Eagle, or because I wasn’t in classes with many black students - but I was simply ignored by most of the other black and latino students (I’m multi-racial). The struggle to be an excellent minority student in a predominantly white school has nothing to do with the difficulty of the coursework - it’s this arcane idea that we’re “selling out.” Selling who out? The term implies betrayal. Who is being betrayed? The black race? The latino race? Hardly.

I would like to say that the “acting white” label disappears at my fine undergraduate instituation, the University of Georgia. But alas, I am an anomaly here too. People are shocked to find out I was raised by two strong black women whenever I tell them I’m in the Honors Program. Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to this problem. Vernon Jordan, the great civil rights attorney, wrote of similar treatment in the late 1940s - during segregation. In his words: “We really have something major to overcome.”

By Kelly

December 1, 2005 08:18 AM | Link to this

A couple people have commented that “it’s not a black thing.” I do believe there is an anti-intellictual trend in our country, but as the parent of a (white) high schooler I have to say that she experiences NOTHING like what Mandisa experiences. I think some of the black kids at her school do, however. She has continually told me of black classmates who “act ghetto” but she finds out in classes they share that they are really extremely smart but hide it for their friends. How exhausting, how sad.

By NancyG

December 1, 2005 08:20 AM | Link to this

It is encouraging to see this issue being addresses more and more in the black community BY the black community. There is nothing stopping anyone in this country from being successful if they are willing to work at it and do what it takes. I applaud people like you, Bill Cosby and Spike Lee for their courage in addressing this problem. Black people need to stop holding themselves down and blaming others for their misery. Bravo, Rick.

By Karen

December 1, 2005 08:24 AM | Link to this

This is a very old story, but should be understood within context. What is glorified in the African American community, what’s blasted to us over the TV and radio waves - Did you know that Blacks don’t have programming control over some of the most popular media channels. Now absorb that 90% of Black parents are dealing with the stress of holding onto their own jobs, no baby sitter at home, tired in the evenings, no sitters at home for the kids - TV and friends take over, largely influenced by images fed to us by media channels we don’t own. I think we all have a responsibility as Black parents to our children, but this story leaves very critical elements out.

E.g. when I attended a largely middle class, mixed high school, I was fresh off the boat from the Caribbean. Black and White kids laughed at our clothes and accents. Our families were our strength and reinforced our talents, intelligence and exposed insecurities of these kids…My sister and I saw this as just another step in the series of challenges we’d have to overcome in coming to a new country…

I could go on forever, I’ll be impressed when Blacks own more businesses, love and support each other as much as we do our “white” neighborhoods and friends. Make education a priority. Get rid of those properties and cars we can’t afford and focus on strengthening our communities. Invest in the stock market…strengthen our financial position and leverage as a people.

These one-sided expose stories don’t do much but reinforce negative stereotypes.

thanks Karen

By Jo

December 1, 2005 08:25 AM | Link to this

(Great column, Rick!) Mandisa, I hope you’re reading this. You should be very proud of the fine young woman you are & I know God & your parents feel the same. If I had a daughter, I’d want her to be like you! The thugs-in-training who shun you are actually ASHAMED of their culture in order to equate being African-American with being ignorant, illiterate & with a criminal mentality. I know things are rough now but later on when you’re making a 6-figure income & have a wonderful family of your own, you’ll reflect on your former classmates, many of whom will be AIDS-stricken, dead, on welfare with a dozen kids by as many different dads, on crack, or in jail & say “There but for the grace of God”.. Stay strong, sweetheart!

By Cynthia Lorr

December 1, 2005 08:27 AM | Link to this

I think the only mistake here is to assume that these sorts of things happen only to black students. I think students of any color who are perceived as smart or achieving in academics are subject to the same treatment. Especially if they are girls. Smart is not cool for any girl.

By CRAIG

December 1, 2005 08:27 AM | Link to this

WHAT A FORUM, MY CHILD ALSO TRIED TO DUMB DOWN TO BE ACCEPTED IN A SCHOOL WHERE THE KIDS PANTS ARE HANGING OF COURSE, THEY SPEAK IN SYLLABLES OF COURSE, THEY ARE RUDE OF COURSE, THEY HAVE NO DRIVE OF COURSE, WHERE ITS COOL TO BE IGNORANT OF COURSE, CAUCASIAN KIDS AND SCHOOLS ARE NOT IMMUNE TO THESE TYPES OF SITUATIONS EITHER, BUT I LIVE IN A BLACK SCHOOL DISTRICT AND THATS WHERE MY CONCERNS ARE. UNFORTUNATELY THE STAFF AND ADMINISTRATION COULD USE A LOT OF HELP IN THE PROFESSIONALISM DEPARTMENT. ITS SHAMEFUL WHAT SOME PARENTS APPROVE OF THIER CHILDREN SAYING AND DOING. BY NO MEANS DO ALL CHILDREN FIT IN THIS CATEGORY, BUT IF YOU SPENT A DAY AT A MAJORITY BLACK SCHOOL , YOU MIGHT BE SUPRISED AT HOW MANY KIDS DO FIT IN THIS CATEGORY. WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO (RESPECT)

By AA

December 1, 2005 08:28 AM | Link to this

One thing that does bother me is the term “African Americans”. This sets folks up from being separate from others in this country - as though they are not fully American, regardless of race. Then the constant pointing of differences between blacks and whites. The main difference between blacks and whites is the pigmentation in their skin not in their brains. As for the black culture - what is it? What is white culture? It is a conglomeration of cultures that have come before. Today’s American culture is made up of all other cultures residing here. We are American - not African American, not Chinese American, not Whatever American - simply American. Remove the hyphen and unity will occur.

By Lady "G"

December 1, 2005 08:29 AM | Link to this

A very insightful piece, Rick. As an ebony-skinned black woman growing up in the deep south in the 60’s, I was subjected to very similar treatment, not only because of my good grammar & good GPA, but because I didn’t ‘look the part. If one spoke properly, dressed nicely & got good grades, you were expected to be beige, bronze or golden-brown, definitely an anomaly if you were black. Mandisa, DON’T SELL YOURSELF SHORT BECAUSE OF THE IGNORANCE OF OTHERS!! Be proud of your accomplishments; you may inspire others to ‘come out of the atttitude of the ‘hood & do some really good things with their lives!

By Jon

December 1, 2005 08:30 AM | Link to this

After all the battles and sacrifices the black community has made for equality, it is sad and ironic that the closer to equal we get, the further the black community FORCES steps backwards by encouraging people to ‘act black,’ - by their definition, to be loud, rowdy, dumb and rebel against the system.

It is news to me that your skin color affects your behavior - that’s some weird science. Embrace the opportunity to be able to excel, learn, and improve. It’s amazing how people don’t notice what color you are when you’re kind, courteous and well-educated.

By Karen

December 1, 2005 08:31 AM | Link to this

Also, what about the Asian, Caribbean, and other new immigrants who arrive here with no money, no connections and only dreams of success. Their kids are shunned and alienated, why turn this into some huge anti intelligence African American conspiracy. 90% of the African American parents I know, work hard and want their kids to do well…you’re taking a very complicated issue and simplifying it into an emotional capsule. You’re dealing with smoke management and the fire is raging out of control!

Karen

By Annette

December 1, 2005 08:31 AM | Link to this

I am across the border in South Carolina, in which, we rank bottom of the educational totem pole. As a parent in a basically all White school district, you would also be surprised that (some White and some African American teachers), will not and do not believe African American children are capable of “being smart” and “talented.” I pulled both of my children out of public schools and placed them in private schools, so they could concentrate on learning. I wish I could a rich man (with no strings attached) to send them back. It is very flusterating to say the least; when you want the best for your child in an atmosphere condusive to learning. Yet the pressure to suceed is against parents and children. I am hoping that one day South Carolina will wake up and smell the tea leaves to pass a voucher system, so this will be one less pressure I have to worry about.

By Kevin Hayes

December 1, 2005 08:32 AM | Link to this

Great editorial and good responses. NOW WHAT DO WE DO ABOUT IT? We are so quick to talk yet so slow to act! That has been the problem with the Black community since losing our fervor after the Civil Rights movement. We were stronger when we had less!

Since we found a few crumbs on the “massa’s table” we have lost ourselves. The music we allow, yes I said allow, our children to listen to is counterproductive. The athletes that we worship are shallow and detrimental to the upbringing of our children. The television, movies, and games that we allow our children to watch are harmful. So what do we do about it?

Parents can start by becoming parents, not the best friend but parents.

As a community we must find time to speak to the children and show them that being successful and being Black are synonymous. We don’t need to chop our words and carry ourselves like the stereotypes that others expect. We must not allow the rappers and athletes to dictate the behavior of our children. We must take back our community and rebuild it. It starts with us. We as the adults must become responsible for our children. Otherwise, we will die a painful death executed by our own hand.

By Kenny

December 1, 2005 08:33 AM | Link to this

Excellent article. I agree with your assessment—the parents are to blame. I also blame the rap industry which glorifies thugery and demeans women. I realize that the music reflects the culture but I think it also influences it as well.

BTW, is not a double standard when you employ the term “whitey”?

By Mr. Boston

December 1, 2005 08:35 AM | Link to this

You da MAN, Pimpin’! That’s what the white kids want to hear black kids say. If you don’t sound cool like the always mumbling 50-Cent even the WHITE kids will tell you that you don’t act black. They expect black kids to be exactly what they see on Rap City, and black kids try hard live up to it. Imagine, the pressure to be blacker, higher, and dumber comes from both sides!

By Kelly

December 1, 2005 08:35 AM | Link to this

I’m not black, but that doesn’t matter. Education doesn’t have a skin color! Where are the black people like Martin Luther King who looked for the day when people would be judged by the content of the character and not the color of their skin??? Most of the time black people are discriminating against themselves! They don’t need whites to do it for them! They don’t want to be judged by the color of their skin but they judge themselves and how they should be by the color of their own skin!! And they judge whites by the color of our skin. They think we are all racist and we are not!! It is like racism is being reversed now. And that affects all of us, not just black people!! We should all strive to excel and pull ourselves up, otherwise this country has NO HOPE of ever being a better, unbiased place to live. If black people don’t strive to rise above all that has been placed upon them bigotry just keeps getting perpetuated. It isn’t about being more “white” than “black”! It is about giving yourself and your children the best you can by being the best you can be!! I am an adult education teacher. The majority of my students are black. The majority of my students that really work hard and that make the best grades are black! But in my classroom, there is no skin color. You will not be treated differently because of your skin color. You will not be given special attention because you are black. You will not be ignored because you are black! EVERYONE in my class is important. Their education is important to me! NO ONE will leave my classroom a failure! I push them to do better, to be better, to be positive, to believe in themselves! I make sure they all have successes!! I make sure they all know the not all white people look at them and judge them by the color of their skin! I make sure they all know they are valued!

By Annette

December 1, 2005 08:38 AM | Link to this

Correction, it should state, “I wish I could find a rich man…”

Also, better yet, maybe I can find a position in Georgia so I can take advantage of the voucher system to send my children to private school for my children. Anyone hiring a Master of Sacred Theology graduate?

By White guy who cares...

December 1, 2005 08:40 AM | Link to this

Let’s talk about a solution. Let’s give the parents some reference points and benchmarks to discuss during the family dinner. The way to battle this is for both the media and parents to consistently display and praise significant black achievement outside of sports and MTV. It is only through the understanding that strong work ethic, persistence, and academic success will lead to a MUCH higher probability of success (and happiness) than the “one in a million chance” of becoming a sports or rap star that today’s black youth have a fighting chance. Without proper role models, there is not much hope. - My two cents

By Veronica

December 1, 2005 08:41 AM | Link to this

Mandisa, My heart goes out to you. Keep up the good work and be all that you can be!! It is apparently up to your generation and your children’s generation to educate your peers through example, stength, perserverance, and belief in oneself. In today’s world we still have a long way to go to stamp out racism. I find it shocking that the North American public continues to exhibit ignorance around one another. It seems that in every state in this great union one race or another is treated with disdain. Remember Rosa Parks and all that she went through to be true to herself and her family. You can do it too!!! (I am a White woman born and raised in Illinois)

By Debi

December 1, 2005 08:42 AM | Link to this

The most embarassing thing about this issue is that “some” African-Americans believe that being smart is only an attribute of White people. That’s not so! So, when a student exhibits an interest in more than the latest fad or rap song, and actually enjoys the arts, then he/she feels compelled to hide it. To do what you want to do inspite of taunting is a sign of strength. To forego your dreams, desires, and interests because peers don’t appreciate that part of you is a sign of weakness. True strength is measured by remaining an individual with morals and intelligence even when the majority snickers. Believe me, you’ll have the last laugh. In Booker T. Washington’s autobiography, Up From Slavery, he gives an example of how this phenomenon has been going on for quite some time. He mentions how he was laughed at because his mother could not afford to buy him the hat that was popular during those days, so she made him one out of various fabrics. He was taunted mercilessly by his classmates. Needless to say, when Booker T. Washington became an adult, he could afford any hat he wanted, and the classmates who laughed at him couldn’t afford one at all. I overheard a student tell another student, “No one can do you like you do you, so do well in all you do.” Great words from a great kid!

By Sarah

December 1, 2005 08:42 AM | Link to this

Mandisa, this short period (high school) of your life will soon pass and you’ll be in college, and a good one I’m sure. Hold on tight to what your parents have taught you, keep up the good grades,in college you’ll be exposed to many students you will relate to and they you. You will find that you will not have to compromise your upbringing and your scholastic ablity to fit in. Keep up the good work, they’re jealous !

By S.Cornelius

December 1, 2005 08:43 AM | Link to this

Excellent article.

The sooner young black people look at the Mandisa’s of the world as a role model instead of the “50 Cents’”….the better off the black race and this country will be.

By Kevin

December 1, 2005 08:43 AM | Link to this

Thank you for your observations. I work in a large Southern university, and we have a disproportionately small Black population. The Black students I see on a day to day basis here are no different than the Blacks you see on the street or in a rap video. They constantly refuse to speak proper English; instead, they speak as though this is their “hood”. However, even though they choose the emulate the thug lifestyle, they excel academically. They study hard, get good grades, and many graduate with honors and go on to graduate school. I know of several Black women, single mothers, who have risked everything to go back to school and get a degree, much to the displeasure of their families. I really do believe that it’s the parents who are at fault here. By perpetuating the myth that they are “owed” something by “Whitey”, by listening to the words of radicals like Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, and Louis Farrakahn, by ignoring the sacrifices made by people such as Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, and by their own shortcomings, the kids grow up to devalue education as “white”, or see successful Blacks as puppets to “The Man” I’ve seen Black students who try their best to repudiate this attitude, who try to rise up above their seemingly hopeless situations and make something of themselves. And those that look and act like thugs and speak poor English are right alongside them, busting their butts to make a name for themselves. I applaud Mandisa for her courage. She is an example for all Black youths to emulate.

By Nikki

December 1, 2005 08:45 AM | Link to this

Rick, you’ve made my Day! I too was ostracized beginning in middle school for being academically advanced and well spoken. I didn’t ‘act’ like the other girls which didn’t make me very popular. Well, turns out, those ‘popular’ girls have nothing much to brag about today…after all, who cares about what you ‘used’ to be back in the day? The reward down the road for young people like Mandisa is more OPTIONS and RESOURCES to make a better life for yourself. Also, I think it’s important for parents to make the best life possible for their children, even if it means having to take a road less traveled from their own upbringing. Sometimes, parents from ignorant beginnings, can be a child’s worst enemy!

By Michelle

December 1, 2005 08:45 AM | Link to this

This article could not appear at a better time. My daughter goes to Milton High School in Alpharetta, and she is experiencing the same treatment…This article will validate what i have been preaching for years, just because you are smart straight A’s student, have all advance classes, you speak proper english not ebonics and people can understand you when you hold a conversation is nothing to be ashamed off. I tell her to brush the haters off and keep moving, shame on them for not taking the time to know her and accept her as she is because she is a great kid. Just because she wants to excell in life and achieve goals does not make her unblack!!! Thanks for the article…

By SheSpeaks

December 1, 2005 08:46 AM | Link to this

Actually, I disagree. I, too, went through the public school system and was only one of 13 Black people in my graduating class. I had been in the gifted program since 4th grade and my father was the Assistant Principal…my mom was also an educator.

I, however, chose to “Black up” in order to be accepted by my peers. Never quite worked. But I tried, nonetheless. And it had nothing to do with my parents. They had no idea…my grades didn’t change and around them I was the same “White Black girl”.

You, Rick, need to broaden your horizons so that you can make educated statements rather than emotional generalizations.

…but it is your column…

By jim dumond

December 1, 2005 08:47 AM | Link to this

Rick, Get over you madat black parents. This is not just a Black / White issue as many parents of gifted kids can attest. The gifted kids face these issues every day regardless of race.

You have brought an interesting point up though. Who has perpetrated the myth that black is dumber than white? Black Parents? Well yes, but many whites are responsible as well. I can’t tell you how badly my stomach turns every time I’ve heard the term stupid N word and how often I’ve heard it.

We as society, black and white alike must set the examples that will dispel all stereotyping; your article above fails to help do that. We must first realize that we are all members of the human race, that we have the same hopes and dreams and the same desire to see our children excel.

I’m uncertain as to why we were created with the ability to see in color, but I’d bet if the creator had realized the problems that it would cause; he/she would have rethought that gift. But then again, —— perhaps it was known—— and we’re now being tested on living the life we should. Certainly hope I pass.

By Chris

December 1, 2005 08:48 AM | Link to this

It’s all about the culture we embrace. Think of the stereotypes that surround Jews.
It’s EXPECTED that they got to school and become doctors or lawyers. Do all Jews become doctors or lawyers? Of course not. Is there anything that automatically makes them smarter, better achievers, harder workers? Of course not. Are there Jewish slackers? Of course. And yet the expectation, always in the background, is that they get all the education they can and become professionals. The most celebrated members of their community are not criminals, brainless athletes or obscene rappers. They are professionals who’ve worked hard and bettered themselves and their communities.
We need to decide together that there really is something wrong with dropping out of high school, that there really is something wrong with having and abandoning illegitimate children, that there really is something wrong with talking like a toddler with a mouth full of mush. The old American dream that parents work hard so their children end up having a better life has been abandoned. We’ve got to restore it. But first we’ve got to make it clear that a better life really is “better” and not “white.” Achievement has no color. Parents need to expect and demand more, of their schools, of their kids, and of themselves.

By Alisha Hargett

December 1, 2005 08:49 AM | Link to this

Thank you for raising this issue and making our community aware of the problem that needs to be corrected. I am the proud parent of two beautiful children, a middle school aged daughter, and a young elementary school-aged son. Both of my children are academic achievers and have experienced the same treatment that the young lady from Parkview has experienced.

As the child of Caribbean immigrants, I strive to ensure that my children’s view of the world is balanced and that they understand the power of academia. High achieving students reflect the teachings of good parents, ones that value education over social acceptance and “keeping up with the Jones’ “. I applaud any parent, black, white or otherwise, that remains active in his/her child’s life and encourages academic success. As a young black woman, of multi-ethnic/multi-national decent, I think it is imperative that the African-American community support its high-achieving students and encourage all students to be successful in all that they do.

Lastly, despite the ill-mannered comment about UGA football players, I can personally state that there are several UGA students and student-athletes that have atleast a 1300 SAT score. I am married to him and am proud that he will receive his MBA in April from UGA as well. UGA has a strong African-American Alumni and letterman association that supports current students of multiethnic backgrounds. Several successful former UGA athletes and their wives, also UGA alum, has excelled academically at this institute and remain close friends/family for years to come due to this specific issue. This I can speak to personally because it true for me, my husband, and all of our closest friends.

Thank you for this article. We can only erase the problem or address the issue when the community is made aware of the problem. Now that we all know, it is up to each of us to change this behavior and encourage all our students to succeed and excel…no matter what institution of higher learning they chose to attend.

Congratulations young lady, keep up the good work and hold your head up…be proud of who you are and your achievements! Don’t let any ignorant person knock you down or change your destiny.

Best regards,

Alisha Hargett

By Greg

December 1, 2005 08:52 AM | Link to this

While I agree with the article in general, I really take offense to your using the term ‘whitey’. How would you feel if we start referring to blacks as ‘blackie’??? There is such a thing as derogatory words used against caucasians and you have just used one such example. Please use more educated and respectable terms if you want to start improving relations between races and set a good example.

By Reed

December 1, 2005 08:53 AM | Link to this

Excellent Editorial, Rick! You identified the problem so eloquently, with your statement.. “It’s your fault if your offspring are so enthralled with the so-called thug life that they devalue education, hard work and dedication..” Parents are the problem allowing their kids walk out the door each day acting like, talking like, and dressing like the sleazebags on MTV. Black, White, Blue it doesn’t matter…Parents can pick their battles. It is worth the fight for parents to take a stand on how their children act, dress and talk. Reed

By Dan McLaughlin

December 1, 2005 08:54 AM | Link to this

All parents across all socio-economic and racial/ethnic backgrounds need to encourage their students to do the very best they can. Student achievers are role and peer models of the highest order. If more would take academics to heart and burn to excel, we would have fewer in jail being a drain on society.

By ChrisD

December 1, 2005 08:55 AM | Link to this

Don’t forget about the gangster rap industry. Thugs like Eminem, 50Cent, and Ludicrus (not even spelled right) hurt the black kids (and even some of the white kids) worse than anything. Sure, you can blame it on the parent, but what about kids who don’t have responsible parents? There are millions of them. Target and clean up the gangster rap industry—including its glorification of failure and crime, anti-white and anti-authority preachings, and degradation of women and the black man—and you’ll be on your way to stopping a lot of this nonsense. If not, it will never end.

By Wise_0726aa

December 1, 2005 08:57 AM | Link to this

Hi Mr. Badie! Greetings from the Misadventures in Atlanta blog. I just HAD to tell you that this was an excellent entry and it resonated with me so much!

Reading this reminds me of how blessed I was to have the parents that I had. I was raised in predominantly white neighborhoods and schools for most of my childhood. Now, some people would say that this was a disservice to me, but as I look back, it really was the best thing they ever could have done. When I was sent to HBCU for college, I had a huge culture shock and faced ridicule for the way I spoke, dressed, taste in music. Thankfully, I adjusted to my new environment and looking back, I never thought that I was conforming, emulating, assimilating, imitating or pretending to be someone I wasn’t. I was never taught that there was one black experience. I realized that my “blackness” is not and will not be defined by anyone else. The melanin of my skin is something to be proud of because it represents a lineage of greatness. I have no obligation to behave a certain way so that others can identify me as black. I am black. I really feel for children who think that intelligence, diversity, and exposure to something different is something that is square, lame, or wack. It just places our kids in a precarious position of hiding their ambitions, if not avoiding being successful from fear of losing friends. It’s just outrageous to care that much about what others think so much that you would compromise yourself and your future to live up to someone else’s standards. Please! So, I say…Thanks Mom and Dad!

By Willieyour Arnold

December 1, 2005 08:58 AM | Link to this

Mr Badie, you are absolutely on target as it relates to the mindset of some of the students in this generation. As a former school board member in the City School of Decatur this was exactly the atmosphere. If a black student took honors and college prep classes they were considered to be acting white. Most times they were shunned by their black peers. It is unfortunate that the so-called affluent black parents do not instill in their kids the value of education. It is vital to their success. With globilization and technology at its’ peak if we continue on this downward trend we will never level the playing field of parity in this culture of thugism.

By Bel

December 1, 2005 08:58 AM | Link to this

As a 35-year old black woman, I experienced the same ostracism growing up. It’s shame that very little has changed since then. It’s also why I send my kids to private school.

By Lewis

December 1, 2005 09:01 AM | Link to this

Thank you for finally pointing out that parents are predominantly responsible for their children’s education and lifestyle. Some parents always want to put the blame on other people for their parental shortcomings and they don’t realize that their lack of teaching their children the importance of having integrity, good character traits, or work ethics do affect others. The only negative outcome of you writing this is that the parents that need to read this, probably don’t read.

By Loel Mckinnon

December 1, 2005 09:03 AM | Link to this

Good Article and meaningful. I sat with Israel Ambassador Webb coming back from Israel a few days ago. He is black and extremely knowledgable and successful. He made a statement to me that “Blacks built America”. I did not respond but had some thoughts. What other countries did blacks built?; England?,France?,Mexico?,Canada?,Russia?, Australia?,Israel,Egypt?,and on and on… Or was it just America. With 12% of the population, and only in the last few years, Free at Last, that is quite an accomplishment. I know it make one feel good to say that but really? Your article, I feel is sadly universally true which would make such a builting accomplishment questionally. Thanks for a good and honest look at the reality in your article. May God bless the young girl and her family. Loel Mckinnon.

By Cee

December 1, 2005 09:07 AM | Link to this

Very good article and well stated. Our black youth are falling farther and farther behind. Parents need to wake up and realize that if our children don’t understand the value of a good education, we are cripling our children to no end. We continue to dwell on sports and the hip hop culture and it’s not getting us anywhere, especially the young black males. Times are changing folks and we are being left behind because of our own ignorance. Mandisa is a fine example of a young woman and her parents are to be commended for a job well done. Some of these same people will be coming to Mandisa looking for a job in the near future. You know what they say “what goes around will come around”

By Michael

December 1, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

It’s interesting that blacks referring to other blacks that achieve as acting “white” isn’t touted as a racist statement. Obviously, those persons making the statement have a disdain for the white race…

By Unkown

December 1, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

Rick I think that you are my miracle today.

I recognize alll to well what this young lady is going through. I have always been really smart and an over achiever. I always loved school every day was more exciting than the day before. I entered high school and loved every minute of it my freshman year. I excelled well and maintained very good grades. I was very atheletic and skilled. I was confronted by a group of the in crowd kids about this and they broke down every ounce of confidence that I every owned. I was called whitey and oreo and Ms goodie goodie. I cried and began to look for ways to avoid school all together. Well one day I recieved my report and I had failed so many of my classes that my mother moved and transferred me to another school. However that only made matters much worse for me. I eventually went on to be home schooled. Tragedy struck and I was forced to get a job and pay my mothers bills. I never finished school. I have recently payed off my debt owed to the home school program I went through. I have no diploma which equals a very low paying job for me. I barely have money for food. I would like to get back on track with my life I’m only 21 years old. My life long dream career is to be a lawyer. I feel absolutely motivated to finish were I left off 5 years ago. I am now crying out for help. If there is anyone out there who has information that can help me please send me an email. www.JFranklin@simon.com Thank you.

By Tamara

December 1, 2005 09:08 AM | Link to this

What a great article Rick! I see this as a two part problem; A mother of a 4 year old who is articulate and many say very smart some relatives already comment,”You must have him around a lot of “white” people.” As if that is the only way he would be that smart so I see the trend already beginning. However I do feel as if the reason being smart is not revered in our community is because we rarely see or read about our youth who are smart and doing good things and there are plenty. We as a community need to demand to see more of this.

By Paige

December 1, 2005 09:09 AM | Link to this

This was well overdue. I attended high school from 1993-1997 and experienced things similar to Mandisa’s. Unfortunately this mentality has been around for decades. I encourage everyone to read “Darwin’s Athletes: How Sport has Damaged Black American and Preserved the Myth of Race” by John Hoberman. It will enlighten you. I promise.

By Craig Ford

December 1, 2005 09:10 AM | Link to this

Amen, brother. I’m very discouraged with the polarization of our society along socio-economic and racial lines. Unfortunately, the results are reflected in the attitudes of parents & children, but the cause is highly complex and long-standing. Until we have elected officials who care more about helping solve social problems and less about getting re-elected, the problems will only worsen. Sorry for sounding so cynical.

By dee

December 1, 2005 09:10 AM | Link to this

I admire anyone who dares to step outside the accepted mold and dare to be the best they can be. Why give in to the pressure of others, because your success is all about what you do, not what they do and they certainly aren’t going to pay bills for you.

By Tommy

December 1, 2005 09:11 AM | Link to this

I’m confused…You mean to tell me that Blacks can be racist too?

By Fessa

December 1, 2005 09:12 AM | Link to this

Thank GOD for people like you and the others who are brave enough to place the blame where it belongs. As a single person, it’s much more obvious to me (than most parents) when their children are “wilding out” or behaving in otherwise unproductive ways. I understand that - as a parent - you can’t whip/chastise/discipline a child for everything, but consistency IS the key. So, for those parents who consistently buy their kids videos and not books, $150 tennis shoes and no deposit into college funds…to those parents who don’t hold their children accountable for their actions at home but want to fight the teacher/principal for disciplining the children at school…when is someone going to wake up and realize that we need to consistently do things that will create a generation of responsible and respectable adults? TV (including BET, soap operas, many primetime commercials, and most primetime tv shows) is exposing our kids to soft porn at earlier ages and when parents have to work, the kids are sometimes left to their own devices which more than likely includes watching tv. Ok…I’ll step down from my soapbox now. I just wanted to say thanks for writing the article and to ask a few questions. Is it possible for our churches to take a more active role in providing parental support through classes that help them become more effective? For those of us who volunteer with youth, are there programs to help us become better/more effective mentors? and how can we hold the govt accountable for developing after-school programs rather than beefing up the penetentiary system?

By Thom

December 1, 2005 09:13 AM | Link to this

Here and in many other places I hear other African Americans rallying cry: “Embrace our culture”! It makes me very angry. What is OUR culture? That is what Rick Badie’s article speaks to exactly and yet so many of you still don’t get it! Is Ebonics our culture? Is it unwed parenthood? Is the ghetto our culture? Is rap our birthright? How about athletics? Is that our culture? Is our culture, boys walking around with their pants at their knees? Please tell me what MY culture is! My culture as a black man is to be the best I can be. Get down off the cross people! Someone needs the wood! This “black” mentality is killing our people. In a recent study it was stated that over 65% of young black men have a criminal record. Is this our culture? What is our culture? If our culture is so important and so different from “whitey”, then please tell me what whitey’s culture is. I don’t believe there is one. Parents need to stop telling their children that whitey did something to our people, so we can’t achieve. Stop assigning blame anywhere but at ourselves - and that isn’t a racial thing. Everyone of every race needs to accept personal responsibility for their actions!

