Rick Badie / My Opinion

By Rev. John Stewart, Jr.

January 17, 2006 07:11 AM | Link to this

Rick,

I had the opportunity to attend the MLK celebration in Lawrenceville and MLK Teen Dream Walk/Celebration at Shiloh. I want to commend the organizers of both celebrations for their hard work and efforts to insure we are able to celebrate MLK in Gwinnett County. Remember, it wasn’t long ago that you had to go to Atlanta to celebrate on MLK Day. Though I didn’t scan the room as effective as you, it appeared the audience in Lawrenceville was more diverse than last year. Maybe not 10%, but continous improvement year over year in bringing our community together will result in net gains for our increasingly diverse county. Finally, please note the folks in the Shiloh community also made a concerted effort to include everyone, which resulted in a audience that was more than 10% White. Your challenge of inclusion in Gwinnett County is very much appreciated. Rev. John Stewart, Jr.

By Shaun

January 17, 2006 08:11 AM | Link to this

Great article Rick. It is unfortunate that most whites that did get the day off did not even think about MLK. The civil rights struggle was not only for blacks, but for women, and other minorities, and also the handicap. I live in Snellville and I would like to thank our Mayor for coming out to celebrate with us. These are the type of articles I enjoy form you.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 09:04 AM | Link to this

Rick, I truly try to live what Dr. King preached.

But to tell you the truth, when we have a few like Nagin continuing to drive a wedge between people with comments like he made yesterday, its difficult at best.

Perhaps a good blog subject.

By sid

January 17, 2006 09:13 AM | Link to this

i remembered mlk day. but i had no intention of showing up where black folks are because i get this feeling that they are trying to make me feel guilty for something i didn’t do. i think mlk was a great man. too bad the mlk stuff in atlanta was in an area that seems to have been “trashed” by blacks. driven down blvd. lately? ever heard of a trash barrel??

By kuraigulee

January 17, 2006 09:32 AM | Link to this

I agree with Jim Dumond - where is the outrage about Nagin’s comments about New Orleans remianing a “chocolate city”? If a white mayor of a historically white city said that it should remain a “cream city” he would be (rightfully) condemned. But when a black mayor says something outrageous like Nagin, there is nothing, zip, nada. People are sick and tired of this type of double standard in the black community - until it is addressed, don’t expect whites to show up at your events.

By j.t.

January 17, 2006 10:13 AM | Link to this

I, too, agree with MLK’s philosophy and his teachings - I think all right minded people do. I volunteered at Turner Field, but I was not treated as though I were really welcome. I also must agree with several other people who have responded here…Many black leaders have gone out of their way to make MLK into a black only leader. Divisiveness was NOT one of MLK’s teachings - he taught about unity. Ray Nagin would do well to remember such teachings. Can you imagine if Mayor Guiliani had stated, “We’re going to rebuild New York as a lily white city…”? Can you imagine what kind of outcry there would have been? No white person (much less a black person) would stand for such a proclamation by a white person…Why is it that black Americans don’t denounce similar rhetoric from their own?

By MARTIN

January 17, 2006 10:14 AM | Link to this

One thing to keep in mind is that most corporations here in Georgia do not have this as a national holiday. They will let you use your vacation or one of the few personal holidays you get annually. A lot of people black or white just don’t or can’t take off.

Corporate jobs in Georgia should have a holiday schedule that follows government. So we can all be off at the same time as our children without taking off personal time and attend important funtions such as this. We all know that with children, you never have enough personal time to coincide with corporate America, but at least let us have this day. Don’t place blame on white people, blame companies who after all this time still do not recognize this as a national holiday.

By anthone

January 17, 2006 10:19 AM | Link to this

Kuraigulee - Although I certainly understand your concern about the Nagin comments, it has nothing to do with THIS article. Your “Don’t expect whites to show up at your events” statement, obviously indicates that you just don’t ‘get it’ and unfortunately, it seems you probably never will. You also want to talk about double standards? Well here’s a news flash; This country was BUILT on double standards.

By Typical

January 17, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

This is a typical statement from a typical black writer. OMG whites dont care, OMG why are we not seen as suffering still…I got a suprise for you. Whites dont show up because we are sick of hearing it…every figure that may be the cause. Get over it and get a life.

By Annoyed

January 17, 2006 10:22 AM | Link to this

I’ll be glad to attend a MLK celebration when our Presidents (Washington and Lincoln in particular) are given back their own birthdays, and not a combined President’s Day. It’s like giving (part of) the airport name to Jackson. It’s a slap in the face. Washington and Lincoln were as (if not more) important than MLK, and there are no celebrations. Think about it. There are others who deserve recognition, but they aren’t receiving it, or getting days off from work/school to celebrate it.

By cindy

January 17, 2006 10:23 AM | Link to this

NAGIN IS A RACIST. he tries to cover it up with “how do you make chocolate? white milk and dark chocolate.” oh, did i mention it’s election time for him?? hmmm…

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

Anthone,

You obviously don’t get the great mans message either.

What was—was. We can do nothing to change what was. We need to move on as Americans to relize the DREAM

The fact that double standards still exist is proof that we’ve not moved much closer to this realization.

By Annoyed

January 17, 2006 10:27 AM | Link to this

Amen, Typical!

By Annoyed

January 17, 2006 10:32 AM | Link to this

You need to have and realize your OWN dream(s), not try to live someone else’s. I lived in DC when MLK was killed, and how did blacks react? They burned down MY birthplace, looted stores (surprise, surprise) and killed my neighbor’s son (and others) because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time! (He didn’t even know about the slaying, but the 3 black men that killed him didn’t care about that or even ask him how he felt about it…he didn’t have a chance!) Now you want me to celebrate? I think NOT.

By Sick & Tired (Double Standards)

January 17, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

You guys must not forget the comments made by Pat Robertson recently. We get these types of comments from both sides, but you know what side makes them most often.

Nagin doesn’t speak for all blacks, just like Pat Robertson does not speak for white christians or whites in general.

Get a life, all of you.

By NLE

January 17, 2006 10:34 AM | Link to this

I (white person) had it on my calendar and was intending to go but got sick on Sunday and am still in bed.

I must admit that I was a bit miffed at Mayor Nagin’s comments yesterday. However, I was not surprised. Mayor Nagin’s power base was the dependent black community who have been lost to the City, and without them, and without pandering to and encouraging racist attitudes within the black community in N.O., he will have a tough time getting re-elected. If I were a black ex-resident of N.O., I’d be upset at his attempts to use me and my vote. He provided NO leadership during Katrina and now is trying to reclaim a positive image based on devisive rhetoric. Sorry, Ray, N.O. residents are smarter than that.

By John

January 17, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

The truth is that most whites (myself included) really see this as a black holiday. The message of MLK was universal but not original…we don’t have a Ghandi day or a day to celebrate Mother Theresa. Perhaps there were efforts to include whites, but I believe that most in the black community, including some posting here, really would consider white people as uninvited. And Rick Badie should consider this: what if whites outnumbered blacks at an MLK event? Would that cause joy among the attending blacks, or resentment? I think in general it would be the latter.

