Rick Badie / My Opinion

By Jan

May 18, 2006 06:41 AM | Link to this

You go Rick!! The ONLY good part of that movie where the volcano erupted, I forget the name of it, was when everyone was covered with the ash, and everyONE looked the same, and everyone was helping everyone else. - Like we’re supposed to do.

By C.M.German

May 18, 2006 07:04 AM | Link to this

White - Black Racism Rick: One column does not a scream make. It’s time to take a stand if you can stand the heat. I believe that if you begin to speak out about white-black-white racism you will be discredited by the black powers that be and become an ineffective black voice. They will call you a lackey, like it or not. Be prepared to pass the torch and remember, it has to come form the heart, not the just the head.

By tls

May 18, 2006 07:17 AM | Link to this

Yes, there is black on white racism but the fact of the matter is white on black racism is still alive and well too. The reality is racism is rampant. Black on white, white on black, Hispanic on White, White on Hispanic, Indian on Black, etc… it is multi-faceted and many practice it on some level. We move when too many who don;t look like us move into “our” neighborhoods. We tell our children to marry within their race. We believe other people don’t live by the same basic moral standards we think we live by.

I don’t think it will ever get any better and you cannot legislate how people really feel. I don’t know what the solution is.

By Regularjoe

May 18, 2006 07:28 AM | Link to this

Good article Rick. By bringing the issue up, you have done enough. Both of these Dekalb high-ranking police officers are now gone and disgraced.

We have a school board here in Gwinnett that will not reveal how much money they spend on land (millions of dollars) or what the superintendent truly makes. Yet people here worry about Dekalb, who at least did something to fix the problem.

By Deborah Lee

May 18, 2006 07:44 AM | Link to this

Everyone has forgotten about white on white racism. It wasn’t but a hundred years ago that Italians were not considered white. Then they became excepted by the whites. Soon Hispanics and Indians(slurpy type not casino- it’s a joke)will be considered white. Blacks will ALWAYS be black. Where I grew up we did not have any blacks but the Italians, hated the Polish and Hungarians and the English hated the Irish and we all hated the Greeks. The black guy who called the women a white b*** was probably more upset that she was a women(works for less money is many cases where Unions aren’t involved) then her being white. Men do not like competing with women. Racism is a code word for hatred which is all about the Benjamins. We have racism in this country because we are always lookings for the next group of people who will do the job for cheaper. It will never end, get used to it.

By John

May 18, 2006 07:59 AM | Link to this

Rick - When and if you ever decide to run for office, you’ve got my vote.

Consistently, you are a voice of rational and thoughtful and well thought out conscience. Whether you are black, white, pink or purple, you, Rick Badie, in this column, demonstrate consistent logical and non-partisan, non racial thinking.

You are a breath of fresh air in Atlanta.

By Roger

May 18, 2006 08:02 AM | Link to this

I would be real peeved if I was one of the non-white officers because their promotions were withheld too because of the reversed discrimination tactics of the folks who controlled the situation. In fact, I had been one of the non-white employees, I would have filed my own lawsuit against the county for upholding my promotion because of some real dumb tactics.

By Persaud Rudolph

May 18, 2006 08:13 AM | Link to this

Racism is racism I don’t care whether it is black on white, white on black, or white on Hispanic it still hurts all involved. Rick is right we as a people should no tolerate racism in any form. Common sense should be used in these situations of racism, treat people the way you want to be treated. It’s that simple!!! What also has to be acknowledged is that we are influencing the next generation. Do we really want another generation of racist walking around?

By mike

May 18, 2006 08:16 AM | Link to this

From your intro you write about things in Gwinnett, please explain why your readers are so concerned about what goes on in Dekalb county? Having lived in the metro area for over 30 years and having a mother born near Snellville in 1922, I can find and remember enough issues your county residents can be concerned about.

By Harold

May 18, 2006 08:31 AM | Link to this

Look the AJC blog is pandering. Things slow or what?

By American

May 18, 2006 09:14 AM | Link to this

First, everyone needs to realize that one can’t pass enough laws to change the evil that is in someone’s heart. One’s heart must change first and I don’t know of a law on the books that has done that. Second, remember when the United States used to be referred to as a “melting pot?” EVERYONE was an AMERICAN…not an Asian American, African American, Indian American, Mexican American, European American, etc. We scream that we all want to be treated the same….”Equality for us!” but yet we isolate ourselves with these so called “titles.” Let’s drop the categories mentioned above and just be Americans.

By Karen Armsby

May 18, 2006 09:28 AM | Link to this

I think bigotry, not racism, is alive and well. That said, I also think many people show their intolerance and bigotry by accusing everyone else of the behavior. In other words they go on the offense before they even have to be defensive. They assume you don’t like them because of their color, and have no clue that you may not like them because they are rude or crude, unkind or arrogant. Gone are the days when civility ruled the day, when kindness and understanding were shown, when friendly words were exchanged in greeting, when you could make small talk about the beautiful weather. These ‘bigoted” people are basically just rude, selfish and uncaring. Get a clue, it’s not about your color, it’s your behavior that puts people off.

By RWH

May 18, 2006 09:40 AM | Link to this

No one should be supprised that reverse racism is still ongoing. Just like we continue to see racism among whites to black. It is indeed ashame to mankind in these days and times that we still see these types of situations still running rapid. To solve it, its going to take everyone from the top to the bottom and no matter who is in charge, it must be done accross the board. Hurt about reverse racism, you can bet they are and hurt about ongoing discrimination, yes, its ongoing as well. We have a society that is broken in the middle and refused to mend it. When our police officers, lawyers, judges, etc., take on this type of racism toward people in general, it set a ugly tone for the state they live in and the employees who work with or for them. There is one small fact that people forget; that is, you can try and keep racism within the closet, among others…..however, racism is just like death, it come after you at anytime, anyplace and anywhere, no matter who we are. Solving it must become a high priority; because, people get taken in by it and do things that they would not otherwise do. Racism cause pain, tears and drives people to kill and take their own lives. Words hurt and cause people to bleed within to a point where they feel they have nothing else life. We all need to move quickly and make every efforts to solve racism for the betterment of this country and for those who live here. Racism, it tarnish our lives and the very soil we walk on!

By Mike

May 18, 2006 09:42 AM | Link to this

I just don’t like anyone.

By Ezra

May 18, 2006 09:57 AM | Link to this

DeKalb County is a “Chocolate” community, and should remain that way.

Cynthia McKiney is our Cleopatra, Vernon Jones our Ramses. They represent their chocolate constituency as well as any I can remember.

When Mr. Charley ran things we were totally ignored, except around voting time.

Leave DeKalb matters to those that live in DeKalb!

By Lee Smith

May 18, 2006 09:58 AM | Link to this

Great acticle. Racism from either side is wrong. But there is a double standard when the racism is black on white. I believe that it is just as large a problem as the reverse issue. I wish more people would write in regarding this issue and more stories were told in the national media regarding this issue.

By TruthHurts

May 18, 2006 10:03 AM | Link to this

Ezra- you are an iliterate, ghetto fool. Get your head out of the sand.

By ACH

May 18, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

A lot racism is done without even noticing. I know I have stereotyped people of certain races and had to pratically stop myself and think. WOW why did I think this way or why did I treat this person that way.

I didn’t even mean to it’s just the mentality that is pounded in out heads foe so long that all black are this way, and all hispanics do this, etc.

By Jim Grogan

May 18, 2006 10:07 AM | Link to this

You want to talk about racism, the Duke case is a prime example. As this case falls apart for the accuser it looks more like cases that have been fabricated in an effort to show white racism. Of course the Tawana Brawley case comes to mind but how about the black Emory student who a few years ago painted racial slurs all over her dorm room to divert attention from her failing grades. Emory went nuts and in their liberal way took full responsibility.

By Mike

May 18, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

Ezra,

You are clearly a product of the Public schools here in GA. If you feel Cynthia is a good representative for you I feel bad for your children.

By Greg

May 18, 2006 10:18 AM | Link to this

Some of us in the Black race are perpetuating hypocrisy. Until we learn to speak out and condemn hatred from our own race towards other races, no one will ever be on our side in fighting bigotry directed at us. Why were our so called civil rights “leaders” blantantly silent when these tapes filled with racist ignorance were released? When it comes stopping hatred, we do not have the luxury of picking and choosing our battles.

By rodney

May 18, 2006 10:36 AM | Link to this

You’re screaming, Rick? Funny, I can’t hear you.

Your column is written in direct response to the chastising from someone in Lawrenceville. I don’t get the impression that you are feeling it. But, hey, the whites love you for it. They’ll even vote for you if you run for office. They’ll feel real good about themselves for voting for a black guy, too. Boast and pat themselves on the back and all that.

You want to talk about race? Great! Take it to another level, man. ‘Racism is bad’, well, no kidding! Why don’t you talk about the institutions which keep racism alive and well? The education system (where the white schools get invited to the Governor’s mansion for a party!!), the new child support laws that are designed to keep Tamika down—you get my drift.

Why don’t you talk about what your so-called ‘cross-racial dialogue’ would sound like?

I’m screaming, Rick. Can you hear me?

By Bel

May 18, 2006 10:51 AM | Link to this

I salute you, Rick, for pointing out the strange racial dynamic that plagues this metro area. I am a black woman, from the South, yet never experienced such racial shenanigans until I moved to Atlanta. Every issue here is categorized as racial. It’s a sad commentary on a “world class city” that bills itself as “the city to busy to hate.”

By Joe

May 18, 2006 10:59 AM | Link to this

Many whites, this one included, thinks it would be a waste of time to expect much outcry over black on white racism. Where were the black leaders who surely by now would be marching in the streets had this be a reverse situation? Having said this, and watching Cynthia McKinneys false claims of racism; I won’t even address the commenst made by Ezra, if indeed he is a real person, he’s too big of an idiot to merit a response, you won’t be seeing much of an outcry over white on balck racism in the future either. I for one do not believe it still exist. I have never witnessed in my workplace or in my personal life. Yes, it was there in the sixties, but not today. It exist only in the mids of a few extreme balck panther types, but not in reality. blacks actually have more rights afforded to them than any ethic group.

By Marty M.

May 18, 2006 11:07 AM | Link to this

To “rodney”: No, I can’t hear you.

Mr. Badie is addressing an issue that very rarely gets discussed. Your comments were overly aggressive and based on what FACTS?

White not just call me a “cracka” and be done with it?

I, for one, am happy to hear the subject being discussed. Personally I am tired of media whores getting their 15 mins. of fame every time an “alleged” racial event occurs against blacks or another race, and taking away attention from REAL problems in America. When it’s black-on-white, it is implied that “that’s just the way things are.”

But do unto others, as you would have them do to you…treat everybody the same and enjoy having more friends!

By Sick of It

May 18, 2006 11:10 AM | Link to this

Rodney, maybe it is because of people like you that racism still exists. You have a “hate” attitude in your writings…maybe the “white” school inquired with the governor’s office regarding their prom party…maybe the “black” school has never thought to do so…and maybe if there weren’t so many “tamika’s” milking the system, they wouldn’t have to make new laws preventing more “tamika’s”…Just MAYBE!!!