By Kym

December 1, 2005 09:14 AM | Link to this

Wow. This editorial hits so close to home it is scary. My son attends a majority black elementary school on the Southside of Fulton County. An the parents there are a prime example of what we are talking about here in this forum. Not Interested! It is shameful, and a slap in the face to all of the people who fought so hard for black children to recieve equal rights and education in this country. My son watched a special on school intergration in Little Rock, and I explain to him that those childern faced a huge risk in even attempting to go to school in that day and time. Now in our lifetime we have parents who are ungrateful idiots who cant explain to their kids about school intergration, or maybe clueless themselves about who HE Holmes was and why he is important to their legacy. They can tell you that itis a Marta train station I am sure. Just disgraceful the attitude. An worse yet, these kids are the future. Mandisa, you dont let the world’s future idiots get you down. Keep learning everything this world has to offer.

By dee

December 1, 2005 09:17 AM | Link to this

About athletes, a very fine black executive of Chik-filet and a former Tech quarterback sponsor and Ideals program for high school atheletes. This program grooms young men and encourages them to improve their speaking skills and gives them a guide to a better life.

By Antuane

December 1, 2005 09:21 AM | Link to this

I have experienced the same thing. Even more so when I moved to Atlanta. I really hate that about the African-American community.

By chas

December 1, 2005 09:22 AM | Link to this

I think that this article was a waste of words. If the young lady is “that” smart, but cannot mentally and physically adapt to peer pressure, I question her survival in the “real world.” A world in which you must adapt to the pressures of “friends,” politics in the workplace, family and etc. in order to lead a successful well balanced life. I hope that her parents get her the help that she needs, and maybe that counselor will give her a few tips on “coping” or a prescription for Lexapro.

Please note that this comment was made from a successful minority that achieved greatness throughout high school and has since earned three college degrees. Lastly I am an accomplished saxophonist player, but more importantly I did not succumb to peer pressure, which was not only given out by Blacks but other races as well.

By Bruce Wilcox

December 1, 2005 09:23 AM | Link to this

I agree Mike Billips and HP that it is just high school peer pressure that knows no race. White Trash, Rednecks, Skinheads, Jocks and of course the Nerds. Those labels don’t seem to apply to Blacks do they?

The majority of students, all races, just want to blend into the background and the majority of students succeed.

I’m sure if you ask ANY student in any high school if they have ever been made to feel that they just don’t fit in, I’m sure across the board the answer would be YES.

Let’s turn the whole debate around, how many white students have gone on killing sprees because they didn’t fit in and were misunderstood compared to blacks?

Bottom line, it’s just a part of growing up and some handle it better than others.

Turning it into a race issue just ensures the comments will flow.

By Jim Denty

December 1, 2005 09:24 AM | Link to this

Amen! Thank you for pointing out what many recognize but few will admit.

By Nit2winit

December 1, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

You raise a couple of good questions, but leave out one important thing: history. Intellectualism began for Black people since the beginning of time, considering the great libraries of Timbuktu, Kemetic philosophies and many other African centers of learning that were raided, and destroyed by Napoleon Bonaparte and many other “figures” that now take credit for these schools of thought. We must not ignore this factor, despite what the textbooks say.

Mandisa is following her tradition, of daring to be tap into both sides of her brain and producing good grades in spite of a climate that hopes she fails.

We should celebrate our youth’s perseverance while encouraging those who are misguided to do the same, rather than pointing fingers and scoff. While some choose ignorance, many others simply do not have access or are suffering from other mental factors caused and aggravated by internalizing inferiority and having FEAR.

Those who have a foundation in thier history prior to slavery and civil rights, are likely to be more confident in thier abilities and thier contribution the world at-large. However, many educators trying to do this are seen as renegades and must find ways to educate outside of the school day.

If we truly want to solve our problems, our children must learn who they are, so that they can decode the world to thier own cultural understanding.

Until we can say we have done this, we have only aggravated the problem by polarizing our children, and continuing the great divide founded by the reknown WEB DuBois.

By DC

December 1, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

Mr. Badie, this is a terrific piece and needed to be written, but I am in awe that so many of us are acting as though this is the first time we have heard about this. This is a very serious problem in our community and I am happy that you addressed it, but what I see is that both in your article and in the postings we are directing comments toward the “ghetto” or people there. Our brothers and sisters there are not the major cause of the problem, it is those of us who have made it and refuse to require our children to do better. Yes, you did make that point, but it was after the uncalled for ghetto reference. Had I not been an athlete, I would have had more problems because of my acedemic excellence. I had the same issues as the young sister, but because of my popularity it was to a much less degree. Lastly, to those who say that she should not let it bother her are out of touch with reality. Peers approval no matter your place in life is extremely important to most individuals. She acted as a normal teenager would, but her parents being there for made all the difference in the world. Now we see why this young lady will be prosperous in her endevours in life, she has a strong support system at home. Way to go mom and dad!!! Keep up the good work Miss Mandisa and hopefully we will read about you the next time under much different circumstances.

By jim dumond

December 1, 2005 09:25 AM | Link to this

Columbine comes to mind, Bruce.

By Sonja

December 1, 2005 09:26 AM | Link to this

This is a situation that has been going on since the dawn of time. When I was attending elementary school and would get a good grade I would be teased. I was always teased for speaking properly, but I refused to “dumb myself down” to apease my peers. I’m thankful my mother placed emphasis on education and speaking properly.

I learned in time I was not the one with the problem. The people commenting on my desire to excel, and my proper speaking had the issues. Instead of making themselves better, they would tease me to mask their ignorance.

It’s high time our youth realize there is more to life than being a hip hop star, or an athlete. There is nothing wrong with speaking properly and being intelligent. Speaking in slang, and not finishing your education will get you no where fast in life. By the time people find that out it’s too late.

IMHO there is no such thing as speaking black or white. You either speak with intelligence or sound like a fool. Personally I would rather speak with intelligence.

By Mignon Spencer

December 1, 2005 09:27 AM | Link to this

Thanks Greg for callinga “spade” a “spade”. Here’s a poem that speaks to peer pressure. It’s more prevalent than most people will admit. Like Madisa, many adults in the workplace are also affected. This young lady is getting prepared and won’t be devastated later on when she experiences it. You, too, can be a victor not “victim.” Simply refuse to succumb to ignorant, hateful, jealous underachievers—life’s losers. Madisa keep your head above the mindless herd:

from Pearls from the Soul, Volume II by M.R. Spencer

Where one goes, the others will follow Whether over a cliff or into a river

If a friend or relative dislikes Jim You will have little interest in getting to know him What is the reason for this phenomenon? A human behavior since time begun.

Why can four little kids play together One gets angry and just says “forever” Four adults are enjoying each other One gets a promotion and nobody speaks to the brother!

An explosion occurs and everybody runs You’re a fool not to take that plunge A famous case of a woman that was stabbed Neighbors watches as she was grabbed.

No one rushed to initiate her rescue They didn’t call 911 or an emergency crew Her warm blood spilled into the street She bled to death and left in heap.

The mindless heard didn’t make a move Each one afraid what assisting would do They stood in windows watching each other As someone lost a siser or a mother.

The lone rangers (Madisa) rise above the crowd They dance to the beat of their spirit They think their own thoughts They walk their own walk.

They choose to be “nerds” Rather trampled in the common herd They are confident and don’t have to slander The fear in jealousy they know how to handle.

Where one goes, the other simpletons will follow Whether over a cliff or into a river. Copyright Dante’s Publishing.

By julie

December 1, 2005 09:28 AM | Link to this

Your column about Mandisa should be framed and posted in every school across the nation!! I’m Native American, and I think all races should be listening. How true and sad.

By Susie

December 1, 2005 09:30 AM | Link to this

Wow, there’s not much anyone can add to that, Rick. You said it all and you said it well. It should infuriate us ALL when this happens!

By Natasha

December 1, 2005 09:31 AM | Link to this

I LOVE IT, I LOVE IT My only hope is that somehow this article will reach the students, or preferably our entire community

By Mona

December 1, 2005 09:31 AM | Link to this

It amazes me that things are still so much about skin color and being hip. One of the main reasons I moved to Georgia from the DC area is because it looked like my kids could still be smart and do well in school and not be ostracized as uncool. I was right in elementary school but in middle school and high school it has became an increasingly disruptive issue all over again. My daughter started parkview this year and has a real hard time with the color thing. She is mixed but is very fair. The white kids say she dresses ghetto and must do weed. Even her friends tease her and the jokes I hear my daughter participating in make me cringe. It seems the main focus of all the conversations with all the kids black, white, latino is whether someone acts white or black or ghetto. My daughter is struggling big time with the mentality. It is an issue when we shop for clothes. These jeans or brand will automatically put her with a certain group. My circle of friends have always been multicultural and multiracial but the Parkview crowd doesn’t seem to allow this for my daughter and she really doesn’t know how to choose to be black or white since she has always been both in the past. It is a problem in Gwinnett but it seems worse at “exclusive” Parkview. It is hard to turn your back on one side of your family and your self in order to have some friends or some place to belong. For the first time ever, home schooling is looking like an acceptable alternative to all this crap.

By Terry Holmes

December 1, 2005 09:33 AM | Link to this

This is the same thing that Shaina is going through.

By Home

December 1, 2005 09:35 AM | Link to this

I need to print this with Shaina.

By P. Darden

December 1, 2005 09:35 AM | Link to this

Mr. Badie, It is good to hear a black man finally tell the truth about our people. We are losing it because we don’t value education anymore and it is very evident in the way our children—even those from middle and upper middle class families—don’t place any value in learning. I’ve always blamed the parents(married, single, rich, or poor) and I plan to instill in my little girl the same values that were instilled in me by my single mother who was working class poor, but understood the value of an education. She demanded that I was articulate and smart—it was not an option and I wasn’t allowed to use my socioeconomic status as an excuse. Also, my teachers didn’t accept failure and demanded the best from me. When I was in school it was those “thugged out and underachieving students” who were ridiculed by others because we all wanted to be in the smart group—and that wasn’t too long ago (late 80s), but it seems like a lifetime. Unfortunately, we—black people—continue to make excuses for things that we do have control over and that’s our children and how they view themselves and the world. I know most of my friends and colleagues recognize the “state of emergency” happening in our community and we are determined to “stop the madness”. I hope the rest would “wake up” and do the same.

By Mike

December 1, 2005 09:38 AM | Link to this

As an african immigrant, I was always amazed by the actions of fellow blacks, citizens of the most powerful economy in the world. Instead of taking advantage of the chance they have, they will complain about slavery and dance and drink and drug they way down the drain. Someone should remind them, that being a second class citizen in America beats the hell out of being from most countries overseas, and I actually mean most of western europe! While thousand of people risk their lives daily for a chance to come and work here, those citizen with right to school and scholarship prefer worship BET and rap. What a shame, we need a couple more young Martin Luther Kings, but noone seems to be willing to stand up (wassup Obama?)

By E. Lewis

December 1, 2005 09:38 AM | Link to this

No matter what your race or culture is, when your heroes and idols are thugs and/or idiots that is what is going to be adores by youth.

By Lisa

December 1, 2005 09:38 AM | Link to this

We must remember there are 2 sides to every story. Maybe the reason Mandisa is being ostracized is not because she is smart but because of something else she is doing. Of course, she wouldn’t tell her parents the whole truth if the reason is something she is doing. Everyone automatically jumped on the other “African American” students and not Mandisa without knowing their side of the story. I was considered one of the “smart African Americans” in school and speak what’s termed “proper english” but I never had a problem in school and was one of the most popular kids in school. My daughter attends an 90%white public elementary school and is very intelligent, outgoing, and speaks very well. People always comment on how smart and kind she is and how well she speaks. I stress to her the importance of education but I also try very hard to instill in her love and respect of self, culture, family, and most importantly GOD.

My niece who is a senior in high school takes AP classes, doesn’t speak Ebonics, is a member of the Beta Club, a Senior Class Officer and doesn’t experience the same problems as Mandisa. She is very popular and so are her friends who also take AP classes. They are definitely high achievers and are very proud of it. I think before we admonish the other African American students in Mandisa’s class we should at least know the view of the other students. What if their reason for not liking Mandisa has to do with her personality and not the way she speaks or her intelligence? You’ve all judged them prematurely. What if Mandisa is a spiteful and mean person and no one likes her because of that? Maybe the other African American students see her as simply not being a likeable individual and this has nothing to do with being smart or acting “white”, whatever that means. Maybe, Mandisa’s parents should be at fault for raising a child with no interpersonal or social skills, and maybe they should work on building her up as an individual proud of who she is, her culture, her family, and not worry about what others think about her.

Maybe Mandisa’s parents should teach her to be a stronger, more self-assured INDIVIDUAL.

By Nancy2

December 1, 2005 09:38 AM | Link to this

Bravo Rick!!! Contrary to some of the bloggers here who have expressed dismay and hopelessness, I am really excited about how much press this issue is getting of late. Thank you Bill Cosby, as I believe he was the first to have the courage to speak-up and “out” the problem. The more we talk about this issue, the more we will realize that we are not alone in our struggle and the more we will feel empowered to help our children overcome it. It does begin with the parents and it can be fought.

To those who say it is more than just a black issue, I say yes, but non-whites are still the ones most affected as a majority. There are white kids who choose to emulate the thug culture and end up equally disenfranchised but they are a minority.

I dislike Rap and Hip Hop music because it is destroying our Black music talent. Where are our Duke Ellington’s, Quincy Jones’, Miles Davis’, Sammy Davis Jr.’s, and speaking of Sammy, he suffered double discrimination his entire life. Sammy was arguably the most talented man ever to live on this planet but because he WAS talented in a non-jazz way, i.e. theater, he was harrassed and used by whites and ostracized by blacks. Had he lived today, he would have been much more appreciated and reveered like Gregory Hines. We should be asking the Don Cheedles of today to speak out about what they had to go through when they were trying to be the talented person they are in today’s black culture.

Come on kids. Stop giving us only “Beat Poetry” - a rhythm track and accappella voice-overs. Give us some MUSIC. Give us something that we can actually play and sing 20 years from now. THAT is black culture; THAT is black achievement.

Keep talking folks. It is discussions like these that will allow us to stop this chain of self-rstraint. Talk to your kids and find out what’s happening to them. It begins with the parents, as Rick said.

By Tamara B

December 1, 2005 09:39 AM | Link to this

I am not too many years removed from Mandisa’s experience. My family relocated from the West coast, where my brother and I attended an mostly white and Latino academically focused traditional school. I was shocked, even as an 11 year old, how disdainful the Black students at my new Florida middle school were of myself and my brother’s of supposedly “talking White” and being nerds. But I never did hide my academic achievements, since my parents taught me to work hard and be proud of my efforts. I earned a full scholarship for all four years of undergraduate school, and now at 22 years old am just finishing my first semester of rigorous graduate/intership program at GSU. I wish I could tell more high achieving Black students, especially girls, how well worth it their hard work will be. High school only lasts four years (even less if you are especially bright!), so be assured that there is a bright future ahead. And like another post commented, just wait till college, where having brains is lauded. Good luck, Miss Mandisa!

By Huh?

December 1, 2005 09:39 AM | Link to this

How do you get away with using the term “whitey” when the so-called “n-word” is off-limits? I used to respect Rick Badie. No more.

By georgia

December 1, 2005 09:39 AM | Link to this

If you are speaking with an Englishman over the phone, can you tell the race? No. They all go to the same schools there as we do here. It is a choice and a sad one at that. Everyone has the same opportunity but unfortunately most don’t care to succeed. Blacks need to quit holding blacks down.

By E. Lewis

December 1, 2005 09:42 AM | Link to this

I am white and went to school in Kentucky. The students were mostly white and mostly rural. They never worried about talking correct English or getting good grades much less graduating from high school. Their aspirations weren’t that lofty and they looked down on their own who thought that way.

By Lyrazel

December 1, 2005 09:42 AM | Link to this

Everyone knows this has been a problem for years so why is the black community still making intellectual oppression a part of life? Which generation of parents do you want to blame, Rick? Now parents? Yesterdays parents? Parents 20 years ago? It is easy to cast blame at popular culture that trumpets its black-ness while continually depreciating the value of its men, women and children. Black-flight has been happening for a very long time especially in southern states because so little value placed on education, arts and accomplishment beyond monetary compensation. When the achieving intelligent student leaves, she is gone and wont return if the neighborhood has nothing to offer except ridicule and depravation thus it leaves black communities bankrupt and easily corrupted by its own apathy.

By Corliss

December 1, 2005 09:42 AM | Link to this

Anti-intellectualism seen as “uncool” is one problem, linking it to black culture takes the problem to an even more distructive level. From a cultural and historical angle, it is a disconnection from the rich history of black contribution to the advancement of mankind. From a practical angle, it is just not smart to continue to the accept the results that dumbing down has on black children who in too many instances are needlessly under achieving. We are all responsible for leading the way to correct this view that educational achievement - or the lack thereof- is tied to skin color. Cosby cracked on the poor for not stepping to the plate in directing their children - those of us who feel we have “arrived” need to look at what we are doing to contribute to the shift from educational achievement as a non negotiable part of our community culture. Thanks Rick and everyone for taking part in a much needed public discussion of this issue.

By Craig

December 1, 2005 09:42 AM | Link to this

Our AMERICAN culture suffers due to attitudes such as that expressed by Mandissa’s so-called peers. I am a middle-aged white male, one of who’s heroes is Dr. Martin Luther King. Does that mean I’m “acting black”. Can you imagine “I Have a Dream”, one of the greatest speaches of all time, in ebonics? As a culture, Americans have stopped embracing excellence and starting rewarding conformity. Of course there is still racism in America, and stupid bigots will probably always be here. But the days are gone when the apparatus of the state kept non-whites from achieving an equal eduation. The opportunity is there. I think Dr. King looked to the day when nothing related to a person’s race was an inhibitor to their success. How has that dream been lost?

By E. Lewis

December 1, 2005 09:43 AM | Link to this

I am white and went to school in Kentucky. The students were mostly white and mostly rural. They never worried about talking correct English or getting good grades much less graduating from high school. Their aspirations weren’t that lofty and they looked down on their own who thought any differently.

By Get Real

December 1, 2005 09:44 AM | Link to this

What’s with this “African American” tag? How many so-called “African Americans” are actually from Africa? If not, you’re black, Negro, etc. My ancestors are from England, but I don’t call myself European-American. Quit always trying to be something you aren’t. Isn’t that what this column is all about???

By EC

December 1, 2005 09:45 AM | Link to this

I think that this is just a problem at suburban schools, where we african americans try to overcompensate for not living in the “ghetto”. I for one graduated from an all-black inner city school in West Atlanta and I was an honor roll student from grade K-12,I never had that problem of people saying I was trying to be white, people just knew I was about my work and nothing else. Thats funny, this is just one more case of suburban blacks who watch to much BET trying to act “hard”. Especially here in Atlanta, a city that has a sizable black upper middle class.There is nothing cool about acting “hard”, I have seen family members and friends dead in the street beacuse they wanted to act “hard”. The parents might be succesful, but the children act as if they were raised in the projects, because thats what they feel they have to do to fit in. As a young black male I feel that part of the blame rests on the media, which does not afford our black youth very many positive role models to build their character upon

By Markus

December 1, 2005 09:45 AM | Link to this

Black students chiding other black students for being “smart” like studying is nothing new. This goes on through adulthood as well in the black community. Any doubts? Look at how Condi Rice is chided by so-called black leaders for being “white” as in “conservative.”

Anyway, at some point in a child’s life, you have to guide them into knowing the difference between being “cool” to have out with friends and what is best for his or her future. At some point, you have to step in. I stepped in by sending my two children to private schools. Government schools are corropt and incompetent enough as it is.

By b.knight

December 1, 2005 09:47 AM | Link to this

Rick, I agree with your comments 100%. But, there is one thing that I’ve noticed and it disturbs me to no end. I’ve gone to my kids schools and witnessed “teachers” acting thuggish and using ebonics and dressing like hoochies……what ever happened to teachers being professional. There was a time you could look at a person and almost tell that he/she was an educator by the way they carried themselves.

By lyndi

December 1, 2005 09:47 AM | Link to this

This is just a prime example of how racism is not going away any time soon. Skin color dictates whether or not one can be smart and successful, which is just a sad fact. Even though it is alot of pressure, minority students need to find the semi-equal balance of being successful and embracing heritage at the same time. There is nothing with being more “ethnic;” the issue is that the negative connotations associated with that sometimes inspire people to not try and use their ethnicity as an excuse for failure. And just so everyone knows, Ebonics, known in academia as African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is an actual language with its own grammar, syntax, morphology, and vocabulary. If you need proof of this, just ask Toni Morrison, who has come up with the five forms of BE (verb “to be”) in AAVE.

By Maya

December 1, 2005 09:48 AM | Link to this

My nephew is black and attends a predominantly white school, and he gets ridiculed for making straight A’s, and for not wearing “hip hop” clothes to school, and he has been told several times by his white peers that they are more “black” than he is. I think the issue of this “lack of acceptance of excellence” amongst our youth is more of a generational issue, rather than a racial issue. I blame the media and television for promoting this ignorance, not race!

By lyndi

December 1, 2005 09:49 AM | Link to this

Sorry…that should read “There is nothing wrong with being more “ethnic.”

By Fed Up

December 1, 2005 09:50 AM | Link to this

Don’t depend on role models, or blame the lack of them for the black apathy or failures. Look in the mirror…that’s the one you should blame. That’s the problem in our society, everyone is looking for a scapegoat. In this case, it’s white society.

By mike

December 1, 2005 09:54 AM | Link to this

It’s sad that the black community uses the race card so often then turn arounds and does something like this to someone trying to better themselves and seperate themselves from the “tough guy, thug culture” so often and rightly so associated to the black community.

I run my own company we have about 30 employees now. I had an interview last week for a new entry level position. We had black kids coming in with the sideways hats, the tattoos, all the fake chains around their neck it was outrageous. I ended up hiring the white kid that put a nice suit on had a good resume and carried himself well. I certainly would have given an equal oppertunity to a black kid that dressed well and had an equal resume. Unfortunatly I have yet to see one walk through the door. The black community is doing it to themselves now and frankly you all can call me a racist because this highly overused word doesn’t bother me anymore.

By Young Cosbyite

December 1, 2005 09:55 AM | Link to this

We need a Cosbyite cultural revolution thru ideological civil war. This is a true crisis and our “leaders” aren’t treating it as such.

By notso

December 1, 2005 09:55 AM | Link to this

Awwrite, Nancy2, I surrender. It is a black problem! So can y’all fix it without everyone (black, white, red and yellow) being involved?

By Fred

December 1, 2005 09:55 AM | Link to this

I have a 16yr. old daughter and I can personally say that while I identify with the topic - I don’t agree that it’s always the parents who are the cause. I agree with HP - my daughter has to make a conscience decision not to succumb to the peer pressure. I (we) as adults and parents have a responsibility to teach and guide our youth in the direction they should go. But ultimately, each individual will make their own decisions and have to live with the results.

By James

December 1, 2005 09:56 AM | Link to this

The issue at hand here is not limited to kids in school. Case in point: Dr. Condoleeza Rice. Look at her approval ratings among adult blacks, they’re in the single digit range. Dr. Rice is one of the most powerful women in world, she her accomplishments are out of this world. But, how many black magazine covers do you see her on? How many young black women relate to Beyonce more than do Dr. Rice? How much good press does Dr. Rice get from ‘her’ community?

By Dr. Jay

December 1, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

So, are low-income blacks that live in low-income apartments/subdivisions GHETTO? I think your views are no different than the black kids who are teasing your daughter for being herself and achieving academicaly in school. I admire you as parents for the values that you have taught your daughter. However, if we change once we reach a certain socio-economic class, we will eventually turn into the same mis-understood students at PHS. The issue is a systemic problem that the students at PHS do not understand. Most parents don’t understand because there is subversive racism going on within our own race. Until we keep on our forebrains what and where we come from, this problem will continue to be a systemic one that will never go away.

By Craig

December 1, 2005 09:57 AM | Link to this

Fed Up, Actually, the point of the article doesn’t appear at all to be blaming white society. In fact, it appears to be an appeal for black youth to quit seeing ignorance and thuggery as “black” and education, literacy, and an appreciation of fine arts as “white”. And I also agree with Maya, this has gone beyond a black cultural issue. It is a generational issue crossing racial barriers. Our children, in sizable numbers, do not see education and hard work as something desirable. They all think they’ll be vie stars, rock or rap stars, or professional athletes and that they really won’t need an education.

By M-STRONG

December 1, 2005 09:59 AM | Link to this

Finally, a black parent who has the courage to say that education = success.

By aperry

December 1, 2005 09:59 AM | Link to this

Why is this trait only magnafied in the black community? People of lesser intellegence in ALL societies redicule those of higher intellegence. Countless movies and stories have been written about this phenomenom. Somehow, though, this is a “black thang”. Forget the years of high school jocks reigning terror on the chess club members…no, that never happened. The whole while its only been black kids accusing their intellegensia of being “white”…thats the ONLY reality.

By Patrick

December 1, 2005 10:00 AM | Link to this

Rick-

First, here’s a little background about me. I am a graduate of the Dual Degree Program from Morehouse College and Georgia Tech. I also went on to obtain a Master’s in Structures for Civil Engineering. Now, I design bridges for a living. I attended a 90% white school, Central Gwinnett, so, I believe I’ve got a little perspective on it.

I congratulate Mandisa on choosing to pursue her dreams and dismiss the negativity. I believe that the problem facing black society is that there are so many ways to make the ‘quick dollar,’ no child wants to wait or struggle to for extended periods of time to make the money they wish. This virtue is not being enforced in today’s youth. So, I would say that this problem stems from parents, lack of parents, and the media, as well as other places.

No offense to the music industry or sports industry, because I feel that both important contributions to society, but I feel that when you ask a black child today what they want to be when they grow up, they only answer will be a rapper or an athlete. There are a lot of musicians and athletes who are intelligent and do commit to helping their own neighborhoods and other cities. However, children need to learn that more things are important such as becoming politicians to change laws, or becoming lawyers to defend all people against unjust causes, or designing buildings and bridges to change people everyday lives.

There are many individuals who make less or more money than celebrities, but the important aspect of their lives in the control and impact they have on society by owning corporations or holding positions in government. Instead of only applying creativity to the arts or sports, why not use that same creativity towards all other fields? I know there are plenty of us out there already doing this and I’m very happy for it, but I fear that if there aren’t enough children learning this now, what will happen in the future? In the eyes of other people, blacks are only good for playing sports, working out, and writing music. It’s time to dispel that myth.

By Keiana

December 1, 2005 10:00 AM | Link to this

Rick,

I totally enjoyed your column. I experienced that as well growing up in my small predominately white hometown in NJ. I was labled a “nerd”, “square” and a “geek” because I didn’t act like the rest of the black kids in my hometown. However, I must say that these same people that ridiculed me in the past are now the same ones that talked about how much they wish they acted like me in the past. They know admire me because I went off and achieved great things while many of them are still stuck in our hometown struggling to get by. I owe it all to my mother, who was a single parent, that I, like the white kids, can have the best education and achieve all that I desire by remembering that education is key. She also reminded me that as a black female you have to work twice as hard to gain respect. That is something that I will not ever forget.

By mike

December 1, 2005 10:01 AM | Link to this

Craig,

I disagree that hard work and education is not desirable. The problem is we reward laziness and medicority. Kids these days are rewarded for losing. I heard a parent the other day talking about a 9th place ribbon their kid got in a science fair. NINTH place? Come on when I was a kid I was ashamed to tell my dad i got 2nd place in anything. Why work hard to get 1st place or to get a job to pay for an apartment when you can be lazy get a 9th palce ribbon and get the government to pay for you apartment?

By Carla

December 1, 2005 10:02 AM | Link to this

I am glad that you wrote this article. There are adults in the Black community who share in the same belief. My daughter, who was a Magnet student, also in the Beta Club and currently a Freshman at Emory’s Oxford Campus has been referred to as a little White or kind of White because of her intellect and her maturity. I find it disgusting that intelligence, manners, morals etc. are considered to be qualities of the White race and when young Black children possess these qualities they are labelled and often stigmatized.

By Rose

December 1, 2005 10:03 AM | Link to this

Amen, Amen…a Very well written article! Sadly for some of us this type of backlash from our own community follows us into our adult lives. How can we grow as a people if those who choose to excel receive so much negativity from our own. I get more hate from other blacks than from any other race. Its time to mature as a people!

By Randy

December 1, 2005 10:04 AM | Link to this

Great article but sad a young person feels uncomfortable being herself and treated unfairly by her own race! Like in most situations it is ignorance and jealousy that cause these folks to respond this way.

It does amaze me though that Larry’s comment got around to blaming President Bush, particularly for successful black athletes. I think the basketball/football problems existed long before Bush or even Clinton. We fans allow that entire arena to exist because we watch them, pay to see them, buy their stuff and don’t care whether they are educated or not.

Larry shows his lack of education in trying to make it a Republican problem rather then blaming the parent or parents who are responsible for the actins of their kids.

By John

December 1, 2005 10:04 AM | Link to this

I am a WM college teacher, I first encounter this “Smart is not Black” attitude 20+ years ago in another city; I had a student who when asked quetions in class never knew the answer to even the easy questions, but on examinations and written assignments was an A+ student. He even asked me to put poor grades on his exmas so his “friends” would not know he was a good student.

This is an attitude that is WORST than slavery!

By Anne

December 1, 2005 10:05 AM | Link to this

We are white. My 10th grade daughter came home recently and told me that 2 black girls in her math class made fun of another black girl b/c she spoke very clearly - good English my daughter called it. She asked me why they did that. I had no answer for her. I’m glad you wrote this article.

By Kojo

December 1, 2005 10:05 AM | Link to this

I call it the “Curb” mentality. You, know the cats you see standing outside all day. I know for a fact that I dumbed down in High School. I was a fairly successful athlete in a lilly white school in Ohio. I too tried to keep any academic success low key. Graduation awards “outed” me. If funny …I went CAU and saw a room full of cats like me, and loved it. today, my son struggles with the same thing as a 7th grader. I want to protect him because it is painful to hear and see the stupidity, but I have to let him be his own man. I do try to get him around other guys and their sons who who are in the same situation for support and to see that it is o.k. to be a renaissance man.

By Maria. A. G.

December 1, 2005 10:06 AM | Link to this

Unfortunately, this situation is not only about Madison, but so many blacks and now the issues are showing in so many other races. I applaud Madison and her parents on the desire to excel and being who you are, not what others think you should be.

I am 36 years old and I still have people who say I don’t talk or act like I am black because of my interest, multi-cultural friends, etc.

How am I supposed to act? I say no other then being ME.

I must tell a story of how big the problem is and how the problem still is happening today. I grew up in Northeast Georgia and in the second grade a teacher segregated the class. She put all the black children and all what she considered lower class white kids in a section of the class and allowed us to do whatever almost each day.