By Sick & Tired (Double Standards)

January 17, 2006 10:40 AM | Link to this

Annoyed,

How did you feel when those little girls were killed in the church in Birmingham or when people were being attacked on a bridge in Selma?

We have all felt the pain and need to move forward. You are not annoyed, you have not let go of your hatred. Let it go and celebrate where we are today.

By Howdy

January 17, 2006 10:47 AM | Link to this

I believe there are some very good points made from both sides. The majority of people in Atlanta did have to work, including me. I do believe both sides have to see above their so called “leaders” and do what they feel is right. They are not leaders in my opinion, only “problems”!!

We were founded on the belief all men were created equal and I believe that. However those “leaders” on both sides do not help the cause that MLK was trying to get across.

The article does have a certain lean and I do not support it. The article makes it sound as if everybody had the day off and chose not to acknowledge the events. specially the white people of Atlanta. Too bad we all dont have a life like the writer and can do whatever we want!

LA mayor is another whole blog in which I say the same as others have said. How the heck does he get off saying crap like that. I will not visit that city for any reason, and I love Jazz, being a professional musician! He is destroying what MLK stood for and then to comment they way he did, I am thinking MLK would not agree with his statements. Where is they Governor? Wonder what her approach is on it or if she is crying a river somewhere, no pun intended.

Anyways, MLK was a great man and should be honored, just as many white men have given to the cause and should be honored. We are all americans, let us not forget.

By J.T.

January 17, 2006 10:55 AM | Link to this

Sick and Tired: You mentioned Pat Robertson…he didn’t say anything about MLK. He made a stupid remark about Israel’s Sharon. He was also immediately denounced by just about every politician in the U.S., white and black. IMMEDIATELY!

So where is the black community in denouncing Ray Nagin’s comments?

This blog was to be about the inclusion of whites at MLK celebrations, but many here, myself included, have been forced to admit to feelings of “exclusion” rather than “inclusion”. The not too subliminal message, from many in the black community regarding white folks in general, is that white folks’ money is fine, but the white folks themselves aren’t wanted, desired, or welcome! What do you think MLK would think of that?

By CAB

January 17, 2006 10:56 AM | Link to this

I moved to Gwinnett, GA. three years ago. If you are not part of a church group you don’t have alot of access to information of activities going on in the community. MLK’s teachings of unity must first start with the Black people in Gwinnett, if we expect White, Hispanic, Asian and other people in this diverse commnity to join in. MLK’s teachings of unity should not just be a one day event, but an on going celebration for all people in Gwinnett to unite.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 11:00 AM | Link to this

Sick&tired,

no argument from me. Lets take Robertson, Nagin, every white supremacist and black leader that plays on the fears of his people and place them all in a room together. Our troubles would soon end.

By THESMARTGUY

January 17, 2006 11:02 AM | Link to this

In honoring the MLK holiday, we must first remember that he stood for equal rights of everyone, equally. Companies located in the southern states do not recognize this as a holiday and only allow a few people off and/or makes people use personal time. No other holiday has this criteria. So they are the first people to blast.

Next, MLK was a great and strong leader; the black community had never had such a person of his magnitude and in my opinion still doesn’t to this day. So a little empathy should be allowed for blacks to have pride in him as he stood for rights that were denied unfairly to blacks. With that being said, it does not give us a monopoly on the holiday. There was always a large support of white people who marched with him from beginning to end and many have lost their lives in the struggle for human rights as well. He wanted us all to be together not apart. I applaud Rev. John Stewart Jr. and his church for stepping up and reinforce that the teachings of God do not stop at the church doors. If you are not taking it into the world and your daily life then you are not living it.

JT, It is terrible that you wanted to help somebody and did not feel welcome. You keep doing what is right in your heart and let some one else’s ignorance stay with them. That is not how most blacks feel. The comments made by Ray Nagin were insensitive and ignorant. I too am angry about such an embarrassing statement. But keep in mind, he was not the focus of the day, MLK was. It was his day, not Ray Nagin’s. His attitude and opinions belong to him and him alone. It is not right to condemn the entire black community for the comments of one. Why does it seem that the actions of one negative black man must be placed on the entire race? Do you really think intelligent people support stupidity just because he is black?! This is one main reason why blacks in general have to fight negative stereotypes daily. We do not see all whites as liars and crooks based on the Enron case or even more recently the oil companies. We see you as individuals, please try and see us the same way. Some are bad and some are good but all are different.

Sid, no one can make you feel guilty for anything. That is your own conscience telling you that you need to look deeper inside and identify what your real reasoning was for not attending. Maybe it would have been better if you showed up with members of your church. Your guilty feelings are exactly what a majority of African-Americans feel every day of their lives. Always having to prove yourself and overcome negative stereotypes. Maybe your guilt came from one of those places and it was hard to face. Your remark about Blvd being trashed was racist. Blacks did not trash the area, poverty did. If poor people were given access to better opportunities don’t you think they would take them? Do you think if city gov’t thought enough about poor neighborhoods more would be done? There is no money there and the area “doesn’t matter” to those in power who make decisions. This is exactly what Dr. King was fighting for. Maybe, you should have gone. You missed the history lesson big time

By krobar

January 17, 2006 11:03 AM | Link to this

Badie—

You should really be upset about how few black people attended. 500 blacks out of a county population of 75-100,000 blacks—— your own folks didn’t even make an effort to attend.

Look at the number of black people who attended the major MLK events in Atlanta. Metro population of 1-2 million black folks and only a couple thousand bother to attend.

I personally am turned off by the greedy, self-serving behavior of the King family. If the man’s own family trashes his memory, why should I care either?

By Jeremy

January 17, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

If Whites don’t want to go to MLK events, that is their right. I find it ironic that some of MLKs “disciples” are the ones that creat an atmosphere of division, making MLK a Blacks-only leader or icon. Personally, I’m tired of the media ramming it down my throat every mid-January. Now I have to prepare for “Black History Month” in February, another force-fed assault on my intelligence.

By Ricky

January 17, 2006 11:13 AM | Link to this

Why is it every MLK Day we have to hear what the government (ie taxpayor dollars)has to do to make the Black community feel whole in our country? We do not even have a holiday for George Washington, the greatest of all Americans. Yet I get this annual shakedown in January. The King family (bloodsuckers) got millions for his papers, now they ant $30 million of our tax dollars for the King Center. Dexter & Marty should be set for life now!

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 11:24 AM | Link to this

Putting everything else aside we must continue to strive to help one another as Americans, not as them and us. Let us continue to strive to make Dr. Kings dream a reality. Together we can accomplish greatness as a nation and as a people, creating a better world for future generations.

Anyone care to take those statements to task, or can we agree that’s our purpose?

By Antone

January 17, 2006 11:44 AM | Link to this

Black folks should attend those events that help them. I was amazed at how few Blacks attended the MLK event downtown. Why? We blacks tend to be lazy.