I honestly believe that most people…black, white, red, yellow and mixtures of all, don’t actually get out of their bed each day dreaming up ways to be racists. But when you continually read in the papers, hear on the news of behaviors of certain groups of people, then racism breeds!

If you can truthfully say that the situation in DeKalb County wasn’t blatant racism, then you are an idiot! Where is Jesse Jackson and his entourage when it is reverse racism? If it were a white/black racist situation, he and all his loud mouth cronies would have the whole town shut down until action was taken. As for the Duke incident, funny how all the players “accused” were white and the one player that the accuser said was definitely not involved was black…smells foul to me…and to know that the accuser is well acquainted with filing these types of reports in the past as well…Blatant reverse racism…It will NEVER change, because certain groups within each race won’t allow it to change!

By Steve Kreig

May 18, 2006 11:14 AM | Link to this

In New York, there has been a deal and everybody knows what it is: Irish and Italians have police and fire deparments, Jews have Education Dept. and Courts, and blacks have service jobs (largest number, but lower wages). It works pretty well.

Why are blacks afraid to frame the issue as “we want 200 years of preference to make up for 200 years of discrimination”. It would require a constitutional amendment (the 13th, 14th, and 15th amendments seemed like a good idea at the time), but an honest discussion by both blacks and whites would be refreshing, instead of this “diversity”, “affirmative action”, “EOE”, that most blacks interpret as preference, and most whites interpret as non-discrimination.

By James L. Johnson(Keon)

May 18, 2006 11:15 AM | Link to this

I’m not overly concerned.

The reason is to whom much is given, much is required.

Why is it an issue that these men where white. Were they or were they not qualified. The CEO and the people in power are finally trying to balance out power in a county that has finally become black.

There was little to no out cry when blacks were passed up for positions. This happens everyday, all day, everywhere in america.

We live in a little bubble here in Atlanta. We think that blacks don’t need any special consideration because the population is largely black.

Well I’m letting you know that is not the case. How many black CEO’s or board members are there for corporation in America or Atlanta particularly? I go down town and the business community is composed of black at the lower rungs and whites at the top.

I don’t know the racial composition of the DeKalb PD. So I don’t know if they are trying to place blacks in rolls that have been restricted in the past. I know if the white men were qualified then they should have been given equal preference.

However, we have to remember why so many African-Americans move here. There’s a belife that more oportunity for Africans exists here in Atlanta. There’s a belife that you can actually get a head here.

I am not fooled by this event. The fact of the matter is that African in this country are still disporportionately discriminated against with more obstacles to over come.

Greater percentage of Africans are poor. Greater percentage of Africans are undereducated. Greater percentage of Africans are imprisoned. Greater percentage of Africans die violently.

That is never give consideration. Many white people want to believe that all things are equal therefore all consideration should be given to merit and accompliment..end of discussion. If this were the case I’d be in agreement. However, it is not.

Lest you think, I’m only for Africans… Let me tell you that I am a Kentuckian. You want to say that whites are discriminated against… Look at Eastern Kentucky. These people are descriminated buy a nation which has forgotten them. Why don’t you recruit these people and place them in competition with Africans. There would be more of a case for equality.

People from Alpalachia(sp)(which is predominately white) suffer from low education, hight health risks, alcoholism, teen pregnancy and over issues.

Let’s talk about that, if we are really concerned about whites being discriminated against.

By Greg

May 18, 2006 11:22 AM | Link to this

Rodney- why don’t you stick to the topic? The reason that you can’t stick to the topic is because you are part of the problem. Guess what? Every White person ain’t out to get you. Guess what? Every Black person ain’t your brother or sister either. Don’t stoop to the level of some of the white folks on here.

By James

May 18, 2006 11:29 AM | Link to this

If you want a public outcry just try to create an United White College Fund.

By Bryan

May 18, 2006 11:39 AM | Link to this

I was at Emory’s graduation this week, and that even proved black-on-white racism is not only alive and well, but is celebrated as “activism”. The African American woman who spoke regularly referred to the “rich white people” on one hand, and saying how we “cant look at race” on the other hand. It was easily the most racist speach I have ever heard in a public forum, and she was applauded as a “black activist” and an “advocate for children”. She was no advocate for children. She was an advocate of stiking it to “the white man” and she made that clear. Had the races been reversed they would have crucified her. Can you imagine if I gave a graduation address at Emory and blamed “the black man” for all of the problems in white America?

She closed by saying that someday soon whites will be the minority, so we should “be prepared” for what will be coming for us.

Wonderful.

Black activists like this lady, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and the rest NEED to keep hatred and racism alive to promote their cause. After all, its that black on white racism and hatred that generates publicity and revenue for them. If we all got along, Jesse Jackson wouldnt make any money.

By Bryan

May 18, 2006 11:41 AM | Link to this

James,

You said:

“Greater percentage of Africans are poor. Greater percentage of Africans are undereducated. Greater percentage of Africans are imprisoned. Greater percentage of Africans die violently.”

Who’s fault is that? The people that live in Alpharetta? The Jews?

By ELLE

May 18, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

@Jim Grogan: The Duke case if FAR from falling apart. A 3rd suspect was just INDICTED! Until that case goes to trial… it is FAR from over.

You may have a point with the other 2 incidents… NOT THIS ONE!

By frank

May 18, 2006 11:46 AM | Link to this

I agree with “America”. Just drop the categories and focus on skill and hard work.

By Wanda

May 18, 2006 11:50 AM | Link to this

Would Jesse Jackson have offered to pay for the Duke accusers college education if her accus”ee”s had been black? I think not. This is blatant racism and Jesse has already convicted these boys because they are white. He was behind Michael Jackson because he is black, he was behind OJ Simpson because he is black. As long as you are black, you are being persecuted. He is the biggest racist of all and has the nerve to come out and try to talk against racism. What a joke!

By Mike

May 18, 2006 11:58 AM | Link to this

Why do you call yourself Africans? you are about as African as the safari at Disneyland, unless you personally came from Africa, you are a black american, I wonder what would be said if all whites decided they wanted to be called anglo-american and have everything changed to reflect that, bottom line, we are american and need to get over the nonsense and call a spade a spade. As far as your listed percentages referring to unemployed, under educated, violent life, it’s for a reason, when people drop out of school because they want to life the thug life revered in rap videos, deal drugs to make the quick money and get arrested, they are very likely to be poor, uneducated, in jail or dead. It’s sad but true. Until those issues are addressed, the cycle will continue. The hard-working people of all races who understand this, do their best to see that their children don’t enter that vicious cycle to begin with.

By T.I.E.

May 18, 2006 12:03 PM | Link to this

I was born and raised in the south, lived up north for a bit and finally moved to Atlanta…. and I’ll tell you the truth — no place I’ve ever been or visited is as obsessed with race as Atlanta. That may be the number one reason I’m thinking of leaving — everyday here the news is full of racist actions, against somebody, every politican is shouting about some slight or atoning for some action, no one gets anything done because they are too busy talking about racism. The potholes tear up your car and the street floods but let’s talk about who hates who…. yeah, that’ll work.

By JustAskin'

May 18, 2006 12:12 PM | Link to this

Where does all of this come from? It just does not stop at black and whites. Don’t forget how we all treat hispanics and indians (no..not native americans). The media just heightens the experience by drawing attention to blacks and whites. It has been that one time that we all have encounter that one out of a group that has shaped how we interact with people from different races. No…I am not speaking about taking a senstivity class, but it ridiculous how we have brought it down to a black and white issue. I have a mixed son. It is amazing how my family is treated when we go out together versus when we go places individually. When were all together we are looked at as pure gutter trash. But when I am alone people do not once give me a second look. My husband is from Europe and he said when he came to this country he could not understand why people were treated differently just because of their skin or social class.

By Bryan

May 18, 2006 12:13 PM | Link to this

One more thing, did anyone else catch on to how the Atlanta media (including the AJC) spun the Cheif’s resignation controversy early on in the story? The reporters never really brought attention the blatant racist comments in the recordings. The recordings were always referred to as having “profanity” or being “inappropriate” but never during the initial release of the tapes was a claim of racism made against the chief by the Atlanta media. Again, had the races been reversed, the media would have been dropping the “racist” bomb left and right and Jesse Jackson and his hoard of demagogues would have been marching in the streets demanding for someones head on a platter.

By Jake

May 18, 2006 12:31 PM | Link to this

First: Thank-you to you, Rick. Second: As hinted at by Rick, and others, racism is wrong, period.
It does not matter if one party is a “minority” or not. Judging / discriminating based upon skin color is always wrong. Ask anyone at the EEOC [my former employer] or familiar with Title VII (Federal law re discrimination in employment): whether someone is a minority or not is COMPLETELY IMMATERIAL to whether there has been discrimination. Everytime someone makes the point about how “it” is different because one is a minority, they miss the point entirely.

By Shabazz

May 18, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

DeKalb is becoming a Black Oasis, an African-centered community. We should rally around our Black leadership, and come to their support.

If causasion employees in DeKalb feel slighted perhaps they should go to N. Fulton or Cobb and ply their wares there among their own kind.

Fight the Power !

By Jeff

May 18, 2006 12:33 PM | Link to this

Here’s a solution to racism: Make it illegal to refer to anybody as anything. We’re all just people. Make a law that basically states that if anyone asks about race/color, or tells about it, they pay a hefty fine that goes towards enforcement. This means nobody could use the words white, black, cracker, the n word, or hispanic. This does not mean that you could not be referred to by your personal home country, but unless you were born outside the United States, you would be simply called British, Ethiopian, Mexican, German, Guatemalan, Nigerian, or wherever you came from until you attained citizenship.

Of course this won’t “solve” racism. It will still go on, but there would be no need for it, because we would all be the same. Enforcement would be the only issue because a citizen would need proof to eliminate backwards use, i.e. saying that someone innocent said something wrong because they don’t like them.

Does this conflict with free speech? You bet, but some things would need to be defined that could also eliminate people having insane things like American flags upside down on their cars. Be proud to be American. If you don’t like it, don’t call yourself American, and get out.

By DMAC

May 18, 2006 12:37 PM | Link to this

This is a topic that does need to be discussed indepth. I think what we first need to do first agree that racism in any facet is unacceptable. I think it’s each and everybody’s responsibility to take action against this. It’s no longer the “white man” holding us down. We now have every opportunity to make something out of our lives. It’s up to US not to accept the defermation of another race, regardless of how we may feel. I think each individual has to take on that responsibility, to make a difference, and not to “follow” but take the “lead”. I start with my family especially my son. He has to know that it’s not acceptable. Our children are loosing their innocence, because we are allowing them to hear and see things that polute their minds. Lets take a stand and make a difference.