My mother or father would pick my brother and I from school each day and ask my teacher how I was doing in class. I was getting good grades, but my parent’s felt something was not right. My parents learned of what my teacher was doing and all the parents of the students that were being discriminated against were called in for a special meeting. The teacher felt we were not worth teaching and she was given early retirement.

Despite the fact that we had the desire to learn the so-called teacher Ms. Davis felt that we were not worth teaching by the color of our skin or social standing.

Society needs to realize as Madison has learned to deal with the issues of her peers thinking she does not act black that each human being’s blood is the same color and our intelligence, interest and desires should not be based on the color of our skin, but our desire of being the greatest we can be and being simply you.

By Stephen Smith

December 1, 2005 10:06 AM | Link to this

Great column! People need to be challenged every day. Expect excellence at the very least. Keep it up.

By Pamela

December 1, 2005 10:07 AM | Link to this

I feel that all children have the same rights to achieve and excel in life but several chose to use their race as an excuse to fail. My white son attends a high school that is majority black. Every day he comes home from school and has had some type of argument with one of the black children that are “crying” racism. Racism is not an action any longer, it’s a taught excuse. I say being one color doesn’t give any one an excuse not to achieve. If everyone would quit screaming racism I truly believe the entire issue would lighten up if not disappear. This young lady is proof of what someone can achieve regardless of their heritage, social status and color.

By White Dude

December 1, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

“And just so everyone knows, Ebonics, known in academia as African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is an actual language with its own grammar, syntax, morphology, and vocabulary.”

So people are supposed to respect Ebonics as an “actual language” because some liberal, apologist, black professor says it is. So its OK to talk like a thug because one of the black “leaders” says its OK too because it is a proper “language”? Give me a break and get some new leaders. By the way, Ebonics would be, if anything, a “dialect” and not a “language.”

One thing not touched in this article is, what does this girl do to reach out to her black colleagues? If you want to be accepted, you can be smart, but still try to reach out (maybe even try to lift people up?). I’m white, but I went to high school with a bunch of white people that didn’t care about school, they always called me “genius” and what not, but I was still cool with everyone (maybe because I was not ery standoff-ish, played sports, and was generally pretty nice to everyone).

Additionally, the black community always wants the rest of the world to be colorblind. Why does she care if she has black friends at all (ok, so I’m purposely opening a can of worms there, but I’m white and maybe I don’t understand)?

btw, this article is going to do nothing to help this girl at school. I hope you didn’t use her real name.

By Bob

December 1, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

It’s amazing how Lisa can almost demonize this high achieving young lady. This is the same practise some of our politicians use to dodge responsibility. I saw nothing in the article to suggest this young girl was anything but a highly intelegent and focused person.

Bob Clark

By Mike II

December 1, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

Lyndi, if you think ebonics is an acceptable form of language in the corporate world, apparently you are not employed in the world of corporate Amercia. In an interview you most likely will be sitting across the desk of a middle age eduated white or balck person who will not be impressed with your ethnic street slang. I know, I work in Human Resources in corporate America. Ebonics amy be okay if you always want to work the counter at McDonalds, but if you think you’re going to make the big bucks and speak that way, you are so wrong.

By Rallph

December 1, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

The author is so right. Same with Bill Cosby. However one suggestion, dissing blacks for trying to get ahead, and they will succeed, is not all about uncool. A lot of it is a cop out for just being lazy, taking the easy way out. It’s hard to study, work out,run that extra mile in practise. It’s easy to sit around, watch, and denegrate. Thanks for speaking out.

By Nel

December 1, 2005 10:08 AM | Link to this

I am a black woman raised in England and went through the same thing in school many years ago. Stupidity among our people seems to be universal. I was even attacked by a group of girls once because according to them, I thought I was white. People find it hard to deal with people they can’t pigeonhole. Fortunately, I was able to deal with it and they moved on to fighting amongst themselves over boyfriends. I have a child who also “doesn’t fit the mold and because I’ve been there, I can help her navigate. I am a very well-rounded person who is comfortable in just about any setting and can converse with anyone. We are the losers when we limit ourselves. Mandisa is on the right track and must keep strong in the knowledge that this will pass because SHE knows where she wants to go. As the saying goes, “Non illigitamus carborundum”.

By D. Rowan

December 1, 2005 10:09 AM | Link to this

It saddens me to know that this foolishness still takes place. Twenty years ago I experinced similiar treatment. I agree with you, Rick Badie, 100% when you state it starts with the parents.

My West Indian parents came from a place where education was not a right but, a privilege for those who could afford the expense. They taught their children that education was our ticket out of poverty and dispair…..not sports, rapping and dancing. I remember the children whose parents placed similar emphasis on education where not the ones trying to make my life miserable…..they were studying along with me.

Today, I can honestly say I am a better person because of my parents’lesson. I also know I am better off then my former tormentors who are still waiting for record deals and chances to make it to the NFL or NBA.

Respectfully, D.L. Rowan

By Will

December 1, 2005 10:18 AM | Link to this

Being a well-educated black male,I know exactly what Mandisa is going through. I went to a gifted predominately white school in Florida and to this date I feel alienated by the African American community because most of the uneducated ones have always had something to say. I’m just glad that my parents are equally as educated. My mom is a doctor and my dad is a county commissioner. They taught me to believe in myself and keep doing what I’m doing no matter what anyone has to say, black or white.

By Ticked Off Parent

December 1, 2005 10:18 AM | Link to this

Thank you! My daughter and i moved here a year ago. She has been taking heat ever since arriving at her school from other black students for not acting like them or talking them. She has even had boys her age tell her that she isn’t dirty enough! What does that mean?? Like this young lady’s parents i had no clue what was going on until she finally came to me in tears. Trying to fit in is hard enough but to be scorned by people who look like you is a double jeapordy. Do you know who accepted her? White, Asian and Mexican! I always taught my daughters to accept others for who they are and learn something positive from them if you can. Adults need to stop reinforcing this ignorant behavior. BET and MTV cannot be responsible for raising our children. Quit blaming white america and take responsiblity!

By Patrick

December 1, 2005 10:18 AM | Link to this

Thank you for this article! For all our talk about how white racism keeps holding us back, and yes I know racism is far from eliminated in this society, we are our own worst enemy! Whether it’s the embracing of thug culture, the anti-intellectual attitude directed at young black people like Mandisa or the continued use of the N word among ourselves as a “term of endearment,” we keep holding ourselves back in a society that doesn’t reward any of that! I don’t see any other race of people embracing negative images and stereotypes about themselves and ostracising those who choose to have better standards for themselves and their families.

I have a three year old son, and hopefully will soon adopt a two year old, and they will always be taught to speak well, work hard, expand their horizons and not limit themselves based on what anyone, black or white, tells them that black people should limit themselves to. You will never see them wearing their pants halfway down their behinds, they will not be allowed to use the N word in our presence, disrespect women or associate with anyone who doesn’t have their best interests at heart. They will be taught that racism exists and that they may experience it at one time or another but they will not be allowed to use it as an excuse for not trying or for not bettering themselves. If that makes them “white”, so be it but I bet they end up doing much better with their lives than those who would hold them back with their ignorance.

By Carl T.

December 1, 2005 10:18 AM | Link to this

This is not an uncommon problem. I am 52 years old and grew up in Racine, Wisconsin. I had/have the same problem. I played in the band, was in student council and was vice president of my senior class. During my time in the military, I was was chosen to talk to the officers and commanders because I talked “white”. Even today as an adult, some brothers and sisters critize me because I wear suits, wear wing tiped shoes and love math. However, my step son goes to a Gwinett County school and tries to live the “thug” life because he thinks it’s cool. His mother is like me and strives to achieve more mail line goals. I feel that this will change over the years when realizes that he will be under educated and under employed. I have seen African-Americans go through this for years. We have to just stick with our goals and let no one turn us away, black, white or other. It is a difficult thing but, we will have to do it.

By faye coffield

December 1, 2005 10:19 AM | Link to this

Excuse me, but I did not know Parkview High School had a majority Black population. In fact, I was under the false impression that a significant percentage of the children who attend Parkview come from middle class Black and white familes. Thus, I was shocked to learn the school has such a high percentage of Black students who lack exposure to the Black middle class. It is unfortunate this young lady feels that way. But is this problem unique to Black kids or is it prevelant in all communities. I believe it is the latter. I also believe it has a lot to do with whom’s opinions and what group of peers the child wishes to associate with. The total position of what is Black and what is not appears in certain economic groups just as it does in lower economic groups of white who fail to understand there is no white or black way to act. During the 1960s I attended one of the worst inner city high schools in Los Angeles. However our school had a large number of students who participated in our tennis, golf and other clubs not normally associated with Black and especially inner city schools. Perhaps if our children and young adults were not fed a study dose of the “thug” life and more of the realistic life, there would be no false idealogies of what is Black and what is not. Let us not forget the Harlem Renissance, the contributions of Blacks from the onset of this country in such areas as education, development, politics, and other every day contributions. Perhaps Parkview should do as I did when I worked in an low income inner city community center where Black children had not been exposed to the Black middle class - I made the effort to expose them. Ironically they stopped talking about what was and was not Black.

By James II

December 1, 2005 10:20 AM | Link to this

This is NOT just a black or white issue. Poor white kids often experience the same treatment. I grew up dirt floor poor in the south; public housing, government cheese, the whole nine yards. I recall telling a teacher of mine that I wanted to become a doctor when I grew up. She gave me this sly sickening grin and said ” My, my that’s a lofty goal for a kid from the projects”. Her statement hurt, it hurt bad. I went on to become an engineer, my brother a judge and my sister an educator. Poor white kids can suffer the same treatment.

By Rickie Bass

December 1, 2005 10:20 AM | Link to this

God, I can’t agree anymore with the article Rick wrote about Mandisa and I enjoyed reading all the comments that came in on this subject. Bravo, Rick!

Rickie Bass

By Lee

December 1, 2005 10:20 AM | Link to this

andy is correct. This has nothing to do with Affirmative Action or President Bush. Athletes who make money for their colleges are trading their talents for a free education that many would be unable to attain or afford.

This problem stems more from the fact that our society celebrates ignorance. If you ask me, the kids making fun of Mandisa are Uncle Toms to their own race. They wold rather see people of their own color remain subservient to the bondages of poverty than to see them succeed.

By Akeya

December 1, 2005 10:22 AM | Link to this

I remember being in school and being told that I “talk like a white girl.”

I remember being ridiculed and shunned because I knew the answers to tests when many others didn’t.

I remember wondering, “Do white people have the monopoly on being intelligent?” “Is the Bell Curve correct in its assertions?”

What the hell do we expect, though? Have you seen MTV’s “Cribs” lately? How much are athletes paid to throw balls around? Compare this to how much educators are paid. These children are seeing that being smart doesn’t necessarily pay the bills and afford them the luxuries that most of us desire.
How much are we paying for tennis shoes, yet scoff at Kaplan classes to prepare for the SAT? We will put Kimora Lee Simmons and her cheaply-made clothes before school books. How would you react if your child’s school asked the parents to purchase books because the school didn’t have the funds. Most parents would be outraged! But if their child wants the brand new, 105th pair of Air Force Ones, the parents give them the money. How many of you scrambled to Wal-Mart for the X-Box 360, but can’t make it to a PTA meeting?

By Penny Gary

December 1, 2005 10:23 AM | Link to this

I appreciate your comments concerning students, but it is not solely on the parents. As an African-American educator, teachers must embrace diversity and dismiss stereotypical opinions of minority students. I have personally observed numerous occassions where a bright minority student who dressed a certain way was believed to be a low achiever, thus the student did not work up to their potential. We must have great expectations for our youth. Yes, it begins at home, however it must be reinforced in the classroom. Teachers take diversity classes and attend workshops, but they fail to embrace diversity. We need more minority teachers in the schools that will raise a standard and maintain a standard. They must remind our minority youth that unfortunately, the playing field is still uneven. The truth will set us free if we apply the truth to our lives.

By Garland

December 1, 2005 10:24 AM | Link to this

I like this article and I wonder why this is such an odd thing for people to read about. In my days of HS I wasn’t a star athelete I was a debator/FBLA member and an A B student!! My friends were both black and white in my high school which was 16% black. HS is one of the most cliquish times of your life. Everyone who looks back should know that. To me I look at a childs personality which is definitely affected by how they are raised by there parents. Maybe her parents didnt teach her about communication or building friendships, maybe they were only about the books and not concerned about how their daughter socialized with others until now. Which is too late in my book!!!! I made it as an intelligent black male with friends because of my personality. They knew that I was in AP and advanced classes, they also knew that I wasn’t into the crazy things of life but I earned there friendship that’s what I was taught by my parents. People aren’t just going to open up just because you are of the same race.

Another thing people continue to rely on the music and sports industries as role models, they aren’t. WE DID IT TO OURSELVES!!!

By Mike

December 1, 2005 10:24 AM | Link to this

Black people you want an example of racism: When you write Black like this and white like this. Also, keep tossing out that race card, each and every time it’s tossed, it loses its arguement. Even some of my white liberal friends are starting to roll their eyes at the race card. Better find another excuse fast, or God forbid, someome may actually hold you accountable for your own actions.

By B.J.

December 1, 2005 10:25 AM | Link to this

Well Rick, I must say that although you raise an excellent point here, you are about 3 years behind me on this issue (smile)…

This subject, along with the overall destruction of the black family structure primarily due to the welfare state, is the primary reason for the launching of my radio show. I tackle these issues head on, and have NO problem making the “status quo” blacks uncomfortable by telling the TRUTH to the people.

In general, the LOSERS dictate policy in black society today, and in school, the CHILDREN of LOSERS dictate policy in schools. This “bassackwards” mentality is what leads to black school children being called all kinds of derogatory names for “daring” to use the schools for WHAT IT IS DESIGNED FOR—-learning!!!!

The same thing happens to successful black adults. They are made to be felt guilty for actually taking PERSONAL responsibility for their own actions. They are ridiculed by the LOSER family members for being “better off” than the losers are. They are pressured to “help out” those who REFUSED to apply themselves when it matters most—IN SCHOOL. Thank goodness for those students out there with the courage to continue to excel in school DESPITE the heckling by those who are destined to either spend countless hours on street corners, or waiting on government (taxpayer) assistance in order to survive. Furthermore, to all those kids out there who do choose to apply themselves in school, heed this warning: the heckling doesn’t stop in school—just wait until you become a successful adult. This is when you will hear the cries to “give BACK” to “the community.” Isn’t that outrageous? These same people in “the community” that gave you total hell during school have the audacity to ASK you to GIVE them something BACK once you achieve the benefits of succeeding in school despite of? This is beyond amazement.

I have to credit you, Rick, once again for raising this issue. This will be brought up on my next show, on Monday (Dec. 5). All the bloggers out there should check it out. Just visit my website to get caught up on the events/topics I plan to discuss, as well as information on the show. Visit www.bjellis.com for access to a show that represents US—blacks with BRAINS who uses them to think for THEMSELVES.

By Marcus

December 1, 2005 10:25 AM | Link to this

News flash Rick, Mandisa is a “nerd” and unfortunately, they are all riduculed at some point in time, no matter what skin color. You just made it a race thing because that’s what you do.

And Dubois, Mandisa won’t need affirmative action because she is an educated, qualified, African American. More people, black and white, should try this approach before looking for hand outs from the government.

By todd

December 1, 2005 10:27 AM | Link to this

I worked with a lady a few years ago who was black …very educated (2 Masters degrees), successful in her career. Her husband owned a company and held an important position in a utility company. Both children were in college on scholarships and excelling. In her words (not mine) , “most black people we know hate us. We’re too white for them.” I’m a white man who has always been puzzled by this.

By BNN

December 1, 2005 10:27 AM | Link to this

I know exactly what she is going through. I was raised in a similar environment, I have played the violin since age 8, piano, am well read, well travelled and articulate. EVERYONE in my family is college educated including my grandparents. My problems began when I moved south to Georgia. I have been accused of being an Uncle Tom, selling out and more. I refuse to conform myself to their beliefs of how I should be. My career has taken off while those of the backbiters languish. I have a 1 year old daughter that I will teach to be an intelligent and strong black woman. PS - I’m 45 years old - this has been going on for a long time.

By Phyllis

December 1, 2005 10:28 AM | Link to this

I’m glad that all of you are giving really intellectual comments that will encourage Mandisa to overcome this unbelievable situation. However, I’m going to get straight Ghetto in another way. I’m tried of trying to explain things to hard head ignorant people. Mandisa don’t even think twice about that ignorant stuff they are saying. I know this is not your character, but in your mind tell them to kiss your natural……

By Brandon Wilson

December 1, 2005 10:28 AM | Link to this

I am terribly saddened to hear that any child of any race or culture would have to go through anything of this magnitude. I agree that it is a problem in society that parents have to address with their children. I do believe that parents have failed; but, I also believe that society has failed. When children and adolescents view the WB and BET as a representation of what true “blackness” and “black entertainment”, what more are we to expect as a society? It is the duty of parents to broaden the world view of their children. But, it is also all of our responsibility to ensure that the children of the world and all humanity see a better representation of Black Americans. It is easy to cast the blame. But, we all should have personal integrity to say the blame stops with me. What are we doing as individuals to change culture, ideals, and belief systems for the good? Every time we point the finger at anyone but ourselves, it becomes an excuse. Excuses are tools for the incompetent and useless recommendations for the acceptance of failure. I would like to call citizens, parents, educators, faith based leaders, civic leaders, business leaders, and more to ensure that our children get a broader worldview of themselves. It is important for them to understand the usefulness of Ebonics as well as the usefulness of Western English Grammar. They can both propel them into success. It is just important that they understand when it’s appropriate and not appropriate to use either of the two.

By Catherine

December 1, 2005 10:29 AM | Link to this

Very well written but I think it brings up a nasty isue that has gone on far too long in the African American community and has now taken on a political flavor as well. Look at the critisism of brilliant African Americans such as Secretary of State Rice and former Secretary of State Powell. rather than being hailed as heros in the media for their accomplishments-they are said to be too white because they are Republicans. This isn’t just in issue in Gwinett County-it is an issue in Washington DC as well!!

By JaeB

December 1, 2005 10:29 AM | Link to this

I too was an honor student participated in many activities in school, and am black. I never was told I was acting white. I never had to apologize for my blackness and I grew up in the projects of Chicago. What it was for us growing was how cool you were. You could be smart, just don’t act like you are better than anyone else because you are smart. It is not the excelling that is considered being like whitey in the minds of most of these kids, it is the attitude of acting better than the other black kids that gets you labeled as being whitey. All the black people admired my intelligence along with how I dreamed big while staying grouded. I am currently getting a Financial Manager in the Federal Gov’t and attaining my MPA from UGA and I still have friends from High School that did not go to college. So digest on that a little bit.

By Q

December 1, 2005 10:31 AM | Link to this

Rick, this is a really great article! It’s funny in a way because I never experienced this even though I was smart in school. I graduated from high school in a small southeast louisiana town in 1991. I was ranked #9 in my class, but i never had this problem. My school was about 60% white/40% black and there was still segregation (each race had their own prom…there was no school prom). Even though I was very smart in school, I was never teased. I was always in the ‘smart’ classes and the majority of my friends were not, but no one ever once treated me different. We all hung out between classes and at lunch and recess. We would go out on weekends and kick it, and they never dogged me if I didn’t indulge in the things they did (basically drinking wine coolers). Everyone had much respect for me (among the blacks in school I was voted as most likely to succeed). Actually, the only stress that I had came from the black teachers because I chose to go to LSU instead of an HBCU. Even now, I have family members who are smart but they are still popular. They get a lot of respect from their peers. Maybe this also has to do with city life vs small town life. I don’t know. Maybe it has to do with the way a person carries himself. I would leave my black friends to go and talk to my white classmates, and no one ever said anything, and I never had to hide anything. However, I never carried myself in a way that made any of my friends feel beneath me. I spoke the same language, found the same things funny as they did. At the same time, I was involved in all of the national honor societies and clubs, and could sit down and hold a very intelligent conversation with the school principal. I guess I was ‘well rounded’.

For those who don’t believe…..even now (and I am in my early 30’s making over $75K/year), I have close relationships with all different types of people. I can kick it with friends and speak all of the ‘ebonics’ I want. And, I can have a sit down luncheon with my company’s CFO and hold a very intelligent ‘proper english’ conversation.

No one has to ‘dumb down’ (as others have called it) to be popular. However, you don’t have to act like ‘whitey’ to prove your intelligence either. There is nothing wrong with ebonics when it is used in the correct situation. It is the parents responsibility to ensure their kids are well rounded and can handle themselves in all situations. As African Americans, it is very important that we embrace our heritage and not run from it!

By Scott

December 1, 2005 10:32 AM | Link to this

For JFranklin@simon.com (and anybody else interested), you can pick up where you left off and get a high school diploma through the Georgia Department of Technical and Adult Education. See http://www.dtae.org/adultlit/ged.html#GENERAL for information on eligibility and tests. This is what my spouse did after moving to New York, having left high school at 16. Once you’ve gotten your GED diploma you can take courses at local community colleges or universities. Talk to the financial aid officers to see what you might qualify to receive. You’re way too young to give up; if you want it, it’s there for the taking. Good luck.

By LaLa

December 1, 2005 10:33 AM | Link to this

Great column. Lots of astute comments and important ideas. As a white person, I was a bit offended by the use of “whitey,” though. It’s a shame we have to put each other down, even in the smallest way, in order to raise ourselves up. No one benefits from racial degradation. No one.

By James

December 1, 2005 10:36 AM | Link to this

Three cheers for Mandisa and for Rick who has the courage to point it out. If young Blacks really wnat to take a shot at whitey go out there and beat him at his own game.

By T

December 1, 2005 10:36 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Mr. Badie:

Please tell sister Mandisa I am so sorry she has had to become a recent victim in this long-standing “dumbing-down” and “anti-smart” Black Youth culture war. And you are so very right - it is the Parents who are too blame for not establishing a high value on intelligence in the home. Parents will spend hundreds of dollars on tennis shoes, oversized jackets and jeans for their children in the name of keeping them in the fashions of the moment, but won’t demand the same when it comes to brain power and valuing upward mental mobility. Tell sister Mandisa just to hold on, college is right around the corner. Then she will begin to see an appreciation of her brain power and be recognized and loved for the intelligent Black woman she is and will continue to be. Parents and extended family remind your children (or educate yourselves, for that matter) that Brain Power and Mental resourcefulness are the hallmarks of being Black in a country that sought to deprive us of everything basic. The only reason our communities survived is because we were smarter and worked harder, in spite of the culture of bigotry, hatred and death. Being smart is far from being the domain of white folk —-ahving and using your high intellect is about as Black as you can get.

By Angry White Boy

December 1, 2005 10:37 AM | Link to this

Good piece on how cultural values can add to a problem instead of working toward a solution. However, you’ve overlooked the factual basis for the value. In standardized IQ test after standardized IQ test blacks score about one standard deviation lower than whites. In part Mandisa is picked on because she is atypical, smarter than most of her peers.

By BUSHWACKER

December 1, 2005 10:40 AM | Link to this

I am a 46 year old white man and when I was in school in the 70’s it wasn’t cool either to make good grades,so at least until my last couple of years in high school I never let anyone see my report cards. This is not a new phenomenum.

By Cindy

December 1, 2005 10:40 AM | Link to this

Hear, Hear!!!!! Wonderful piece, wonderful comments. I just hope that those you are speaking to actually hear your comments and act upon them. Schools are quickly falling into a quagmire of the “thug” mentality and until it reverses itself, Georgia will remain at the bottom of the list on performance standards across the nation!

By QB

December 1, 2005 10:42 AM | Link to this

As a “Military Brat”, I experienced a variety of educational experiences growing up, including some similar to Mandisa’s. I was both a scholar and an athlete, so my situation was a little tamed compared to the description of hers, but I did witness the same thing happen to students that excelled in the classroom but did not participate in sports.

The idea that all black students dream of becoming professional athletes is a smokescreen that we find ourselves hiding behind all of the time. In actuality, only a small percentage of students participate in sports. So what about the rest of the students?

Forget Ebonics, forget sports, forget rapping. There is a bigger issue here. Parents..yes, but even deeper than that is teachers!

As a student in a majority white school the message was “Where are you going to college?” At the majority black school it was “Graduate from high school.”

The message was mediocrity rather than excellence. Thats the problem. “Not failure, but low aim is sin” is what Dr. Mays said. The promotion in school should be aim high!

I’ve been broke, and yes, when you have nothing, you are always going to think about instant wealth and success. It will always be in your mind. When you are down, you are always looking for a way to come up. Education is the answer and when these students are taught that in school rather than feeling like they are imprisoned, they will learn to admire and respect students like Mandisa and strive to gain knowledge.

Knowledge is power, not money!

By Sam Jackson

December 1, 2005 10:43 AM | Link to this

When my daughter (white) was in high school, scrambling for grades to get into college, the black “students” laughed at them, because “we can get in anywhere we want”. It wasn’t just the bussed-in kids, but even the middle-class kids from our neighborhood.

I agree that the KKK could not have developed a more destructive environment for young blacks. Remember that during slavery, it was against the law (The Slave Codes) to teach a slave to read, write, and do arithmetic.

By Debo

December 1, 2005 10:43 AM | Link to this

Her parents need to talk to her about leadership. It seems to me that Mandisa is trying to “fit-in” way too much. She needs to just be her own person and people will flock to her. That’s what I did. I was in a much challenging situation than her growing up. I grew up in a very segregated area. My school system decided that ‘bussing’ was the answer to integrate the schools (yes, this was still going on in the 80’s and 90’s). Problem #1: I was the ONLY black kid in an all-white neighborhood and I was called every hateful name in the book by the white kids. Since my school system thought it would be a great idea to bus the kids from the low-income area of my city (the predominately black area) to populate a good portion of my all white school, there lies problem #2 of me “fitting in”. The black kids initially despised me because I was an upper middle class black kid from a white neighborhood. Needless to say, I stuck out like a sore thumb. The white kids didn’t like me because I was black, and the black kids didn’t like me because they thought I was trying to be white (whatever that means). So my parents sat me down and spit the truth to me… “Love yourself enough and people will notice. Once they notice, they will follow.” Guess what I did? I did exactly that! I was my own person who didn’t care what other people thought of me. To break it down… ‘I did me’. By the time I was a senior in high school, I was one of the most popular kids in school. I was well respected by the white kids as well as the black kids and people wanted to be friends with ME instead of the other way around. You see; that’s leadership! That’s what my parents instilled in me at an early age and it paid off.

The moral of my story is… Mandisa’s problems stem from her parents not instilling self-love and leadership into their daughter. Once she loves herself, she won’t give a rat’s arss about what other people are saying about her.

To take it a step further to all my black parents out there; I went to an historically black university (Norfolk State University; GO SPARTANS!!) after high school and that allowed me to see other black youth that grew up the same way that I did and that are achieving and striving for the same goals as I. And YES, you can get a great education from an HBCU. I’m 28 yrs old; in my field and make six figures. This is all coming from a former “oreo” (as they called me).

By Rhonda

December 1, 2005 10:44 AM | Link to this

Amen!!!! Blacks hate discrimination but are quite often the ones discriminating! This seems to be what is happening in this case.
They want equal treatment but don’t give it in return.

By Meagan

December 1, 2005 10:44 AM | Link to this

I had a similar experience when I started going to a racially mixed school. The sad part is that my new racially mixed school was a Magnet School for High Achievers. I was bein ridiculed because I enunciated the words to the pledge of allegiance and didn’t use slang when I spoke. I didn’t do this because I was stuck up, I didn’t know how to use the slang because I wasn’t exposed to it before I got to the racially mixed school. I think Mandisa is right. Black students have this idea that being average is ‘cooler’ than being exceptional and that it’s easier to blend in rather than suffer the ridicule of being the one who gets all the awards at the assemblies. Her mistake, I think, is that she let them get to her. I didn’t and they realized that I was going to be smart and speak intelligently no matter what they said. We ended up friends and some of them even started to reveal their abilities. I had a similar experience when I started going to a mixed school. It wasn’t because I was stuck up, it was because I enunciated the words to the pledge of allegiance and didn’t use slang when I spoke. I didn’t do this because I was stuck up, I didn’t know how to use the slang because I wasn’t exposed to it before I got to the racially mixed school. I think she’s right. Black students have this idea that being average is ‘cooler’ than being exceptional and that it’s easier to blend in rather than suffer the ridicule of being the one who gets all the awards at the assemblies. Her mistake, I think, is that she let them get to her. I didn’t and they realized that I was going to be smart and speak intelligently no matter what they said. We ended up friends and some of them even started to reveal their abilities. Who cares about them anyway, look at me now and look at them. I had a similar experience when I started going to a mixed school. It wasn’t because I was stuck up, it was because I enunciated the words to the pledge of allegiance and didn’t use slang when I spoke. I didn’t do this because I was stuck up, I didn’t know how to use the slang because I wasn’t exposed to it before I got to the racially mixed school. I think she’s right. Black students have this idea that being average is ‘cooler’ than being exceptional and that it’s easier to blend in rather than suffer the ridicule of being the one who gets all the awards at the assemblies. Her mistake, I think, is that she let them get to her. I didn’t and they realized that I was going to be smart and speak intelligently no matter what they said. We ended up friends and some of them even started to reveal their abilities. Who cares about them anyway, look at me now and look at them. I had a similar experience when I started going to a mixed school. It wasn’t because I was stuck up, it was because I enunciated the words to the pledge of allegiance and didn’t use slang when I spoke. I didn’t do this because I was stuck up, I didn’t know how to use the slang because I wasn’t exposed to it before I got to the racially mixed school. I think she’s right. Black students have this idea that being average is ‘cooler’ than being exceptional and that it’s easier to blend in rather than suffer the ridicule of being the one who gets all the awards at the assemblies. Her mistake, I think, is that she let them get to her. I didn’t and they realized that I was going to be smart and speak intelligently no matter what they said. We ended up friends and some of them even started to reveal their abilities. Who cares about them anyway, look at me now and look at them. I had a similar experience when I started going to a mixed school. It wasn’t because I was stuck up, it was because I enunciated the words to the pledge of allegiance and didn’t use slang when I spoke. I didn’t do this because I was stuck up, I didn’t know how to use the slang because I wasn’t exposed to it before I got to the racially mixed school. I think she’s right. Black students have this idea that being average is ‘cooler’ than being exceptional and that it’s easier to blend in rather than suffer the ridicule of being the one who gets all the awards at the assemblies. Her mistake, I think, is that she let them get to her. I didn’t and they realized that I was going to be smart and speak intelligently no matter what they said. We ended up friends and some of them even started to reveal their abilities. Who cares about them anyway, look at me now and look at them. Who cares about the ridicule in the long run anyway, look at me now (engineer at a large reputable company) and look at them.