By ADL

January 17, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

It truly is a shame Dr. King’s Dream has been forgotten. The biggest reminder most citizens had of the holiday was his family fighting (again) on how best to honor (profit from) his legacy. There was also a story of Dr. King and Jesse Jackson fighting shortly before his assassination. Dr. King apparently recognized what we all see today: Jesse Jackson using the civil rights movement to further his own career. Does anyone remember that the dream wasn’t a dream of black or white domination? It was a dream of working and living together. Making things better for all of us.

That doesn’t occur in a “chocolate city”. It occurs in the hearts and minds of people who think for themselves, not blindly follow their leaders because of the color of their skin.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

Antone, I disagree with such generalities.

perhaps many didn’t take the day off. As a national holiday I allow employees to take the day if they wish but they only get paid if they work. (like many of the national holidays)

That would make “black folk”(your term not mine) less than lazy wouldn’t it?

By Lisa

January 17, 2006 12:04 PM | Link to this

ADL,

Take heart, the dream of MLK hasn’t been forgotten, or at least not in my family.

My son and I were on the way home from getting his tooth pulled yesterday, and we passed Central Gwinnett. I said “Oh, the MLK celebration was at Central today.” He looked at me and said that he wouldn’t be able to be friends with his best friend if it wasn’t for Martin Luther King. The boys have been best friends for the last seven years; my son’s friend is black, and we’re white. I told him it would’ve been really rought to be friends, and there would be no way his sister would be dating interracially either.

We live the dream.

By JIMMY

January 17, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

A MLK DAY RALLY WAS HELD IN LAGRANGE. ONE WHITE(NEWSPAPER REPORTER) AND ONE BLACK (EIGHTY ONE YEAR OLD PREACHER) SHOWED UP TO HEAR THE SPEAKER.WHAT MESSAGE DOES THAT SEND?

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 12:09 PM | Link to this

“Surely God is mad at America.” “surely he is upset at black America also”

Nagins words during his MLK day speech.

Y’all want something to be angry about? THAT should do it.

God’s mad at black America so he sends hurricanes into NO to devastate the life’s of her residents in retaliation?

What the hell’d y’all do to PO god?

By LSDPOUT

January 17, 2006 12:11 PM | Link to this

I would love to attend a King Day celebration if I thought it was going to be about Dr. King. I would love to know more about this remarkable man.

But King Day celebrations are Democratic pep rallies, little more. Why go to hear the same Democratic agenda-pushing I can hear every night on CBS?

By Max

January 17, 2006 12:17 PM | Link to this

Why can’t Badie get beyond this black and white obsession. Notice that Hispanics are the largest minority in this country, and Asians can be seen everywhere every day. Time for some folks to broaden the view. This should be Equality Day, not a semi-religious worship event of one fallible human being.

By kwesi

January 17, 2006 12:36 PM | Link to this

I predict that in 15-20 years, the MLK Day festivities will have been a long, distant memory.

I’d like to get past the parades, placards, dull speeches & “We Shall Overcome”. If you want to learn about MLK, read his books or a biography. To make his dream come true, start in your own community. Surely there is a senior citizen that could use some yardwork done, or a roof repaired, a fence mended.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 12:43 PM | Link to this

Indeed Max,

“get beyond this black and white obsession”

Why can’t we all?

By Charlie

January 17, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Thanks for your retro views as it made me feel young again when I was a civil rights worker in the sixties. Turning 60 this year. Does anyone have a count on Mexicans, Koreans, Chinese, Japanese, Africans, Arabs, Russians, or folks from India that attended? Thanks again, but I would have called the “whites” that attended, “hippies” or “commies” to keep with your retro theme.

By Lee

January 17, 2006 01:08 PM | Link to this

I think it’s worth noting that folks with comments like jim dumond and kuraigulee seem to point at the examples of Blacks behaving badly (and Nagin’s comments fit the bill) as the reason why a “wedge” exists between the races and why Whites don’t attend functions like the one in this discussion. Jim, if you agree with what King represented, just attend. What do Ray Nagin’s comments have to do with you in Atlanta? You know he isn’t speaking on behalf of the Black community—just like I know (insert any White extremist’s name here) doesn’t speak for all Whites.

I’m not faulting you or anyone else for not attending these event. Nothing against them, but I didn’t attend either. But, citing what someone else says as the reason (or anyone else’s reason) is disingenuous at best. There will always be someone, somewhere, making inflammatory comments.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 01:11 PM | Link to this

To bad we can’t seem to impart the lessons we learned 40 years ago to the youth of today.

By Liz

January 17, 2006 01:16 PM | Link to this

As former member of the UGA marching band, I was required to attend the MLK day parade in Atlanta each year. Instead of sleeping in and enjoying the day off, I’d get up early, drive to Atlanta, and stand around in the cold (and usually rain, too) to participate in a parade where we didn’t feel very welcome. Not only did the predominantly black audience give us the cold shoulder, but they would also verbally harass the few black members of the band. It certainly didn’t give me a very good impression of MLK’s ideals being carried out on a holiday supposedly all about inclusiveness.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 01:20 PM | Link to this

You are putting words into my mouth. I never claimed Nagins comments were a reason for not attending.

I did insinuate that I found his using a speech during a MLK celebration to stir racial dissention was innapropriate, I stand by that and It matters not as to his color of skin.

Dr. King might even have taken offense to such actions.

I grew up watching Dr. King live and die for the freedom of ALL people and I find anyones use of his name to promote hate and dissention amoung races as an abomination to his memory.

By THESMARTGUY

January 17, 2006 01:21 PM | Link to this

Krobar, the issue of how many people attended has already been discussed. First, keep in mind, everyone will not be shown on television. A lot of churches have programs that people attend rather than go downtown. So your comment is very negative. How many people actually get out and vote?

Jeremy, your attitude is the reason that we have this holiday and Black history month has to be “force-fed� to you. A lot of people do not care to know about the contributions Blacks have made to this country. That is fine but like it or not it is a part of every Americans’ history. Older generations grew up in a different world and a different time. The idea was to stop negative ideas to be passed down to future generations. The idea is to show the positive things blacks have done and contributed to the success of this country rather than being “force-fed� the negative stereotypes we are forced to live with our entire lives. So you think about that next time you are “force-fed� 28 days of history.

Ricky, George Washington does have a holiday. It used to be his birthday. However, corporate America decided that since it was so close to Lincoln’s birthday, why not combine the two so we have President’s day. It is celebrated by the federal government. Also, keep in mind that you are not the only one who is a tax payer and like it or not, all of the money is not spent in any one way to make any one group happy. Also, you are confusing what ML King did and his holiday for your anger at the family. You have a right to your opinion but do you think it is smart for you to dishonor his legacy because you do not like the family?

Antone, speak for yourself. Did you attend any of the events? Some chose to honor him in other ways not shown on TV or at just one location.

Jim, that was a good one! Please keep in mind that one negative, ignorant comment from one person does not and should not deem that the rest of us agree with him just because he is black.