By FRANK SIMMONS

May 18, 2006 12:46 PM | Link to this

I hear these comments and realize Atlantans are very expressive about race relations. I still plan to locate to ATL because I see all this racial sensitivity as positive potential down the road as ATL truly does become a “world class city” very shortly. At least you are bringing out the issues and not letting them simmer under the surface like many cities do staying superficial and hypocritical over time. ATL, you making real progress and don’t let anyone tell you differently. These various racial views need stimulation to get out the true feelings so attitudes can later produce a change in behaviour.Keep provoking your thoughts and take it somewhere. In my 56 years I have lived in many cities and ATL has my vote as the most progressive place to live with a diverse population getting along peacefully. ATL is truly many cities in one and represents at least to me moving forward in many areas and people have faith in yourself because you would be surprised how much ahead you are compared to other cities. Why do you think so many young people are still moving there?

By Offended

May 18, 2006 12:47 PM | Link to this

I agree with this article. About a year or two ago, I was involved in a car accident with a tractor trailer. The driver(young black male) hit my vehicle from behind and I tried to avoid the accident by getting over after seeing him in my rear view mirror approaching without braking. When the officer arrived on the scene (young black woman), she took both sides of the story. When it was my turn, the other driver consisted on talking over me and and saying sarcastic remarks with curse words. I asked the police officer politely if she can stop him. She laughed and told the guy to not say anything in a jokingly manner as if she is talking to an old friend. Needless to say, I was cited for a ticket for improper lane change and was labeled as the cause of the accident. Did I fail to mention it was 6:00AM in June (no day-light) and the driver was wearing sunglasses the whole time? I have always agreed that Dekalb County Police department is very racist against whites and I’m glad that someone other than “white” has brought this to people’s attention. Lets not mention three women sued Dekalb County and won a “reverse” discrimination suit against them. I knew that Dekalb County police officers were racist against whites so when the accident occured that day, I already knew I was defeated. I went the extra mile to not offend the police officer because they seem to have the power to do anything they want and write any ticket they want. I am not fully white but I look “white”. I have experienced racism on both sides and it is a shame that in today’s society with all the different cultures and access to education that we can not see pass color.

By Bryan

May 18, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Frank,

I hate to break it to you, but Atlanta is NOT becoming a “world class city”. Did you see the most recent issue of Fortune magazine? Atlanta is LOSING ground. Our major Atlanta businesses are now in the suburbs. Delta is almost dead, Georgia Pacific was bought out, Home Depot is outside the city, Bellsouth is getting bought by AT&T…..

Atlanta itself is in a world of hurt. It relies way, way, WAY too much on the income of the suburbs to support itself. We sure have a “diverse” population, as you put it, but no more than any other major city I have ever been in.

Atlanta is on its way out as the capital of the south. Count on Memphis or Knoxville or even Tampa taking that designation away any day now as Atlanta loses its major corporate anchors and the suburbs split away and incorporate on their own to escape from Atlanta’s ‘lets tax the white people’ agenda.

By ShabazzIsARacist

May 18, 2006 12:50 PM | Link to this

Shabazz - Thanks for proving the point that black folks can be just as racist and ignorant as any other ethic group. Shame on your hateful speech.

By Jenn

May 18, 2006 12:51 PM | Link to this

All racism is wrong. The only way it will change is at home. I grew up in Atlanta. I am 40 years old and white. My father and grandfathers were racist. I raise my children not to see race when they look at a person and they really don’t. I have three children 14, 11, and 9. They have friends of all races, religions, and nationalities.

When I am in a conversation with someone and they ask what color someone is or “are they black”? My response has always been, does it really matter? That lets them know where I stand.

By mike

May 18, 2006 12:56 PM | Link to this

DeKalb is becoming a Black Oasis, an African-centered community. We should rally around our Black leadership, and come to their support.

If causasion employees in DeKalb feel slighted perhaps they should go to N. Fulton or Cobb and ply their wares there among their own kind.

Fight the Power !

This is priceless! if this was reversed and said by a white person, the media, black community etc. would be up in arms claiming utter disdain and racism. I can only hope that this view isn’t a wide-spread belief held by the black community in Dekalb County.

By Arnell

May 18, 2006 01:03 PM | Link to this

Shabazz has a point. As an African-Americam I feel quite at ease among my people, and enjoy the benefits of living in a Black - governed community such as DeKalb, where my children can get an Afro-centric education. I’m not interested in learning about the Civil War and all the contributions that caucasions have made to this country. I’m tired of it!

By TruthHurts

May 18, 2006 01:05 PM | Link to this

Shabazz- you are an ignorant, ghetto, hood rat. You are probably the type that believes Cynthia McKinney is a brilliant politician, Eddie Long isn’t a corrupt minister, and Vearnon Jones is being victimized by Mr Charlie. Save that nonsense for WAOK. You are a prime example of the ignorance perpetuated by the Atlanta Black Bourgouis..

By Kita

May 18, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

Generalized stereotypes that are used as justification to speak to people as insults are wrong period. Regardless of a persons racial, gender or cultural bias we all have them and think them privately. What is now going on is there is more vocalization about this towards whites. Though I wish it was not happening towards anyone, the truth is that no one group of people is excused from the fear of being used, hurt, ignored, taken advantage of or not appropriately appreciated and understood which is what most racist and sexist comments are based upon: fear. I wish we would all remember to not do to another what we would not like have done to ourselves. Maybe one day, we will all remember to do better and stop being so afraid of each other.

By Bruce Wilcox

May 18, 2006 01:06 PM | Link to this

This Duke some have refered to, would that be Duke University or David Duke? Kind of balances it all out doesn’t it?

The saddest part of all this when people bring up one incident created by a few and apply it across the board.

Racism is now an idividual thing and not a group think.

By h_charles

May 18, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

Rick, thank you.

A voice of reason in a sea of left and right wing nonsense. I only hope you words can spread, and that you can change the hearts and minds of even a few who wish to turn a blind eye to this type of activity. Bravo.

By James Bryden

May 18, 2006 01:07 PM | Link to this

There should be laws that prosecute people like that police chief. He knows first hand how evil racism is and yet he chooses to discriminate against people based on their race. When Dr. King was alive he said he wanted to live where his children are judged by there behavior not by their color. Did the police chief decide that he disagrees with reverend King? I believe he did. To deny a promotion based not upon merit but based soley on color makes him an enemy of civil rights. I am certain that Dr. King would be ashamed of him and disappointed with all people who have the same attitude.

By Jose

May 18, 2006 01:15 PM | Link to this

Well, all this black/white is going to change over the next time anyway because the Hispanics are the new power minority.

The people just don’t talk about blacks as much anymore. We are the ones with political power.

By Pablo

May 18, 2006 01:23 PM | Link to this

As a Hispanic I find it amusing that the Blacks keep fighting over a few crumbs and blame Whites for all their alleged maladies.

With the hot topic being the illegals, how come Jesse Jackson & Al Sharpton are silent on the issue? The illegals are keeping down the wages in the U.S. for those with few skills, no education, & no opportunities, the very people Jackson & Sharpton are allegedly trying to help. It doesn’t take long to realize these charlitans are only looking to help themselvs, & exploit the poor and ignorant for their own benefit.

I love the USA !

Business owner & 2nd generation American

By Bruce Wilcox

May 18, 2006 01:25 PM | Link to this

Hey Jose a suggestion, turn on C-span 2 right now where they are discussing the Immigration Bill and check out how little or how much political power you have. You may be surprised.

By Michael H. Smith

May 18, 2006 01:26 PM | Link to this

No, I haven’t made it to the mountain top yet gang but I’m climbing, care to join me in this challenging ascent.

Racism, now that is an interesting word. Nearly as interesting as its often misused qualifiers: the ‘Black’ Race, ‘White’ Race, ‘Brown’ Race, ‘Yellow’ Race, ‘Red’ Race and the ‘Mongrel’ (the Mixed) Race. The highly touted Ku Klux and their rhetoric screamed out in an evil hate, “We must protect the White Race and never embarrass our White Race, protect the virtues of White women from the ‘N’ Race reducing our White Race into a Mongrel Race”, it lives on in video archives and sadly so do they in small pockets groups and other ethnic separatists hate groups of different skin color who are just like them in this nation. Very distasteful right, down right disgusting but has this hate talk really ceased or simply morphed, become deceivingly finessed? Well, thankfully, the actual KKK has been scorned and ridiculed nearly out of existence. Nearly, but nonetheless not entirely from the fabric of our American society; where to this very day on any given day woven threads of the Ku Klux qualifiers remain in use and have an embolden acceptance as a befitting garment to wear. Whether these totally incorrectly used qualifiers are spoken, written or embraced subliminally: the ‘Black’ Race, ‘White’ Race, ‘Brown’ Race, ‘Yellow’ Race, ‘Red’ Race and ‘Mongrel’ (the Mixed) Race, when used they only honor and carry on the odious Ku Klux traditions rooted and supported in an obscene divisive lairs vernacular.

As it has been stated, as a man thinks so is he, and as he is, so he expresses his thoughts into words which ultimately define his actions.

Racism, do we think it? the ‘Black’ Race, ‘White’ Race, ‘Brown’ Race, ‘Yellow’ Race, ‘Red’ Race and ‘Mongrel’ (the Mixed) Race.

Obviously we do, because we continue to speak it, and write it — flagrantly.

Think Race- Think Human. Who knows, we might actually begin to speak, write, and act Human without embarrassing “Our Race”, the Human Race.

By Poor but Proud

May 18, 2006 01:34 PM | Link to this

All this racist talk makes me sick. The only reason people keep talking about it is give themselves something to hide behind for being sorry. I too grew up in a very poor neighborhood, one of the poorest in our town, but I took it on myself to do something about it. I did not get any help from the government or any other group. I did it myself and until you do it for yourself it will never mean anything to you. Take food stamps for instance, Go to the grocery store and watch those using them. They will have a buggy full of groceries to pay for with the stamp and then they will use their own money part of which was given to them by the government to buy alcohol, lottery tickets and cigaretts. So what have “we the people” provided for them? They will go out and get in their new car and drive to their government funded housing which is no more than 3 - 5 years old and about to fall down because of the damage done by the people living in it. At the end of the day what has this accomplished? Nothing. You don’t ever fully appreciate something that was given to you as much as something you worked for. There are laws to protect every group except the white man, yes there are even laws to protect the white woman. Yet, the white man appears to be doing better than any other group. Do you think this has anything to do with the fact that they had to work for what they got. I for one believe that if you don’t work for it you shouldn’t get it. That even goes for food. By the way I don’t refer to myself by where my ancestors came from but, simply as an American. That’s all I am and that’s all you are unless you were born in another country. Quit referring to yourself as something you are not and maybe then people will quit treating you differently. Get off your a*, go to work and you will have less time on your hands to get into trouble.