By Samuel

December 1, 2005 10:47 AM | Link to this

I agree with Rick. Parents not only need to instill the desire for intellectual achievement but they also need to let their children know that there is nothing wrong with being smart. Having children read a book or two instead of being in front of the TV is the simplest way.

With such role models and intellectuals as Dubois, Langston Hughes and Cornel West, to name a few, there is no reason our children should come up slacking. Our culture is filled with such people. Again parents must take the lead. I think of Dr. Ben Carson and his story of how he got to where he is today. I think every Black child and parent ought to read his book because it is an excellent example of how a child, who was slacking a first became an achiever through the involvement of a dedicated parent.

I’m black, smart and proud of it. That as a result of my parents making me read and do my homework even when I didn’t have homework to begin with. It does make a difference.

By E Foster

December 1, 2005 10:49 AM | Link to this

Thank you for your article! My 6th greader is experiencing the same problem in a very similar schooling situation. I point that out for parents to know that we need to pay close attention to our children even in elementry and middle school, when they have educational goals and are working toward them at a early age. My son had a teacher to tell him, “when you get to middle schoool, being smart (an’t cool)”. Unfortuntly, this was a Black teacher.

My son, will continue to do well, he learned not to carry other student problems on his back. He was able to process what was going on before we sought medical attention for his body aches and pains.

Thank you to all that shared your stories and comments, I will give this as a tool for my son to use if he chose to do so.

By Ralph

December 1, 2005 10:49 AM | Link to this

A lot of folks didn’t like what he said when he said them a couple years ago, but maybe Bill Cosby’s words were right.

By Jetta

December 1, 2005 10:50 AM | Link to this

I’m a 30 yr old AFRICAN AMERICAN women who in high school was very popular, homecoming queen, prom queen, pom pom captain, and President of the FBLA program. I also had straight A’s with an half a day schedule due to many credits…. I grew up in a low income housing project in MD with a majority BLACK high school population.

I mentioned all of that to say… I never, EVER let anyone steal my glory of being educated or over educated for that matter!! If anything they wanted to be just as intelligent as myself…My single mother of 3 ladies taught me to respect myself, and reach for the goals in life that I desire to have. THEREFORE, I did not abide into peer pressure from friends, classmates, teachers and or etc…. So again as you mention, lets begin with our parents…. teach your children to respect themselves in every aspect of life, as I have done with my 10 yr old in a Gwinnett County public school.

By Dwayne

December 1, 2005 10:51 AM | Link to this

Mandisa- Keep your head up GIRL! At least you have your mom and dad to confide in. My mom thinks something is wrong with me because I hang out with mostly white kids, but to tell you the truth, they are the ones who are trying to get ahead in this world. YOu have one supporter at Coastal Carolina Univeristy who is 18 years of age as wwell.

By swd1991

December 1, 2005 10:52 AM | Link to this

After reading the article and comments, I felt the need to comment. I graduated from Southwest DeKalb in 1991. While in school there, I took advanced and AP courses. I was a cheerleader for basketball season, on the drill team, a student government representative, a Kappa Pearl, in the church choir and participated in many other activities. I had peers that took the same classes as I did, and many that didn’t. I don’t remember being ridiculed by me peers for being smart or having high standards.
I am a successful professional and mother. It was the support and encouragement that I received from family and peers that helped me reach my goals. While I empathize with Mandisa, I think that there are probably people in her school of the same race that don’t share the negative view of the peers she speaks of. It all boils down to surrounding yourself with good people of all races to have the positive experiences in life you desire.

By jim dumond

December 1, 2005 10:52 AM | Link to this

Some of you are reading a lot more into Rick’s “Whitey” comment than I did. Perhaps I don’t get it! What he said was “And you’re especially to blame if your child’s sense of black culture means that you have to think and act a certain way, and that to do otherwise means you’re acting like whitey.”

It appeared to me that he was directing this comment at black parents in terms they could relate to. I’m probably a bit naïve when it comes to the term, but whitey to me has nothing to do with ones skin color. I see it more as a reflection on ones actions. So while I am Caucasian, I am by no means “Whitey” attempting to suppress any group of people

By Rhonda

December 1, 2005 10:53 AM | Link to this

Maybe Bill Cosby’s words were right?
NOT maybe, they were and are right.

And as beloved as he is, he was ridiculed. It is so sad.

By Cathy

December 1, 2005 10:53 AM | Link to this

It is sad that those who really need to see this article will never read it.

By Kareem

December 1, 2005 10:55 AM | Link to this

This is a well written and long overdue article. I have witnessed this in schools back in the 90’s when I was in schools as well. What I noticed trigures this type of judgement upon blacks by others is not when many Blacks talk proper English but when they change the pitch of their voice to match that of caucasians. Blacks by nature usually have a deeper tone to their voice when we speak and also add our own DIALECT which=EBONICS to completing a point we are trying to convey.

Many feel to be accepted or seem intelligent by WHITE IN AMERICA we need to mimick the way they speak and act. But there is nothing whatsoever wrong with you using DIALECT,EBONICS,SLANG,JARGON or whatever you want to call it in the Black culuture. If we truly do our research every language has the same root meaning but uses a diffrent dialect within itself. This is proven by the spanish spoken in Mexico and the diffrent dialect of spanish spoken in Spain.

And I agree that the blame does go back to the parents. Instead of instilling in our children to mock the culture and behavior of whites in America. More should be instilling and building upon the proud history, education and inventions of Blacks like the first recorded multi-genius to this world is a Black (King Imhotep). Therefore as the saying goes “Build it and they will come.” Build a base of respect for embracing your own culture and uniqueness and they will come in droves to learn and spend money to mimick you as they do now with purchasing Black music.

By Allita

December 1, 2005 10:55 AM | Link to this

Thank you thank you thank you. I am so happy to see the words in print. I have a daughter and a nephew who are incredibly intelligent and dummy down and act out to ‘fit in’. They are so smart, they have been able to articulate intelligently why they have chosen this ‘thug’ mentality. My sister struggles because his father is not in the picture and she suffers with a lot of health issues. As for me, I work long hours and ride public transportation. I rarely get to attend conferences at the school and often find myself behind the curve when it comes to her grades. I have three other children and my two youngest struggle academically and my oldest excelled. I am sure there are other parents out there that are in situations like my sister and myself. All parents of ‘thugs’ are not just sitting on their butts. My daughter is very active in church and there are few if any signs of the thug mentality that shows up when she is there. We have to just keep pressing on with our youth. Thank you Rick Badie for writing this article and to Mandisa for being an example of what we have been ‘singing’ about for so many years. I am tired of getting ready to overcome and I see that some of our youth have taken the steps necessary get there. Keep up the good work. I am going to share this article with my children and nephews and pray that it strikes a chord in them to begin to do right.

By q

December 1, 2005 10:56 AM | Link to this

I’m sorry, but Colin Powell and Condi Rice deserve ridicule….not because of their successes and power, but for their actions. How can anyone who is a product of affirmative action be against it? I’m sure it helped Condi along the way in good ole Alabama! If anyone thinks that race would not play a factor in who’s hired and who’s not (in the absence of affirmative action) you are living in the twilight zone. I guess the same people would feel that the Voters Rights Act should not be extended here in the good ole South. Remember people, the generation in power now are the ones who were taught the hatred back in the ‘hayday’. It may not be very visible right now, but you best believe it’s still there. It’s because of these protection laws that it has to stay behind closed doors. Once the laws are gone….

always remember that

By Kareem

December 1, 2005 10:57 AM | Link to this

This is a well written and long overdue article. I have witnessed this in schools back in the 90’s when I was in schools as well. What I noticed trigures this type of judgement upon blacks by others is not when many Blacks talk proper English but when they change the pitch of their voice to match that of caucasians. Blacks by nature usually have a deeper tone to their voice when we speak and also add our own DIALECT which=EBONICS to completing a point we are trying to convey.

Many feel to be accepted or seem intelligent by WHITES IN AMERICA we need to mimick the way they speak and act. But there is nothing whatsoever wrong with you using DIALECT,EBONICS,SLANG,JARGON or whatever you want to call it in the Black culuture. If we truly do our research every language has the same root meaning but uses a diffrent dialect within itself. This is proven by the spanish spoken in Mexico and the diffrent dialect of spanish spoken in Spain.

And I agree that the blame does go back to the parents. Instead of instilling in our children to mock the culture and behavior of whites in America. More should be instilling and building upon the proud history, education and inventions of Blacks like the first recorded multi-genius to this world which was a Black (King Imhotep). Therefore as the saying goes “Build it and they will come.” Build a base of respect for embracing your own culture and uniqueness and they will come in droves to learn and spend money to mimick you as they do now with purchasing of Black music.

By HA Callis

December 1, 2005 10:59 AM | Link to this

Q, I read your article, and I disagree. It sounds like you are saying that ebonics IS a part of my African American heritage. I dont think so. You say you can speak ebonics in one situation and speak “proper” english in the next. But to me, thats putting on a front. You are who you are in “any” situation. If you werent raised speaking ebonics then I dont care what race youare, you arent going to do it, and thats when “others” will think you are trying to be better than them when the truth is you just werent raised like that. I was rasied as a military child. I didnt grow up around a lot of black children. I listened to a certain kind of music and spoke proper english, so when I went to an all black inner city high school, the black kids thought I was trying to act white and that I thought I was better then them because I didnt speak slang or want to lisiten to rap music. Its not that I thought I was better than them, I just wasnt raised doing that and I dont think that makes me any less black or any less proud of my race. I think its ridiculous to say that you “have to act one way arouind whites and “act” another way around blacks. Just be who you are and people dont like it screw them.

By Howard Kelman

December 1, 2005 10:59 AM | Link to this

Rick,

Good article. Wouldn’t it be great if you could all the parents together to discuss this issue in an attempt to straighten out their kids’ moronic attitudes.

Keep pounding at this. It’s time these kids quit wasting their lives and ending up as hamburger flippers. Mandisa should be extremely proud of her accomplishments. I am and I’m white.

By SHA

December 1, 2005 11:00 AM | Link to this

I have enjoyed everyone’s comments on this subject including those hateful and ignorant remarks. As a 27 years old black woman, I experienced the same treatment from ignorant peers both black and white. Now I can look back and see that my interest in education and improving myself paid off. Currently, I’m sitting here in a corporate office of my own while the same ones that tease me can’t even support themselves without government assistance. I recognize that some other races look down on those African Americans that make achievements due to their ignorance, and this is the same in our own community. We shouldn’t be surprise. Whites think I was able to receive a college degree because of Affirmative Action. Well in NY Affirmative Action did not up my SAT score to 1425, AA did not pay for my tuition at NYU…that was my own hard work, so when I heard White America blaming Affirmative Action for the children not receiving a HOPE scholarship here in GA or not having that job cause a black person received the position the only thing I can do is laugh. I guess Ignorance is Bliss.

By Eric

December 1, 2005 11:00 AM | Link to this

Please do not capitalize the word “Black”…it is not a deity or city. HA!

By Kathy

December 1, 2005 11:00 AM | Link to this

Not black enough…I wonder if those who say this realize that they are saying black people aren’t as smart as white people, or that black people don’t deserve ‘the good life’ that white people have.

I really can’t believe that they realize or believe this. I think it’s a way to hurt others and to make themselves feel better, but they are doing so much more damage…what we hear we eventually believe and what we believe we make happen for ourselves.

By todd

December 1, 2005 11:01 AM | Link to this

Very few people like it when they have to hear the hard truth. Ultimately, all of us have to decide if we’re going to make it or not. I can promise one thing, the people laughing and ridiculing this young lady will NEVER be around to help her up if she falls. Maybe we need to select our friends/supporters based on the mutual goals we share, not our skin color.

By The Parhamster

December 1, 2005 11:02 AM | Link to this

The problem has very little to do with education but more to do with the color of ones skin. If you are African American, Indian, or non-white you are labeled as dumb, destitute, and undeserving. This seems to be the csse all over the world. I am an African American UGA Alum who owns a private financial planning agency in a rural predominately white city outside of Atlanta, I drive a pricey Mercedes, and usually sits courtside at most sporting events in town. It both amazes and insults me at the reaction I get from both white people as well as black people who can’t phathom that a young educated professional black man can own his own practice and drive a nice car without being a rapper or athlete. I attribute my personal success and wealth to God’s blessings and academics. Historically, wealth and success has never had a face of color. The world has been conditioned to think black is bad and white is good. I hold myself personally accountable for changing this distorted view of what African Americans can achieve. We all should strive to play some part in changing this negative perception of who we are. It really begins with trying to teach the younger generation what true wealth and education is all about. The real issue is that “your level of education is buried beneath the color of your skin”. You have to let the education, success, and power shine through as bright as the Sun!

By dee

December 1, 2005 11:02 AM | Link to this

from Paul Scanling — Of course, they don’t have to achieve in a society that allows them into good schools with lower grades but the right skin color.

What are you talking about?

They don’t have to achieve in a society where they can get job interviews just for being black.

Job interviews do not always equals JOBS.

They’ve figured out the system and know what the minimum they have to do to get by can be.

What!!??

I also believe that affirmative action sends the message, to both blacks and whites, that blacks aren’t capable of achieving at a high level and have to have help.

Oh , o.k. now I get it……you’re on an AA tirade!! AA is bad for you!!! AA is why you’re not achieving!!! Please forget about all those years when your grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc. couldn’t get jobs not because of their skills but because of their skin!! We don’t want you to remember that part — just remember that AA is bad. BAD AA!!! BAD!!! Going back to the Good ole boy days GOOD!!! Pass it on!

By alton bias

December 1, 2005 11:02 AM | Link to this

people will talk about you. if your a smart black then you are “trying to be white”, and if you are a not so smart black, then you are an ignorant thug. so i say to this intellegent young black woman continue to do what you are blessed to do, and if someone is talking about you then you are that important that they must discuss what goes on in her life.

By Selene M.

December 1, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

Great article. I too went through a similar experience. I am Hispanic and while in and our of school I was told that I acted “too white”. How that can be I am not sure but I took it with a grain of salt. I knew better than to believe it. I am proud to be Hispanic and would NEVER change that. I hope people start realizing the truth and start changing.

By Kina

December 1, 2005 11:06 AM | Link to this

Everyone,

I to have been in this situation. But, we can’t resort to calling these unenlightened children “idiots”, “thugs”, etc. If so, we are not going to stop this cycle. They don’t have the benefit of having parents at home who are encouraging their education. But, we can stop this cycle by parents getting involved with your children’s social circle. All of you parents out there commenting, how many of you have invited these children to your home and befriended them and given them confidence in their abilities? I work with children at Whitefoord Elementary and many are from lower income communities. They are ALL capable and intelligent. They just need someone to tell them that everyday and set high expectations for them. We can impact our community by all of you professionals out here who have commented coming and working in our schools or with the children in your neighborhood. Parents, set up forums in your children’s school to talk to the children about this issue. Let’s be activists against this! We may not save everyone, but I know we can make a difference! Ignorance continues to breed as long as we don’t get out there and touch the children who are closest to you.

By Excited

December 1, 2005 11:08 AM | Link to this

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU. I think it’s especially bad here in the ATL. Everyone is so caught up in the ‘coolness’, and trying to be things they aren’t. And the kids pcik it up at home and on tv. Many of us dealt with the same things growing up - and the sad part is that OTHER kids, not just black, pick up on it and see it. So they carry that thought that black kids aren’t supposed to be smart. And the ‘smart’ ones are ‘different’. I can’t tell you how many times a white kid, or adult for that matter, has told me, “You’re different than most blacks” - all because I chose to be smart (most of the time). We have lower our own expectations for everyone. It’s time for us to turn that around - starting at home

By TLC

December 1, 2005 11:10 AM | Link to this

Great story! It’s not about sounding/being white, it’s about sounding/being educated!

By Sarah

December 1, 2005 11:11 AM | Link to this

I’ve followed this topic with interest for a long time and I totally agree with Rick. You can blame rap, TV, George W. or society in general—-let all those be your scapegoat but it really starts at home. It’s starts with parents who don’t know/care enough to want better for their children.

Case in point: I provide after school childcare for an inner city Atlanta charter school and I’m always floored by a group of black mini-thugs. They’re five and six and already speaking ebonics, yelling, fighting and wearing Tupac shirts, baggy jeans covered in graffiti and boots with untied laces. Someone obviously cared enough to put them in a good school, but still the parents appear to be clueless that they’re hurting their children by perpetuating the cycle of stereotypical “blackness.”

Ditto for the GI idiot I encountered at a bar who referred to my spanish boyfriend as “Homeboy.” Someone taught a-hole that it’s “okay” to say things like that, despite the fact that it was ignorant, hurtful and completely inappropriate.

By dee

December 1, 2005 11:13 AM | Link to this

From Kenneth — Also, the current administration has put more blacks and minorities in higher offices than previous presidents

Three people. Rice, Powell, and the new Justice Dept. guy — WOW they are sure progressive!!!

*especially Clinton, who claimed to be the “first black president.” *

He had 8

By James II

December 1, 2005 11:13 AM | Link to this

Ah…let me see if I get this right. The worse thing an eduated, articulate black kid can be called is white. The fact is, she will more than likey go on to a good college, a good career and on her way to work in corporate America, she can stop by Mickey’ D’s and see all her old classmates and tell them, ” I want that to go, please”.

By Swangirl

December 1, 2005 11:15 AM | Link to this

Thank you, Rick, for bringing this subject into the light. I really didn’t understand it myself until I read John McWhorter’s book, “Losing the Race.” I urge others to read this book to get a grasp of how this came about and why it continues. It blew me away.

I wish Mandisa the best as it sounds like she has the courage to overcome the taunts and soar high. The odds of her succeeding are actually greater than those of African-American males. The number of African-American females who go on to college are starting to outpace their male counterparts in staggering numbers. Black women are taking the work world by storm and making significant contributions.

As a white female nerd, I was largely ignored at school but never teased for being smart. Growing up is hard enough. To be torn apart by your peers for wanting to further your education just makes it that much harder to get through it. Maybe Rick’s column can be a first step to starting a renewed dialog on this issue.

By Jason

December 1, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

I wonder if a uniform policy would help abate this problem? Let’s face it, “thug” clothing usually begets “thug” behavior. What if everyone were dressed the same?

By dee

December 1, 2005 11:19 AM | Link to this

From Karen — This is a very old story, but should be understood within context. These one-sided expose stories don’t do much but reinforce negative stereotypes.

Good comments — thank you.

By Ramble On

December 1, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

As long as Jesse Jackson and Louis Farrakhan, Athletes, and Rappers are considered the leaders of the black community, they will continue to embed this mentality into the black community, while enjoying the fruits of their labor,$$$. With leaders such as Colin Powell, Condoleezza Rice, JC Watts, etc…considered “Uncle Tom’s”, having Oreo Cookies thrown at them, it’s more than just a parental thing, it is a political thing as well. Not to diminish the duties of the parents, the Democratic Party, is preventing the black community to excel all the while promising everything and doing nothing. Many say Clinton was the “first black President”, what high profile African American did he ever appoint…his personal secretary? Hate to bring politics into this discussion, but why not.

By Ms. Vee

December 1, 2005 11:22 AM | Link to this

I am having a similar problem with my son, he hails from a family of educated parents, he comes from a stable home where his parents value education and encourage him to excel and do well in school. Unfortunately, this concept is not popular with his peers.

I think that the things our children see on videos and movies and radio is corrupting them and making them think that the values that we are trying to teach him are old fashioned.

They see sports figures and rap/pop stars behaving badly, speaking disrespectfully of women, branishing diamonds and gold in their mouths, and acting like thugs, and they think this is the way they should behave.

Unfortunately, all to often the message being conveyed to our children is a poor one, namely, if society accepts this dumbing down, why shouldn’t the students.

By Gaylene Narcisse

December 1, 2005 11:23 AM | Link to this

I totally agree. It’s a shame that in 2005 we still don’t get it. For to long being and acting ignorant has been considered how black people behave…WRONG!!! Those characteristics of using bad English, uneducated, cursing, behaving in loud disrespectful ways, to ones-self and others is not being black…it’s being what it is. Ignorant. We often wonder why others can excell in America financially and we as a people, who have been here for hundreds of years cannot…Simply put. They get it and we reject it…America is our Country. We are Black Americans…Not African American. The only real culture will every know is here in America. To make it in this life, in our country, we must embrace and aspire to be all that we can be and to rebuke White America’s brain washing of what being Black in America is. Being black is not to embrace and demonstrate the worse characteristics that a person can have. At the same time being White is not to embrace and demonstrate the best characteristics that a person can have..A brain washing that has been passed down to us for many generations from, I’m ashamed to say..our ancestors. Namely our parents.

Thank you for writing this article and my hat is off to the young lady for holding on to her values and maintiaing her desire to be the “All that she can be”.

By Mike

December 1, 2005 11:23 AM | Link to this

You can upper case black and lower case white all you want, you can say it’s your culture to speak ebonics. That’s all fine and dandy so long as you realize that as long as you look and act like what we call ‘thugs’ we will still lock our car doors at red lights when we see your young males in low pants and hoods over there heads and gold teeth; we will still question if that promotion you got is because of quota’s and you’ll see For Sale signs in our yards when we feel our neighborhhods are becoming unsafe. We have to deal with some things in life we don’t like or agree with, and if you adopt the mindset of some that out there, you” just have to deal with our perceptions.

By K.Burns

December 1, 2005 11:24 AM | Link to this

I would like to speak on this subject based upon my daughters experiences. My daughter is currently a senior at a Forsyth County High school. She has attended High school at North Springs(N.Fulton) and Cedar Grove(Dekalb). She is a honor student that will be attending Ga. Tech next year. She has experienced many of the different scenarios mentioned in the article and in many of the post. I have to say how proud I am of my daughter. All the negative comments about the way she talks and her trying to be white have only made her stronger. Since being at this high school in Forsyth County she has faced a few blacks students that have a more laid back attitude. Some of these students have ridculed her. What my daughter has done is to turn this negative into a positive. She has pushed these same students to get involved in everything they can. To pursue what they feel is out of reach. She is constantly making sure that the students(all races) are doing what they can to get college applications in on time. What I am trying to say is, My daughter could have let all the ridcule she has had directed toward her mess with her self esteem. She instead is showing by example that we all can be professional and smart and still have fun. There is a time and a place for everything. When I hang out with my friends I may not talk the same way as I do when I am at work. But that doesn’t change the person I am inside. My daughter is one of the most popular students at her high school.She is loved by many because of her positive attitude. Her expierence at each of the three high schools were very different. I am sure things were said and done to her that I will never know about. One thing I do know is if she can take her negative expierences and make something positive out of them, We as parents need to try to instill this same rule of thought.

By Sonya

December 1, 2005 11:24 AM | Link to this

Rick- great piece. It’s so sad to see that this is still going on among our youth. At least Mandisa has been able to speak about her experiences and has the courage to stand up for who she is. It took me years. I changed from Advanced Placed courses to College-Bound just to belong. I learned “Ebonics” because I didn’t sound black. I cut my hair because “it looked like a weave” and “I thought I was cute”. This was in the early 80’s while I was in high school. Even after college and relocating to Atlanta from Florida, I continued to run into the same scenarios. I have a degree in Communication so yes, I speak gramatically correct sentences. After realizing the stupidity of reducing my standards(or dumbing down as someone so eloquently put it) just to fit in, I decided that I am who I am. But, for those who have never been ostracized by others who look just like you, I can understand why it is hard to imagine. It’s not about using the RACE card. We’re not talking about what others do to us, we are talking about what we do to ourselves. And yes, even some parents are guilty. Socialization begins at home. Acceptance of those things not like ourselves begins at home. Even the comments prior to mine show the wide diversity and (excuse me for getting “GHETTO”) the great amount of IG’NANCE in our culture. Could someone please tell me how one acts like they are better than someone else? Can someone tell me how to be “cool” with everyone? Your biased perception is NOT always reality. It’s something that I still have trouble grasping. At 38, it’s all good. Either you like me or you don’t. I wear my Dreads proudly, but call me on the phone and you just may wonder. I’ve accepted my life and I am happy just being me. But, I do remember being young and wanting to fit in and wanting to be liked and wondering just where I belonged. And for those who still don’t get it: it’s not all black children that do this to the Mandisas of the world… it’s the few that talk the loudest and bully the most. Unfortunately, when you are just discovering the world and trying to find yourself, sometimes, it’s those very opinions that matter the most. Wrong or right, sensible or not- it is what it tis!!!

By Cliff

December 1, 2005 11:25 AM | Link to this

Sadly, those parents most in need of reading this column either won’t or can’t.

By DNice

December 1, 2005 11:26 AM | Link to this

I too was one of those kids who was put down because I did not fit into the stereotype. However, I had strong role models as parents who were working class people who encouraged me to uphold a certain standard of excellence. Pleasing them (my parents) was way more important than dumbing down for a few. As a African American male who works as a counselor at an elementary school, I see the same type of treatment directed toward students who strive for excellence. I encourage all who read this to volunteer at your local schools. Let those students and all students know that academic excellence for African American is crucial and has priceless rewards.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 11:27 AM | Link to this

Thank you Rick, for saying what so many parents need to realize. The potential is there in just about every black student. But they are ostracized for being intelligent and hard workers. I am 51 and went through hell growing up because I did not dress, talk or act like what I was “supposed” to by my black peers. But I was accepted in the white community where I grew up because I was well spoken, dressed appropriately and used manners. Everyday I thank my parents and family for teaching me to be a leader and not a follower. I grew up in the north and moved to GA in 1990. I had a black manager at a Fortune 500 company tell me I needed to do a reality check on my heritage because I was not black enough. I am proud of my black heritage, but my people were intelligent, hard working and respected.

Parents, please tell these kids they are not doing themselves any favors by following the negative stereotypes blacks are embracing. Ebonics is NOT a valid language in the workforce and I hope never will be. We may have to accept Spanish and other languages in the workplace, but Ebonics is not acceptable in any situation. It breeds ignorance, lack of self esteem and respect in youth by allowing them to cultivate a “language” not acceptable in the workplace.

Good communication skills, education, respect, and manners will get you through just about any door.

By Lisa

December 1, 2005 11:29 AM | Link to this

Parents need to stop letting their children listen to this ‘rap crap’ that promotes stupidity and violence. This people are making big money while teaching your kids to underachieve and look dumb. They are the smart ones, umh. And I know NOONE with their pants hanging to their knees sitting in a corporate office. Hello? Lets stop trying to be Diddy and be EDUCATED! Color isn’t the issue, it is ignorance.

By N. Smith

December 1, 2005 11:31 AM | Link to this

Mandisa, I know exactly what you are going through as a black woman trying to excel. Throughout my high school career, I was known to some of my black counterparts as the white-girl, I’m definitely black but I didn’t act black enough according to them. I just took the remarks in stride and realized that I was being paid attention to. Oh boy, that really made me feel good. So I say to you, keep on aiming for the sky and don’t worry about what people say about you because you have to live for yourself and no one else.

By BeRealistic

December 1, 2005 11:31 AM | Link to this

Great story. Let me add that, while parents are responsible for the behavior and upbringing of their children, the children must also be held responsible for their choices. Growing up in poverty or less than ideal circumstances does not relieve you of the responsibility to make something of yourself and contribute to Society. Each individual has the ability and the responsibility to leave this world a better place than he/she found it. Regardless of where you come from.

So blame the parents but also blame the thug. Bad parenting does not excuse everything.

By DOC

December 1, 2005 11:32 AM | Link to this

What exactly is embracing your culture? That is if you were born and raised in the United States of America. This country is a melting pot of many cultures, which gives us a choice to choose what we like. I may talk proper english but choose to wear locks in my hair. For those who choose to embrace their black culture may want to give up the Tommy H., Donna K., Ralph L., and move to a warm climate so they can sport their loin cloths.

By Ben

December 1, 2005 11:32 AM | Link to this

People, some of you have said it and I want to reiterate it. Anti-intellectualism is rampant in this country regardless of race. Once kids stopped wanting to be astronauts and all wanted to be sports stars, it was all downhill. Informatoin overload is at an all time high, but instead of take on the challenge people retreat into the tried and true. Science scares people now, so they retreat into religion. (Evolution debate anyone?) The media is complicit as well. The background noise in media has turned up to a deafening roar; therefore news has become a series of soundbites and “if it bleeds, it leads headlines.”

The gangsta lifestyle is a symptom (and unfortunately one that quickens the decay) of a much larger push against intellectuals, resistance that cuts across the races. How else can you explain how a self-proclaimed C student frat boy was elected president over 2 highly-qualified, thoughtful, well, geeks? Because people felt more “comfortable” and think they “can have a beer” with a candidate? I don’t WANT to be comfortable with my president. I want him to be scary smart. But I’m also not scared of intellectuals either. Unfortunately, I’m in the minority.

By Frunkie

December 1, 2005 11:33 AM | Link to this

Loved the column AND the comments. I agree it’s not just a black problem. It was the same when I went to high school in an all white school in Scotland 25 years ago. Keep going, Mandisa.

By Alex

December 1, 2005 11:35 AM | Link to this

As has been said before, smart kids get teased regardless of race, and peer pressure to appear and act like the media endorsed role models affects everyone regardless of race. However, I do believe this affects the black students heavier than white students because there is much more societal pressure on “being black” and being part of the “black culture” for black students than there is for white students to “be white”. It’s all part of the obscene culture worship that is so perversely celebrated currently throughout our society. We jump up and down screaming what culture we come from and what group we belong to, and the only thing it achieves is completely separate groups of people that look and act the same all jumping up and down and screaming in unison. Hooray, we’re all in this one group and everyone that is similar but slightly different should be ostracized! Did y’all want a cookie for that or something? Black high achievers like Mandisa will always be hit a little harder than a white high achiever in the same situation. This is true because the black “leaders” in our country will forever go out of their way to stress that black people are different and need special treatment to do the same things that other races do. This is also true because we are all obsessed with fitting into “our” racial culture instead of our national or human culture. This seems especially true of “black” culture.

When black “leaders” start emphasizing successful traits instead of “being black”, blacks in this country will be better off.

By kellyp

December 1, 2005 11:35 AM | Link to this

It seems that many African Americans want to act differently.