By kuraigulee

January 17, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

Max and Jim -

About “the black and white obsession” - unfortunately, it all comes down to power and money. Black leaders like Nagin don’t want to lose it, so they revert to race-baiting politics to try and remain in power. If you want to see an example closer to home - check out the recent “ATL Brand” campaign by Franklin’s administration. Could it be that Franklin, like Nagin, has seen the demographic writing on the wall and is using the campaign to retain and draw blacks to Atlanta? Check out these stats. [http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/ACSSAFFFacts?event=&geoid=16000US1304000&geoContext=01000US%7C04000US13%7C16000US1304000&street=&county=atlanta&cityTown=atlanta&state=04000US13&zip=&lang=en&sse=on&ActiveGeoDiv=&useEV=&pctxt=fph&pgsl=160&submenuId=factsheet1&dsname=DEC2000SAFF&cinbr=null&qrname=null&reg=null%3Anull&keyword=&_industry=]

Not sure if the above link will work, but in short, according to the US Census, Atlanta was 70 percent black in 1990 - this fell to 61.4 percent in 2000 - in 2004 the percentage of blacks fell to 54.2 percent. Meanwhile, the Franklin administration touts that Atlanta will remain majority black and gives incorrect stats on its website. [www.atlantaga.gov/client_resources/ government/planning/cdp/2004cdp-03demographics.pdf]

It seems that if these demographics continue, Atlanta will become majority white in the near future, which will surely threaten the Morehouse Gang’s political control here in Atlanta. Keep this in mind when you see the Franklin administration run a “brand ATL” campaign, or call for “living wage” housing. And watch for this issue to rear its ugly head right here in Atlanta.

By Cherron

January 17, 2006 01:28 PM | Link to this

Lee you asked what does it have to do with Atlanta. Well nothing if you want (or can) take all the evacuees out of the Atlanta metro area. We are housing and helping each and everyone we can. This affects everyone. It will require all our resources. Just like a family. When one needs or hurts it affects us all.

Also, regarding Anthone’s previous comment “built on double standards..well this country was built on slavery too. I personally choose to learn by(not live) others mistakes. This allows us all to grow…

By ninja

January 17, 2006 01:31 PM | Link to this

Who in their right mind would honor a man of the cloth that openly cheated on his wife, with women of other races, time after time? MLK should have been defrocked from his church. If he were not a minister I would not feel this strongly. The New Testament has passages for men like King. Too bad King didn’t bother to read them.

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 01:36 PM | Link to this

Ninja, are you casting the first stone here?

By Sane person

January 17, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

I am glad I do not live in Gwinnett. Both the the blacks and whites are filled with something more than hatred, it is called stupidity!! If anyone of you had the courage to do what Dr. Martin Luther King did, you would find out more about yourself then you expected. You would find out that you where a person who saw a injustice(not just against blacks, but for all AMERICANS! male & female) and wanted to do something about it. Do not forget Dr. King was a man of the church and when spoke of injustice against people black, white or gray; he speaking about all God’s people & with that the the color line should be dropped and we all should just celebrate a great man who choose to stand up and say I have a Dream. Where do you stand?

By jim dumond

January 17, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

Hey,hey,

I live in Gwinnett.

By krobar

January 17, 2006 01:49 PM | Link to this

To TheSmartGuy—

What the hell are you talking about that the poor attendance of Blacks at MLK events has already been discussed? Show me. Also what the hell does getting out to vote have to do with the conversation? Please explain. And what do TV cameras have to do with this discussion. Are you trying to say there were thousands of black people attending the Gwinnett activities and tens of thousands attending the Atlanta events and somehow the cameraman—probably white—missed them?

My comments may have been negative—but yours were stupid.

By Citagwe

January 17, 2006 01:51 PM | Link to this

God did not intend for the races to mix. That is why at the Tower of Babel the languages were created, and races given, and the peoples went their respective ways.

Blue Jays don’t mix with Cardinals. Lions don’t mix with tigers.

By Scuse me

January 17, 2006 01:54 PM | Link to this

Citagwe,

Seek help for your affliction.

By Scuse me

January 17, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this

Sane person? Prereqs. for being stupid. Black/white and reside in Gwinnett?

Very interesting concept. WRONG— but interesting.

By Sane Person

January 17, 2006 02:02 PM | Link to this

TO Citagwe: Then you might need to go to another plant. Because that Tower was climbed along time ago. Over and over again. I guess that thing called love gets in the way of your quote. And since love has no color and God loves all of his people then everyone should too. That is the message Dr. King was trying to spread.

By Scuse me

January 17, 2006 02:04 PM | Link to this

ninja, if liking the ladies makes one evil, I must be satan himself.

By Sane Person

January 17, 2006 02:20 PM | Link to this

To Scuse me:

If I have you thinking about it, then we are already headed in the right direction. And if that is wrong, then I do not want to be right. Thanks!

By cunja

January 17, 2006 02:35 PM | Link to this

Attn: Scuse Me.

A minister of God is a role model to his congregation. When MLK took his vows with Coretta, she was his partner for life. I don’t know what church (probably none) that you go to, but any decent, God-fearing church would have defrocked MLK. There is nothing wrong with liking the ladies, but when you assume a role that inspires many, set an example. Otherwise, leave it to someone who will. God makes it clear numerous times in the Good Book. I forgive MLK, and Coretta may have to. My point is he should not be awarded the “Reverend” title.

By sid

January 17, 2006 02:38 PM | Link to this

THESMARTGUY…NOT TOO SMART..SOO, POOR BLACK FOLKS ON BLVD. DON’T LITER, POVERTY LITERS. THAT’S INTERESTING. I THOUGHT PEOPLE THREW TRASH ON THE GROUND THERE. NOW I KNOW, WHEN I SEE THE BLACK KID ON THE CORNER THROW HIS MCDONALDS FOOD ON THE SIDEWALK, HE DIDN’T DO IT..POVERTY DID. MY MOM GREW UP VERY POOR, SHE USED TO SAY CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS…AND YOU ARE NEVER TOO POOR TO CLEAN UP. DON’T MAKE EXCUSES FOR BAD BEHAVIOR.

By J.Dalton Smith

January 17, 2006 02:49 PM | Link to this

The sooner blacks stop making everything a race issue the sooner we’ll see a more harmonious society.Why are whites expected to attend ceremonies celebrating black leaders anyway? We don’t even attend celebrations for white ones, living or dead!! I think most people would like, simply, to be left alone to the peace of the holiday, especially since in today’s job market big business is legally filching every chunk of money and time from them that they can. J

By Saddened

January 17, 2006 02:55 PM | Link to this

It pains my heart that we still have racism in the 21st century. It’s a shame that I am still hated because of my skin color and your opinion of me is not based off my character. I have leaders in this so called ONE nation under God…who died as my 7 year old stated for the cause of Freedom. My daughter plays for a basketball league and she would NOT have been able to play with out the dedication of a man that saw the inhumane treatment of his fellow man. Therefore, he risked his life to save ours. I am forever grateful that he was a vessel of honor that God used to helped let his people go. I see Dr. King as a Moses…he helped to free us from Pharoah. He should be commended for what he has done and his life should be celebrated and appreciated whether white america sees it or not! I commend you my fellow “white” brothers and sisters who saw the struggle understood it and helped make this land your land and my land.