By Nocolor

May 18, 2006 01:37 PM | Link to this

We are just so tired of hearing boths sides complain. No matter what you do, no matter how much money you spend, some folks are just going to hate other folks,, thats life get over it and move on.. stop listening to the klan, stop listening to louis Farrakhan these hate spreaders do more harm then good.. Every freaking day someone is blaming their problems because the other person was white or black….enough…

By j

May 18, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

A good example of Black vs White Racism I would like to bring up is in the entertainment industry. I just want to know why it is funny when a black comedian calls a white person a cracker or a honkey. If you heard Larry the Cable Guy or some other white comedian use the N word there would be protests/riots/marches or whatever. So can someone tell me why it seems to be ok for Chris Rock, Bernie Mac, (the entire kings of comedy tour) and many more African American comedians repeatedly make fun on whites. You know if it was the other way around there would be a huge problem. Come on someone give me some feedback on this one please.

By FRANK SIMMONS

May 18, 2006 01:38 PM | Link to this

Hey Bryan and any other naysayers out there. When I say “world class city” please don’t be quick to judge from a few downturns. ATL will recover from these recent downs and you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the new heights it will rise to. I have witnessed changes in many cities in my years. D.C.,New Orleans,Baltimore,Kansas City, Chicago, Indy and Dallas. Let me assure you ATL has it going on and you all need to have a little more faith and turn that negative energy into your own positive desire for the area. All metro’s go thru ups and downs to evolve into synergy that culminates into a better-longer lasting hybrid. ATL has the unique mixture to surpass all those other areas you mentioned. It is more than an experiment but has a rare population base that will solve all its current problems (racial included). These are the growing pains you must suffer now to become a great place at the end. Continue the dialogue, get out as much inside thoughts now, put them somewhere and then sit back and watch where all that goes and you’ll be amazed at how cream rises to the top.

By Prootwadl

May 18, 2006 01:39 PM | Link to this

Racism is just another symptom of folks distrusting, disliking, or even hating things (or people) that they don’t understand.

I’m sure everyone has some level of dislike for folks that are different from themselves, but I think it’s sad when it happens in the workplace , especially when that workplace is a public office of some kind.

I moved down here 18 months ago from an almost all-white southwestern suburb of Minneapolis, and to me it doesn’t matter: black, white, hispanic, or polka-dot — some of the folks down here are downright strange to an innocent northerner like me. Grits? Chick peas? Fried pork rinds? And what’s with the Coke products everywhere? :-)

It’s not like I dislike the folks I’ve met down here. Heck, some of my best friends down here are Southerners…

By get_over_yourself

May 18, 2006 01:45 PM | Link to this

I just wasted 10 minutes reading all the posts here. Thought the Emory speech was interesting, and not surprising. This town is/will be stuck in the stone age for a while it seems. Lots of petty people that have nothing better to do than complain about their situation, instead of doing something on their own to fix it. Stop looking for a handout and get a job. Stop blaming people in the suburbs.

By Nicole

May 18, 2006 01:46 PM | Link to this

I have read through almost every entry on this blog today and I still think the most important point is being missed. Change of any kind begins at home. Until ALL PARENTS teach their child about tolerance and respect of others we will continue to experience racism in this country. Hate and intolerance are learned behaviors, either through direct teaching or life experiences. While I deplore racism of any kind, I do believe there is an attitude of “acceptable racism” when it comes to black/white, black & white/hispanic relations.

I am a single black mother and I strive daily to teach my children tolerance of others no matter if we’re dealing with race, sex, handicap, etc. I chose to move to Gwinnett County because of it’s diversity. How any one group expects to be successful in life and be “racially isolated” is beyond me. You must learn about and respect others if you want to work and live in this country.

In all honesty, it may be too late for this generation to acutally get it right. We as adults need to educate the next generation and maybe, just maybe they will have more success than we have.

By vandiver

May 18, 2006 01:52 PM | Link to this

ALL DO NOT HAVE ENOUGH TO DO IN THEIR LIVES. I AM A 60 YEAR OLD WHITE MAN WITH A 24 YEAR OLD BEAUTIFUL BLACK WOMAN WHO LIVES IN ATLANTA. WE HAVE TWO WONDERFUL KIDS AND WHEN I AM UP ON THE WEEK ENDS I SEE THE LOOKS AND OVERHEAR THE COMMENTS. AND WHEN SHE GETS REALLY MAD THE GOTTO COMES OUT OF HER WITH COMMENTS THAT MOST WOULD FIGHT OVER BUT I KNOW THAT SEE LOVES AND CARES FOR MY OLD UGLY WHITE A*. THE POINT IS THAT YOU MUST LIVE WITH YOUR FEELINGS,ACTIONS, AND COMMENTS DESPITE YOUR UPBRING AND MOVE ON TO ACCEPT PEOPLE FOR WHO AND WHAT THEY ARE AND NOT THE WAY THEY APPEAR AND WHAT THEY HAVE. YOU MUST LIVE WITH YOUR ACTIONS FOR ANY SITUATIONS AND CANNOT BLAME YOUR LOT IN LIFE ON NO ONE BUT YOURSELF. PLEASE LOOK AT YOURSELF FIRST BEFORE YOU SAY OR DO ANYTHING ELSE.

By Prootwadl

May 18, 2006 01:56 PM | Link to this

Nicole, I agree completely. Kids obtain a lot of their attitudes towards life from their parents and from the stuff that is said and done at home, and parents can have a tremendous impact on the way those kids end up viewing others.

I personally believe should be taught that some folks are simply different for whatever reason (race, religion, whatever), and that the fact that those people are different is okay, at least by itself. We aren’t all the same, and it’s those differences that make the world a much more interesting place.

The area where I grew up wasn’t very diverse at all, and I regret that, but hopefully I’m slowly getting over it. :-)

By MC

May 18, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

Rick, I’m glad that people are starting to acknowledge that openly talking about our differences is the only way to gain understanding. If you can’t laugh at yourself then who can you laugh at?

By Lynn

May 18, 2006 02:03 PM | Link to this

Can’t we all just get along?

By Brigitte

May 18, 2006 02:06 PM | Link to this

Thank you for writing what you did. Although I am not sure how much it will change the world, it did make me feel better to hear those words from another person’s lips/pen. Let’s hear for a vocal and moral Middle!

By Derek

May 18, 2006 02:08 PM | Link to this

Lets first of all remember that black people were brought to America as slaves unwilling.

We suffered for hundreds of years as cheap labor to build this country. Still with no acknowledgement!

We lost our entire HISTORY! ( religon, homes, family, ancestory )

I dont know where I came from, my family tree stops at a plantation in Tifton!!!!

By Nancey Hardman

May 18, 2006 02:14 PM | Link to this

Wanting to be with your own kind is human nature, but bigotry is a CHOICE!

I want my Star Trek World.

By Tazzee

May 18, 2006 02:21 PM | Link to this

First of all, why is a white person calling for black people to fight his fight. He says that it will fall on deaf ears, but truthfully if the ‘white leaders’ take up the cause, it will not fall on deaf ears. Yes racism/discrimination/bigotry at any level is wrong, but don’t criticize black leaders for not fighting for white people.

@Pablo Al Sharpton has not been silent on the illegal immigration issue. While he is not someone I support, he has brought that issue up during the past few weeks during a commentary he has on one of the radio shows I listen to. So please know your facts before you condemn someone.

There is no United White College Fund - well I’m not even going to address that issue because if you knew the background of the UNCF, you wouldn’t have made such an ignorant statement.

By Michael H. Smith

May 18, 2006 02:25 PM | Link to this

Jose and Pablo – Now that you two have all this new found power, how are you guys going to use it? Nope, I’m not going to use my usual tactics here, instead though I’m going to appeal to your Hispanic (cultural) pride.

Have you two ever thought about fighting to change the things back in Mexico and Central America that drives the people out of those countries to seek the better things you two now enjoy?

The United States of America is an experimental idea that just happened to turn out very well, especially economically. It can be used anywhere Jose and Pablo with equal success, this experimental idea. Are you two ready to fix, change something that is actually broken, instead of trying to change something that has actually worked?

By Eric

May 18, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

We are a white family living in Dekalb county for the past 15 years. We have always felt the sting of racism from the black majority. Our taxes are raised to support the majority, our schools are ignored to improve the majority, our government ignores our requests, the police profile our community. it is time for the white minority of Dekalb county to take a stand, say ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.. No more will we be second-class citizens No more will our property be taken No more will we be slandered and slaughtered When will the time come for us to be “free at last”…

By Tricia

May 18, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

Derek, while slavery should still make us all hang our heads in shame and vow to never have such atrocities repeated, let’s remember who made it happen. Blacks were sold by other, more powerful blacks to the whites who brought them here and sold them to other whites. Talk about your black on black crime. No one stole Africa’s children - there were sold by your own ancestors. Guess we should all carry a little guilt, huh?

By rodjuan

May 18, 2006 02:27 PM | Link to this

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS BLACK PEOPLE, CONVERSELY THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS WHITE PEOPLE.

When we come to accept this simple truth then the dialogue can begin AND JUDGING FROM THE TONES, IT IS SORELY NEEDED.

When we have Caucasian professors teaching their classes that ‘blacks’ are inferior to ‘whites’ and that ‘slavery was justified’, then the majority of responses agree with him, WE HAVE TO FIND THE WAY OUT OF THIS MELEE, otherwise the KKK will have their race war.

As long as we are communicating from a color perspective we are coming from the man made SLAVE/MASTER mindset. This is a false reality that has taken on a life of its own, both the African and the Caucasian are harmed by this false reality.

When people are referred to based on their culture which has it’s roots in their Nationality, their is room for everyone at the human table. We are not all the same, we have differences based on any number of factors.

When people are referred to along the color line, then there isn’t much room at the table since there are only a few colors you can be, I HAVEN’T SEEN ANY GREEN PEOPLE YET.

RACISM is what happens when one group of people, group themselves according to their complexion, give that complexion favorable ranking thru the many systems of civilizations, ie the education, legal, entertainment systems etc. While conversely engaging in denigratively posturing a particular people whose shade of skin is close to the opposite of theirs.

America will begin to be serious about ATONING for its crimes against the African when it stops referring to the highest house of rule as THE WHITE HOUSE.

Peace.