Just look at a parking lot and observe who parks backward and who forward.

The children see this behaivor and immitate it both possitive and negative.

By divine1

December 1, 2005 11:38 AM | Link to this

Thank you Mr. Badie for addressing a problem that has been in our communities for years. We have to expose our children to fact that we come from a people with a wonderful civilizations. We did not become civilized when we came to this country, other “civilized” people came to our lands to study. Alot of the problem comes from the fact that in their history books they told “his”tory not the real story. It’s not until they go to a higher level of education and seek out the truth in such courses as “African Studies” that they find out the truth - “There is no shame in being black” and “We are the original geniuses”.

By Ember Atwell

December 1, 2005 11:39 AM | Link to this

I absolutely understand where Mandisa is coming from! I went to an all-black private school in Decatur, GA from first grade through twelfth grade, and I got teased constantly!! I advanced two grades by the time I was five years old, and I got beat up (until I learned to defend myself) almost on a regular basis because I was considered to be a “nerd”. My mother was also a teacher, so she never let me or my other siblings speak “incorrect English”. We were called White so much until I just learned to ignore it and later began to embrace it. I would tell my schoolmates that if being educated and intelligent and speaking properly meant that I was White, then so be it. I cringe in my soul and my chair when I see Black people being interviewed on the news, and they talk like they have never even heard the English language before in their lives. I have to change the channel just to keep from crying!! My fifteen year-old sister-in-law lives with my husband and myself. I was reading an English essay she was planning to turn in the next day and was horrified!! I pratically crossed out the entire essay and told her to write it again. I knew she could do better than that, she just wasn’t trying. We as Black people need to stop feeding into this mentality that we need to act uneducated and stupid in order to define ourselves as a race. I would say to Mandisa, to keep moving up and climbing higher educationally, because those people that are putting you down WILL be working for you someday.

By K L West

December 1, 2005 11:42 AM | Link to this

I have a daughter who is a straight A+ student and has been on the Honor Roll and Principal’s list since she was in the second grade. She has had the highest grade point average in each subject since fourth grade. My husband and I discovered that she was sharing her homework with fellow classmates to keep them as ‘friends’. In addition, she has gained weight, been diagnosed with Asthma and recently had to get glasses.
She recently advised me that she is now a 100% nerd. As a parent of a Fifth grader, I am confronted with the challenge of assuring a 10 year old that its okay to be smart and intelligent, don’t worry about them, if they were really your friends they wouldn’t tease you and they would want to play with you at recess. HELLO, we are talking about a 10 year old child who wants to be ‘a part’ of the ‘crew’. I agree that the bulk of the responsibility is on the parents to guide their children through these obstacles especially since peer pressure is so stressing at any young age, even with most adults. This pressure exists in all arena’s of a child’s life, my child is in a private school where this type of challenge can be managed more easily, however, it still exists and as a parent I still cannot allow it to go on without intervention. It hurts my heart to comfort a tearful child who’s caught between obeying her parents and wanting to feel a part of her class and not an outsider. I blame the media and racial profiling. Blacks do not think that you can be affluent and maintain a ‘black’ lifestyle. We are put into one category that is defined by popular images in the media. I am proud that there are Blacks who have the financial clout to manufacture clothing and make movies ——- BUT, all black folks did not grow up on the streets in the ghetto, all blacks are not particularly drawn to Urban fasion (oversized clothing, show your belly button and butt crack). Because I do not wear FUBU or Rocawear, I do not feel any less black. I have no desire to have my child wearing jeans exposing her butt crack with a pair of thong underwear on and a tattoo on her lower back and bedazzled wording across her butt ‘SWEET THANG’. This is not the child I am training up in my household. I have the authority in my house and I am the financier of her clothing. I am rearing a child who will be a leader in the community for her generation and she needs to know that all things are possible for her to achieve and that she is not to let society or her own community confine her in a cycle of fruitlessness. I cry when I see drug dealers, street walkers, 30 year old McDonald workers, and a 60 year old parking lot cashier who should be enjoying retirement not struggling with minimum pay living in a 2 bedroom apartment with her children, grand children, and their baby’s daddy. I have achieved more than what my mother had and I desire my daughter to achieve more that what my husband and I have attained in our lives. NO ONE will interfere with my childs success - not racism, not the black community, not the media. I know the true source of anyone’s success and its in Christ and that’s the road she is on and will maintain throughout her successful life. Black folks need to wake up quick!!!

By dee

December 1, 2005 11:43 AM | Link to this

from AA — One thing that does bother me is the term “African Americans”. This sets folks up from being separate from others in this country - as though they are not fully American, regardless of race.

I don’t understand how that is possible. This country has ALWAYS separated its citizens into categories. Examples:

WWII when America isolated their “Japanese” American citizens into concentration camps.

40’s, 50s, 60s, 70s When Americans who were not caucasian were not allowed to live, walk through, or be seen in certain neighborhoods.

40s, 50s, 60s, When there were “white only” signs put up in the South.

Centuries when American Indians were not allowed off of the reservation and/or forced to leave their homes and relocate to reservations.

the constant pointing of differences between blacks and whites.

That started long before Blacks started calling themselves African Americans — read the history of this country and you’ll find that out for yourself.

Today’s American culture is made up of all other cultures residing here. We are American - not African American, not Chinese American, not Whatever American - simply American. Remove the hyphen and unity will occur.

If only……………..

By Rene

December 1, 2005 11:45 AM | Link to this

Great article Rick. However, as black female with two degrees I can not agree with everything that you mention. I grew up in a middle class black community where being smart was not labeled as “uncool.” My friends and I (including males) never sought to dumb ourselves down for the sake of being hip.

I don’t think we should turn a blind eye to this obvious problem but please, let’s not led the world to think that all or even a majority of blacks feel that education is something that we shouldn’t value.

My husband and I are both college graduates, our children are very active in school and extracurricular activities (gymnastics, music lessons, soccer, etc.) We are NOT exceptions to the rule. Their pediatrician is black and so is their dentist. They are surrounded with friends and family who are high achievers.

As an educator, I do know the reality of what goes on in the school system. My concern is that your readers will take “some blacks” to mean all. I’m sure you are aware that this happens frequently.

Smart kids are ridiculed regardless of race, just ask Bill Gates.

Keep up the good work.

By Sue

December 1, 2005 11:46 AM | Link to this

What would Martin Luther King think of the youth of today. All of the hard work he did should not be wasted.

By Wayne

December 1, 2005 11:47 AM | Link to this

This article really struck some nerves across the board, and it has even caused me to personally comment — something I never do.

My son, a recent graduate of a North DeKalb High School, had all of the same experiences — but struggled to maintain a 3.5 average. He is a North DeKalb native and had to endure the same treatment by black students.

I even think he is a bit odd. He listens to rap, classical, hip hop, country western, and plays violin in the school’s orchestra. Captain of the swim team, Cross Country, Year Book Editor, Vice President of Senior Class and more.

The really sad part about his story is not the treatment by black students, but that of his white high school counselor. She told him not to waste his time applying to UGA because of the tough academic standards caused by the Hope Scholarship Program. I now know that even I have matured a great deal over the years because I was sitting there in the meeting and said nothing. After the meeting, my son looked at me said, “I can’t believe you did not respond to her comments. Normally you would have jumped all over her.” After a long discussion about racism and life, I told him that some people are not worth saving and that she was close to retirement. But more importantly, I told him to prove her wrong and perhaps that would be enough to change her approach.

I am happy to report that my son is a proud freshman at UGA and doing well.

While the attitudes of some students are a problem, the larger issue is the attitude of some teachers and administrators who have lower expectation levels for minority students.

By the way, at UGA, where Black students are really in the minority, my son has experienced some of the same attitudes from black students. The problems with students is no different than it was 30 years ago when I was in school. Yes, it is an issue, but we should focus on the big picture.

By RRR

December 1, 2005 11:49 AM | Link to this

CF,(at the beginning): EXCELLENT point!

Rick: great op/ed piece. Enlighening.

Mandisa: you go girl! Your strength is a different kind of toughness.

By monica

December 1, 2005 11:49 AM | Link to this

I must say that I went through the same ordeal when I was in high school. People from other schools would tell people I knew that “oh she acts white”, just because I made good grades, did 4 sports (including cheerleading) I guess that’s considered a white sport. I had black, white, and latino friends. I got along with so many different people. I also was raised to use my education and to speak proper english not EBONICS, which I feel is not nor should it be considered any type of language. Just like some people say “people from other countries who live here should learn english”, the same goes for blacks. It is proper to complete your sentences and to finish your words. Instead of saying fi dollas, it’s five dollars. I’m glad I was raised with home training and to be repectful and achieve goals, because without that I wouldn’t have gotten a track scholarship and a Master’s Degree and now a good job. Face it people, we live in a world where education is key. Dumbing down yourselves may work in the rap and hip hop world, but this is the REAL WORLD and alot of white people run things here and they don’t want uneducated people (black or white) who can’t speak proper, it’s bad for business and bad for life.

By notso

December 1, 2005 11:51 AM | Link to this

A blackc white issue?

Believe it or not, white, gray and black are the same “color”. They share a common property: They reflect or transmit all the wavelengths of visible light equally or at least with the same response as your eyes. Notice I said your eyes not our eyes. Hoping that you are wondering a bit I will give you a couple of references , two books by Marcel Minnaert, “Light and Color in the Outdoors” and the classic “The Nature of Light and Colour in the Open Air”. Both are available from Amazon.com and are probably in your local library. These books are marvelous! After reading them you will look at everything from a fantastically new viewpoint.

By Yvonne Williams

December 1, 2005 11:51 AM | Link to this

Rick, We have seen this type of attitude from Afro-Americans from the beginning. Afro-Americans as slaves were not organised they were for themselves..”I’ll tell on you..and the Massa will like me, I can even be an uncle Tom to make my life better, and you will be in the pits.. so that the Massa give a good treatment. The West Indians were not so, they were bonded together and cheerd their people, and wishing everyone good from a willing heart. No backbiting, or envy. The Afro-Americans get back at their own people, and when they see good and ambitious children making it in life they are jealous and envious. Continue with progress my dear child. The saying “the heights by great men reached and kept, were not attained by sudden flight but while they their companions slept were toiling through the night. Keep and reach your goal and give God thanks for His mercies.

By Grady

December 1, 2005 11:52 AM | Link to this

I totally agree with you on this. I would love to elaborate more on this topic but I just had enough time to read the article and I wanted to adlease say that I do concur. My wife and I always talk about this topic and other topics that may relate to it. Although I’m not a CEO of some large company and I do not hold a PHD or a BA degree, I do encourage the youth to strive to get as much education as possible. Its truly hard out here in this world and it gets tougher each and every day. The more educated you are the better off you will probally be. Notice, I said PROBALLY. There are no gaurantees, but your chances are much better with education and a bit of wisdom.

By Haley

December 1, 2005 11:54 AM | Link to this

I am so glad that someone finally brought this subject to light. I am not black, but it still angers me when people say that a black person might as well be “white” just because they are successful or intelligent. Trust me…there are just as many unintelligent white people as there are black people. I cannot count the times that I have heard people make similar comments regarding Colin Powell or Condoleezza Rice. Why can people not give them credit for thier achievements? And why is it that black people don’t celebrate that Powell and Rice, for example, are so successful? They should be looked at as an inspiration, not as a “sellout”!

By Ernest \

December 1, 2005 11:55 AM | Link to this

Here is the just and fitting irony: The students who were harassed for studying are nearly all employed, and many excelling in life. Many of the kids who set the rules for hazing are begging for dimes on street corners, or in jail. And, yes, maybe dead before their time.

By Julie

December 1, 2005 11:55 AM | Link to this

I wish someone would put your column up in every classroom and shout it from the rooftops. As a white woman who taught for several years in an all-black school, I was horrified at how high-achieving students were treated. It went far beyond the stereotypical “make fun of the nerd” thing. So many of these kids were NOT nerds -they dressed hip and had great personalities, but they cared about their futures and worked hard, and for that they were treated as pariahs by their peers. Unfortunately it seemed to be largely a southern black problem -although I’m sure this isn’t entirely true -because kids who transferred in from places like Chicago and California were dumbfounded at the other student’s attitudes. I had more than one student from other areas of the country ask me after class “What’s wrong with these people?” Kids of any race will always find music and cultural icons that symbolize rebellion to flock to, but this gang/thug business has gotten out of hand. PARENTS -take up the time with your kids to watch what they’re up to and STRESS TO THEM that people who are successful rap artists often seem a certain way to make money -that’s NOT the way 99% of people can behave and be successful. Also -while sports are great, it’s important for the kids to truly understand that not everyone is going to be Michael Vick or Shaquille O’Neal. So many of my students thought they really were going to be NBA stars or rap stars -seriously -it wasn’t just a dream, they believed they didn’t have to do anything in school because they would wind up making millions a year anyway -and THEIR PARENTS DID NOTHING TO COUNTER THIS! I know by the time kids are in high school they bear some responsibility, but I was taken aback at how uninvolved most of the parents were. You could not get in touch with them in any way, and most of them seemed far more interested in their lives than their children’s lives or success. They believed throwing money at the problems with expensive clothes and shoes was the answer. Of course many white and other race parents do the same thing, but it seemed so pervasive -and this wasn’t a “ghetto school” either. We had some low-income kids, but most lived in nice homes. I once asked a class what was so appealing about acting and looking like you walked straight out of the ghetto -isn’t that what you were supposed to aspire to get out of? I asked them what they would think if white kids were all aspiring to live in trailer parks and shacks, making their money off of cooking up meth and chain smoking with curlers in their hair and a 6th grade education with 5 uncared for kids running around? They thought it was silly but couldn’t or wouldn’t translate it to what they were thinking was so cool. Whatever the case -something has to improve for our black children. It’s time for ALL parents to step up to the plate and for our school systems to QUIT REQUIRING LESS OF BLACK OR MAJORITY BLACK SCHOOLS (because they do -they really really do) particularly in regards to discipline. The superstars out there -keep your bling, but try to start stressing that most people earn their bling with decent educations and hard work -not popping caps and slapping b*hes while smoking crack.

By Sarah

December 1, 2005 11:56 AM | Link to this

This has been going on for decades. I moved to the south from the north in high school. It was obvious from my accent and how I pronounced some words that I was somewhat different. I was called a yankee, looking back, oh how silly I was to be hurt by that. At one point I began to use ‘ain’t’ and ‘yall’…just to fit in. It just didnt fit right with me, I felt silly and fake each time I heard myself utter those words. I reverted back to being myself. I realized the person I most wanted acceptance by and to be liked by was myself. No matter how far I go or how fast I run, I am always with me, I can’t escape who I really am.

By Lucinda Ballard

December 1, 2005 11:58 AM | Link to this

Those of you who find yourselves disgruntled that Rick has “turned” this into a racial platform can go find some “unracial” blog to conversate in! The man makes a very good point and race lies at the core of his message. Rick need not apologize for this. I get so sick of these head-in-the-sanders who want to believe that any and everything can be discussed and examined apart from any racial implications. Race is a MAJOR part of our everyday societal landscape, and if we want to discuss an issue in the light of race, we can!! Furthermore, those who want to dilute the issue by waving the “we’re-white-and-it-happens-to-us-too” banner…well, I can appreciate that to some degree, but trust me when I say that the ill effects that this phenomenon has on Black American is really something that the White race cannot even begin to fathom. If you think this is happening on the same level and to the same degree to just youth in general, you’ve missed Rick’s whole point!!!!

“Smart” - for the most part - is OK in Caucasian culture. In many Black circles, however, to be smart comes off to your peers as “acting White.” Let’s stick to the premise of his article.

I’m a 33-year-old AA who grew up in a rural town down below Macon, and what Mandisa and other African-American students exists even in poor ol’ rural towns. My mother was/is an teacher and my father an aircraft engineer/real estate entrepreneur…your typical different-business-every-week kinda of man. There’s 4 of us kids, and we were held accountable for our actions. We got good ol’ fashioned spankings. We were made to study and we were given a healthy dose of “you can be anything you wanna be.” We spent summers at the tiny library, and I still have the majority of my “Summer Reading Club” certificates. We have the benefit of the “village” community that exists in many rural families. Aunts, uncles, older cousins and grandparents contributed to our overall upbringing, learning experiences and (Lord have mercy) disciplinary action!!! I am unapologetically a bona fide country girl. And I wouldn’t trade my upbringing for a thing in the world!

Now, here’s another spin - and I believe another poster mentioned this - we were not allowed to watch TV! For the most part. This was my father’s strict rule. Oh sure, he eventually permitted some “innocent” shows: “Wheel of Fortune” and “Jeopardy” (because Mommy insisted) and the like and wouldn’t you guess it…”The Cosby Show.”

My point is, there are a number of factors that influence what value system a child/student embraces. Yes, the parents are partly to blame, but I believe this issue is much greater than can be laid squarely on the shoulders of the parents. Which of you parents actually watches - literally - your child 24 hours a day and 7 days a week??? I believe we have to return to creating “communities” of caregivers so that the youngsters have consistent, positive images and influences, even when they are not in the direct care of the parents.

Despite everything my parents “invested” in me, I - like most certain other intelligent Black kids I knew - only wanted to “fit in.” I made the grade in areas where I was interested, otherwise I spent a great deal of time shootin’ the breeze and acting out to get attention. Those golden moments when I decided I’d be different and apply myself didn’t last long. My Black peers would start treating me differently and giving me a hard time about being in the library, knowing the answers and making good grades on the tests. It was always too easy to get swept back into the circle of mediocrity, coolness, flirty, boy-crazy, in-your-face, whatever kind of existence. I hope that Mandisa will stay focused. If I knew then what I know now, I would do so many things differently.

This problem will not be remedied easily. It will take a major commitment from African-American leaders and parents. Somebody mentioned the churches. Please don’t get me started!!! Our kids get bling-bling’d every time they turn on the TV, bling-bling’d when they walk out on the streets, pressure into bling-blinging with their friends and just when you thought you could get something different down at the church, you walk into these palaces with the pimps in our pulpits and what should you find…of course, BLING-BLING. And we’re asking why our youth don’t value education. It’s takes a village, folks. This is not just a parental problem!

LB

By Joanne

December 1, 2005 11:58 AM | Link to this

Thank you so very much for this article. Thank you for putting the blame where it belongs … with the parents! What I hear from my children who are white and are ‘A’ students in honor/AP classes is that smart white kids and smart kids of color don’t notice color ethnicity or economic background at all. They relate completely on a different and healthier level.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 12:01 PM | Link to this

Ok, the majority agree this is a problem, how can we help fix it is the next question? Remember, if you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. I would like to be both.

By Lucinda Ballard

December 1, 2005 12:06 PM | Link to this

Sorry folks, I had to type kinda quickly…

Corrections: My mother was/is a teacher…

We had the benefit of the “village” community…

…like certain other intelligent Black kids I knew…

By Toni Odom

December 1, 2005 12:10 PM | Link to this

Mandisa will continue to succeed because of the strong foundation she has at home in her parents. I too believe that it starts at home.

I live and work in New York City. I ride mass transit to work and I am on the same train almost every morning. Yesterday, I observed three little girls, one African-American and a set of Latina twins. These three little girls had to be no more than 4 years old. I’ve seen them all before, we often ride the front car of the train together, but separate. Yesterday morning we were all standing together holding on to the pole in the middle of the car. The twins are standing in front of their mother. The other little girl is standing in front of her Grandmother.

I noticed the twins were really quiet, so me being the chatty person that I am I asked their mom, what is her secret? We chatted about this and that and for the length of our conversation her twins remained calm.

The train stopped in between stations, and out of the blue you hear the African-American girl ask her grandmother, ‘grandma, what are they looking at?’. Her grandmother thought it was funny; however, I did not and neither did the mother of the twin girls.

I was embarassed for her grandmother, myself and the little African American girl. From the grandmother’s response to her grand-daughter’s comment, I could tell that there was no real discipline and a lack of positivity in the household. In speaking to the little girl, I told her that she had such a beautiful little face (which she did) that’s why people look at you. I told her to ask the twins what their names were so that next time she could say hello. With that said, the little girl burried her head into her grandmother’s leg. The grandmother did not reinforce my comments or say anything to correct the little girl’s attitude.

Children learn this behavior from parents and yes, grandparents too!

By Radar

December 1, 2005 12:12 PM | Link to this

You have Black folks and then you have ignorant ………..

Intelligent has absolutely nothing to do with the color of ones skin. It has everything to do with ones up bringing. To say otherwise, well; it does an injustice to anyone and everyone who try to achieve a balance and cohesive meaning on this earth. I am betting that her parent are instilling in her that the picture is far bigger than the little snap shots that she deal with on a day to day basic. Not because of her skin color. But by virtual of the support that they provide for her .And the example that they themselves have govern her with. I just wish that she could have felt comfortable enough, to have shared her feeling with her parents awhile back to spare herself the pain she endured.

By Nina

December 1, 2005 12:12 PM | Link to this

Reading this article and these comments makes me appreciate the diversity of the area I come from. Luckily enough my high school was diverse enough racially and economically to have a broader definition of what being Black meant, so I was able to achieve academically without fear of being ostracized.

My recommendation to Mandisa or her parents is to find a group of peers for her with similar educational goals that she can relate to

Mandisa’s rejection by her Black peers may have less to do with her intellect and use of English than how she was socialized. I tend to find that African Americans that grew with limited social interactions with other Black people have a harder time relating to them.

My question is has she tried to reach out the others at her school? There maybe other Black students at her school that are just as motivated.

Often times people, especially older generations, see the appearance of baggy jeans, and hear Blacks teens speak a more informal speech and they assume they are uneducated, thugs or “dumbing themselves down” but in my experience that same teen may have a 4.0 and be on thier way to an ivy league school

By Frances

December 1, 2005 12:13 PM | Link to this

Rick, This doesn’t just happen in Georgia. This happens all over the country. My children both grauduated from an upper class predominately white high school in the early ninties. Both were exceptional children and because of their academic leaning, college courses, good grades, they had no black friends. All their friends were either white or another minority. My son was also an exceptional athelete but that didn’t help in his “blackness” because the black students still thought he wanted to be white. Both my children to this day feel that they missed out on some things because they were not accepted by the black students. I’m glad they stayed the course because they have both done well for themselves. My daughter is in graduate school working on her masters in drama and my son works for the department of energy.

As parents we have a responsibility to ensure our children do the best they can in both the academic world and the business world. Our future depends on it.

By Lucinda Ballard

December 1, 2005 12:14 PM | Link to this

Thank you Julie. Thank you for your succinct and tasteful perspective from a White person about on what’s going on in some of our Black schools.

I should probably add that my post was not mean to minimize the parental responsibility in this problem. By all means, IT STARTS AT HOME!

By Lezlie

December 1, 2005 12:14 PM | Link to this

This problem just won’t go away! I am 61 years old, but your story could be based on my own high school experience. A black honor student, I was constantly chided by other black students “acting white.” Fortunately, I survived the derision, and went on to achieve worthwhile things. Do those who taunted me now respect me? Who cares?

By Gman

December 1, 2005 12:17 PM | Link to this

Have to throw in my 2 cents. I’m a 36 year old black male. my parents never tried to instill a ‘perception of difference’in races in our household. it was never taught that we should treat everyone the same, it was just the norm.

When I was in high school, I played in garage bands playing the music I grew up on, rock and roll. My older brothers listened to a lot of different formats and I listened right along with them. Back then, I’d wear concert t-shirts to school from the latest show I went to.

One day, I was asked by one of the few black girls at my school why I listened to rock & roll. I simply stated, “Cause I like it and love to play it”. I got some ridicule back then, but once someone got to know me, they respected me for the person I am, not what I do.

There was another black girl in our school which came from a very predominant family. She was ridiculed every day that she was not “black enough” since she always wore her clothes proper and neat and did not talk with slang. I’m sure she persevered in the college environment versus high school.

By the way, I still play rock and roll, play it loudly in my car while stuck in traffic and get the weirdest stares from all races. But that’s what I like. I teach my kids to never follow the crowd, do what they feel is right.

By Ray Edwards

December 1, 2005 12:17 PM | Link to this

Mandisa’s situation is nothing new. I experienced this over 20 years ago when I attended a prodominately white high school in Montgomery, AL. My question is when did our priorities shift in the black community on being the best you can be? We have settled for the lowest common denominator in the black community for too long. Since when is being ghetto something to be proud of and worn as a badge of “how black” you are? It’s time for a change before it’s too late……

By MRC

December 1, 2005 12:18 PM | Link to this

This is a great article. I agree with everything that is presented. My sons will not be one of these young thug wannabes. I know its hard but I will do everything I can to make sure they achieve more than what a gang or thugs can do for them. Sometimes I get chastised because I don’t want to live near black people. Let me rephrase that, “live near GHETTO black people.” I don’t have a problem with successful black people who are trying to do better for themselves. I kind of felt the same way this girl did when I was in high school. I was a “black, cool nerd.” Anyways, this article needs to be circulated around to all our young black people.

By chet

December 1, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this

Ebonics is not as bad as people think. They reason why it is bad is because our kids have not learned when or how to differentiate between the proper time to use queens english over ebonics. I look at it as another form of communication. I am not defending or condoning what those idiots did to the girl at school. However, we have feed into this Western notion that anything non-white is bad. When white america accepts it then it is ok by all. Can you imagine slang being used by espn personalities. Or rap music being played on cnn on commercial breaks. Being black is very in. What I am saying is this… I know that we as blacks are cool and I am not waiting for the approval of other races for validation. We are dynamic like the young lady in all facets of self expression. So celebrate it don’t down it. Its apart of our culture and everone including the world over is trying to imitate and cash in on this expression. Some one mentioned bill cosby. first of all I don’t agree with the airing out our laundry for public jury to form opinions on. No other race does that to their own except us. I remember Bill during the Lets Do it Again jive turkey days. Don’t cast stones if you live in glass houses. This is a family issue not a world issue.

By Diane

December 1, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this

Rick, I love you for addressing this issue.
I am a single black woman and mother of two sons. Both of my sons experienced this during high school. A few of the parents were just as ignorant as some of the students. Both of my sons excelled in school. My oldest one was in the top 4% of his class. Both of them participated in sports and were musicians. I encouraged them to always do their best. I’m proud to say today my oldest son is in graduate school and my youngest is a sophomore in college. I also thank their father for all his support. The day will come when the students who riduculed them will look to my sons for a job. No, not bragging just facts!! Parents please find a good church to fellowship with and continue to encourage your children!

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this

MRC, I agree, but not just young people. I am currently back in school for EMT and you would be surprised how many “older” people have the same misconceptions about showing intelligence.

By KC

December 1, 2005 12:22 PM | Link to this

I’m wondering if some of the successful black people who have posted here have acted as or offered to be or are willing to be mentors to black teens. Are any mentoring programs in place in Atlanta?

By Lisa Watson

December 1, 2005 12:23 PM | Link to this

I commend Mandisa for being the girl that she is. I’m really saddened by our black Communities who continue to operate in ignorance. The mentality of our children starts at home and what you pour into your kid’s life will reflect the outcome of his/her life. We as Black Parents must have a self worth of ourselves so that we can honor and nurture our kids. The number of Black Families with poor mentality is staggering to say the least. Education is important and if we don’t think so as Parents and teach this to our kids, we will always see the same tainted maze that I children don’t know how to escape from. Parents are responsible for being determined to put Education on the front line with their kids. We have to find solutions to stop this kind of behavior in our communities….

By Fadil Muhammad

December 1, 2005 12:26 PM | Link to this

This mindset of black students shying away from the image and practice of being scholarly is certainly very prevalent. It is very good that you have expressed this editorial because black children and youth need to be encouraged to urged and pressed even, to break out of this tendency to (“act dumb”) to avoid the path of seeking higher scholarship and academic achievement, (not so much greater material possessions) but a greater sense of purpose to improve the collective,higher morals, higher expectations of success for themselves. From most of the dictionary definitions to most of the mass entertainment role models in music, television, movies and magazines; the example of black is low down and unrespectable. Black parents, teachers, adult leaders and youth leaders need to work hard to encourage the best from and set the best examples for so-called “black” youth. I’m good with the word black, but it can have its drawbacks. It has its pros and cons, but ultimately we have to study history and spiritual faith, truth and know who we are. The one point I really want to make is that while parents and families are often non-existent at least in truly serving their purpose in America today, (particularly we are concerned with the condition of black parents); the politics of blame should not simply blast black parents. What must be remembered and ultimately dealt with by us collectively rising against it and choosing to wage holy war on it until it is destoyed, are the out of control, degenerate messages and system of self-destructive, wicked, immoral hypnotism that consumes American television, movies, magazines, music, theme parks, fashion, fast food, retail industries, technology industries, and virtually every arena of our society (especially that which is presented for youth and particularly black youth and black people). This is a monstrous, monstrous task, primarily because of the unwillingness of the masses to relinquish what they believe is their right to be free or to be an individual as opposed to receiving the greater benefits of a freedom that comes with submittng one’s own will to doing what we know, albeit begrudgingly, is really right and really the truth. The Greatest One, Most High, Source of Ultimate Knowledge & Power Eternal has expressed it in many ways to various people through various enlightened men & women chosen over time. One of the clearest advisories relative to our times is “Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her sins and her plagues.” Simply our collective rejection of and exodus from participating in this system holding us our childen spiritually and morally captive would cause it to have to change, and quite possibly to collapse and lend the opportunity for total re-formation or total re-surrection. Even the best of black parents are faced with the fact that their children once they leave home, and unless great care is taken at home; are bombarded with influences and deception to embrace the lower life (which is really a spiritual death) instead of cultivating the highest part of themselves (which is really a life bearing the image of THE ALMIGHTY CREATOR). Forgive me that this was so long. Thanks for reading. Let’s work in unity beautiful people. Our children, our elders, our cultural potential is so precious. Work the Millions More Movement Local Organizing Committee and agenda in your town—Organizational unity, responsibility. Work!The Spirits say Work! Peace & Blessings

By Ron Lenore

December 1, 2005 12:27 PM | Link to this

I want to comment on the quote from Rick’s article “To them, she’s more white than black.” Do you think that what most people think of as “white” (at least in the context of the quote above) is of a homogenous, white American? If som consider that over the past century+, many white Americans made it a point to blend into society, giving up some of their cultural identities. I am not saying that is good or bad, but that it was, in a lot of cases, an intentional act on the part of these people to fit in by shedding some of their cultural differences. Many continued to practice their unique cultural traditions at home, but in public, they chose to, and wanted to, blend in. There is nothing wrong with that, and there is nothing wrong with a national identity that that creates either. And, there is nothing wrong with choosing not to blend in. But one shouldn’t expect everyone to be progressive and open-minded; it would be nice, but it’s not realistic. White immigrants that chose to blend in figured that out I’m sure. So if a black person (or anyone for that matter) today chooses to blend in to what is referred to above as “white,” I don’t think it should be viewed as weak or giving up one’s identity or values. I wouldn’t characterize it as blending into a “white” culture. It’s just trying to find common ground. On education, most everyone could agree that education is one of the keys to a successful, stable, and prosperous society. With a good education, one is in a better position to excel professionally. In fact, we can see this in action in India and China, where education is leading to becoming ever more competitive internationally, and giving portions of those populations more options than ever before. At some point, when a majority of society’s people are economically competitive, it would be very difficult for governments to wage wars that would disrupt the flow of capital into and out of these societies.