By Sane Person

January 17, 2006 02:56 PM | Link to this

To sid:

Some one needs to make a excuse for your ignorance. The mere point that you see the black & white is the reason why we need these types of discussions. Why can’t it just be a kid you see throw a piece of paper on the ground? By you stating that he is black make you feel better because he wasn’t white? Is this actually how you see people?

Think about this. Can we really say a person born blind has a disability? After all they are blessed with someting that most of us will never experience. They are blessed with the opportunity to get to know someone for who they are, not for what they look like. Maybe if we all where blind folded we could finally live in a nation where every man or woman, black or white, are seen as equal.

By krobar

January 17, 2006 03:08 PM | Link to this

Dear Saddened—

Racism saddens me too—-Ray Nagin, Louis Farrakan, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Marion Barry. Oh yea, don’t forget about the Georgia Black Representatives that didn’t attend the MLK events at the state capital yesterday. We got a long road ahead of us——but please quit blaming whitey.

By Wrench

January 17, 2006 03:20 PM | Link to this

I’m tired of hearing what the government (ie taxpayors) owes me for what happened to my ancestors six or seven generations ago.

I teach my children from where we came, where we are, and where we want to be. No check from the government will help me get there.

By Tom

January 17, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

I heard a snippet of King’s speech on the new last night and was struck by how inclusive it was. It was not “What can you do for blacks?” but “I have a dream” of black and white — no, even more inclusive — former slaves and former slave owners — united together.

This was not even about minority over majority (no matter how you define minority), this was about EQUALITY! The HUMAN majority! I think Dr King would not want to be honored with a “black” holiday, or any holiday, in fact. I think he’d rather be remembered as well as Susan B Anthony. Anyone remember her? Only barely, of course, because no one today can imagine women not voting. Someday, I hope Dr. King is “almost” forgotten as we say, “you mean people actually were actually segregated based on skin color??”

By Sane person

January 17, 2006 03:26 PM | Link to this

To krobar:

I hope you are headed down that road with us.

By Jennifer

January 17, 2006 03:27 PM | Link to this

Jeremy: You have a myoptic view of the civil rights struggle and MLK is not A Black Holiday but an American Holiday. Please name the so-called “diciples of King” (you said it) that has made this an Black only inclusive holiday… i don’t think you can.

By Mike

January 17, 2006 03:35 PM | Link to this

It seems to me that MLK’s own people should listen to the message, especially his own family. I’m sick of all the MLK references people such as John Lewis constantly makes. The man can’t open his mouth without an MLK reference. Enough is enough John, we know you knew MLK and you’ve made a very uneffective career out of it. I personally think the mans role in history is way over- inflated. His family has lived a very good life doing NOTHING for decades. They all need jobs. I will also add MLK has no business whatsoever having a memorial in Washington along side of US Presidents. He was not a president, he was not an elected offical. You can names streets all over America MLK this or that, he was still not an elected official and he does not deserve a presidential memorial. How would MLK feel knowing that in a BET televison poll Farrakhan was voted the most respected black person in Amercia. So, before you all start typing what bigot I am, read some of Farakhans writings and speechs. He is the biggest bigot and hate mongor around today, if a white man said half of what that brainless idiot has said on TV, you’d all be in the streets marching today. But, many of you have made good use of good old fashioned double standards.

By Jennifer

January 17, 2006 03:37 PM | Link to this

Ninja: King was a man and not GOD. Please keep in mind that we celebrate his dream of inclusiveness and equality. Again, he was still a man, not God of a demigod.

By Bob

January 17, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

I don’t show at black events because I don’t want to get shot. Try for once having a rap concert where someone doesn’t get shot. Even the awards shows, same thing, guns and thugs.

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Well said Tom.

Attn Cunja, I love you regardless of your self-rightousness.

And to sane person; I’m already half way down the path my friend. ;-)

By krobar

January 17, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

To Sane Person— I am —-but until Blacks admit they are far more racist than white people—even within their own race—-looks like I will be traveling the road by myself.

I do not believe white against black racism exists in this country—give me examples.

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

does dragging a black man behind a pickup truck in Texas ring a bell

By Mike

January 17, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

The people of New Orleans deserve Nagin. The man weould have to improve to be elevated to idiot status. Picture this, Nagin and his family in nice hotel rooms and 650 empty buses float in water but Bush hates black people. Do any of you all, except perhaps the Dr. Condi Rices of the world ever think to think outside the box? Do your really think Jesse Jackson has anything other than back account in mind?Or, are you afraid you’ll be labeled ‘acting white’, which tranlates to acting intelligent.

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:47 PM | Link to this

failures to be served at waffle houses and Denny’s?

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:53 PM | Link to this

Ever read the graffiti with racist messages in rest rooms or on college campuses?

By krobar

January 17, 2006 03:54 PM | Link to this

Okay you got me—but is that it—what about in the last ten years?

By the way—Pickup boys on death row waiting for the needle—waffle house and denny’s nasty anyway.

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:55 PM | Link to this

Ever heard of the KKK or the Nazi party? how about skin heads?

Yep it sure don’t exist in this here country.

By Max Bartolome

January 17, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

EQUALITY DAY! Includes everyone from people of poor Irish descent to Blacks to Asians and Hispanics. It is far better than trying to confer divine status on a mere man.

By Sane person

January 17, 2006 03:56 PM | Link to this

to mike: One man does not speak for a entire race. If you are that narrow minded to think that because 1 black person feels a certain way and says certain things that all the rest of us agrees with what he say. If that is the case then you are not a bigot,you are just ignorant. And when you say “you all would be marching in the street” you are talking about both black & right people right. Because last I checked there where plenty of white people who marched with black people for equal rights for all!

About the memorial issue. We as AMERICANS tend to honor those individuals for there amazing accomplishments. Whether it is George Washington, Ben Franklin, or Dr. King etc… So put your blindfold on real quick and just try to image a man who asked for a non-voilent approach to end segratation, try to image a man who saw wrong and want to make ite right, try to image a man who could hear you talk about he does not deserve this or that and still fight for your rights if he saw there was a injustice. It sounds like a pretty good man doesn’t it. The only bad thing is you lose sight of that when you take the blind fold off.

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 03:59 PM | Link to this

honors black kid kicked out of school in Gwinnett for dressing “WRONG”?

whazzup with that?

By krobar

January 17, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

sanepeople—-You still haven’t given any personal examples of racism you have directly experienced at the hands of white man and that you knew your experience was because of the color of your skin. Please respond.

By Sane person

January 17, 2006 04:07 PM | Link to this

To krobar:

My friend, I’ll just let you dig your own hole. Racism does not always have to be seen in plain sight. It is the racism that is not seen that does the most hurt.

thank about it!

And if you do not want to travel do the road alone, just let me know and I will walk with you side by side.

By krobar

January 17, 2006 04:09 PM | Link to this

Sorry saneperson—that question was for scuze you.

The assistant school suprintendant in charge of discipline for Gwinnett is black and he backed the schools decision. white boys wearing rebel flags get kicked out of school to. black dude was given three chances to quit dressing like a gangsta—

By Jennifer

January 17, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

Mike, i think you called your ownself a bigot. You, like Jeremy and many others on this post have a myoptic view of MLK day. It’s not a Black Holiday, but an American Holiday to celebrate inclusivness and equality. We should celebrate the accomplishments of all Americans who fight for equality, black or white. Farrakhan is not different than Rush Limbaugh, David Duke or the idiot who worked under Bush Sr adminsistration who mad the comment “crime would reduce if every Black baby was aborted”. To here more about Farrakhan, visit www.noi.org.