By msteven

May 18, 2006 02:31 PM | Link to this

I may lose my Black Card for this. But I agree with Most if Not all the previous post about racism. Not Only was I appalled and Embarrassed by what those two top ranking officers, as well as Vernon Dumb Jones but I understand how offensive some of my Fellow blacks as well as racist can be. I personally DO NOT like Chris Rock. He is NOT funny to me. Never has been. He is a Racist to the 100th power and I would not support anything he says, nor his shows. The Only Things Me and Chris Share is Skin color, he is a dark skin black male. I am a Dark skin black male. He is a born native of Brooklyn NY, I am a Born Native of Brooklyn NY. He is from the poor side of Brooklyn and I was raised in Bed Stuy. A run down slum I vowed I would Never Ever live in again. I left in 1974. 3days after HS graduation, joined the Army. And Never Returned to Live. I understand Chris’ take that he may have been faced with racism, as I have had to deal with it myself and occassionly to this day even though I am a Federal Employee. This is My take on the situation. All White People are NOt Bad, Racist or Evil, Just AS ALL Black People ARE NOT racist or Bad. There is good and Bad in all races creeds and cultures. But I dont like when people stereotype or Put everyone in the same box. On the American Idol Board many Who know Me have read my posts how I praise White Contestants and White Artists. I am Probably One of Elvis Presly’s (Whom I just simply Adored inspite of the alledged comment that he supposed to have made that the Only thing a Black could do for him, is shine his shoes”. I dont believe Elvis said that. I believe it was a mis-quote or flat out lie. Whatever, I still loved Elvis.especially 1956-1959 when he was at his Greatest. Folks call me a sell-out because of my admiration for Elvis, The Beatles, Steve Perry and Journey. Saying Things Like, “You must be white! or want to be white”. I simply reply. What color is Music? When you are listening to your radio, what color do you hear? I didnt know Racial complexion could be heard over the air waves and if so, What does it sound like. Dont get me wrong. I have ran into white folks that I know didnt like me perhaps because of my skin tone. Guess what, I ignored them. Let them know I wasent Fond of them either. But NEVER Ever took it out on the Next White Person I encounterd. The way I see it. There are many Blacks that have treated me even Worst then Any whites. I dislike them. But does that make me hate my race because a few blacks showed hate towards me? No. I rate each individual separate. Case by Case. I am not going to Stick up for you just because we have the same skin tone. Nor on the other hand will I treat you with more respect or better because your white.(Some Blacks I have seen do this, I detest those type of blacks which a slang term may call them OREO(Black on the outside White on the inside, or Uncle Toms(an Old slave term, which is also inacurate because Uncle Tom never existed and is simply a book of short stories about slave life written in the 1800s. Those two black officers behinds should be grilled. and Mr Venon, dosent need to hold his seat either. I am Not a fan of his(nor Cythina Mckinney for that Matter) I detest Racist of any color. whether it be Rush Limburgh or Louis Farrakahn. I love ALL People. All races, All colors. I treat everyone equal. I love Rock and Roll, and Soul(Rhythm and blues) I dont like Rap Music(never have) I dont like Heavy Metal(never have) I dont care for alot of Country. But I like kenny rogers, and Dolly parton and some country music. Like the song I am so lonesome I could cry.by bj thomas. In this short life we live in, we have no time to hate one another. We are all human. we all bleed red. My blood(O Pos) will keep a white person alive as well as a black person. and vice verse. People lets love each other. and trash the Hate.

By JustAskin'

May 18, 2006 02:32 PM | Link to this

This should be looked at a growing problem in all communities. Regardless of race or society is in a decadent decay. I get so sick of the news that I have elected for NO CABLE in my home. PBS is all I care to watch. Our families (regardless of race) are part of the mircowave age. We want it all in a minute. Things we used to not accept or were thought not decent have become a part of our everday life. I sicken everyday when I listen to the radio and hear some tragedy has happen. This morning for example, the woman and her children killed in her home. What happen to common decency, morals and decency? OUT THE WINDOW for the latest fashion or the hottest car.

By MM

May 18, 2006 02:33 PM | Link to this

As a community, we need to teach acceptance, respect, kindness, and generosity as well as tolerance. Racism and hatred is an unfortunate side effect of diversity, but it doesn’t have to be a lifestyle.

By Michelle Walters

May 18, 2006 02:34 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, Atlanta, the entire metropolitan area, has racism. Everybody is not racist, however many a white uses the word n!gger as frequently as they use their name. These are the same individuals who say they are tired of hearing that the race card is being played. I know, personally, that when a black person is not around it’s used quite commonly.

Do some people play the race card when it shouldn’t? Of course they do, but that does not take away from the fact that many times racism does exist. And every instance of racism, unfortunately does not get reported.

I do not agree with reverse racism. A black person cannot be racist against a white person. Black people have been hated for years, and slavery is not in “ancient history” (at least for the blacks). So if all a person knows is hate, all they know is to hate back. It’s like a dog who is beat, every day. Soon that dog bites everyone, even the people who aren’t beating him, because he’s tired of being beat, and he’s been conditioned to that type of behavior.

I think Cynthia McKinney has done an excellent job of representing her community and constituents. Oh, and I’m white by the way.

By Mombulu

May 18, 2006 02:36 PM | Link to this

Eric,

Get your White a* outta DeKalb! Yor day in the sun here is over!

Head for Cobb, Cherokee, Bartow & other white enclaves!

DeKalb is a Chocolate community! Vanilla is not welcome!

By Tricia

May 18, 2006 02:39 PM | Link to this

Mombulu, get your a** out of the country. Your kind of hatred would be welcome in Darfur, the Sudan…too many places. We’re trying to peacefully coexist here.

By Robert

May 18, 2006 02:40 PM | Link to this

I think that we can all learn a lot by reading. The other day I took my daughter to the dentists and there was a picture on the wall with children of different races holding hands and the words above the picture read “children love the world” and the words below the picture read “children love each other”. You know, adults can learn a lot from children. Visit a daycare, and what you will see is human beings playing without regard to race!

By Nicole

May 18, 2006 02:43 PM | Link to this

@Derek, I totally agree that our ancestors incurred intolerable cruelty due to the institution of slavery. My question is when are we as blacks going to start being accountable for our actions today. I do belive that slavery had a profound effect on those generations that shortly followed, but at some point we have got to stop “blaming” other races for our own short-falls. I know it is easier said than done, however it is doable. Again, I can not stress enough the importance of parents (be it married, divorced, etc) providing children with the right guidance to be successful in this world no matter what your race or economic background. No you don’t have to be an athelete or entertainer to be a successful minority in this country. We have got to start supporting our families, raising responsible children, and ultimately supporting others in our race and community in order to achieve that “American Dream” that so many of us feel is unattainable.

By HipHop Grandma

May 18, 2006 02:46 PM | Link to this

The individual from Lawrenceville is 100 percent correct. I have been in ATL for 6 years now and was amazed when I heard a popular morning radio talk show host say that only white people could be racist. I’ve been black for almost 55 years, and trust me, anyone can be racist as the DeKalb Police Chief proved. It serves no useful purpose for Black people to constantly complaint about racism if we can’t recognize it in our own backyard.

By Dave

May 18, 2006 02:52 PM | Link to this

Can’t we all just get along.

By Truthhurts

May 18, 2006 02:54 PM | Link to this

Mombula and Eric- you are both disgusting, racist, nasty, shiftless animals.

By Kelli

May 18, 2006 02:58 PM | Link to this

Most Africans were taken and not sold. It was the arabs that brought slavery to the African kingdoms. Please, know your world history.

By Ron

May 18, 2006 03:04 PM | Link to this

Metro Atlantans:

There are people around the country who are considering relocating to the area because it’s uniquely diverse, while remaining uniquely functional. And we’re watching what’s going on in the ATL.

Please set a good example for us, y’all.

By Gerald

May 18, 2006 03:05 PM | Link to this

I have one question - for the context of this article those referenced, what’s the definition of racism?

By Mombullu

May 18, 2006 03:10 PM | Link to this

I don’t allow white bread in my house!

If its white, it ain’t right !

In the immortal words of Jesse Jackson,

Hey, hey, ho, ho; Western Civilization, has got to go !

The Cracker has crumbled in DeKalb County !

DeKalb is ours forever !

Hail to our Queen, Cynthia McKinney !

By Rita

May 18, 2006 03:17 PM | Link to this

I work with the public, dailyI hear the black on white racist remarks and can do nothing about it. I applied for a job in the public utilities once and was told straight out that, “we will take your application but we have to hire a black.” That is discrimination just as if the roles had been reverse. In todays world the blacks are more racist than whites. If a black person even thinks he preceives something as bias, he or she will start the race card going. Jessie Jackson, Al Sharpton and all other NAACP people will be all over it. In my job I hear how the black people have found all the “loopholes” to be able to get all “free” or low cost help. White people can not work around those “loopholes”. It is time for soceity to look at every situation and base it on it’s merits and not it’s color.

By Popeye

May 18, 2006 03:18 PM | Link to this

Look the bottom line with this as well as everything else is that we all will die, black, white, hispanic, asian and everybody else. We will have to answer for our actions. What excuse will we use, if we use one? “I did it because he did it?” Does that make it right or wrong?

That is how I try to make most of my decisions in life.

By rodney

May 18, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

I use the moniker “Rodney” as an (obvious?)allusion to Rodney King’s achingly naive plea, “Can’t we all just get along?” It reminds me of Rick’s often shallow attempts at racial dialogue.

Believe it or not, I actually like Rick. I believe that he has the ability to step up to the plate and make a difference in race relations. Frankly, it p*sses me off that he skims the surface. Not many people have the respected reputation nor the opportunity to reach large numbers of people. Rick does and he is blowing it. I’ve had enough of the moralizing and the finger wagging—step up,brother. We already know that all racism is wrong—go deeper.

Do you ever read this blog, Rick? I rarely see you interact with the participants. Easy to hide behind newsprint, isn’t it?

By Rita

May 18, 2006 03:19 PM | Link to this

Blacks can call each other the N word and it is not a big deal. However, let a white, hispanic or any other race call them the N word and oh my goodness, the injustice that has been done. It is reverse racism at it’s best.

By Mojo

May 18, 2006 03:24 PM | Link to this

Well, for as long as I can remember, blacks have been subjected to that treatment…so how does it feel? WELCOME TO THE REAL WORLD; the world of a black person in America…(try riding on the bus only in the back; or better yet, get food thrown in your face for a sit-in…GROW UP!

By husbandstealer

May 18, 2006 03:30 PM | Link to this

Rita - I seriously doubt your story. Nobody told you that!

And as far as black people using the N word. Yes, they do. It’s a term of endearment. When my sister calls up and I say hey b**, that’s fine, but nobody else better call her that, at least while I’m around.

But it’s a free country, Rita. You can say it too. You should walk right up to somebody and say it, if you like.

By Rita

May 18, 2006 03:32 PM | Link to this

T.I.E., if you think Atlanta is obssessed with race, please do not move down to Albany GA. The race card is played so much here that it is not even funny. The city and county are considering consolidation, we are 60% black and 40% white, the blacks are screaming that this will dilute the black vote. I am not sure how they have arrived at this thinking but hey it is always good to place the race card (being sarcastic).

By RK

May 18, 2006 03:39 PM | Link to this

I also was not chosen for a job because the company had to hire a black applicant. How did I know that? Because the company called me 2 weeks later and offered me a position. ANd, told me that they didn’t hire me to begin with because they had to fill that positon with a black applicant. However, since she can’t do the job, we are going to hire you to do her job, and still keep her on payroll.

BELIEVE IT BABY!!! It was 1988 in Milledgeville, GA.

I think that everyone should be judged on their own skills, merit, and accomplishments. What should it ever matter what color someone’s skin is.

And, I don’t believe there is such a thing as reverse discrimination. Look up discrimination in the dictionary. It does not say that it is only white against black.

Discrimation is when anyone is being judged based on the color of their skin, or their sex, or their religion.

By Singer Girl

May 18, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

I can only speak of my own experiences. I am an Atlanta session singer/musician. I am a white woman who just happens to have a very soulful voice, a voice that usually serves me very well. I also co- own a recording studio. A few weeks ago, we were referred to a local rap artist as a good place to produce a particular track. His assistnat brought the music to us and asked if I would do some back ground vocals. We did an awesome job! But when we called to say it was ready, we were informed that they would pay for our time and work but would be re-doing the track elsewhere. We of course pushed for a reason, hoping it was not due to our quality. No, it was because the artist was afraid he would lose “cred” with other memebers of his inner circle if he had 2 white people working with him. He also did not want a white girl singing on his track. Unbelievable! Then just last week, our 9 year old daughter came home crying because one of her best firends (whom we have had over numerous times ) told her she could not come to her birthday party because she was a white girl. She was devestated. This is a little girl who has stayed over with us so many times, been to our children’s birthday parties, given Christmas gifts. Now there is tension between our familes because they actually tried to justify this absurdity. I just want to understand this atrocious double standard. Had I refused to work with someone because they were black, my business would probably belong to that black person. And had we refused to invite a child to a birthday party based on their race, you’d be reading about it in the paper. Its ridiculous. Black people, if they take a notion, can make any number of racist statements and it is met with a wink and a nod. I don’t care what happened in this country’s history….no one has the right to such a blatant double standard.

By Corey Jones

May 18, 2006 03:41 PM | Link to this

Here is an idea; if we did not have these so called activist or groups then there would be no one to bring up the issue. I believe the whites had a group similar to the NAACP it was called the KKK. Actions different in style, but it fought for one groupd of people. Why not come together and fight the real fight.

For instance, in Sandy Springs the bars are to close early. This is good for the community as a whole. Why would anyone think it is racially biased. Because they can get undone in most cases because everyone is afraid to call it what it is.

Officials fighting is another. If there are 2 people of the same race scuffling it is mentioned. If it is 2 people of different races it is top story of the news. JMHO

By Renee

May 18, 2006 03:42 PM | Link to this

husbandstealer (interesting name) - I must agree with you. I don’t think anyone said that to Rita, and her last post attests to just that. But she does seem to have that South Gawga way of thinking. Especially with the sweeping comment of what “blacks” think, when she has NO idea.

By Kim

May 18, 2006 03:46 PM | Link to this

To MR./MRS.TRUTHHURTS. You are no better with your distasteful, ignorant comment. Your lack of education and knowledge shows your inability to express yourself in an mature manner. So, I leave you with this. Don’t call someone something, you wouldn’t want them to call your mother. Hense the word “B—CH”. And words are all you can write, but if you are so bold and strong, be my guess and call someone of the black race that word and see how far it will get you. Thanks and have a GREAT DAY!

By Rita

May 18, 2006 03:48 PM | Link to this

Husbandstealer, the story is true whether your believe it or not. This happened to me twice and several years apart.

By Samantha

May 18, 2006 03:51 PM | Link to this

This is utterly ridiculous Arnell:

“Shabazz has a point. As an African-Americam I feel quite at ease among my people, and enjoy the benefits of living in a Black - governed community such as DeKalb, where my children can get an Afro-centric education. I’m not interested in learning about the Civil War and all the contributions that caucasions have made to this country. I’m tired of it!”

Now for my thoughts on this - black people fought in the Civil War beside the white people (and not just for the lie of 40 acres and a mule)they fought for their freedom, and some were already free. That was a war that helped abolished slavery in the South - among other things. It is your history as much as ours! You live in AMERICA - black people have fought to protect the place you now call home along-side the white people. You don’t live in a bubble, there is a diverse world outside of Dekalb county and you need to realize it. By the way, I am a 26 year old white woman. I am not a racist, but when I read things like what you wrote it shocks me that there continues to be such bigotry in this world. You are a GREAT example of it.

By Dee

May 18, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

First of black people I am live in the blackest city in the country DETROIT, you don’t no blacker than that, but my commet is So many blacks use the “N” word everyday, like they are calling the name Patrick, so why be offended when a white person calls you the “N” word. We all have a little racism in us. I never hear a white person call one of their own, a Cracka, or honkey at least not in public. How come? I never hear Mexicans call each other wetbacks,how come ? As for Cynthia Mckinney, she is one ignoramt black dummy that who be kicked out of Michigan, she’s an embarrassment to black people eveywhere. The police should have cuffed her and threw the key away, I would not vote for that fool and I encourage, my Georgia family members not to vote for her,although they already know she’s an idiot!

By Mike

May 18, 2006 03:58 PM | Link to this

Why is Al Sharpten not marching and putting up a stink about this? Jesse Jackson? I have not heard any out rage about this. It is OK for Blacks to descriminate against whites? If these two are for equality for all, why have they not showed up to defend the rights of these white officers? They could have at least gotten their names in the paper. After all that is what they are all about.

By Steve

May 18, 2006 04:01 PM | Link to this

Let’s get real. How many blacks on this blog have picked cotton or washed the white man’s clothes. I agree that the whole slavery thing was wrong. No man has the right to own another, but please let it go already. You act like your ancestors 3-4 generations ago being slaves somehow affects where you are today, it doesn’t. You decide how to live your life. You decide whether you go to college or stay on the block selling dope. Not your great great grandfather who was a slave. Blacks talk about overcoming adversity and all that. Stop blaming slavery and overcome already. It’s time to find a new crutch. I also feel like blacks use slavery as a free pass to say and act how they want towards whites. My great great grandfather didn’t own any slaves, why should I have to put up with your racial slurs. (Which I have, more than a few times) I’m not a racist, I have friends of all colors, but it’s not cool. It’s not cool for blacks to be able walk around all “cracker” and “honky” and they laugh it off. Where if a white guy says “n!gger” then it’s on. Even a comedian. “Treat’em like you want to be treated” Not everyone’s like this but quite a few are. It’s like society’s done a 180 and soon whites will be fighting for equal rights. I’m in the IT/Helpdesk field and 90% of my coworkers are black woman. I work just as hard, as any of my coworkers, yet I get passed up for positions because I’m not a black woman. Is that considered discrimination? You know what though? I put up with it and come in here everyday knowing that I might be passed for a promotion because I can’t sit around and talk about the latest Tyler Perry play and relate on that level. It seems that’s what it all comes down to. Politics. If your not in a certian circle your looked over. Sorry for rambeling on. I meant no offense. These are just my observations in life. I’m just calling it like I see it.

By Rita

May 18, 2006 04:02 PM | Link to this

Our black leaders in Albany are the one’s thinking that the black vote will be diluted if the city and county consolidate.

I apparantly touched a nerve with Renee and husbandstealer. I am not trying to step on anyone’s toes. But black racism is alive and living large in today’s society.

By gmd10ms

May 18, 2006 04:04 PM | Link to this

Thank you Mr. Badie and G)d bless you! It’s past time this issue is discussed publicly. The (few) sarcastic posts made about a person in Gwinnett commenting on another metro Atlanta county’s attitudes are absurb. Why shouldn’t s/he voice an opinion? Gwinnett is a segment of metro Atlanta and metro Atlanta’s problems (in Dekalb) spill over into METRO Atlanta. However, the overt and obvious black-on-white racism isn’t just a problem in Atlanta. If a person travels widely or have lived in other major U.S. cities - even small town America - one will find black-on-white racism rampant in this country. When I observe black-on-white racism my antennae goes up and I know in my gut that person is ignorant, possibly uneducated, or has an agenda most likely akin to race-hustlers among whom one can easily count Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, Cynthia McKinney and her infamous father, et al. Nothing but a transformative, spiritual change of heart in those who harbor such racist attitudes will help to bring about the dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who asked that his children be judged by the content of their character and not their skin color. Whites want that same gift also. It’s my prayer!

By E-lotto

May 18, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

i think black against white racism is ugly and this coming from a black man ,, i treat everyone as an individual ,,frankly i don’t like the HUMAN RACE,, whether u are black white ,,jew ,Latino ,, we are all human beings with similiar needs ,, food ,,clothing and shelter ,, lets try to make this world a better place,, AND WE ALL ACT THE SAME whether u are black ,white,latino, i see the same characteristics in all Races,, we all hurt, cry , laugh,get angry ,, lets stop dropping people off cuz of color and pick them up for there character

By Derek

May 18, 2006 04:12 PM | Link to this

Tricia You really p** me off. How dare you say that blacks are to blame for selling themselves into slavery. I am a black american therefore I was born in america and the product of slaves. I wasnt the one selling nor were my anscestors they were the sellee so stop trying to justify your anscetors atrocoties by saying we did it to ourselves. I know the histroy of West africa and the Dutch (who started the Middle passage) so sell those wolf tickets some where else.

Nicole I am married to a beautiful black woman, I have 2 college degrees and soon to be two beautiful children. My wife also has a college degree. I dont blame slavery for my situation nor anyone elses. I do blame slavery for my mindstae and the mindstate of black america. The fact that we want to look talk and be anything and everything but black. The fact that over half of my brothers are locked up in a industrial privitzed prison complex (most for non violent drug charges) that is nothing more than slavery. The fact that the ones who do get out infect black women with aids, and black women have been taught to get abortions cause you cant sucecced with a baby on your arms. The fact that the youth today want to be rappers, and athletes instead of doctors and teachers. That is the direct effect of generations of slavery! You gotta see that slavery has destroyed our minds and spirits. We do not know our great history it was stripped from us so we are walking in circles. We dont know we were kings of the first civilized nation, we dont know that the garden of eden was in africa we dont know that the 10 comandments are now in ethiopia we dont know that Jesus was a black man. We dont know this because it was taken from us.

I said earlier that I ha 2 degrees a AA and A BFA and I still have to work 2 jobs to get the same quality of life as a coworker who is white who has a lesser education than myself. in 2006 is that fair ? So what if DeKalb Police Chief Louis Graham gets some payback?

By Singer Girl

May 18, 2006 04:27 PM | Link to this

Dereck, I’m sorry. But you seem to WANT to perpetuate this crap. You aren’t sure of your history? Hell, who really is? For most of us, all we know is what has been passed down through the generations. Jesus wasn’t black, and he wasn’t white. I’m thinking he looked a lot like an Iraqi. The man was from the Middle East. Your attitude really bothers me. You think its ok for Chief Graham to be a racist? What? He isn’t smart enough get the results he wants the right way? He has to resort to criminal tactics? Please, wise up.

By al

May 18, 2006 04:29 PM | Link to this

As a black male and 2-homeowner in Dekalb it is a shame that the best police service I received regarding cleaning up my neighborhood for drugs was from a white officer. Two month later he was moved and now none of the black officer care to clean up drug user and dealers in our community. I am not the only black home owner that feels that way. It is time for a change starting at the top.

By Steve

May 18, 2006 04:30 PM | Link to this

It would be nice if people actually knew the definition of “racism.” It would be especially nice if a newspaper columnist used it correctly (actually, used the proper term instead). Just about everything raised in the column and blog posts is bigotry, not racism. Unfortunately, the word rasicm has been misused for so long, they have had to change the definitions.

By petamin

May 18, 2006 04:38 PM | Link to this

I also found Ray Nagin’s comments on making new orleans a “chocolate city” outrageously racist. (and no, his lame explanation of needing milk to make chocolate was not a satisfactory one) I was also disappointed that shirley Franklin or someone else of his rank did not publicly speak out about the inappropriateness of this openly racist remark, especially as New Orleans still needs EVERYONES help to rebuild.

By Rick Badie

May 18, 2006 04:39 PM | Link to this

Note from Badie to Rodney: Of course I read this blog, knucklehead. I wrote the column. I also sent you, personally, an e-mail in response to your very first posting. Funny thing, bro: I never heard from you. Below is my response to your first, off-base posting. I copied down the statements (they appear here in quotes) you made, and offered a rebuttal. Still waiting to hear from you, though. Here’s what I sent you. Just “in case” you’re the only person I’ve e-mailed today who didn’t receive what I sent them. One final thought: this blog is for the community, not necessarily me. I don’t need to interject.

• “Why don’t you talk about the institutions which keep racism alive and well?” Please name the institutions that keep racism alive and well, and give facts as to how they do. Back up the accusation.

  • Brookwood High is not a “white school.” I know. I live in Gwinnett. Also, the governor invited that particular school to the mansion because that particular school has made a public point to tout alcohol-free proms, etc. Is there a “black” school that you know of that does likewise, and has done so in a very community-themed way? If so, name it. Better yet, why don’t you contact the governor’s office and suggest that the governor invite that school to the guv’s mansion next year?

  • “The new child support laws that are designed to keep Tamika down—you get my drift.” No, I don’t get your drift. The new child support laws were enacted to make child support payments a more level field for non-custodial parents. How does that hurt “Tamika?”

I await your reply.

By Nicole

May 18, 2006 04:49 PM | Link to this

Derek, I feel and hear your pain. I also have two degrees and I’m currently working on a 3rd as well as certification in my field. At some point in time the generational curses have to stop. Until we start educating our youth and those around us that same mindset will continue to grow. It’s time for our generation to put a new face on what it means to be black in America.

I also have worked multiple jobs while attending classes at night and raising my two kids alone. Take my word for it it’s not that much easier for black females. You will forever be judged by your sex or race.I had what a lot of our youth don’t have, parents (divorced)that implanted success into my spirit. My point is that we must educate the next generation. I too agree that we have an entire generation that is being raised soley by BET. Not blaming the network for our problems, but if there’s no one at home feeding these children anything else then this is what we will continue to get. I have a daugther who likes watching videos, however she is a straight A student in honors classes in highschool. Her goal is to become a pediatrician.

I believe we as a race are expected to fail in the eyes of others. Until we change our mindsets we will continue to meet their expectations as a race.

By Rick Badie

May 18, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

It would be nice if Steve knew what he was talking about. Racism: a doctrine or teaching, without scientific support, that claims to find racial differences in chracter, intelligence, etc., that asserts the superiority of one race over another or others, and tht seeks to maintain the supposed purity of a race or the races. 2. any program or practice of racial discrimination, segregation, etc., based on such beliefs.

By Kyle

May 18, 2006 04:50 PM | Link to this

Where is Jesse when you need him?

By EndIt

May 18, 2006 04:51 PM | Link to this

To the whole lot of you: Ya’ll want some cheese with that WHINE! Geeesh… enough and to think that most of you probably consider yourselves as being educated. Just sit back and wait for any real action to be taken because of all your comments. No one with the responsibility, authority or guts to make a difference cares what you write/complain about in this forum. Wake up and smell the coffee folks and do something productive with your time. But then with all the Cynthia clones running loose, what could one expect.

By lynn

May 18, 2006 04:53 PM | Link to this

Michelle Walters…you may be white but let me tell you, you are STUPID!!!!

By judge

May 18, 2006 04:56 PM | Link to this

Good article, valid points.

By Steve

May 18, 2006 04:59 PM | Link to this

Rick - Here is a clue for you. Your definition did nothing but provide an example of how the term is being misused. Did you even read and take the time to understand what you are posting? No wonder they have to give away the third rate newspaper to pump up circulation.

By Steve

May 18, 2006 05:00 PM | Link to this

Thanks for your article. Somebody had to say it.

By Rick Badie

May 18, 2006 05:20 PM | Link to this

Brilliant Steve. Absolutely brilliant. Bye.

By DS

May 18, 2006 05:25 PM | Link to this

Thank you Rick. The more respected and reasonable African-Americans from Walter Williams and Thomas Sowell (both conservatives) to yourself (whose political philosophy I don’t know) to Cynthia Tucker (a known liberal), the more people will take this issue seriously.

More importantly as Cynthia Tucker (not to be confused with a certain Congresswoman from Georgia whose loves to play the race card if all else fails) has stated time and again, racism regardless of who is the cause is wrong.

Perhaps the more people of all races challenge the stonecold silence of the supposive leaders in the civil rights movement who claim to be against racism and those white leaders who bend over backgrounds making unsound irrational decision because of what Shelby Steele has termed “white guilt”, then perhaps we can move forward, not just in the South, but even in the North and other areas of the nation where prejudices tend to be swept under the rug and ignored rather than confronted.

By Steve

May 18, 2006 05:26 PM | Link to this

Rick - Actually, it is the basic ability to read and understand English, and a basic understand of the terms. Obviously, you have not reached that level and can’t even grasp the information contained in your own posts. As I said, it is merely indicative of the level of the AJC, where actually understanding what you are writing is apparently optional. Great comeback, though. A real gem, you are.

By gmd10ms

May 18, 2006 05:47 PM | Link to this

Derek, surely you knew when you pursued AA & BFA degrees there was less chance you’d find a well-paying career in a lucrative field. BFAs aren’t in high demand nor pay as well as careers in science and technology. If you have skills an employer is seeking and a strong work ethic you’ll find skin color is the least variable. Major corporations are EEOC employers and have strong Affirmative Action directives. Risking redundancy - skills, a good attitude and work ethic will land job applicants an interview, then the person has to sell him- or herself. Employers look for future employees who share the pursuit of similar goals. Good luck in your future endeavors.

By Chad

May 18, 2006 06:06 PM | Link to this

My goodness……this is sad, I wonder if this sort of thing exists at this level in all other cities.

You know, history is just that. History. I wasn’t there to make things right, neither was anyone else here. Yep, slavery happened, and my ancestors in New England probably engaged in it. I can’t change what happened then, it’s done. I think a lot of people don’t talk about contributions made by slaves as much as they should because it’s a shameful, embarassing thing to talk about. Also because well, I didn’t do it, they did. I’ll say it though, we are where we are because of the contributions of people who were forced to be here.

It is what it is, we can only move forward. Sorry. That being said, it really doesn’t take a lot of effort to be nice to people and respectful. I can’t think of any time in my six years in Atlanta when I’ve been nice to someone outside of my race and it wasn’t reciprocated. I just don’t get it. People need to stop walking around with chips on their shoulders and make assumptions about people. Easier said than done, racism and discrimination will always exist, but if people take the high road and stop whining (everyone) it can be minimized. Smile and say hello on the street to 20 people outside of your race, and I bet 19 smile back and say hello as well.

Didn’t we learn this in kindergarten? Treat people the way you want to be treated?

By Sage

May 18, 2006 06:26 PM | Link to this

This has been said a couple times on this blog all ready but I want to mention it again. I have lived all over the US and also some parts of Europe but I have NEVER, EVER felt as much racial tension as I have since I lived here in Atlanta. I hate it and I cannot wait to move because of it. I recently had an incident with Atlanta Police Department and the police officers that responded called me “poor whitey” because I was upset that my car was stolen in Buckhead. They laughed, thought it was funny and did very little to help the situation. Since this incident I have not been back to that area- I will avoid it at all cost. It is too bad that since I have lived here I have a whole new attitude on race.

By RODJUAN

May 18, 2006 07:45 PM | Link to this

THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS WHITE PEOPLE NOR BLACK PEOPLE.

Now try and dialogue without referring to yourself as an extreme, Black is not even a color neither is white.

You may pass this post over because there is no anger attached to it, that’s because the author has no fear.

By Todd Jones

May 18, 2006 08:36 PM | Link to this

Erza is a dimwit….no wonder you are where you are!! Get a life dimwit……Cynthia Mckinny is as much the fool as you are….when she gets arressted don’t come here crying!!!

By Thogwummpy

May 18, 2006 10:02 PM | Link to this

LOOK AT ME!!! For the past six months, I was the Head Bartender at a nightclub in Sandy Springs. I just got fired tonight. Why? The manager says I did nothing wrong, but they signed a contract with promoters for parties on the weekend catering to minorities, and that promoter didn’t want a WHITE MALE to be working behind the bar. So, despite being identified as the strongest bartender in the whole organization, I’m out of a job. Racism SUX—-and any African-American that thinks their community isn’t guilty of it, you’re naive. I don’t care how you fabricate some BS rationalization, I just lost my job due to black racism, and I’m ANGRY AS HELL that there’s no one to defend me! In fact, over the years, the most racism people I’ve ever know have NOT been white.

By KA

May 18, 2006 10:10 PM | Link to this

thogwummpy, If I were you I would check with an employment attorney. If you were fired because of your race, and have some proof, either written or testimonial, then you may have a discrimination case against the employer.

By tomas

May 18, 2006 10:40 PM | Link to this

Reverse racism is like the bully who thought they were going to continue beating up on people and got beat up themselves. Karma isn’t just a word

By chris

May 18, 2006 10:54 PM | Link to this

Rick, you’ve thrown out a flag on the central tenet of political correctness, which states that only white people do anything wrong or have ever done anything wrong in history, and if you disagree you must be a racist racist racist! It’s the moron fallback position of anybody with no leg to stand on who then whips out the race card, which trumps everything, including facts. Cynthia McKinney’s latest loony tune spectacle was a classic example… until her fellow black Congress members and Democrats forced her to at least pretend to be sane. The tenor of the discussion on this board has only proved the point.
Real civil rights leaders like Martin Luther King won their struggle 40 years ago by pushing the simple notion that equal treatment is right and unequal treatment is wrong. The answer to unequal treatment… is equal treatment. Period. Not MORE unequal treatment so now we can “screw whitey.” Idiots who argue that “now it’s our turn to be racists and discriminate” completely miss the point and forfeit any moral high ground… or sympathy… to which they may have once been entitled. Likewise race baiting demagogues like McKinney and Al Sharpton defile what was once a moral high ground with phony claims of racism, devaluing real cases of racism when they come along. If we’re going to be honest and fair about race, then racism and racial discimination by ANYONE against ANYONE must be equally treated and condemned. Otherwise NO allegations of racism can have any credibility.