By Lucinda Ballard

December 1, 2005 12:28 PM | Link to this

Dear Unknown, I admire you for humbly reaching out for the help you need. Indeed, it is never too late for you to finish school. If indeed you have the smarts you spoke of, and I believe you do, my advice to you would be to forget the GED and strive after an actual high school diploma. (Not downing the GED, but an actual diploma will look better on your resume and you’ll probably feel better about actually finishing what you started.) I’m not talking about the fake diplomas you can buy online. You definitely want to earn it the right way, and there is a school in Maine that will allow you to do so. On your own time. It’s , North Atlantic Regional Schools. People from across the nation, of all ages and races, have utilized this option to go back and complete their high school studies and receive their diploma. Many of those students have gone on to Ivy League and other schools. Here is the web site: http://www.narhs.org. I have some of the booklets already because this is an area that I am planning to help fallen students. I will email you as well and if you want, I can help you map out a course/study plan to earn your diploma. You do have to be willing to study hard and you have to be able to obtain your high school transcript so we can know where you left off and what you need.

However you go about it, I wish you Godspeed in achieving this dream of yours. Don’t ever give up, girl!!

LB

By alice t

December 1, 2005 12:29 PM | Link to this

There are some older African American educators who believe that forced integration was the beginning of the end for AA students. Even in shabby school houses with not enough supplies, the teachers all knew your parents, went to church with your grandma and shopped at your aunt’s store. If you acted up in school, your momma knew about it before you got home.

When integration occurred, in most cases, the teachers to lose their jobs first were AA. The classrooms integrated but not the teaching staff.

While I believe that seperate was unequal, it does make you wonder…

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 12:31 PM | Link to this

Sorry, Chet, I have to disagree to some of your points. Someone using Ebonics is not going to get a job in today’s tough job market. As for “being Black being in” for me it always was in. It is who and what I am, but there is a significant difference in being Black and being or appearing ignorant and being Black and being or appearing intelligent. Ask any hiring manager. As for dirty laundry, some people don’t/won’t admit the laundry is dirty until it’s pointed out in public.

By Mombasa

December 1, 2005 12:32 PM | Link to this

400 years of slavery, Jim Crow, segregation, institutionalized racism, and the Reagan-Bush administration, are the root causes that are hold our people back today. Constitutional affirmative action and slavery reparations would greatly benefit us, leveling the playing field for all.

By Tonta

December 1, 2005 12:33 PM | Link to this

What is acting Black or acting White? If you’re well dressed and spoken then you must be trying to be white, and if you’re ghetto and baggie jeans then you’ve got to be black. What in the world has happened to my people. We’re free people , so wake up! We’re living in 2005 but our minds are still back in slavery with master. We will never be completely free unless we stop trying to hold each other back. Black people are the most jealous hearted people in the world. Instead of loving each other we’re too concerned with HOW MUCH MONEY ANOTHER BLACK PERSON MAKES, THEIR EDUCATION, THE LIGHTNESS OR DARKNESS OF A PERSON’S COLOR, HOUSES, CARS, BANK ACCOUNTS, the list goes on and on. My people that was the plan all along put them against one another and they’ll never unite. To Mandisa Baby I’m a 22 years old. I have two degrees (which I won’t brag about) in Business. I didn’t achieve my goals in life for no one but myself. People will always have something to say about you no matter if you’re achieving or failing. I know kids can be mean and I know that self-esteem (high or low) for some kids are developed in high school, but keep your head up baby and when you’ve graduated and rolling in dough those same people will still be right where they are today.

By chet

December 1, 2005 12:35 PM | Link to this

MRC as smart as you may want to appear to be bashing you own on perpetutes self hatered amongst our community. We a black person is convicted of or goes to jail..eventhough that person is not actually you..he/she represents you whether you like it or not. Yes they are black just like you and in the mind of others who are aculturated in this media generation believe that you just like they(criminals)are capable of doing the same thing. So when you say stupid comments like I don’t like to live near ghetto black people…check yourself. OJ, Kobe, and the Neverland Guy Checked themselves you can to.

By ME

December 1, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

I’m rather appalled that you solely blame PARENTS. I can’t appreciate your perspective because it is rather narrow.

I have 16-year-old twins, which are my only children. One excels in school as a magnet/honor student in a very prominent high school or to quote you not a “ghetto school” as well as socially. The oldest twin is the direct opposite in both scenarios. They both receive the same parenting, as well as love and support from friends and family.

The youngest twin made a conscious decision that it’s okay to excel while the other upon reaching puberty decided that excelling was not high on the priority list. What is a parent to do? I’ve tried everything under the sun within reason (to include counseling) without lasting results.

Unfortunately it’s not solely parenting as blatantly suggested by you or I wouldn’t be responding to your extremely shallow opinion. Some of our children buy into what OUR ADULT society suggests it is to be black or white.

Look at how blacks are used in marketing. Most of what we see in ad campaigns WHO USE BLACKS are “light, bright, damn near white”, thin noses,” pretty eyes” and curly hair or “white folks long weave”. The message that’s being sent is loud and clear and black children are actually listening. Our children have had to redefine what it means to be black because we aren’t recognized for who we are and what we have to offer regardless of the shade of our blackness.

Upon entry into a room a young black male is considered something undesirable until proven desirable unless he “dresses white”. Then directly the opposite is assumed.

I’m fighting an uphill battle trying to refocus my child while you sit smugly and blame me!!!

So now I pray you will follow-up with step-by-step instructions to raising “black” children to understand that success can be packaged as black or white as you choose! Being “white” ain’t always right!!!

This coming from a fair skinned, freckled faced, curly hair, “pretty eyes” BLACK STRONG WOMAN.

By dubya

December 1, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter what your ethnicity, gender, family income level, disability, hair color, clothing style or whatever. There’s plenty of discrimination to go around that includes a LOT of people. If you want to improve things, you don’t beat the dead horse, you bury it!

By Ms Fox

December 1, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

The question is…how do we resolve this never ending problem? Mandisa will continue to be judged by “perfect” people throughout adulthood.

Now…to respond to the statement of not needing Affirmative Action. RACISM still exist (in 2005 it’s subtle). Remember Katrina and New Orleans,hmm. You’ll find that the “color” of your skin still matters to many employers, banks, communities, etc. regardless of your intellectual prowess or socio-economic status.

Without Affirmative Action most of us would be “worker bees” with college degrees.

However…since there are those (Black Americans and Women) who sincerely feel that they can achieve everything that America has to offer with education, motivation and endurance and Affirmative Action is abolished, maybe just maybe discriminatory Black Americans will remember how to be self-sufficient entrepreneurs who support one another instead of becoming leeches - remember the initial Wall Street?

I agree with Nancy2. There are two sides to every story.

Mandisa…be comfortable with who you are, stand firm on your values and try Jesus - he’ll love to have you as a friend. (Besides your peers will be coming to you for employment opportunities (smile).

By Amazed (Independent Woman)

December 1, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

Why does everything “Bad” has to be associated with being Black? Are white kids who fail, acting “Black”? The whole thing is just sick, sick, sick…….

I’m sick and I am tired of all of it. There is no such thing as black clothing, black attitudes or being black.

I’m black because I was born that way and yes, I prefer to be referred too as African American.

All African Americans do not make bad grades and we are not trying to be like any other culture. When you graduate from college and graduate school, your skin color does not change.

I tell my child each day, that what she learns today, will give her the ability to be financially responsible for herself and family. In addition to that, I tell her that learning does not stop at school, it is a life long process and it does not all come out of a book.

I will give the young lady in this article some advice, the same advice I give my 10 year old daughter. “Don’t worry about what other people say about you, they will be working for you oneday.”

Furthermore, it doesn’t matter if you are black or white, the results will be the same.

This whole article is just Hog Wash!

Rick, in the future - let’s blog on topics that will encourage all children to want an education. Can we do that?

By john

December 1, 2005 12:36 PM | Link to this

This article is well and good but those parents that need to read this can’t or refuse to. Take it to the streets. I applaud your effort Rick!!!!

By Nel

December 1, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

I really don’t see the usefulness of Ebonics. Why do we have to come up with things like this to excuse the fact that people don’t have a command of the English language? I believe every group has their own colloquialisms. My old English teacher once told us, there was nothing wronog with having a C** accent, you just had to know when it was ok to speak that way. Unfortunately, that ability cuts across racial lines. Good grammar has no color, neither does ambition.

By K.Burns

December 1, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

AMEN.. ‘Nuff said.

By jim dumond

December 1, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

OK Rick, Not to make lite of this issue, We’ve done the smart kid black issue, so to make Chet happy let’s have a Smart redneck blog so we can defend them.

Intelligent, informed kids is all we can really hope for. They are our hope for the future, a people idnentified not by color but by pride.

By Papa Doc

December 1, 2005 12:37 PM | Link to this

For starters, turn off the BET, tune out the V103, and distance yourself from hustlers like Jesse Jackson, and all the other media whores that promote ignorance and cultural demise.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 12:41 PM | Link to this

Mombasa, how quickly many people, black and white are to blame the problem on anyone but themselves. I , as do many others have the slavery heritage, Reagan years and everything else you quoted in my past. But I saw past what was “owed to me” and surpassed my own expectations to prove that what was or purportedly done to Us as a people did not perpetuate into the live of future generations. It’s true, “you can’t know where your going until you know where you’ve been.” But use that as a mile marker and build upon it, not use it as a crutch for failing to fulfill what you could have done to improve it.

By SW

December 1, 2005 12:42 PM | Link to this

I agree with Antonio. I am an African American who grew up in a middle class neighborhood, excelled in school (honors classes, graduating from high school in 3 years at the top of my class, graduating from a top college at age 20, etc) and did not have the problems that Mandisa faces. I had both black and white friends, and did not have to deal with my peers telling me I “acted white” because I excelled in school or was involved in extracurricular activities (choir, ballet, piano lessons, etc) or because I had my own style of dress. The students that I saw that had that problem were the ones who were trying too hard to appeal to white students and who tried to run as far as they could from what THEY thought it meant to be “black,” OR they were the students who actually let it get to them.

As a child (AND an adult), you have to learn that everyone is going to get picked on about something. If you show others that it bothers you, they’re going to continue. If you show them that you’re happy with yourself and that you don’t care what others think, one of two things will happen: 1) they’ll stop; or 2) you won’t notice that they’ve continued.

I agree that it starts with the parents, but it’s not completely up to them. It’s a personal choice. Both of my parents went to Ivy League schools (my mom has a PhD), and no matter what they told me about education, it was up to me to make a personal decision to achieve.

This is not to say that NO black person thinks that being smart equates to being white. There are those who do believe that. However, they also don’t realize that the people they idolize (whether they’re rappers or WHOEVER) are very smart people. Sean Combs didn’t get to multimillionaire status by rapping (as evidenced by his lack of skill doing so), or by wearing baggy clothes or speaking Ebonics - he got there by being a SMART businessman.

I’m also curious to know what Jason considers dressing like a “thug.” When I was a teenager, I had baggy clothes, preppy clothes, and everything in between. I wore different STYLES - it’s others who denote wearing clothes larger than normal as “thug”. If I’m not mistaken, there are “thugs” who wear suits for a living (i.e. drug kingpens, perpetrators of white collar crimes, dirty politicians, etc). Also consider the fact that these “thugs” that you refer to actually receive their drugs, weapons, etc. from “thugs” who wear expensive suits and own airplanes. I would ask that you reconsider your perception…

By Darla Dixon

December 1, 2005 12:44 PM | Link to this

This is something that can happen to kids of any race. I ‘dumbed myself down’ also when I was in high school, because I didn’t want to be viewed as a ‘nerd.’

I am white and I lived in a suburb of Detroit that was 90% white.

It is well-known that girls of any race are known to often under-achieve in the areas of mathematics and science, because they fear that they won’t seem feminine enough (usually around puberty).

All children should be taught to always do their best and most importantly, to think for themselves, not let the views of their classmates do their thinking for them! But this is easier to say than to really get the message through.

Thank you for your excellent article!

By chet

December 1, 2005 12:46 PM | Link to this

wendy you missed my point completely..I said that it is a problem when our young cannot differentiate between using ebonics and queens english in appropiate setting. Thus if one is well aware that using ebonics to land a job would not fly atleast he is dynamic in his approach and aware that he command of proper english will increase his/her chance. Now if he or anyway is accross town and their tire catches a flat he can use his command of ebonics to communicate and relate to whomever he is speaking to. We are dynamic.plain and simple..we just need to be smart about it thats all..as far as dirty laundy..airing it out does not solve the problem it just confirms others beliefs of us. Do you want some white guy at your job to walk up to you and tell you that the reason that reason you we unable to finish your last task was because you are lazy. Your retort would be a simple why or what. and his answer would be well Bill Cosby(your own) said it so it must be really true.

By dubya

December 1, 2005 12:46 PM | Link to this

My heritage is native american. You want to talk about injustice? Native Americans were portrayed as savage for a long time. My great grandfather married my sweet great grandmother (native american) and was disowned by his family. Further, if you were native american in Georgia in late 1800’s and early 1900s you could be executed. Many native americans did not register on the indian rolls because of this. But you know what? That is past and I have enough sense to take care of myself and earn respect from people.

By Gina

December 1, 2005 12:47 PM | Link to this

I thank you for writing this article. During my high school years, I endured the same kind of taunting and backlash. It is time the Black community realized the Black experience is varied and diverse. My family has been formally educated for generations and I was exposed to a variety of music, cultures, etc.

By Lonita Sheppard

December 1, 2005 12:48 PM | Link to this

Racism is not the reason. It is peer pressure. My son had this same problem 20 years ago when we went from the high rise to the slums. All kids want to fit in and this is no different from being called a “nerd” which also has no color basis. Let us just encourage all our children please.

By Nancy

December 1, 2005 12:50 PM | Link to this

The episodes of blacks trying to act white will go on forever…in the minds of blacks who don’t or won’t accomplish much in life. I’m a product of the ‘70’s (Class of 1974)and I was called “Aunt Jane”, “Sister Tom”, and names that can’t be printed because folks thought I was smart. Because integration was still new, I was usually the only black or one of the few black students who participated in activities besides sports.

I, like Mandisa, endured the emotional stress of the comments and the alienation of folks who looked like me. However, after a terrible turn of events at the homecoming game of my senior year in high school, I learned that I would always take the high road and not lower myself to other folks standards. Keep looking up Mandisa. When you finish college, take a look around you to see what your peers are doing.

By Lucinda Ballard

December 1, 2005 12:51 PM | Link to this

“I’m wondering if some of the successful black people who have posted here have acted as or offered to be or are willing to be mentors to black teens. Are any mentoring programs in place in Atlanta?”

KC, there are a good deal many programs in place. The Boys and Girls Clubs, Girls Inc., Cool Girls, Big Brothers, Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta and no doubt many others. To answer your question, I volunteer through BBBS. I mentor a 10 year old and have offered to take on another mentee at the organization’s request for additional “Katrina victims” help.

Your concern is a certainly a valid one though. You know the saddest thing I find when I volunteer as an AA woman. The majority of the volunteers are White while the majority of the recipients of the services, etc. are Black.

Indeed, more African-Americans need to make a commitment to being an ACTIVE part of the solution for our ailing peoples. We have more than enough talking heads!!

By Gina

December 1, 2005 12:51 PM | Link to this

Mombasa, let it go! This is one of the main reasons our people can’t excel. You are living in the past. No one owes you anything! Get off your butt and work for what you want!

By BK

December 1, 2005 12:52 PM | Link to this

I enjoyed Rick’s column and many of the 262+ comments posted on this subject. If anyone were interested in scrolling down to the end of this popular topic, my comments are thus:

the dumbing down effect is very real and unfortunately it is universal in youth culture these days. Previous eras have had other dominant themes and one that comes to mind is that of the 1960’s when free expression was largely valued (versus the conservatism of the day). Now appearing ignorant and in possession of bling bling is the thing as the hip-hop culture now permeates the racial spectrum. As other writers here have noted, it is important to know that high school seems like a big damn deal at the time, but it soon passes into memory when in other circumstances one can find an appreciation for learning and the real rewards it can bring in life. Mandisa, please be encouraged it will get better for you. A friend of mine with extensive experience teaching in public mostly black elementary schools has told many a story that backs up Mandisa’s experience and Rick’s point as well. “It’s the parents stupid” and at home where kids are getting ghetto/thug values and a disrepect for learning and authority. You’d be surprised, or perhaps not, what comes out of the mouths of your darlings at age 8. Hint: it’s a repeat of what they hear and see at home!

By DaVencil

December 1, 2005 12:52 PM | Link to this

Truly “Dumb it down” is thing of youth however, black youth, can ill-afford to fall into the trap of intellectual/whitey-like bigotry because of the stigma - we can’t excel without “help” or that an intelligent black person is an enigma or just too good to be true. My oldest son graduated from Stephenson just as the shift from academics par/excellence began to come into the forefront. In moving my two younger sons to South Gwinnett, I had to weigh showing my sons that intelligence in the black community (Stephenson) was not the exception but rather the rule, or living with the implication that we had to “assimulate” into whitey to get the quality of education that would grant them equal footing at the college level and in the work place. Notwithstanding, I am of the mind the we parents, black, white, asian or whatever, must instill in our children that peer pressure is temporary, while also holding teachers and society accountable for challenging our intelligent children, without the assumption the their dress is equivalent or indicative of their intelligence. Thank you, the revolution wasn’t televised - it was instilled in my heart in the ‘70’s

By Shaun

December 1, 2005 12:56 PM | Link to this

You are way off on this one. I am a black man, raised in a middle calss home and attended a mostly all white high school. You can still welcome your culture and get good grades. You speak as if this is not possilbe. My older brother is a Harvard Medical School Graduate and has never changes his speech or the friends he hangs out with and he is a millionaire. So, it is not necessary to change your ways to get the grades. Check yourself!

By notso

December 1, 2005 12:56 PM | Link to this

Our people? I thought we were all in this together.

By Phil Kennon

December 1, 2005 12:57 PM | Link to this

I know Parkside is a great school, but this must mean that it is even harder in more low income nieghborhoods? If so (and I believe this to be the case), than why not challenge students, teachers, administrators, and parents to the best quality of education by offering student vouchers. Competition is good and challenging schools to be better or at least more respectful should help.

By Phil Johnson

December 1, 2005 12:57 PM | Link to this

As a childless 59 year old grad of Atlanta’s BTW with different experiences, I cannot think of anything different to add to this discourse that might move someone else as I have been moved. Consequently, allow me to just congratulate you for publishing your article and sharing your viewpoint in such a forum able to reach so many. I pray and believe it has helped the +cause+.

Thank you, and you and Mandisa have had a prayer said for you.

By Gina

December 1, 2005 12:57 PM | Link to this

Lucinda, I am an avid volunteer. What we need to do is get some of the members of the Black mega-churches in Atlanta to give more of their time and money to the community. Many successful Blacks give back to the community. We see it not as an option but as a part of life. What we hate is a group of Blacks who feel they are owed something and dependent on the government.

By Diva

December 1, 2005 01:00 PM | Link to this

I believe there are several problems in Mandisa’s situation that can’t just be summed up as black parent’s fault. All parents need to teach their kids to value diversity and differences. The same thing would happen if a white student acted so-called ghetto and dressed like a “thug,” in an high achieving area dominated by preppy, rich whites. They would make that student feel awkward because he’s not like them.

I think it hurts black people (and I’m speaking from experience as a black female) when we follow the rules and are not accepted by our peers or mainstream. Mandisa is perplexed because she doesn’t feel supported by those who look like her in an already difficult environment that she probably feels like she has to prove herself in.

Her story is a long-standing society problem that we all have to work to fix by learning to be tolerant and appreciating diversity. And we can start by looking at the person in the mirror.

By KC

December 1, 2005 01:02 PM | Link to this

Thanks for mentioning those organizations, Lucinda. There have been a lot of sincere, heartfelt messages to Mandisa, who may or may not read them, that say, basically, “I’m black and I made it and so can you.” But don’t just say it, show it. The best way to show it is one on one. As others have said, it’s not just parents, it’s community that will make the difference. So I hope people make note of the volunteer opportunities you listed.

By mark

December 1, 2005 01:03 PM | Link to this

I think that article was very accurate. I’m a white person and I think that there are PLENTY of black people who can succeed in this life but they choose not to because they will be ridiculed by other blacks. I believe it has been drilled into their heads from dare I say rap music! Most rap, not all rap, promotes violence, drugs, “slappin ho’s” and other degrading behavior. How are the black youth to think that this is how it is supposed to be for them. The kids in the middle-upperclass who refuse to accept their opportunity that is given to them are the most frustrating. How is it the president’s fault? You think that these same “thugs” that you speak of watch the news and presidential speeches? Let’s dare not place the blame where it should be placed which is on the parents! Let’s instead look at it as another case of the “white man keeping us down!”

By Jo

December 1, 2005 01:04 PM | Link to this

Bob, I agree! Lisa’s attitude is sadly, typical of folks who were always popular, spoiled & pandered to, therefore demonizing anyone who’s unfortunate enough to be disliked. I don’t know Mandisa, but I know she is FEMALE & categorically, the main reason teen girls are mistreated by their peers is because they are overweight and/or just plain not pretty. So, Lisa? Is that her fault? Popular folks seem to “think”(??) so. Or maybe she has a disorder known as Aspergers? (Google it; very interesting) By the way, has anyone seen the article about the entrepreneurial teenage girl who’s breaking ground by having become a teenage hotel concierge? She too, is black. Similarly to what Mandisa is experiencing, a friend recently told me he’d attended a rock concert (“white” music) where a black fan was present & really getting into the music. Because she didn’t fit the stereotype of only enjoying rap/hip hop/r&b, she was ostracized by both races. Disgusting!!!

By Tash

December 1, 2005 01:05 PM | Link to this

Although we may all want Mandisa to forget about kids rediculing her we have to remeber highschool and our desire to fit in. I do however want to applaud Mandisa for sticking to her guns and not “dumping” herself down to fit in. I was born and raised in Atlanta but now reside in California and am now a mother now while myself and my siblings and parents still have a southern accent my shildren who were born in Atlanta but now live here for the last 4 years sound like little valley kids and that is ok with me because I would be crazy to want them to speak improper english. So you are right to blame the parents cause I am a young parent and sometimes we tend to want to go with the latest trends but I am a beliver in education, I am a college graduate myself and expect nothing less of my children. I encourage them in everyway possible to excell and except nothing less than the best of themselves. Keep up the good work Mandisa. :-)

By TC

December 1, 2005 01:06 PM | Link to this

It’s a shame that this issue is an issue! Too bad the world isn’t color-blind and that the only color that matters is the gray of the brain.

By Reggio

December 1, 2005 01:08 PM | Link to this

Anyone that can make an argument even halfway supporting “Ebonics” must be an absolute MORON !

By opinionthatsall

December 1, 2005 01:09 PM | Link to this

When today’s kids are exposed to educationally uplifting, “cool” ATL-originated tunes such as “GET LOW” and “GURL SHAKE DAT LAFFY-TAFFY”, you know they’ve got it good.

Seriously, though, when will the madness stop? When Corporate America says so? Perhaps more Katrina-like events will bring more compassion and positive action from the ignorant to quell the concern of our kids’ social welfare.

By maryann

December 1, 2005 01:12 PM | Link to this

II also blame the parents.

My mother went out of her way to give me a good education. I was bused to a prep-schools straight after elementary. I had to wake up at 4am to get to a 8o’clock class.

When I was blessed with my daughter, as a single parent, I pushed her to excel. My words to her were to take what I know and to excel higher. Living in NYC at the time, I worked at finding the right schools and of course at home I worked with my daughter and showed her all…from classical music to jazz, to museums and more. In fact as soon has she could speak we studied math and language together. She has always excelled and as a result she has excelled in her life. As a parent it is our responsibilities to help our young to do better and to respect who they are and to live outside of the box that I have to appear and be a certain way in order to be excepted. Is it the video that they watch or what’s on TV period that caused this mental attack on themselves and others whose parents have showed them the truth.

Today, at the age of 51 I am working on my 3rd degree. For knowledge never stops. We need to teach our youth…I’m proud of Mandisa for being who she is and who she is about to become.

My people please wake up and see the reality, help our youth to ignore what society is trying to make them be. Help them to excel and as you do help yourself, if you haven’t had the opportunity to. Help yourself to do and be better and prouder of who you are and of our heritage. Please show your son and daughter the truth of who their ancestor were. Help us to surpass what society hopes we be, or the joke will be on your children and our future as a race.

By Jennifer

December 1, 2005 01:13 PM | Link to this

I have two young daughters. I am trying to teach them to keep in mind that we are able to do what we do because people before us fought for these rights. Civil rights fighters fought so that my daughter could attend school with her best friend, ride on the bus together, go to the movies together. Suffrage fighters went to jail so that women be able to vote. Many other women worked so hard to get past the glass ceiling. I feel like we are disrespecting their life’s work when we don’t take advantage of the opportunities these people fought for. They did it for us.

By mari

December 1, 2005 01:14 PM | Link to this

Thank you Jim for clarifying that Mr. Badie was not using the term ‘Whitey’ in a derrogatory manner, but was just using the word to explain the way some people in the black community refer to caucasians when airing their gripes about the misfortunes some feel may have been caused by the white community. I am also disturbed by some the entry’s made by Mike on the forum. He seems bent on turning this discussion into a direction it was not intending to go with this constant racial undertones and innuendo’s. Mike, this discussion has nothing to do with racism, it is simply a discussion about how some of us in the black community treat our own kind when they are excelling and shooting for higher heights. If you don’t have any positive points to bring to the table or any suggestions on how to improve the situation maybe you should cease to comment. I on the other hand believe that as a black community, it is about time that we start dispelling the myths that we can only go so far in life and that being a violinist, doctor, astronomer, engineer or even a president is beyond our reach. Start instilling high aspirations in our children from a young age, continue to reinforce and encourage, and we may well be on our way to positive changes.

By damon

December 1, 2005 01:21 PM | Link to this

show me a stupid child and i’l

By Tracie

December 1, 2005 01:22 PM | Link to this

Bravo to all of you who have endured and overcome and bravo to those of you that understand and admit that this is a problem. In 1984 my mother made the decision for me to attend Lakeside High School(at that time 95% white) because my home school was at the bottom on all levels of education(Rick, the reason for this should be your next topic). I had my ups and downs, but I appreciate my mother’s decision because it prepared me for many things. However,in my AP English class(8th, 9th & 10th grade) I was the only Black person. I was not included in discussions and I was always the student that the teacher had to place in a group for projects, because I was never picked by my white classmates. English was a subject where I excelled, but I was miserable every time that I had to go. As a result, I asked to be taken out of that AP class by my 11th grade year. I regret that choice and I am so proud that Mandisa has shown herself to be wise beyond her years. Kudos to her parents for the great job that they have done. With that said, I totally disagree with the perception that Affirmative Action says that “blacks aren’t capable of achieving success on their own”. It was a mandate to protect those who were not of the majority from being discriminated against when it came to college admissions, job promotions, etc. Lets not gloss over it, social injustices of the past are impacting the present and the real shame is that Affirmative Action was and in some cases is needed. Now, once again Bravo to all of you and parents stay strong, stay the course, you are not here to be buddy buddy with your child, you are here to train them up and prepare them for life. Praise them accordingly, but recognize and address them when they are wrong.

By cATHY

December 1, 2005 01:25 PM | Link to this

Sadly sir, I too went through a similar situation while growing up in affluent Montgomery County, Maryland. I was actually physically attacked by a group of my fellow black classmates in the girl’s bathroom, the next to the last day of school in 7th grade, because I “acted too white”. Several of these girls were actual relatives.

I am a third generation college-educated black female, now a practicing physician in the Metro-Atlanta area. My great grandfather was the first black to go off to college from Montgomery County, Maryland in the early 1900’s. Of his children and grandchildren, my father was the only one to go off to college. And, of course that was instilled in me.

Throughout my public school years, my father was keenly involved in the education of both of his two kids. He certainly had the opportunity to place us in private schools, but chose to keep us in the public school system to make them better. Each night, not only did I have my school homework, but I also had to do my Dad’s homework. This usually included workbook assignments. Posted on the bulletin board in my bedroom was a paragraph on the “Purpose of Education”. He often made me read it outloud at night. And, what stuck with me was the thought that if I did not use my education as my tool, then my destiny would be determined by someone else. That’s a pretty powerful statement. I sure as heck didn’t want to end up working low-pay jobs the rest of my life. At other times my father would show up unannounced in my classroom, just to see what we were learning. He continued to do this long after both of his kids graduated from high school. Although my brother and I were often embarassed, we now understand and appreciate what he was doing.

Unforunately, most of us as a group just don’t know or realize why education, and not playing “ball”, is the key to our life’s successes. You can be sure that a larger number of the “other folks” are quite aware of this, which explains why they are in a position of power. I’m not sure it is a residual of slavery and the post-slavery era, but attitudes, and perceptions are passed on from one generation to the next. We just don’t know what others have known for many years. And to say that if we just go out there and pick up a book and learn, we’d excel like the others is not always true. Unfortunately, the context of racial sterotyping also plays a major factor at times in our attempts at achievement- which the “others”, including recent immigrants, don’t carry as baggage. Don’t you here it every day when local disc jockeys make sly comments on our speech, or lack thereof when speaking of many African Americans?

I went to an Ivy League college, Graduate school and ultimately medical school, and you better believe that my classmates often had advantages over me because of what they’d been exposed to.

So what is the answer? Well, in healthcare, I’ve become keenly aware of the fact that folks (both Black and White),just don’t know how to care for themselves. And, I’ve realized if you give them the tools, such as teaching them what are the current guidelines for hypertension, obesity, and diabetes, that over time … people start “getting it”. That’s empowering. But, it takes more than just one session of telling them the ideal numbers, or giving them blood pressure or glucometers for this to occur.