By Robman

January 17, 2006 04:13 PM | Link to this

“I have a dream…that one day my 4 children will be judged by their character and not the color of their skin..” That part of the dream came true but we have judged them by their character but we are called racist for condemning them.

I have a dream that race will play no part in anything..including affirmative action. Will anyone hold me up and celebrate a holiday for my dream?

By krobar

January 17, 2006 04:14 PM | Link to this

Saneperson—-that is deep—but I will ask a shallow question—how do you know there is racism if you can’t see it? Are saying that all white people are racist until they prove otherwise? By the way—where is “the road” leading to—I may not want to go there.

By robman

January 17, 2006 04:15 PM | Link to this

“I have a dream…that one day my 4 children will be judged by their character and not the color of their skin..” That part of the dream came true but we have judged them by their character but we are called racist for condemning them.

I have a dream that race will play no part in anything..including affirmative action. Will anyone hold me up and celebrate a holiday for my dream?

By scuse me

January 17, 2006 04:17 PM | Link to this

An excerpt form A Message to White America: “It’s Time We Woke Up” Heather Gray

Read it in its entirety;

http://academic.udayton.edu/race/01race/white09.htm

We as whites will rarely claim responsibility for our creation of racism and white supremacy (they are ours after all) in spite of the fact that we demand recognition for virtually all other inventions - when it suits us and when we can benefit from it we’ll claim it! It has been said that often the most important things in life are not discussed or written about and whites are definitely selective on not speaking out on the above issues. Could this suggest the importance of the issue to whites? I think so because it requires us to look deep into our souls and admit we are and always have been wrong about our entrenched present and past racism. This is seemingly an impossible task for most whites. Most of us have a shell that’s almost impenetrable. While everyone else rails against us whites for our racist attitudes and policies we are largely and despicably silent on the issue. Why are we like this? Do many of us who are white want to maintain the present racist system? Yes, beyond doubt! While rarely are we now wearing sheets over our heads, we are instead sitting in board rooms where we implement racist policies. But in today’s climate it is not appropriate to state without reserve that we are racist. Instead everyone skirts around the issue. This false impression by other whites drives me nuts. Are some of us nervous about reactions from other whites if we take up the call against racism? For some, this is likely true. Are we ignorant of racism? No, but nevertheless it seems the majority of whites claim ignorance. Are we apathetic? Yes. Do some of us feel guilt? Probably. Would we prefer to pass the buck? Always. Strangely, we prefer to blame those who are the victims of our prevailing racism as if they were architects of their own victimization and not us. The insanity and hypocrisy of this is mind boggling.

By Amazed (Independent Woman)

January 17, 2006 04:21 PM | Link to this

Krobar,

I was standing in the checkout line at my neighborhood grocery store two weeks ago. A middle age white man made a comment about me using food stamps to pay for my groceries and said that black women are just too lazy to go to work. The young white cashier was embarrassed by his incorrect view of my payment option and informed the man, as I was leaving that it was a “bankcard” and I had paid by debit.

This is not the first time; some one has made assumptions and insulted me because of my race.

Apparently this jerk thinks that only black people use food stamps or that government issued card they are supposed to be using.

I also had a comment a few months ago while in a restaurant. It was one of those, family owned places. I have not been back.

By krobar

January 17, 2006 04:23 PM | Link to this

Jennifer—are you serious or are you just goading me—please see this article on the nation of islam website:

[http://www.muhammadfarms.com/Dear_white.htm]

Louie is just so inclusive

By kuraigulee

January 17, 2006 04:24 PM | Link to this

krobar and scuse me -

Look, this shouldn’t be a “who is the more racist race” contest. There are black and white racists and bigots and plenty of stories of people getting hurt becuase of the color of their skin on both sides. Furthermore, as an asian/white male I have experienced plenty of racism from both groups, both subtle and overt - from having people call me chink (both black and white) to getting into a fight with a black guy because I looked at him too long or wrong or something (his exact words were “what are you looking at white-boy”?). Sane-person, while I agree that individual black leaders do not speak for everyone, you are just plain wrong to suggest that the black community does not carry some responsibility for permitting vile hate-mongers like Farrakhan to continue to assume a leadership role. Just as the white community bears some responsibility when the David Dukes of the world spew their venom, so does the black community for its racist leadership. However, you have to admit, that no white racist leader enjoys as much popular support as Farrakhan - by the way - have you seen the lines at your local “Supreme Fish” lately?

By robman

January 17, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

scuse me??? Really, get a grip. Some cry baby college student, vegetatrian, save the rain forest, stop global warming, protest the g8, anarchism is great, glad member, ashamed to be white girl is trying to speak for me? Then Ray Nagin speaks for you as does Al Sharpton, Jessie Jackson and such. The writer does not refect my veiws, I am not a racist and will not apologize for something I am not. Accept her apology, she offered it, don’t wait for mine.

By suki

January 17, 2006 04:28 PM | Link to this

“Judged by character and not the color of their skin”?

That doesn’t bode well for affirmative action where a qualified white is denied a job given to a lesser-qualified applicant based exclusively on their skin color.

To the MLK admirers: Instead of quoting him or singing “We Shall Overcome”, do something constructive ( I worked) with your day off instead of going to some parade looking for whitey to annoy, or to the Hawks game.

By Jennifer

January 17, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

Krobar,I know that Farrakhan is a Separatist and so is David Duke. Do I applaud many of his racists rants, of course not. I see his comments no different than “Some� white conservatives, It’s just in reverse.