By Alan

May 18, 2006 11:25 PM | Link to this

Reading all of these comments just show how the majority of people in the Atlanta community consider each other as equals. No matter where you live, you will see “racism” by any of the races in this country. As race is concerned in this country, it exists, however it mostly exist via the media looking for a big news story on a slow news day. The black community is struggling from within. The internal culture of that community in most urban areas of this country teaches the youth to hate anyone of a different skin color. Rap music is not a positive influence on any culture in the country. Those who live by it, including whites, blacks, hispanics, and asians, typically will not advance above high school (If they are lucky) and will just be a burden on society. The black culture itself is imploding from within. I think Bill Cosby points out alot of problems in the black community that other black leaders do not want to acknowledge.

When individuals point out the most of the corporate giants in Atlanta are all white, did those individuals actually realize that most corporate boards have individuals from other countries, not just Americans. Plus, look at the actual real numbers of the racial makeup of the U.S. You will see a white majority on mostly anywhere you look, because the white population is the majority. Over the next several decades, your will actually see an influx of asians, hispanics, and Indians making up a greater percentage of corporate and public areas. Plus business ownership will increase by the other ethnic groups in this country. American is truley a melting pot, and Atlanta is ground zero for this east of the Mississippi. The white and black population is the US will eventually become stagnate in growth and you will see a greater number of hispance and asian growth in this country. If you look and the numbers and the numbers of immmigrants coming into this country both legally and illegally, the hispanic and asian populations are exploding, which is a good thing. Over time, you will see a more diverse U.S., with the white population around 50% of the country and the remaining split up between hispanic, asian, and then black. Black Americans are no longer the largest minority and will continue to loose ground as this country matures and continues to grow. Black Americans need to put the past behind them. They need to stop blaming people who have been dead for 50-150 years ago and move forward and grow as a viable community. The idea of Dekalb county as a black county and blacks teaching blacks items that have nothing to do with the actual history of this country is self destructive and will continue to hurt the black community as a whole on a global scale. Everyone needs to learn about everyone else, including there cultures. I for one think each culture and an interesting and unique story to tell and can learn from each one. Native Americans teach us about the earth, Asians teach us about peace of mind, african culture about looking into your soul, and the European/Middle Eastern culture teaches about civilization. These are just samples of what each culture can contribute.

Those who think that whites should stick with whites, and blacks should stick with blacks, will fail in todays society and the society of the future. Those communities that elect people based upon just thier skin color will never get the best representation they deserve and there communities will falter.

Atlanta is a growing city. Even with big corporate giants struggling, the medium to small businesses are thriving and there are a lot of large corporate companies that have big operations in Atlanta and its suburbs and they continue to grow. Atlanta is also a city that is more and more made of of non-Georgians. This helps keep Atlanta growing and keep the job market growing.

Those that continue to have closed minds and live in the past will be forgotten. Unfortunality, the media will still focus on what they beleive will help there ratings, however with more people turning to the internet and the subscriber base for newspapers continue to fall, the most people will just tune out the media mess and just not listen. Most of the media in Atlanta are still in the past and hopefully they will eventually realize that Atlanta is more diverse than they give it credit for and most of the population could care less if someone cries racism to cover up something they did that was wrong. Eventually those individuals will be laughed at and will not logner be taken seriously. THe problems in Dekalb can only be fixed from within, and if no one listens, you will still see what you see today in that county, ignorance, racism, and death (both economic and in life). Just as in corporate america, incompetence will only lead to failure.

Keep the faith and pray for those who just don’t understand :)

By Brenda

May 18, 2006 11:32 PM | Link to this

White people are the ones who started racism and they are the ones who keep it going. They act as though every thing has to go their way. White people practice racism every day and they don’t try and hide it. There is racism in the work place, in colleges, government, politics, simply throughout this country. If White people want racism to stop, they should stop it. They have yet to accept the fact that God create all men not just White men. Maybe they should feel the pain of what they started.

By KA

May 18, 2006 11:40 PM | Link to this

Brenda, And what are you doing to stop racism and make your life better?

By It ain't easy

May 18, 2006 11:43 PM | Link to this

Why does everyone keep getting upset? It’s all going to keep changing because soon it won’t be white and black anymore. It will be white, black, and latino. The proof is in the numbers.

Mr POlice officer going to make a practice of only hiring black people and discriminate against Latinos too. Probably, but that is just the way things are going to be.

SO what is Mr. POlice officer going to do when another minority starts discrimination suits? Uh oh…there may be a case there and someone is going to get milked just like all those racists who discriminated against blacks all those years.

And what will happen when a black owned business has to hire a certain number of latinos? That will be real interesting to see if affirmative action is still important to everyone then.

Reap what you sow everyone!

By Steve

May 18, 2006 11:57 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Brenda, for providing a perfect example of a pathetic person who goes through life blaming others (in this case, “white people”) for everything. Trash is trash, regardless of the color, and you have shown the attitude of pure garbage. Your post is nothing but 100% vile racial bigotry. Congratulations! I hope the hood fits well, whatever color it may be. No doubt you pay the price for your attitude every day.

By ATLborn

May 19, 2006 12:20 AM | Link to this

Tricia it’s amazing how distorted your view of history is. The vast majority of African slaves WERE NOT sold into slavery by other Africans. That’s a myth. A lot of slaves were sold by other Africans but this was small number when you look at the whole. And you also have to consider the African culture where an African slave sold to another African nation would be freed from slavery after a couple of years and then could possibly become King of that nation. The ones that sold Africans to White slave traders had no idea that their fellow Africans would be enslaved for life and their offspring for generations.

So many folks, especially black folks, have heard this garbage about most African slaves were sold by other Africans. It’s all bull. Do your research and you’ll find the truth. You’ll also find that there were many black nations that defeated white slave traders. There were more African nations that fended off enslavers than there were African nations engaging in the slave trade.

Do your own research and stop taking what you hear from folks whose agenda is to try and place equal blame for slavery on Black folks so that some of the guilt of this attrocity can be lifted from the conscious of some whites.

By IBetTheIgnorantOnesHateThis

May 19, 2006 12:47 AM | Link to this

This whole blog shows how sad our city really is. Should we be proud of our heritage? Of course. Can we show it? Sure. If everybody would get over themselves the world would be a lot better place. Nobody that is alive in our country today ever owned any slaves. Nobody alive in our country today was a slave. There should be no apology needed for slavery. If you are upset about your great great whatever grandfather being pulled from the wild in Africa (usually by other Africans), then go to where you think home is. If its Africa, fine. Another thing, if we are going to let the hispanics be so proud of their heritage (you see Mexican and Guatemalan flags all the time) not to mention the ones that disrespect our country by flying our flag upside down, why should there be a problem with flying the Confederate flag? I personally don’t want to debate any of the many ignorant readers of this fine fish wrapper on the reasons for the civil war, but slavery was not the purpose. Just as their grandparents had fought for their freedom from England, the South tried to declare its own independence. Of course we know how the North came through and obliterated everything in sight and won the war. It is out of this that Atlanta was reborn just like a Phoenix (ever wondered why many city logos feature a weird bird?). Heres another thought, Lincoln didn’t free the slaves because he thought it was right, he only freed slaves in the South because he was trying his best to cripple its economy which instead of being based on industry like the North, relied on agriculture. Stop Whining and get over yourself.

By rob_ertmcswain@hotmail.com

May 19, 2006 05:34 AM | Link to this

Yes, I agree definitely with what the other fellow said to you in his e-mails. I am white, my parents are and were white, my father being deceased for some 11 years now and my mother living out her final years on half his military pension and social security. I myself live in a poor, income based rental unit operated by Dekalb county though I myself was a former vet with an honorable record and could not find work even with the laws favoring vets in hiriing practices at places where I applied for work like Geogia Tech, who favor students over military personel despite their many government contracts for research, they broke the law. So I would seek funding to start my own company to manufacture and finish development of my own technological solutions to certain environmental problems like the internal combustion engine among other things but there are still biases everywhere you look in favoritism towards this group or that and I seem to fall between all the cracks and open spaces in the webbing of the safety nets. I served my country with two honorable discharges in consequetive hitches before mustering out in ‘81 at Redstone Arsenal instead of going to work at NASA, because I was tired of military life. Only to find that the whole of our society is exactly like the military and its corporate value system. While in the former West German republic in the military, I observed personally such black on white racism with an attempted attack on my person with a broken beer bottle by a known alcoholic black soldier who did often beat others up when he got drunk, especially white soldiers. Were it not for the other black soldiers drinking with him, who grabbed him and distracted him and led him out of the room, in my barracks room where I was simply laying on my bunk reading a book and happened to glance over at them once that caused him to break a bottle and start to come toward me. I might have been murdered savagly by him or cut up extremely badly and perhaps crippled for life by him because he was very strong and mean, especially when drunk. There were others like him, white soldiers too, female soldiers too who would commit humiliation upon others or beatings, blanket parties they were euphemistically called, so the beatings with soap bar filled socks would not leave visible marks while you were held down under a blanket by lots of your fellow “trusted” soldiers. So, discrimination exists in the human psyche and soul and the very fabric of our civilization and society and it is takes the form of rivaly from all directions and groups and competing interests. What is the answer, I don’t know, except that violence isn’t it for whatever reason, nor is aggressiveness except where it is sanctioned as in sports where your intent is to play together without getting hurt usually in a structured environment and incidentally get paid quite well for doing it. Me, I am just a quiet observer trying to understand the universe into which I was born and usually my interactions with others don’t come out too well with misunderstandings and misinterpretations of my personality, upbringing as are any of us who might be intellectually bent towards might do. If I, like some artist like an actor or sports figure can make money from my intellectual talents, great but like them I do get tired and at times have had enough and that is what scares away the money that I need to pull myself up out of poverty and dependence upon the rest of you for a place to live as well as money to live on, even if I did earn my social security income disability benefits from when I was employed years ago. I am fifty four this month and faced with my own mortality from the heart attack and subsequent triple bypass operation and yet I still want to achieve some part of a dream my family had for me, especially my father and mother in becoming a financial success thoourgh my own intellectual creative efforts in technology and science, if not art too.

By Keith

May 19, 2006 05:41 AM | Link to this

Racism builds becaue of the multitude of crimes reported in local news. I’m thankful to hear and see it broadcast, not for the racial implications but rather because it lets me know what the most dangerous “culture” is and where “it is” so I can avoid those areas. Born and raised in suburban Atl. I fear some areas of Atl. so I avoid them. I think culture and race are intertwined and that crime is tolerated more by some cultures. Racism is a word used very often when someone wants to gain something when actually earning it becomes too hard.

By Brother

May 19, 2006 06:30 AM | Link to this

What a joke! Rick, I strongly recommend that you read YURUGU, by Dr. Marimba Ani.

By Jackie

May 19, 2006 06:49 AM | Link to this

There will always be racism between black and white people. In my opinion white people think they are the only smart people in the world. What they speak in always true! There will always be a next generation of racist also. It’s the way you are raised because no one is born a racist, we are taught by our parents.