The same would hold true for our current public school system. If those of us who have “made” it, learn to “pass-it-on”, maybe in 100 years or so, the world would be a different place. That means showing these kids what life would be like if they made $30,000, $60,000, or >$100,000 a year. Teaching the kids to learn vocabulary words on a weekly basis, math skills,or for goodness sake, how to conjugate verbs- would certainly be a good start. Realize, however, that many of their parents weren’t taught these things, and it will also need to be instilled in them.

Although I opted to place my child in private school, due to refusing to keep her back a year based on the September 1st cutoff, I take every opportunity to pass it on. Thus, each Sunday, my husband’s aunt and I sit down with a group of early grade school, and now early high school kids in our immediate family, in order to pass on that knowledge. And, yes, my father is still out their sending me workbooks to use with these kids. Also, our church is doing similar things with our teens in order to teach them the “Purpose of Education”.

Mr. Badie, I hope you will use your forum to light the “Pass it On” Torch in Atlanta.

Cathy

By B.J.

December 1, 2005 01:26 PM | Link to this

I’m loving the responses on here. There are a few that I do disagree with, but the dialogue is sorely needed. It is unfortunate that there’s nowhere on radio (yet) for OUR voices to be heard. My radio show, The B.J. Ellis Show, does provide us with a voice. With your help, this show will get major attention in the future. Visit www.bjellis.com for access to the best show that nobody knows about…yet. Keep the posts coming. Your thoughts are proving my point that there is an entire segment of our society that is equally frustrated by NOT being represented in the media.

By TC

December 1, 2005 01:26 PM | Link to this

Wow. I think the problem goes beyond the kids or parents…as Dubois pointed out earlier. Let me share my experience. I graduated in the top 10% of my high school class in the early 90’s. I was called oreo, wanna-be, and everything else you could name. My parents were not rich. I didn’t wear designer clothes or have a car in high school. I wanted to excel to uplift my race….not just myself. My parents kept me grounded in the church (a traditional black church). I wanted to set an example for others at a very early age I volunteered at different charity events, or wherever I could at 11 years old. My parents couldn’t afford extra activites so I volunteered at different organizations for exposure. At 15 I was doing church members income taxes for free. I started a non-profit organization at 17 for underprivileged children in my area. Fundraisers, cold calling, you name it, I did it…..to help poor black families.. I have a bachelors and masters degree. In 2000, I was fired from a job because of racial discrimination. A group of black employees went to HR and complained I was promoting racial discrimination. Even after growing up loving my people and giving and giving…… I watch my daughter and she is going thru the same issues I did in school…..very smart…very intelligent….. However, I will never teach her not to embrace your culture. If you forget where you come from, how do you know who you are? And I’m talking about the city and state you were born in either. Churches don’t teach love anymore. They teach financialy stability first…….not love. It seems as if we don’t care about each other as a race anymore….we are all for “self”. BUT, we will be at church every Sunday and Wednesday.

By James

December 1, 2005 01:29 PM | Link to this

I’ve never read an AJC blog where over 300 people agreed. A blog about the importance of oxygen in sustaining life wouldn’t be this popular. But it’s so true.

I blame the media for the problem. Most teenagers ignore their parents more often than not, but are obsessive followers of pop culture. If we’re going to change behaviors and perceptions, it starts with the media. It’s funny because the media is usually progressive - it alone “mainstreamed” gays and lesbians last decade.

By Nel

December 1, 2005 01:29 PM | Link to this

For all those kids out there and black politicians who play the race card, they better remember the latest census numbers. Pretty soon, the focus and attention will rapidly be shifting to the Hispanic population because they are growing. If you think politically you can get over by playing the “slave ancestor” card much longer, think again. Isn’t it a shame that for the most part, immigrant kids from homes where their parents don’t even have a command of English can excel, and so many kids born here can’t. If ALL parents instilled in their kids that education is a key, then we wouldn’t be having this conversation. Personal responsibility, what a concept!

By Walt

December 1, 2005 01:30 PM | Link to this

I am impressed with your column. I would first encourage the child, in this country there is nothing you can’t accomplish, be true to yourself and never allow yourself to be told your a victim. Could it be the Black Leadership that is promoting these views The black leaders today should be ashamed of themselves for instill a culture of victimhood on their people. MTV, Hollywood, even sports entertainment all portray acedemic achievement as a negative when infact it is the easiest way for people to provide for themselves. Again conrads to the young lady, follow your dreams and to thy own self be true.

By James Johnson(Keon)

December 1, 2005 01:31 PM | Link to this

Wow…I wish I could stay and read all the thoughts and comments. This really has the attention of somepeople…have this amount of response this early!

Well here’s my contribution. The blame game isn’t going to solve anything because there are too many culprits. I’m sure that we could all point a finger to one person, entity or the other. I try to even handed in my conclusions.

The people in media are there to make money. That’s the essence of the capitalistic system we live in. Businesses will not take social responsibility unless their hand is forced to do so. With that said if the people buy it, they will make it. So you see how things get convulted very quickly. I’m a 26yrs black man. I’m from the Generation that made hip-hop mainstream. However, I personally have even really cared for the music form. Even before it got to this level. Truth be told…when the music started…it was basically a positive force…exposed unseen truths and just a form of party music. Today it have been warped into a misogynistic, homophobic, hypersexual, self-serving, cash-cow for the music executives of Hollywood. Now the problem isn’t necessarily that people are making these videos… Everyone has a right to free speech…but it seems to be directed at unsupecting youth who don’t understand that it’s just fantasy. Really, how man ganstas/men do you know drink crystal, live in a mansion and have 50 girfriends that know about each other? Believe me…one woman is more than enough!:) So then we’re left with the parents…why do they allow their children to watch and purchase? That’s another 50 paragraphs… While it is true that many parent don’t act like parents…it’s also true that some do and that you, I, she, they, can’t moniter every single action of a person. Let’s say person..because the roles of children has changed drastically. A person is an individual and will do what they want when allowed, permitted and enabled be it in the dark or the light. Then how many of us with the reasources and ability have offered to help an overburden mother/father etc..show a child the other side? (It truly takes a village)… So are we responsible as well?

The sad fact of the matter is that children pick on each other. If they don’t pick on you for being smart, then it’s for being gay or percieved to be gay, it’s not not being samrt or able to read, it’s for being too tall, not tall enough, too skinny, not slim enough. You just have to laugh at it. I dealt with teasing by helping the persons that teased me for being smart. It’s hard to tease someone you’re dependent on for passing science class.:)

What’s the solution? 1. African-American youth need to be educated about their history. Not just slavery. They need to know of Africa, Slavery, Abolition, Emancipation, Civil Rights and Today. This is needed desperately to counter-act the negative images available today. (For Example…Did you know that in Western Africa there were university which people in Europe traveled for Education(Timbuktu)? For example..we African weren’t simply brought to the americas for physical labor..but for farming techniques un-known to Europeans.. Where does Cotton and Rice originate? Did they have Cotton and Rice in Europe? Did Europeans know how to produce these crops before the Africans showed them?) 2. More mentoring opportunities. These young people need to be exposed to different things. Have you taken a child to a book story, a coffehouse, a tea house, a nice meal, a test drive in a luxury car, a tour of a college campus. Hearing and seeing are two different things. How do you think that would effect a child to hear that you need an Education to enjoy these things? If they say they want to play football, rap etc..exposes them to business side of these things…. Once again Education is paramount. 3. Don’t expose yourself and the children around you to negative images and influences.. Do you know how many parent actually listen to questionable music with their child(ren) then wonder where the behavior comes from? 4. Be envolved even if you’re too tired. Children like people will slack if they think they can get away with it. You can’t get upset at the end of the year when you find our little Johnny’s failing…especially if you…1. Didn’t monitor report cards 2. Never offered assistance with Home Work. 3. Never met one teach/administrator and the school.

By KB

December 1, 2005 01:31 PM | Link to this

This is the same thinking that has people ridiculing Condoleeza Rice and Colin Powell as sellouts to blacks.

It points to a greater problem that minorities always recognize in others, but fail to see in themselves. Just because someone does not act the same as you, or believe in the same things you do, does not make them worthy of ridicule.

By Chris

December 1, 2005 01:31 PM | Link to this

Very good article, and it’s time someone other than Bill Cosby puts this situation in the spotlight.

I, like the girl that was mentioned, had to grow up in mixed schools where the black kids that would have horrible grades were the popular ones. I was called “nerd”, “oreo”, “whitey”, “sellout”, etc. And it follows you all of your life. The only thing you can do is shake it off. I graduated high school with honors (3 of about 150 black kids did in my school) went to college, got an internship with a Fortune 500 company, and am scheduled to graduate this may with 2 degrees. I can only imagine that those who made fun of people like me are poor and blaming their faults on white people and the government.

This girl will learn that knowledge is power, and she will be successful in every way shape and form. It’s time we started to delve away from this “thug” mentality that young blacks have that perpetuate negative stereotypes of blacks in general. I’m so sick of seeing some gangsta rap artist talk about his money, his women, his cars, whatever on BET. Black people can be just as smart as any other race, you just have to know when to be wise to your opportunities.

By Silk Lavelle

December 1, 2005 01:33 PM | Link to this

Congrats to the young lady and her parents. I teach my children it is cool to be smart. For the most part, most of the people you grow up with in school. Usually, are not gonna be there to pay your bills. Or help you get a mortgage. So enough about impressing peers. Impress your parents and yourself. Succeed for you. Be a kid and enjoy life. One you are grown you are grown for every. Besides, more than likely those people wont be ther for you as an adult. Kudos young lady!!! Kudos

By WOW

December 1, 2005 01:35 PM | Link to this

If being smart is acting white…then most of the urban black children need to act white if it will help to improve their education, and chances for survival in what we all know is a “all white” world….. So parents, the challenge is up to you….lets make all of the black children “act white”

By tam

December 1, 2005 01:36 PM | Link to this

Q,

Out of all the intelligent black americans who have spoke out in this blog today, I have to say yours was the lamest of all. “You don’t have to act like whitey to be intellegent”. How racist can you get? I don’t go around calling you blackey and I don’t use the other slang word either. You need to read where all the blogs on here and you will see how stupid you are…75k a year isn’t that much money these days!

By Gemeb

December 1, 2005 01:38 PM | Link to this

Thank you very much for an outstanding article. I am 46 years old and went through the exact same thing in school, during my military career, and still today among some family members. I grew up in the “projects” without a father, so I hit the books to try to find a way out of that situation. There were only a few older people an the area who encouraged me. What really hurt was the fact that it was, and still is, occuring in our communities. I hope Mandisa can continue to excell in school and throughout the rest of her life. In the end, those who ridicule her will be asking her for a job one day. I am extremely happy with where I am in life now.

One of the major reasons that this hateful and stupid behavior continues is because there are parents who shouldn’t be parents. They don’t seem to care what happens with ther children or communities until someone is hurt and it is too late. I don’t like the “acting white” label that is placed on those of us who try to make it in America. I am 100% percent African-American and love the fact that I am. I don’t care for ignorant people regardless of race. Keep up the fine reporting my brother.

By Karla

December 1, 2005 01:41 PM | Link to this

Mandisa im sure eveyone who read this article is very proud of you. And all those “cool” kids who are making fun of you for not being “cool” wiil be working at McDonalds in the future and you will be a professional, and thats when they will realize how important education is, but it might be too late for them. Keep up the good work!

By Kevin

December 1, 2005 01:41 PM | Link to this

I applaud Mandisa for her dedication to her education. You have no idea what it is like to meet and articulate African American. I wish there were thousands more like her. I work with one of the smartest men I know. He is black, his is educated, he was raised the right way. We have health debate about black/white issues. This topic is one he can remember from his high school days. It is sad to think people put a color distinction on education. Bravo to Mandisa and BRAVO to her parents. You have a wonderful daughter.

By MJohn

December 1, 2005 01:48 PM | Link to this

First, I think we need to look up the word Black in the dictionary. You will notice everything about it is negative. Now, look up White and find it is just the opposite. From that time until now, the same type of people who defined these words are the ones largely in charge of, or own, our media, music, and government. What we have to do is start seeing the intent of these entities for what it is. Destruction and control.

We have to stop allowing others fictious view of us become a reality.

By Sharon

December 1, 2005 01:48 PM | Link to this

They are a lot of high achieving African American students, they have to be focused and comfortable with what they define as “their indiviuality, and goals for self” regardless to what others think of you. If these students can and desire to take certain classes, achieve certain grades, and carry themselves a certain way, that should be their choice. That is not accurate to define a race card to your classes you take or your usage of proper english to communicate. To all that feel that way, perhaps they should be enrolled in a mandated reality of preparing for the world course” Embrace new things for the entire world, not just your block or community or even state you live in. Stop trying to put down these students and perhaps embrace learning outside of the comfort zone that you have chosen to stay within.

By angie

December 1, 2005 01:48 PM | Link to this

i grew up in the 70’s and am 46. i no longer work , but when i did my education was what my emplyers looked at and mypattern of speech. in my family 2 syllable words were to be spoken with 2 syllables not eight! correct speech was a given and as a result i have no accent but have been mistaken for white over the phone. mandisa the way your parents are raising you is the correct way. don’t put too much emphasis on what your classmates think, but more on what your family thinks. in my experience they’re a little more important in the long run. keep on doing the best you can do and in the end you’ll come out better for it.

By liz alston

December 1, 2005 01:50 PM | Link to this

I agree with the student, because I experienced this same sentiment growing up in rural South Carolina in the 1950’s. The “crab syndrome” is alive and well as we enter the 6th year of the new millenium. The naysayers remind me of the crowd who appears on Jerry Springer,Judge Maybleen and Akim Anastopoulo on “Extreme Akim”. The same scenerio surfaces again with competing stars and the “rappers. We need to get along and stop attacking each other. We have to struggle to survive and face accusations from our own, when we try to achieve. I remember folks living in the projects,had feces trown on their landscape when trying to beautify their “little corner of the world”.Please “Black America” wake up, let excellence prevail. Our schools are failing. A lot of students will do better, but are afraid of peer pressure. Our standarized test scores are dismal, because the “cool” students randomly mark tests, resulting in “profiling” the entire race, while we remain in substandard houses, failing schools and the poorest section of town.”Mercy”

By Josette

December 1, 2005 01:51 PM | Link to this

Very good article! Rick Badie you addressed points in your article that are essential to every concerned black parent, teacher and student. As a Haitian American educated woman, single black mother, science educator, and resident of Gwinnett Co., I have every reason to take this seriously. I will continue to encourage all my students, especially my black students to reach HIGH goals and achieve excellence without trying to be “white” or “black”. Ignorance is all around us and definitely within our community; education is the key and the starting point to overcome that demon…!

By Barry

December 1, 2005 01:54 PM | Link to this

My comment may have been mentioned because the postings are many, but I must say this just in case this point hasn’t been made yet. The people reading these articles, for the most part, aren’t the ones this article should be intented to reach. It would be great if society had a way to reach the people, mainly adults and parents with children, to get them to understand the problems in education.

By Jenelle Chapman

December 1, 2005 01:56 PM | Link to this

This is a class issue moreso then a race issue. Race (and sometimes religion) is oftentimes attached to this issue because its easy, convienent and what some would deem a “logical” conclusion. However, the socio-political thought of whats “white” v/s. whats “black” is not contingent upons one’s socalled level of intellgence. It is contingent upon one’s percieved attachment is to their ethnic culture and by their class association.

The Class Issue: Note: class is not soley derived from mommy (and daddy’s) income. I had the “luxury” of attending a high school with an overwhelming number of extremely poor low-income whites. At this school of which I was the only black being intellectual was not only lame, but also discouraged among peers. Interestingly enough, I also attended an all black high school in which being dumb meant being lame. And being smart meant being paid. This paradigm was especially interesting given the high number of affluent blacks who conscientiously choose to send their kids to white schools only for them to be picked on about being “un-black.” Believe it or not, there do exist all black schools which pride themself on academic achievement. And yes these schools do exist in metropolitan Atlanta contrary to media opinion.

The Culture Issue: Culture is a combination of cuisine, customs, style, etc. Culture is a big component, and perhaps more accurate definition, of one’s “racial assertion.” Because one’s (sub-)culture is what uniquely identifies their expression within society. If a black person identifies extensively with a culture outside of their ethnic group then the questioning of their socalled “blackness” is valid.

Intellectualism is not a byproduct of race or class. To the contrary intellectualism is an attribute of which all races and creeds seek to invoke. It is not characteristic of a group of people and given such cannot be used emphatically to describe a race of people. The real issue is not about how smart someone acts and whether or not that is a “white” trait. The issue is how focused one is…and this is an issue resounding throughout ALL high schools in america. While the execution thereof varies dramatically depending on the environment, in general being focused is not “characteristic” of being young. Therefore, instances of determination in youth is met with displeasing terms such as “un-black” “lame” etc. This has nothing to do with race and everything to do with the definition of youthfulness in america.

By AuniteAuntieAuntie

December 1, 2005 01:58 PM | Link to this

I hurt inside for Mandisa and all the Mandisas of the world. At age 40-something, medically it was necessary for me to leave behind a 15-year career in nursing. In doing so, I chose a career in Information Technology; I excel at it and am happy with my new chosen career. Returning back to college at age 40 was not a “walk in the park”, but surprisingly I excelled, I drifted through high school and my initial attempts at higher education. I knew the public school education I was receiving was marginal at best. Returning to college resulted in my surprise at my abilities—ability to achieve! I received congratulations from the college president, became a national honor society inductee, also made the National Dean’s List.

My family members on the other hand, were not pleased with my academic achievements. Comments such as: “You think you know it all. Look at you, going to that white school. Why don’t you go work at the post office?” Understand me, I do not have any issues with working at the Post Office however; dropping out of college to work at the Post Office was not the path I had chosen for myself.

The realization came slowly that it was not I, but how others view themselves that generates the mindless comments and less than cordial treatment toward individuals that dare to venture out of the group’s self-imposed box. The mindset of attempting to denigrate others by reducing them to their level is done with the sole purpose of giving credence to where that person is in life.

Mandisa’s critics may not to rise higher but do not know how or simply can’t climb. Yet. I pray they find their wings; the air is great up here.

By Monica

December 1, 2005 02:03 PM | Link to this

I am the proud mother of 2 high achieving teenage daughters who attend a predominantly black school in south Dekalb. They are articulate, opininionated and strong in their beliefs. They have also BOUGHT into the belief that a good education is the way to the American dream because they have been told that by their immigrant parents since they were old enough to understand. They take AP classes, have been in the Duke Talent Identifation Program, Governors Honors Program, and run cross country and track. They also like rock music, clothes from American Eagle Outfitters,and independent movies; but they are very comfortable in their beautiful black skin.

Not all the kids at the school are high achievers, but thankfully in this predominantly black school they and their like-minded friends are accepted and embraced. They love their black culture; they just refuse to let anybody else define for them what it means to be black.

It’s tough for blacks to achieve intellectually in this country because institutionalized racism still exists. But we have to ensure that we blacks do not pull one another down like crabs in a barrel. That has been my experience in the past, and sadly in 2005 I still am experiencing it. Just keep pushing your children to achieve.

By Matt Cyr

December 1, 2005 02:03 PM | Link to this

Mr. Badie, thank you so much for writing this column. This is the best piece of writing I have ever read in the AJC. I am from CT and work for a large financial institution here in Atlanta, have served on corporate diversity teams and have many friends of various ethnicities. I have never felt like any of them have compromised their culture or who they were as an individual by sounding educated and professional and I feel sorry for anyone of any race who is ridiculed by his or her peers for performing well in school. Bravo to Mandisa for taking the high road and continuing her hard work. I know she’ll do well and hopefully others, even if it’s just one person, will change for the better in response to your article.

By Tracie

December 1, 2005 02:05 PM | Link to this

Keon(James Johnson)- Tell it!

By Nel

December 1, 2005 02:06 PM | Link to this

This all comes down to what you are taught is important. My parents are West Indian and because of where I was raised, I always wore uniforms to school so for me, it’s no big deal. I remember the furor when they tried to institute that concept in Dekalb County, I heard so many people talk about self-expression, and how their kids didn’t want to wear them. We didn’t have an option, uniforms were part of the rules that you were expected to follow. It seems that rules are changed according to how loudly a few people complain. It also seems that it’s far more important to get your kid the latest sneakers and the current prison blues, than the items on the school supply list. heaven forbid you stand up to them and say NO! We were taught to value education, actually, we weren’t told so much as you understood that there wasn’t an option. Remember when you dreaded your parents getting a note from your teacher? Just as education is not valued as much, neither are the educators respected as they once were. Many children today have “no home training” as my mother used to say. In the West Indies as in so called 3rd world countries, education is for the privileged so when a child has the free education that is available here, they push their children to succeed.

By San

December 1, 2005 02:11 PM | Link to this

I agree with the columnist and many of the commentors. I grew up in a well known Atlanta city project. I was very smart in school and I was also picked on because of this. I never really fitted-in because the kids that were in my neighborhood did not like me and the kids that lived outside of the neighborhood thought they were better than me. One of the comments mentioned “dumbing it down”. This is not just in school, this is also in the streets, and in the clubs. Especially if you are single trying to meet a man. A lot of black people think that if you show a little class and education that you think you are better than them. You have to stoop to their level if you do not want to be left out. I had to learn to be proud of myself no matter what others had to say. Also, I found people that were going through the same situation. This helped to get through the situation. It is ashame that we as “black people” treat each other this way.

By Sharonda

December 1, 2005 02:13 PM | Link to this

I agree that it is the parents. I have a 10 year-old daughter that goes to school in Gwinnett County. This is her first year and I have other relatives that talks about the way she talks and act but I just tell them to teach their kids to act and speak properly. My daughter was picked on for being the straight A student when she was in Dekalb County schools but she never let that stop her from being good and making good grades because she had her PARENTS backing her all the way. So I will say that it is what you teach your child at home that prepares them for life and how to deal with people. It doesn’t matter what school, race, or how much money we make. It is the influence that we have on our kids that makes them into the adults they become. So thank you for writing this article and I am going to send this to all of the parents I know.

By Lee

December 1, 2005 02:15 PM | Link to this

Rick, you can now begin working on the acceptance speeches for your Peabody and Pulitzer prizes. Your article has certainly struck a nerve in this community. A series of follow-up pieces would be most welcome. Every present, past, and future Mandisa needs this dialogue to continue.

By Bruce Wilcox

December 1, 2005 02:15 PM | Link to this

After reading the comments I’m pleased to know that all white children are perfect. They speak perfect English, never slang, they only wear what is comfortable and has a reasonable price and never cave into the latest fads. That all white children are successful, study hard and obey all their teachers. That white children would never make comments, slights or snubs to another student for that would not be proper. But the most important is that white children are not effected by peer pressure. Now if we could only get the blue eyes and blond hair down the world would be perfect.

As far as Bill Cosby, if he is the role model you expect all blacks to follow I would think again. Bill Cosby quit high school and joined the Navy, it was only then did he realize how far you get without an education. He completed college and with his comic genuis he had a career. He also arrived at the perfect time, because of the Civil Rights movement he wasn’t limited to playing ‘blacks only clubs’. His first role on tv was in “I Spy”, did he get that because of his talent or because the studios were searching for black actors to at least share top billing in a show, something never done before? So ‘Cos’ can now tell all on how it is or should be, he’s a made man thanks to the Civil Rights Movement.

Peer pressure has been around forever and will continue in all groups long after this phase has passed.

By Beatrice Stephens

December 1, 2005 02:16 PM | Link to this

I’m really disgusted by this! I am a grandmother and I continually stress education to my grannies. I let them know the meaning of education and that education is a must if you’re going to get any place in this country. I tell my grannies that their first set back is being of the black race and therefore you MUST do everything within yourself to concentrate on education. My thinking is that you have to be twice as good as a white person. I noted that we blacks that have decent jobs and have a pretty decent life look down on our people. I find that the educated Blacks need to pay more attention to our children. Sometimes (as said 30 years ago) it takes more than a parent to raise a child. Where I come from (Alabama) the whole neighborhood of adults would help out each other to try and put the children on the right track. No matter how much you preach education and try to direct your children in the right direction it does not help once they get of a certain age. In my heart I do not believe any parent has done more to make their children understand that education is of the utmost importance and without it you will not be able to obtain any type of employment that you should want. In today’s world many of our children are so very confused. The millionaire hip hoppers as far as I’m concerned are doing nothing for our children except exploiting them to the wrong ways of life. We must continue to help (at least try) our children and pray that they will see the light at the end of the tunnel. I don’t think that young mothers take an active enought role n their childrens education.

By J.T.

December 1, 2005 02:19 PM | Link to this

Lyndi wrote: …And just so everyone knows, Ebonics, known in academia as African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is an actual language with its own grammar, syntax, morphology, and vocabulary. If you need proof of this, just ask Toni Morrison, who has come up with the five forms of BE (verb “to be”) in AAVE…

This is exactly what this article was talking about: Ebonics strives to further separate blacks from other English language Americans - thus creating further separation rather than inclusion.

I don’t give a flip about Toni Morrison. Just because she has written a few books does not make her THE purveyor of education in this country.

Interesting how black folks are quick to make fun of the language of rural white people - referencing it as uneducated and red neck, but Ebonics is supposed to be some sort of elitist, closely held dynamic language that should be revered and embraced by all Americans. GARBAGE!

Ebonics (AAVE as you would like to call it) is nothing but an attempt to teach black folks that they don’t have to become educated - they can speak however they want and because some idiot academics go along with it, they deem it it’s own language.

Last time I listened to folks on Wall Street and at Harvard and Yale, they weren’t saying, “We BE stylin’ and profilin’!”

By Daniel Walker

December 1, 2005 02:21 PM | Link to this

Since I was bullied in middle school about my grades, I totally sympathize with Mandisa, and I find it DISGUSTING that things have gotten worse for black academic stars. I wonder what those same bullies think of (Morehouse graduate) Dr. Martin Luther King and (self-educated) Malcolm X.

By Anonymous

December 1, 2005 02:21 PM | Link to this

I just wanted to comment after reading many of these comments and note that I, like many of you was in the top 10% of my class, graduated magna c* laude from undergrad and recently graduated from law school. I agree with the brother that mentioned earlier that often it is your own perception of yourself or the way others perceive you that makes the difference. When I began to take AP classes and run for student government, I NEVER lost the respect from my peers that were not on the same track, because I didn’t change! You don’t have to speak in Ebonics or wear your clothes a certain way to be respected by your peers. You cannot isolate yourself from them AS IF you are different.

With all my accomplishments, I still ride around bumping Young Jeezy when I’m in the mood for it and Maroon 5 on other days. It’s not the music or the “black/hip hop” culture! It’s ignorance and a lack of eduation and if you want to stop it, then I encourage everyone—black, white, Hispanic, etc. to stop separating everyone based on their musical tastes or taste in clothes, because I work in a prominent law firm here in Atlanta, but the music I listen to when I put my earphones on at my desk do not reflect the quality of my work or my level of intellect.

Congratulations, Mandisa on ALL your achievements and we look forward to you achieving many, many more! The sky is the limit!

By Stephanie

December 1, 2005 02:24 PM | Link to this

I have grown up in predominately white schools and I made a decision to attend Historically Black Universities for undergraduate and my graduate education based on similiar experiences growing up. I did immitate the behavior of dumbing down so that I wouldn’t be labeled as “acting white”. In high school I took on limited leadership roles because of my junior year President of Latin Club experience which students black students completely ridiculed me for. Once in a predominately African-American environment I didn’t experience the ridicule at all. I actually experienced the opposite. I was class president and held several other leadership positions @ my HBCU. Now that I have a son, I live no where close to Gwinett, Cobb, or North Fulton. I live in College Park and would like my child to go to predominately black schools and colleges so that he can be looked at for his raw talent, intelligence and abilities. I don’t want him to go through the hatred, discrimination, ridicule like this young lady or I have undergone at the cost of a mixed school environment. :0) educated, african-american, young lady.

By A Parent

December 1, 2005 02:29 PM | Link to this

I am a parent of a 6 year old and a 2 year old and I am raising them that you speak correct english all the time (NO EBONICS) And always excel in anything they do. I don’t care how kids precieve my kids as long as they know that they are loved and taht they can achieve anything in life. My daughter feels like she can do anything and that is what I try to instill in her because I want her to be the best that she can be. I was in Honors classes in middle school and high school. I was part of the popular crowd and didn’t have trouble with people teasing me about being smart. I did see it go on. I thought it was more that people teased those people because they said they were “acting white.” Where I was smart but was still speaking regularly (not ebonics). I just think that parents should start teaching their kids to be more like other kids as well as myself so that way we can all excel.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 02:29 PM | Link to this

Lee, CAN I GET AN AMEN!!! Because I am definately not getting any work done today.

By bmm

December 1, 2005 02:30 PM | Link to this

Dubois, point well taken about athleticism giving a better chance to scholarship than academics, but is this really a just-black problem? I’m not sure if blacks get more scholarships than whites (maybe they do), but certainly whites can just as easily get athletic scholarships if they are talented enough. Maybe the argument could follow that suburban white kids don’t need scholarships like inner-city black kids do (pardon the obvious cliche), but I would take issue with this as well. College these days is too expensive for most families regardless of socio-economic position, though I recognize that poorer families have a tougher time than more affluent families. I can’t help but think, however, that the problem isn’t incentives from scholarships or affirmative action…the solution lies primarily with the values we as parents, neighbors, and role models instill in the youth. Education must be valued and this must be emphasized to the children whether black, white, asian, latino, etc.

By mel

December 1, 2005 02:30 PM | Link to this

I agree with Antonio from way upthread. My high school (in South Dekalb) was 90% black and a school of excellence. I was in the gifted program, took AP classes, was part of the symphonic band, etc. I was never accused of not being black enough. I was able to be intelligent and studious without shunning other black students and black culture. There has to be a balance. I also wonder if Mandisa has any black friends or if she associates with only white students. I’m not saying she should only associate with black people, but she needs to be a balanced person. She can shun the thug culture (which is what most of us did when I was in high school) and not give in to peer pressure without shunning her black peers.

In my experience, there are two different kinds of black intellectuals. There are those who hold onto their sense of self, and those who completely turn away from black culture. The former are able to “code-switch”, meaning they speak the Queen’s English, but have the ability to speak to anyone and understand anyone. Then there are those who turn their noses up at anyone they deem “Too ghetto”, or “Too black”, in order to set themselves apart and be more accepted into white circles. Something tells me Miss Mandisa may be one of the latter. The sad thing is, these people will collide with reality one day and realize that no matter how many degrees you have, or how well you speak English, you are still black, and America will see them as such.