By Lifeis2short

January 17, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

I agree with you sane person. I am trying to understand what does it matter whether or not a white person attends an event? Or how many white people attend any event? Georgia is made up of all types of people not just black, white but Native Americans, Asians Hispanics, etc… I am African American and I feel who ever wants to attend an event should attend and if not don’t go. Sometimes people that have not had exposure to other cultures have a hard time feeling included. You have to feel comfortable and love yourself…that’s all it boils down to. Like Janet Gibson (who is white) said, “she didn’t think it was necessary to jump through hoops to make King Day more inclusive.” I agree with that. I only deal with people that want to deal with me, personally if someone doesn’t like me because of my race, gender, religion they have the problem not me. For example, when I got married 7 years ago, I invited my supervisor to my wedding. She did not go because she did not want to be the only white person there because her husband could not make it. First of all, she would not have been the only white person and secondly, I kept my distance personally but was an excellent team player professionally. I did not hate her. Her not coming to my wedding did not bother me at all. The people that were there was all that mattered. My husband has a practice here in Georgia and you would be amazed at how many white people tell us what is said in conversation with their white neighbors. They tell us so that we can be aware that quite a bit of white people still do not like people based on their ignorance (fear). We also share some of the ignorant beliefs in our culture as well. But what makes me not feel hatred toward a whole group of people are the people that I meet that are sincerely trying to fight racism. The people in the white community that stand up and say that “those people you are talking about are not that different from you.” The white woman that stood up in front of an all white home owners association meeting and confronted all the white people that said their community was going down because of too many black people moving. She pointing out that the black people actually keep their grass in better shape then several of the white families that have old cars parked in the grass, along with dead flowers. Or the white doctor that told his neighbors that the black couple they assumed couldn’t really afford their neighborhood had several successful businesses and had made more money than most of the white people in the community. The white college student that has a memebership with the NAACP (started by whites and blacks) and has as his life’s mission to educate southern whites about the historical meaning of the confederate flag, or the Jewish woman I met at a restaurant that told me ,”if you think you are hated for your skin color try being Jewish” and taught me about the struggles of Jewish people in which we formed a friendship. There are similar stories in the African American community. Because I am so active in the community I have also met African-American, Spanish, Asian and Indian peoples that have the same common goals: to bring us together not apart by tearing down stereotypes of others. Nagin’s comments, along with several black and white “so-called leaders” and some of the comments here don’t fit into the global scheme of things and you, just like them, will be left behind. I hear white people say that “if he was white he would have been called a racist.” Why would you even want to say something so ignorant? The media feeds off of the ignorance of people, as most leaders do. Divide and conquer is the order of the day, but there are to many people that don’t buy it. So my advice to all is this: As Ghandi said, “Be the change you wish to see.” Stop complaining, making excuses and rationalizing your sickness-because racism and hatred, no matter how subtle or instutionalized it is, it is a sickness. It is not about “they did this so I am going to do that”. For those of us that have kids, ‘don’t you just hate that petty behavior?’ If you do what’s right and remove the hatred/fear/ignorance it will lessen the chance that you will feel uncomfortable in a room surrounded by people that don’t look like you. And for what it is worth several recent scientific studies have all come to the same conclusion in explaining the differences in skin color. The studies all date back to Africa where a mutation in the gene occured 50,000 years ago causing the varies skin colors (what we call race) which explains why European and Africans DNA are more similar than African and African or European and European. So like it or not folks we are family.LOL If we don’t like the comments or actions of someone let’s not chalk it up to race. Let’s just treat them like that crazy relative (we all have at least one) and be thankful that we don’t have to see them to often. You don’t have to like them-just get along. In other words, do unto others as you would have them do unto you and fight for the betterment of us ALL and we can only do that thru UNITY. Its okay if you don’t care for MLK or attend those events. You can watch it on TV if you want. Although it might be good for the soul, these events are only for people that want to attend-just like going to church.

By Bob

January 17, 2006 04:32 PM | Link to this

Jennifer is a BLOG you won’t get on, do you have a job? BLOG ho.

By krobar

January 17, 2006 04:33 PM | Link to this

Amazed—now we are getting somewhere—a personal example of a bigot in action.

I was riding Marta train a few weeks back to the airport and I was the only white dude on it. group of punks walk up to me and says this is our train—get off at the next station. Elderly black man told them to shut up and asked me to come sit by him. Delightful guy—we talked sports and politics for the next fifteen minutes.

So—the world has a few black and white bad apples but has many many more bright and shiny ones. My point—not all white people hate black people and vice versa—but there still are a few of both and always will be. Deal with it.

By Mike

January 17, 2006 04:40 PM | Link to this

People unless you were born in Africa and immigrated to America you are NOT African Amercian, you are American. This is simple stuff people. First it was Irish Americans, immigrants that immigrated to American, born in Ireland. Then it was Japaneese Americans, people born in Japan and now living in Amercia. If you can’t learn this elementary rule, ah nevermind..we know who is and isn’t bring up the SAT scores in Georgia. At least you have the NBA. Grrrrrrrr

By Tiffany

January 17, 2006 04:41 PM | Link to this

Suki, I can’t tell you how many White at my present employer do not have college degrees but are in manangement roles. My current supervisor manages 25 technical consultants. Her experience: 15 years at Macys’s Department store. Out of the 25, 12 are Black and have degrees in Technology. She was able to get into her position becasue she is white.

By Gary

January 17, 2006 04:46 PM | Link to this

Until JFK is honored with a birthday, no true white person should ever attend any MLK events. Maybe all of you who read this column should type in and search for THE TRUTH ABOUT MLK, you might be surprised with the answer.

By HA Callis

January 17, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

WOW> This Blog started off so well and looked what it turned into. Well, There goes MLK’s dream I guess.

This is for all the white people. I know how you feel. Iundertsnad, but what you have to understand is why blacks do what we do. Its hard to understand someone if youhavent walked in their shoes or been through what they been through. Now you are going to sday that Blacks today havent been through anything. Well, thats wher eyou are wrong. I could explain it, but again, you wouldnt understand unless you have livedit

By politically incorrect

January 17, 2006 04:52 PM | Link to this

I can’t help but be amazed by the likes of Ray Nagin, Al Sharpton, Harry Belefonte, and just the regular rank and file black society still spouting about the “injustices” imposed upon them by white society, dead white plantation owners, the Bush administration, blah, blah, blah. I am sick about the demands for “reparations” from white society, white-owned corporations, and white southerners who blacks assume had ancestors that enslaved their ancestors. Just suck it up and make a black society that has some dignity that we all can be proud of. Right now dignity is not something I’m seeing or hearing from the current black society. It’s time the coddling of black society comes to an end and the blacks take responsiblity for their own accomplishments. I’m sure Dr. King would agree with me. He is probably rolling in his grave to see where the current black society has gotten to. Bill Cosby nailed it on the head and look at the blacklash he got!

By Tiffany

January 17, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Gary,why don’t you tell us…hmmn, In late 60’s a poor white/working class family in Cobb county gave birth to a beautiful baby girl, but did not have health insurance and could not afford to pay the hospital bill. They were friends with a Black Family in Fulton county and the children often played together. The Black family step in to help the white family…That white baby is the actress Juila Roberts, the black family, Coretta Scott King.

By She

January 17, 2006 04:54 PM | Link to this

For those of you who posted comments that black are backing Nagin YOU ARE WRONG! I can’t help but be upset when people make assumptions and as in the case with this site have the gall to post what they have assumed to be true. Since 2:00 this afternoon there has been a discussion about Nagin’s comments on a black radio station. Despite what many whites on this site would want you to believe people were embarrassed and furious at his comments not supporting them. I agree had he been white, he would have been publicly denounced. I can only question the why the media has chosen not to broadcast this on the front page. It happens to be the reason I logged onto ajc.com. His comments were ignorant and this is coming from a very proud, educated black woman. Nagin is ignorant like many of you who have posted your comments on this site. I can’t believe how hypocritical your comments are; ie black people litter, as if white people don’t; black people are poor, black people complain. Read your comments, white people whine and complain all of the time. I agree with the white man’s comments who had the incident on MARTA, I’ve encountered people of all races who have been nasty, poor, ignorant and racist but unlike many of you I don’t blame the entire race. Ignorance comes in all shades and after reading some of these comments it also comes typed.

By Jennifer

January 17, 2006 04:58 PM | Link to this

To She: Thanks!!!!

By f*******

January 17, 2006 05:04 PM | Link to this

JFK? He was a womanizer.

Unlike MLK, he was no minister.

MLK was no reverend. Just another chicken-eating, Sears-suit wearing blowhard

By Terri

January 17, 2006 05:13 PM | Link to this

I attended the MLK events as much as I attend the Christopher Columbus, George Washington, Abe Lincoln and Casimir Pulaski events.

By Rondo

January 17, 2006 05:37 PM | Link to this

Two young black males at the MLK parade yesterday were interviewed by a local TV station.

When asked what MLK Day meant to him, he shrugged his shoulders and said Dr. King freed the slaves.

The other boy, perhaps 9 or 10, said MLK “put white people in their place”.

The fruits of our public school system!

By anon

January 17, 2006 05:44 PM | Link to this

“Attendance by whites is still lacking”???

When the attendence by blacks at High Schools, Colleges , medical schools, engineering schools… all of the places that MLK felt black men SHOULD be… rises, then maybe whites will celebrate his accomplishments

By Gary

January 17, 2006 05:46 PM | Link to this

For SCUSE ME

Repeat of James Byrd dragging, only this time the races are reversed. Crime dubbed, “not a hate crime,” no national media coverage. Several whites have been severely injured or killed in dragging deaths by blacks, including a young boy. None have been reported by the media outside of the local area where the crime occured.

The men forced the victim into his own pickup truck, ordered him to drive to a nearby field and made him take his clothes off, authorities said.

The victim was then beaten with a tire iron and burned with a cigarette lighter, chained to the truck and dragged up the road, prosecutors said. The victim said he was able to escape when the men turned a corner.

The Darlington County Sheriff’s Office had charged the men with assault and battery with intent to kill, kidnapping and armed robbery.

The victim, who is white, said Smith and McKay, who are black, made racial slurs while chaining him to the truck.

By Gary

January 17, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

For ESCUSE ME

you need to read HATE CRIMES YOU NEVER HEAR ABOUT search it and then lets talk

By Woodie

January 17, 2006 05:49 PM | Link to this

I believe there is a pretty basic reason why more black people show up than whites. MLK was a benefactor to the black community. We all want equality, white or black. But white equality came with the constitution. Black equality seems to be an ongoing struggle. A social struggle that laws cannot control. I still see a tug of war going on in both the black and white community as they grapple with prejudice. Socialization of minorities will probably always be an issue. MLK represents a refreshing change in history. He was a peace-maker when everyone around him was pressing the war.

By Gary

January 17, 2006 05:51 PM | Link to this

For TIFFANY

INTEGRATION KILLED AMERICA— most high schools across the USA are cesspools because of it.Because of WELFARE, black girls start dropping kids at the young age of 13, never knowing who the daddies are to any of their offspring, never marry,and as soon as their kid gets 13 she’ll have one, since that idiot FDR started the WELFARE program, there has been at least 5 generations receiving aid.Remember none of the following have ever married, would screw up the check, but you have a GREAT GREAT GRANDMOTHER at AGE 53, GREAT GRANDMOTHER at AGE 40,GRANDMOTHER at AGE 27, DAUGHTER at AGE 13 and shes fixing to have one. What a life and lets all give thanks to the black persons HERO ole MLK

By Gary

January 17, 2006 06:11 PM | Link to this

For HA CALLIS

You’re so right, this BLOG is starting to read like STORMFRONT.ORG

By BEELZEBUL

January 17, 2006 06:46 PM | Link to this

Mission accomplished….Next I will shake up the Mexicans and Asians.

By BEELZEBUL

January 17, 2006 06:52 PM | Link to this

Gary: My good and faithful servant of evil, you have earned horns of hatred. See you soon.. Oh, and bring lots of ice..

By cheryl

January 17, 2006 06:53 PM | Link to this

fixing? It sounds to me like a lot of the people on this blog are saying that blacks should still be slaves in so many words. MLK did so much for everyone who is not a white male. All a lot of you are talking about is how much you hate black people. It’s appalling. White people want black people to forget about racism and how things “used” to be…how can we when you won’t let us by making hateful statements at every opportunity given. Everytime a white person says or does something hateful it reminds black people racism and why we should be thankful for Martin Luther King all over again. Without him racist people would be able to have free range to do whatever they want and things would be just like they were in the 1800’s. If you say that you aren’t glad that blacks were slaves and don’t condone everything that happened during slavery through the 1960’s and beyond and that you really aren’t a racist but you say things like ‘you aren’t celebrating MLK until we celebrate persons x, y and z’ then you are only fooling yourself.

By Tiffany

January 17, 2006 07:20 PM | Link to this

Gary, You are very ignorant. I’m laughing at you, not with you. According to Time Magazine, the New Face of the Welfare Mom are White women!!!! And on the dragging of the young white boy…shame on them!!!!

By Nickie

January 17, 2006 07:20 PM | Link to this

to THEMARTGUY. MLK day is NOT the only federal holiday that the vast majority of companies do not recognize as a holiday. Veterans Day, Presidents Day, Columbus Day are three that come quickly to mind. Anyone wishing to celebrate these days can take personal time just as with MLK day.

By Bruce Wilcox

January 17, 2006 08:38 PM | Link to this

In a state where the majority is white just passed a Poll Tax that attacks minorites and the poor what do you expect? It is the opposite of Dr. Kings message, looks like some just don’t get it yet.

By Sane Person

January 17, 2006 09:02 PM | Link to this

I am really impressed by the comments we where able to view today. We in a way have honor Dr. King by following a path that he use to speak of all the time. By going back and forth with each other, hearing other views about different situations that different people have experienced. We where able to hold a disscusion in a non-violent manner. That was one of Dr. King messages, to get the point across with it coming to violence. I applaud everyone who commented to this blog, we are head in the right direction.

Being a young black male I find it interesting that the older crowd black & white have a hard time dealing with racism then the younger crowd. I guess as years go by we forget where others have been and what others have been thru. WE tend to forgot where it all started from. We have to remember that it was a Dream that started it all, that is why we should celebrate this day. If not for Dr. King, @ least for his dream.

By Michael H. Smith

January 17, 2006 09:24 PM | Link to this

In the State of Georgia the majority is American. Sadly some just don’t want to get it yet, looks like they never will.

By Bruce Wilcox

January 17, 2006 11:21 PM | Link to this

A Poll Tax effects all Americans, it’s just that it effects some Americans more than others.

By Michael H. Smith

January 17, 2006 11:53 PM | Link to this

A FREE Photo ID a Poll Tax? Affect some Americans more than others, like whom, the dead Zombie voters as documented by the AJC (over 5,000 in number) and the convicted felons who lost legal rights to vote by reasons of their crimes committed? It couldn’t affect the poor who have no insurmountable problems in going to receive all other FREE taxpayer provided state services?

Then again you might be right, I’ll be one to pay the Poll Tax. Because I as one of many will have to pay for these FREE Photo ID’s.

So go ahead and affect me! Affect me! The extra added security to prevent even the remotest possibility of having an illegal vote cast that will negate my legitimate vote is worth the insurance cost.