I advise parents to put academics in high esteem, but I also caution them not to let their kids “become white”. I know that’s not going to be popular with many of you, but somebody will get what I’m saying. Education (obviously) is not a white thing, so black kids should have no reason to be afraid of it. However, in the pursuit of it, they should not take on the mindset that in order to receive a good one, they have to totally reject black culture. The two can peacefully co-exist.

By JB Brown

December 1, 2005 02:30 PM | Link to this

Black folks don’t need anybody to oppress them anymore. We have become quite adept at oppressing ourselves in some very self-destructive ways. Bill Cosby’s controversial but essentially on-target comments address that very issue. And, I fear it’s getting worse. I recall some of the same foolishness that Mandisa is dealing with when I was in high school in the 1960s (yeah, I know, ancient history). But it was the exception, at least in my experience. And I grew up in a working class black neighborhood where maybe a couple of parents had college educations.

Yes, today’s black parents — including, I suspect, many with college educations themselves — must accept the lion’s share of responsibility for their children’s anti-intellectual attitudes. There was a time when most black parents, including those with little formal education, pressed their children to pursue educational excellence as a ticket to a better life and a stronger African American community. Are too many parents today just too busy to care that much about their children and our community? It’s past time for us to get our act together as a people. Racism? Yes, it’s alive and well, but it always has been, and that did not stop our ancestors. If it had, we would not be here. To borrow a popular phrase, “Get over it!”

Well, that’s enough of my little soap box pontification. Let me say that I am delighted at the response to Mr. Badie’s column — especially so soon. There are some serious reading and thinking folks out there. That’s great!

And Mandisa, I am confident that you are as strong as you are smart. Don’t let the knuckleheads get on your nerves. Stay focused. There are a lot of people of all ages and races who will be delighted to count you as a friend, and the further you go in life, the more of them you will meet.

Justice, Peace, and Blessings.

By Tiffany

December 1, 2005 02:35 PM | Link to this

I have to admit, that I was shocked when I first read the article, but, then I thought to myself, “Way to go”!!! I graduated from a well known, mostly white high school in Cobb County (2000)…I grew up in an all black neighboorhood, where I would get picked at for speaking proper english, amongst other things, and besides my sister, I was the ONLY ONE

By S.S.

December 1, 2005 02:38 PM | Link to this

Keep up the great work Mandisa. You will succeed in anything you do. Just keep focus.

By Kytu

December 1, 2005 02:40 PM | Link to this

WoW “I AM” amazed how far and disconnected the so-called educated negro of today is to the Neo black movement that has resurfaced..The dictionary meaning for educated means well train, and by who are we being trained by.Ebonics isn’t anything new it just been given a title. We are seeing the death of white supremecy where our kids are taught G. Washington was the first president, when it was really a black Moor by the name of John Henson..Of course you educated negros would have said the George or Cleopathra was white. This is a search for self idenity. Our black kids witness the growth and developement of Asain,Mexican and many other foriegners who come to America and do there own thing with no care of what white America thinks of them cause they know who they are and aware of there own culture, were we are taught that if we speak a peck of native tongue we are called uneducated. Most black have forgotten or more likely was never educated to the fact that our people are the creatures of language. Now to be told that to keep being the creators that we are is being ignorant.Wow perception…Our black kids has rebelled and are wiser and stronger that the blacks who feel under the spell of white suprememicy, who still to the day lives blinded by the matrix..My question is we’re are the black leaders to channel the revolution in the right direction. Heres a few well educated blacks that never acted white and still achieved, Dr.Chikhe Diop,Magic Johnson… If you are teaching your kids how to act, then your teaching them to be ashame of who they are…Everything came from black, the first civilized not the savage caveman tribes. So instead of teaching our kids to act we should teach them there culture and to overstand and not understand.Then everything they choose to do in live they want have to look to be validated by anyone else…

By Dean

December 1, 2005 02:41 PM | Link to this

Mr. Badie:

I agree totally with your comments in your article. My son who is a middle schooler has been experiencing the same issue. He has been told he “acts”, talks white, or he is white. What does that mean? Speaking proper English is required in our household. We are preparing our children for the real world. Intelligence is a wonderful thing and something that should not be hidden or hindered in any way. My husband gave my son this advise on looking at the situation and these comments. He told him to continue speaking the way he speaks and behaving the way he behaves. He told our son he does not need to be upset because when this individual who is doing the name calling applies for a job in the next 10 years, my son will be the one that stamps “REJECTED” on his application.

I am sure individuals like Langston Hughes, Thurgood Marshall, or Martin L. King, Jr. spoke articulate and were not embarrassed about it. Mr. Badie, it is the mom and dad’s fault. Ignorance can be genetic.

By james

December 1, 2005 02:44 PM | Link to this

COULDN’T EVEN READ ALL OF THE POSTS. SO MUCH LIP SERVICE BEING OFFERED HERE. SINCE WHEN DO WE TARGET AN INDUSTRY AS THE CAUSE FOR OUR CHILDREN’S PROBLEMS? IT IS SO CLICHE TO SAY IT ALL 50 CENT’S FAULT. DAMN THAT MTV. THAT HORSELESS CARRIAGE WITH BE THE DEATH OF THE NATION. SEE WHERE THIS GOES….A LOT OF YOU POSTERS ARE TAKING THINGS YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND AND DON’T LIKE AND BLAMING YOUR FAILURES ON THIS INANIMATE SPECTRE.

HOW MANY OF YOUR CHILDREN HAVE CELL PHONES? WHY? HOW MANY DO I SEE AT THE MALL WITH NO SUPERVISION? WHY? HOW MANY HAVE SEEN THOSE NUMEROUS RATED R MOVIES WITHOUT THAT PARENT OR GAURDIAN AT THEIR SIDE? WHY?

STATING THIS PROBLEM OVER AND OVER AGAIN WILL NEVER SOLVE ANYTHING AS LONG AS THE BLAME CONTINUES TO BE HOISTED WHERE IT DOESN’T BELONG.

By Sharon

December 1, 2005 02:44 PM | Link to this

Kytu,

Hit the books! Cleopatra was of Greek descent. She was a Ptolemy who ruled Egypt after Egypt was conquered by Alexander the Great. The Ptolemys all intermarried. There was no “African” in Cleopatra !

By BCND

December 1, 2005 02:46 PM | Link to this

Well maybe this wouldnt be a problem if black students went to majority black schools where everyone that look liked them were high acheivers. Lets face the facts most blacks that moved to “white” neighborhoods or school districts are bascially trying to be white! So yes it does start with the parents. If these upper middle class and upper class black folks moved in, stayed in or reinvested into the black community then maybe this issue wouldnt exist in the way it was stated. It was the same issue when I was in school it was “cool” to be a fool. Smart students always got called nerds,geeks,etc… I am a mentor at a middle school in the Atlanta Public School System, and the conditions at the school are horrible. Computers still using Windows 98. Most computers are broken. Teachers are not enthusiastic. Low parental involvement etc. I work with some of the supposedly “worst” students and I have found them to be the exact opposite! These guys are smart, and one of them now is the captain of the debate team. I can see the lawyer in him shining through. When you put black kids in a white school teaching with a white perspective then these issues arise when some of us seem to assimilate faster or quicker into the Eurocentric way of thinking. This really just shows how disconnected we are and how we always try to assimilate to feel accepted by the majority. Why couldnt the young lady do those things and wear FUBU. The article is written in a way to portray the young lady or her family trying to remove all parts of blackness from her identity. This is something no matter what her grades are or how well she plays the violin she will always been recognized as a black. I fault the parents, it seems they surrounded her around everything except for the essence of who she is.

Remember when Condi Rice testified and all the white media was talking about how well she spoke and how well she responded to the questions. Duhhhhhhhh, she went to a good school and was an honor student who did you think she would speak? See contrary to our C student president who also attended a good school and cant articulate anything without reading from a script. I was taught in my mediocre all balck elementary school that when giving a speech or speaking publicly to use proper english and refrain from using fillers like: and,duh, but, and ummmmmm. But being black we always got to go above and beyond to prove ourselves worthy to the white world. When we constantly see under achieving white folks placed in position of authority or importance when there were more qualified black people. It is so screwed that even some black managers in white corporations are scared to promote black folks for fear they might be looked at negatively. This society is about as dysfunctional as can be. Racial tension in this country will always exist unless we all go blind or stop classifying people by it. If you are an American citizen then you should be called an American not white,black,asian,hispanic, etc…

It is Funny how I never see articles written about how the white kids are ridiculed at the black schools for dumbing down or trying to be black. Well maybe there are no white kids at majority black schools.

It is truly a shame no matter how you look at it.

By mel

December 1, 2005 02:48 PM | Link to this

Kytu, I agree with many of your points. Blac parents have a responsiblity to debunk some of those historical myths. I’ll tell you who I admire: The educated black folks who know the white man’s history, as well as the truth.

Also, I want to point out that the “Acting white” stuff isn’t always coming out of the mouths of black folks. Ask some of these smart black kids who hang out with whites how many tiems they’ve heard, “You’re not really black. You’re white like us!” given as a compliment. Heck, I had classmates in college and coworkers say that to me. I never considered that a compliment. Obviously many whites think only white people are smart.

Did anyone read the recent article about white flight in Silicon Valley? The white parents are moving their kids out of the schools because the Asian kids are “too smart”, and the white kids can’t keep up. It was very interesting to me. Look it up.

By bmm

December 1, 2005 02:51 PM | Link to this

What is really disturbing is to see how the state-imposed social and legal inferiority wrought on African Americans in our country’s history still resonates through to black students today who assume “blackness” is the same thing as the very inferior status that so many people in our country have fought and are fighting to eliminate. Mandissa, contratulations for having pride in and respect for yourself, and thus building on the communal respect and pride of your family, your city, your race, and your country.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 02:52 PM | Link to this

If you are going to respond to an editorial called What is so ‘un-black’ about being intelligent? Please have the intelligence to use the proper word and spelling in your post.

By Kelly

December 1, 2005 02:54 PM | Link to this

As a white mother of two daughters now graduated from high school in middle Georgia, I have to say that this trend of blacks being labled too white for making good grades and being active in school is not as predominate in our area. At my daughters’ high school the AP classes, awards ceremonies and all extracurricular activities were very integrated, for which I am glad. However, I do think that much of our educational problems stem from our government not making education a priority. I have a friend from Britain and in a recent discussion about education she was explaining how “university” is available to everyone in Britain, no charge. When you attend advanced schools there you major in your chosen field - i.e. law, medicine, etc. It is not a matter of trying to get through four years of many useless undergrad classes and then continue to graduate school. We need to streamline our education process and encourage students to continue their schooling by making education available to everyone!

By lois

December 1, 2005 02:54 PM | Link to this

I applaud the young lady whose values are such that she strives to excel in school no matter what some of her black peers think. It’s not easy being different and her victory over peer pressure ensures that she will succeed in whatever she decides to do as an adult. She, and other young people like her of any color, are our only hope for the future. lois

By T

December 1, 2005 02:57 PM | Link to this

Nancy,

Oh how right you are. I am a white female and after Katrina I took two days vacation to volunteer at a shelter set up at the FFA Camp for the victims. Can you believe not one black person came to volunteer? I was shocked. Needless to say, I did not take any more of my vacation days after noticing this. All of the black race claims brother/sisterhood etc…but where were you when you race needed your contributions or just a day of your time to assist?

By Jaquelyn Smth

December 1, 2005 02:58 PM | Link to this

I am a student at McCormick High School. I’m also a African American student and my fellow peers do the same thing to me as Mandisa. They riducule me for being smart, dressing nice, and wanting to learn. They say that I act white because I speak proper. I can speak ebonics but why should I. That only gives people room to talk bad about me. I want them to know that I’m just as smart as they are.

By mel

December 1, 2005 02:58 PM | Link to this

Right on BCND!!!

Do you remember the Dave Chappelle sketch, “The Black White Supremacist”? It’s not so funny to me anymore because I see that many of us really are, on a smaller scale.

By SB

December 1, 2005 02:59 PM | Link to this

It’s about expectations from parents/caregivers. I’m black and tired of hearing our people make excuses for their lives. How long are we going to look at life through slavery lenses? It’s OK to celebrate tradition, culture, etc. but don’t expect the majority to adopt it. Remember that there are still 200 million others in the U.S not from our background. I’m successful because of me. I’m unsuccessful because of me. It’s one thing for parents to expect their children to go to school and get an education but it’s another to expect from them nothing lower than A’s and B’s. This is why certain groups excel in school. What would happen if all parents put this expectation on their children, and did not accept anything lower like those who come from Asia and Japan? Do you really think there would be anyone “acting too Black” if this happened?

By BCND

December 1, 2005 03:00 PM | Link to this

Oh yeah by the way this is the grading scale in my home.

E= Excellence how can I ask for anything more

A= Average meaning everyone should get this if they attend and pay attention in class.

B= Means you know damn well you can do better

C= Means dont let me catch young man/lady you are in deep trouble.

So getting good grades in my household is what we do not white folks not black folks but my folks. Anything other than good grades then you are not being true to the way you were raised or taught. Black folks kill me by feeding in to the stereo type that being smart is being unblack. No maybe you being dumb is something that your family praises but family only praise excellence!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 03:01 PM | Link to this

Nancy, oh how wrong you are! I along with many, many other blacks were there as volunteers. We were with the Red Cross, National Guard, EMT, Paramedics and just plain citizens trying to help. Those that could not be where you could see them donated clothing, cooked food and took in those people misplaced by Katrina.

By Tiffany Thrasher

December 1, 2005 03:03 PM | Link to this

When I first read this article, I have to admit I was shocked, but then I though “way to go”!!! I graduated from a well known mostly white high school in Cobb County, I was teased by not just black, but some white students as well, not to mention that I grew up in an all black neighboorhood, where I was teased there too. I guess that the kids that I grew up with were threatened by me. I was the only one besides my sister in that whole neighboorhood who graduated high school and made something of herself. I see some of those same people today, and it’s funny when I ask them what they have been up to, how many say “Nothing, just raising my kids”, or “Just trying to get my GED, so I can find a decent job”. But, I remind you, that those are the same kids who thought that it was funny to pick at me because I spoke proper english, I made good grades, and never had to repeat one either. So all I can say is to keep your head up Mandisa, because GOD has something much larger planned for you, and everyone who made fun of you before will wish they had kept their mouths shut, and their ears open then they would be somewhere too.

By John

December 1, 2005 03:03 PM | Link to this

Who can disagree with the point that the young lady should be free to excel academically and culturally without being ridiculed by her peers? No one should. However, I think you take it too far when you start talking about the differences in the way kids dress or her preferences in clothing designers. Does wearing FUBU clothing mean you are not also seeking to excel in academics? I think you are adding to the negative stereotypes of black kids by including that statement in your article.

By Ben Newmann

December 1, 2005 03:05 PM | Link to this

As a Ghanaian sojourning in Houston, Texas we the parents have failed our children. If we cannot control our offsprings from home how do we expect someone outside the house to do it for us. We should stop the whining and start using our heads. We put so much emphasis on what is on our heads than what goes in. No white boy is going to anything for us but ourselves.

By jason

December 1, 2005 03:06 PM | Link to this

Amen, The only color that matters in America is green. As in money and the best way to make money is to be educated. The sooner that people of all races realize that, the better off we will all be.

By Wanda

December 1, 2005 03:06 PM | Link to this

I totally agree. Both my children attended a college prep private school in Southern California and often times and even now my family members will comment”Your kids sound white” . They both went on to graduate college in 4years, my daughter graduated C* Laude from Spelman College. I have always stressed knowledge is POWER. I also am a single mother, that made sure my priorites were in order. Raised my children and maded sure they are strong loving individuals and that knowledge is POWER. We are our worse friend/enemy. I say this time and time again.

By Chuck

December 1, 2005 03:08 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately the Black crowd would rather listen & juke to Rap ( short for Crap) than devote time to studies. And they wonder why they lag behind asians, latins, and mexicans in every area of intellectual smarts.

By David

December 1, 2005 03:10 PM | Link to this

You have said a mouthfull and it is very true. I’m a retired officer that use to work in the projects of Atlanta I have heard kids there say “To be educated is to be WHITE”. I never understood that way of thinking. To be educated is to make more money.

By tonya

December 1, 2005 03:13 PM | Link to this

Yes, I agree that we as parents bear a great deal of the responsiblity for the attitude our children have towards education, but… I also agree that there are other factors that contribute to this situation.

For one, we live in a society that continues to use subtle means of reinforcing the inaccurate opinion that race is a factor in a person’s academic abillities. When we make statements such as “someone is acting “white” because of their academic accomplishments we are also reinforcing this opinion.

I hope Mandisa continues to excel and that she will also help to educate those who ridicule her, about the importance of academic excellence in today’s society.

Just a side note, most situations that we lable as being racial are political!!!!

By Dennis

December 1, 2005 03:14 PM | Link to this

I believe I’ve heard this story, or one very similar, before. It also involved a young black woman who was extremely bright, talented, and smart enough to shun the negative aspects of American culture (not just “black” culture) while embracing the positive. She has succeeded in life far beyond the wildest expectations of most people. Her name? Condoleeza Rice … Secretary of State of the United States of America.

By Mike

December 1, 2005 03:17 PM | Link to this

My daughter experienced that from 1st grade until sophomore in high school. When little she carried 2 suitcases everywhere. One for her toys and clothes and the other for her books. Always a voracious reader at a young age. I remember when she started both middle school and high school she was called a nerd. She nows attend Vanderbilt on a full Phd scholarship for Physics. And yes she has not lost her sense of blackness and there is nothing wrong with being smart. The young lady should stay focus on what she wants to do with her life and not let other kids dictate who and what she is. Problem is they know less that what she does. Good Luck

By James T. Stewart

December 1, 2005 03:18 PM | Link to this

I am in agreement with the article and firmly believe that our children turn out to be exactly what we guide them to become. We instill pride in their being Black and having them to understand that the sky is the limit in terms of what they can become. We teach and encourage them to research about their blackness and set proper examples for them, if we achieve and seek academic accomplishment, they understand it is allright to do so. I am proud to be able to say that my wife and I have two handsome, well educated Black men, one an orthopedic surgeon and the second one ready to receive his second masters. In conclusion, we just have to take care of business as the “parents” of Black children.

By Tiffany Thrasher

December 1, 2005 03:19 PM | Link to this

When I first read this article, I have to admit I was a little shocked, but, then I thought to myself “way to go”!!! I graduated from a well know, mostly white high school in Cobb County. I too, was teased not by just black students, but, by some white as well, not to mention that I grew up in an all black neighboorhood, where I was teased even more. I guess that the kids I grew up with were threatened by me. I was the only one besides my sister in that whole neighboorhood who graduated high school and made something of herself. I see some of these same people today, and it’s funny when I ask them what they have been up to, how many say “Oh, not much just raising my kids”, or “Just trying to get my GED so I can find a decent job”. And these are the same people who knocked me for trying to better myself, by speaking properly, making good grades and never having to repeat one either. So all that I can say to you Mandisa is to keep your head up, because GOD has a much bigger plan for you, and everyone who made fun of you for being an over-achiever, will wish that they had kept their mouths shut, and their ears open and they would be somewhere too.

By Marty Hill

December 1, 2005 03:20 PM | Link to this

Wow, This is amazing to read that these things still transpire. I am a 30 year old native african american Atlantan. I was raised in the Dunwoody area and attended Dunwoody High School during the early 90s. And can relate directly to Mandisa experience. As human beings you are a product of your environement. If you are around a certain type of individual or area for an extended period of time that is what you become accostumed to whether is music,speech pattern,dress,attitude likes or dislikes. but its hard to explain to someone who is not from where you are that If you are in a white area and have white friends you do the same things they do and like what they like, you dont stay at home and not have childhood cause your black and there white and you should not be made to feel bad cause your parents wanted to provide the best environment and opportunties to succed.We were lucky enough during that time period to be members of Jack and Jill. During those days it was beneficial cause it brought African Americans together that were not in predominatly black areas in Atlanta. Thats is were we learned alot about black history and associate with other african americans. I know Jack and Jill has gotten a bad reputation as of late, but during the 80s and 90s it was a godsend in Atlanta. My best friend and I were two of the few african americans that lived in the Dunwoody area and had a tough time with the M to M program during the 90s cause kids didnt understand. Thank goodness we played sports and were well rounded enough to get over it and become accepted to a point through our junior and senior years but it was very difficult early on. I remember going to college and not wanting to associate with any white people for my first year cause I wanted to shun the stereotype that I carried through out my middle school and high school years. Then I realized that people are people no matter what, you will have bad black people as you have bad white people. You will have good white people and bad black people and in the end none of that matters. If a person is good at heart they are no matter what color they are. I look back on my childhood now and realize it was the best thing that could have happened to me because I can easily associate to all races now. I love my hip-hop as well as classic rock, i can walk into a room and associate with anyone and everyone at all levels. I feel that I am a more well rounded individual due to these factors and this has allowed me many blessings. I encourage Mandisa to stay the course with what she enjoys. It will be difficult during these years with high school being a fish bowl, but as she moves through life that fish bowl becomes a huge acquariam then eventualy an ocean of opportunity with a multitude of diverse things to choose from!

By tonya

December 1, 2005 03:20 PM | Link to this

I wish we had more “black” educators also that could be a living example to the children. If they could she positive role models in the field of education they would realize that ‘black people’ value education.

By Nathan

December 1, 2005 03:24 PM | Link to this

TO CHET!

“However, we have feed into this Western notion that anything non-white is bad. When white america accepts it then it is ok by all.”

That’s just completely ignorant. I’m sorry, but i’m so sick of some “african” americans saying things like this. “When White America accepts it?” I’m offended as a “white” person. and “slang used by espn personalities” guess what chet, THEY USE IT! get your facts straight. and the bill cosby thing. he isn’t “airing” out anything. he’s exercising his CONSTITUTIONAL right. He’s speaking the truth man. And dont’ say things like “no other race does that” come on man, are you that naive? I as a “white person” can say i’m disgusted w/ how the older “white folks” act (still to this day) towards black people, those times are OVER. It’s 2005. We need to be wiser and more mature as individuals so OUR children will learn form us how to be good human beings and repeat the process…

and what’s w/ this “african american” thing? please, the majority of you that posted on here, were you born in africa? probably not, so doesn’t that make you an AMERICAN? yes, I think that it does. My ancestors are from europe. I don’t refer to myself as a European American. I believe one should be proud to be an american. I’m sure the majority of the AMERICAN population is aware (by now) that blacks descended from Africa. on that note, have a nice day.

By Tiffany Thrasher

December 1, 2005 03:28 PM | Link to this

Sorry to all of the others making comments on this article, it seems that I have posted the same comment 3 times…I have said my piece, if you didn’t see it the first time, you have 2 more chances to read it!!!

By joe

December 1, 2005 03:30 PM | Link to this

Why on earth would you add “and that to do otherwise means you’re acting like whitey”?

All smart kids are looked upon as freaks in today’s public schools.

Considering the relative achievements, I consider your statement a backhand compliment, though your credability is suspect.

By mel

December 1, 2005 03:32 PM | Link to this

Nathan,

Just the fact that you know where your Ancestors came from gives you a leg up on us blacks. Of course we don’t have proof that our ancestors came from Africa. How could we? I’m not going to get into slavery and its effects, but I don’t like it when white Americans ASSume that blacks should just be happy with being American. We have a culture and a history. You benefit directly from Euro-centrism in this country, so you don’t have to wonder what your culture or history is. You’re living it.

Sorry, but black people have every right to study and identify with our African roots. That doesn’t mean we’re not happy to live in Amerikkka, believe me.

By Dr. M.

December 1, 2005 03:33 PM | Link to this

Hi Rick:

I do agree with you. I teach for DeKalb County schools and I see this mentality everyday. I have offened said that we will not change the southside of DeKalb County schools if we do not change the mindset of the parents first and then the students. They can implement new programs each year, but we have to first change the mindset if we really want to see a change or be equal to the north end of the county.

Also, for the reader Tonya it is hard to be a role model when we are in competition with videos.

I know that I try very hard. Some of my students I reach, but lately most are just not interested.

By Dave

December 1, 2005 03:35 PM | Link to this

Wonder why Condi Rice and Colin Powell are ridiculed most by blacks? These people should be celebrated for their accomplishments instead, they’re maligned for their political views and associations. There are black Conservatives in this country also.

By Antionette

December 1, 2005 03:43 PM | Link to this

Why just stop at high school. I graduated from a private HBCU. The kids there too laugh at you. The comment I got was, “You needed to come here to find your blackness”. The truth was I only went because I got a full scholarship.

By janice

December 1, 2005 03:44 PM | Link to this

Thank you so much we as a people needed to hear this, but as a black race we accept everything and turn our heads we think eveything is all right teens girls and boys 10-17 with babies and mom thinks it’s all right some black moms are proud to be grandmothers than being proud of that child getting his or her eduacation, and that a shame, the white race has nothing to do with our down fall we bring all on our selves and we got the nerve to blame others, I work at a hosptital and i fill bad every a young black give birth child is about 14 15 and up the grandmother is about 29 30 and smile and tell everyone she a grandmother, not one time do she say anything about eduacation, and that hurts me because the child never say anything about going back to school finishing or anything and again i say we blame white people, black mothers you are mothers teach your children train your children love your children may them mind stop turning your heads, stay out the clubs buy pants that fit you dress like you are mothers act like you are mothers and stop filling your house up with children by diffrent men, Parents please tell your children to read books study fill good about themselves, let them know that education is important and let’s stop saying THE WHITE MAN, its’ not the white man it’s us as RACE THAT STOPPING US.

By Jackie

December 1, 2005 03:47 PM | Link to this

As an educator of 33 years, my main comment is that parenting makes all of the difference in the world. Starting out teaching in “government schools”, I had the backing of parents because both of us ( parent and teacher) had the same goal: to educate and make the best of the son and/or daughter who was assigned to my charge. I didn’t have young Black students til later and felt just as responsible for their education as well. I observed the same hopes from their parents as from the White parents. Many parents, in all cultures, have abdicated their responsibility of rearing their children, and until that turns around, there will continue to be a dumbing down of America’s students. I send my praise to this young girl’s parents as well as to all of those who are working to raising responsible and caring adults.

By Gina

December 1, 2005 03:48 PM | Link to this

Chuck, Mexicans have the highest dropout rate in the state of Georgia. I think Blacks are doing better than that group.

By Joe McLain

December 1, 2005 03:48 PM | Link to this

Mandisa is intelligent and any kid, white or black, will go through the same thing she did. What I am saying is intelligent white kids get picked on as well. This isn’t a racial issue at all so in my opinion you are talking about race to stir up trouble.

By L.

December 1, 2005 03:51 PM | Link to this

It’s funny, and it also seem like black males tend to be easy targets of ridicule, simply because “we” are a visible stereotype, not only to white and other ethnic peers, but especially to our black peers. The minute a black person does something out of character (especially something of intellectual worth and class) in high school, he or she gets pegged with all sorts of names and titles, because he or she is not acting the stereotype. That individual choses to be unique, but in a good way, because he or she is confident and courageous enough not to stoop to their “ghettofied” levels of being primitive, simple and uncouth.

I don’t know what is wrong with our black youths today. It seems they don’t want to “sell out” in order to chase after the American, but they feel like their stereotypical-based talents can get them their faster. Yet, when it comes to a challenge, most of them basically give up without a fight and end up living a marginal lifestyle, and the ones who succed end up with fame, riches and glory being a hip-hop/rap artist, a comedian/actor or comedienne/actress or an athlete. Unfortunately, those who embark on the fame and fortune profitted from the stereotypes black childern tend to embrace, don’t last very long in the business- a rapper may have just one gold album, then become a one-hit wonder; an actor may have a breakthrough movie career, then succumb increased to competition in the entertainment industry; a college basketball or football player may become a #1 draft, and then his career would become fractured by an injury. The next thing you know drugs, prison, scandal and in some cases death will follow because of depression and desperation.

Black youths need to put aside the superficial goals in life and stick to what makes the average American succeed. For black youths who intend to follow that route, they need to ignore- the best way they can- the peers who intend on putting themselves down, because they are the real sellouts and losers whom are fulfilling their own downfall. So, basically it is okay to be considered a “nerd”, a “geek”, a “Carlton” or an “Uncle Tom”, because that is what is going to put food on the table and money in your pocket for many years to come, while the opposite others (whom are ignorant) that bother to torment, will end up living on skid row for many years to come.

By Wendy Lockman

December 1, 2005 03:51 PM | Link to this

Since the schools have clubs for everything else, including Gay/Lesbian, Cultural, Music, Religious, why not have a club for all students that are proud to be intelligent.

By mel

December 1, 2005 03:53 PM | Link to this

Wow Dave! You know most blacks! Cool.

Anyway, that’s called the American Way. We are all free to align ourselves with whatever political party we want. The black folks I know, even the ones who don’t agree with their politics, at least appreciate their achievements.

I agree with the opinion that we as a people need not blame white people for this particular problem. We’ve got to stand up and tell our kids that the only way to be someone is to get an education. But please, let’s not kid ourselves into thinking that it will make us any more acceptable to white people. Let’s take them out of the equation for once and for all. We should better ourselves FOR ourselves, not for them.

By IC

December 1, 2005 03:53 PM | Link to this

In the words of the late Walt Kelly “We have met the enemy and he is us”

By jo saari

December 1, 2005 03:55 PM | Link to this

i am a 51 year old (can’t believe it myself..came up on me in a hurry!) “white” woman in columbus,ohio. i don’t understand a lot of things. i was raised in cleveland through the segregation/riots/desegregation of schools blah blah blah. fact is …whatever happened to this country to just follow the ethic of reciprocity…”do unto others as you would have others do unto you”. we would be a more civilized society be you sienna,indigo,or chartreuse what does it matter? we are all living, breathing creatures with a God given brain to use! those who choose to use it…will advance…those who do not will be taken care of by those who do. wake-up!

By Gina

December 1, 2005 03:55 PM | Link to this

Mel,

What is being Black? Is it embracing Black music? I enjoy all kinds of music and cultural events. If I don’t focus on just “Black” music, does that make me any less Black. My grandmother always told me, “There isn’t a white way or a black way, just the right way.”

By Ms Fox

December 1, 2005 03: