Imus: From Non-Apology Apologies to Non-Excuse Excuses

Many have offered (and rightly so) that it is hypocritical for Sharpton, Jackson and the like to criticize white people for racially tinged utterances when an entire cultural mentality has arisen from rap music that glorifies violence, racial oppression, violence, etc.

But what I don't think the elder statesmen of the African American leadership understand is that by holding Imus or Michael Richards accountable while turning a blind eye to the culture of hip-hop and it's base mentality, it in fact makes this statement:
"It is wrong when white people say it, because they should be held to a higher standard. It is excusable for Blacks to say it because they are low and not much is expected from them anyway".
Does this not completley counter the efforts to make all equal? If I were African-American, I would be insulted that the leaders of the greater community are so short-sighted, and not putting more energy into steering Black culture to a 'higher moral' ground.

My belief is that it is because Al Sharpton and the like are nothing more than snake oil salesmen that know how to play the media for their own self interest. Shame on him.

I understand that pointing out rascism by a public figure is important, but do Sharpton and/or Jackson do anything positive for the black community? I never hear about either of them raising money for scholarships,etc.

I agree with Shawn...someone please explain why it's OK for Chris Rock, gangsta rappers, Dave Chappelle, or any other black artist to spew vile and degrading words onto black women and GET PAID MILLIONS FOR IT and receive AWARDS!!!

Paaaleez, people...Sharpton and Jackson have credibility on this issue as long as they let black artists get away with it.

This is no big deal. He apologized, let it go.

I wish someone would ask Sharpton if he has ever apologized for his involvement in the Twanna Brawley non-episode. I have been googling the subject and can find no apologies from him. He put innocent people through hell!

Shawn,

Why don't you focus less on Al Sharpton and more on the man who actually did something wrong here. The issue of self-degradation in the black community is entirely seperate from that of a man who has several times over his 40 year career insulted racial and sexual minorities in vicious ways to get a laugh.

I'm tired of people trying to get racists off the hook by pointing out problems in the black community. Sometimes people are wrong because of what they did, irregardless of what other people are doing.

I don't think Imus should lose his job here but I think MSNBC should fine him or at lest reprimand him in some way. He should be sanctioned so that the next time he decides to open his trap, he thinks about what is actually coming out.

And the issue of

There have been hundreds of pages of ink dedicated to this story and to the crucifixion of Don Imus for what were obviously ill-conceived, offensive, and inappropriate comments.

In none of these articles, however, have I seen one letter dedicated to mentioning the myriad good works that Mr. Imus has done over the course of his career. He has donated millions of dollars to pediatric cancer research, and his Imus Ranch in New Mexico offers an invaluable experience to young cancer patients and their families.

The greatest shame in this is not that the witch hunt for racists in the media has threatened to end Imus' 40-year career, but that the media and the public are so willing to overlook and ignore a philanthropic record that few individuals could match.

It seems that some perspective is in order, but sadly, non seems forthcoming in this debate.

I agree. The issue of the black community's unwillingness to challenge black musicians is entirely separate from Imus' racist screed. Sharpton's inconsistency does nothing to mitigate the absurd racism of Imus and his ilk. It is an attempt to shift the focus.

I love watching liberals eat liberals. I hope Imus loses his job. It's political correctness gone wild.

You can argue around it all you want, but the fact is Imus will keep his job because his target was women.

Shawn Dampier, blacks DO NOT call one another "nappy-headed hos". Sounds to me like you're okay with Imus' comment and if so, what does that say about YOU!!! That is a racist statement which African Americans DO NOT say to one another...what you hear in rap/hip-hop music is not along these same lines!

A Proud African American

Both arguments seem to have merit. I just wish it wasn't always Jackson and Sharpton (both hypocritical fools) who seem to be the figureheads of the uproar. They severely degrade the credibility of any protest.

What Imus said was wrong. He should be fined, he should apologize. Maybe even make a donation to a charity chosen by the women he insulted. I don't think he should be fired.

I would also be curious as to what the Rutger's basketball team has to say. We're so busy listening to everyone else, we haven't heard a word from them.

Hey Nina...so you don't think Dr Dre or other rappers insult sexual minorities?

And fine, Imus is wrong I agree with that 100% but can Sharpton say he should be fired from radio then put him on his own show, so he can inturn get ratings? Thats called being self-serving, so the above comments about Sharpton and co are valid to a lot of people out there.

Some things just aren't funny anymore.

What about Al Sharpton's restitution of the cost to NY for that bogus Twana Brawli incident he so whole heartedly supported...the citizens of NY did not get so much as an 'apology' from him....to be so judgemental of others, he, The Reverand Al should be beyond reproach.

People should keep three things in mind.

1. Context: He was comparing two groups of predominantly black young women--Rutgers and Tennessee. The comment started about the tattoos that were very apparent on the Rutgers Women and not on the Tennessee Women. Even my son commented on it during the game. He complemented the Tennessee women, and certainly criticized the Rutgers women. He may be anti-tattoo, but not a racist.

2. Perspective: Outrage over this comment may be justified. I do understand it. But compared to other outrages that exisit in our world? Please get a grip.

3. Hypocrisy: If you care about these women, and so many others, get them to understand that your college education will not get you the success you deserve in your career if you are covered with tattoos!

I think Imus' level of regret can be measured by the amount of income he will lose if fired. His statement showed a total disegard for the achievements of this group of intelligent, talented, hard working women and their coach. Those in the "rapper" community should not be excused either. These types of characterizations are an injustice toward women, whatever their source.

And as a follow up note, I think Imus wasn't even thinking when he said what he did - I think this type of language has been assimilated into the public consciousness of America. Who doesn't joke with the guy in the next cubicle about 'Bling' dis and 'Ho dat' and 'Beeeeyach fizzil my nizzil' and so on.
Even more reason to call attention to the moral imperative facing our Nation, to steer us to a place of more civility. (A stark contrast to the 'Richards Rant', which was more clearly an outburst of anger, frustration and bigotry.)

I agree with Shawn Dampier above.
I will further go on to say that as a citizen of this country we are given the protected right, through our Constitution, to say whatever we please. While I do not believe that Imus' comments were beneficial to society he has the right to say whatever dumb thing he choses. Imus is known for his controversial comments, views and opinions and we should all take his utterances for what they really are... the rantings of inconsiderate man.

And as a follow up note, I think Imus wasn't even thinking when he said what he did - I think this type of language has been assimilated into the public consciousness of America. Who doesn't joke with the guy in the next cubicle about 'Bling' dis and 'Ho dat' and 'Beeeeyach fizzil my nizzil' and so on.
Even more reason to call attention to the moral imperative facing our Nation, to steer us to a place of more civility. (A stark contrast to the 'Richards Rant', which was more clearly an outburst of anger, frustration and bigotry.)

What Al Sharpton perpetrated in the Tawana Brawley hoax is far worse than anything Imus has said in his career. How easily people forget that Sharpton and his two cohorts used an unbalanced young girl in order to boost their profiles at the expense of a man whose life they virtually ruined for no reason. And when Steven Pagones won a civil judgment, Sharpton neither made an apology nor paid out the judgment against him.

Imus is obviously no saint and it appears that his 30 year run of being able to say whatever he wants without repercussion is coming to an end. But I'm far more disturbed by the continued publicity Sharpton receives as a 'voice of the black community.' With a voice like that, I'd rather be struck mute.

The excuse, "but you started it..." or "you didn't say anything when they did it..." really doesn't have a lot of weight once you're over 10 years old.

As a long-time fan of Imus, I know that he pokes fun at EVERYONE. As a traditional Roman Catholic who loves his faith, I was once offended by Mr. McGuirk's portrayal of "Cardinal Egan." I soon realized, however, that everyone is open to ridicule and his humor. As tasteless and repulsive as his remarks, the man has done far too much good to be reviled in this manner. Should 30 seconds override 30 years of philanthropy?

And as a follow up note, I think Imus wasn't even thinking when he said what he did - I think this type of language has been assimilated into the public consciousness of America. Who doesn't joke with the guy in the next cubicle about 'Bling' dis and 'Ho dat' and 'Beeeeyach fizzil my nizzil' and so on.
Even more reason to call attention to the moral imperative facing our Nation, to steer us to a place of more civility. (A stark contrast to the 'Richards Rant', which was more clearly an outburst of anger, frustration and bigotry.)

im getting really sick of old black rich guys complaining everytime a white person says something they think is racist, i think its time for white people to start doing the same when black people call us "Crackers" chris rock, martin lawrence

seriously these black old farts just want to get there names in the news

they should be more concerned about there own people degrading women in rap music and promoting crime in the music and movies

How about the time Sharpton called a Jewish shopkeeper a "white interloper," and then continued to look on as associate of his suggested the man's shop should be burned down. When a black member of the crowd did so, killing several people and himself, Sharpton initially denied having been present. When confronted with a video tape showing his presence, he said: "What's wrong with denouncing white interlopers?".

This guy is a fraud. Sure Imus was wrong, I feel bad though that he is jumping through hoops of a man that has been controversial and racist himself. Imus is right, you can't win with these guys.

Yes I agree what Imus said was wrong. Jut not be swept under the rug. He did wrong, should own his mistake but to be fired No i disagree. To be fired for that one regettable remark is wrong. He has owned up to his mistake and is willing to take the heat but to be a whipping post NO. People need to step back and take a deep breath.

Amen to Nina's comments. Besides the obvious racial slur which is indefensible, there is the slur against women in general. Why is it that no matter a woman achieves or accomplishes, discussion turns to her looks? To put it in perspective, could you imagine a discussion at the NCAA tournament revolving about what the men look like!!!!
I did not realize that one's looks is a job requirement in basketball. And, I thought it was about talent and hard work.

I am exceedingly tired of people of Imus's ilk saying that someone is 'fat, stupid and ugly' and then following up with 'just kidding.' It is not funny. It is childish, mean-spirited and has no place in intelligent discussion.

He should not get a pass.

This issue is not about Sharpton and Jackson, and it's a shame so many would try to shift the focus there. Sharpton and Jackson are lightening rods, at best. But, what they are saying should be said by every single human being who is disgusted by Imus' sentiments. Why in the world should his decades-long record of racial bigotry be "let go." Can anyone help me understand this? He's been called on the carpet countless times before for his behavior, and still -- at his age and experience -- can not edit the patently racist thoughts that bubble up in him BEFORE they leave his lips and flow out like sewage over the public airwaves. Shame on any group who would consider him an "asset" to their organization [WFAN and MSNBC] and shame on anyone who writes his repugnant actions off AGAIN.

This has nothing to do with black or white. This has to do with women in sports, and he should appologize to all college women athlets !!!!!

the point here is freedom of speach, if we cannot let talk show hosts say what they like then what is next, wil the government be able to get talk show hosts fired for calling people right-wing extremists or liberals, if you call someone homophobic or racist is that bad as well. Where wil it end? Do we really have to keep repeating the phrase " I disagree with what you say titally, but agree 100% with your right to say it"

Otherwise we have individuals deciding what is acceptable and you might agree this time, but the nect time?........

So he said "Nappy Headed Ho's" and obviously offened some people. Is that really cause for him to resign, get fired, be picketed, or sued, No.

There is a huge difference between what Imus said and what Richards said, and thats fore thought. Imus is a blithering idiot who makes a wide array of ludicrous, stupid and foolish comments and is surrounded by even bigger idiots. Is what he said inappropriate? It is to some, is it punishable, absolutely not. If our country has gotten to the point where you get fired for something like this than we have become to extreme.

There are several talk radio shows in the morning where the so-called line is crossed, but that should not be the case. I have heard far worse on radio shows hosted by African Americans and you never hear about them catching this type of flak, nor should they, but they do say similar things.

Imus shouldnt get a break in those who ridicule his comments. In fact, more should be said about the meaning of those words and why they are so inappropriate. However, Imus wont get it. He probably listens to a lot of Gangster rap and just let it fly without thinking about it. It makes him a fool, not a criminal and its not worth him loosing his job.

test

I have 2 words: Tawana Brawley.

Bad remark,poor timing,he is a human being,he can make a mistake.Let's move on and Imus..Hang in there.

Who are we to judge? imus apologized..so be it!

Since when are Black people responsible for things that other Black people say? Nobody is blaming George Bush or any other White person for what Don Imus said, they are blaming Don Imus. So now we are blaming Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton for rappers? This argument that Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are turning a blind eye to hip-hop is preposterous. If you do a little research you can read that Al Sharpton has been critical of the hip-hop industry. Please, let's stay on point. As they say, two wrongs don't make a right. What Don Imus said was wrong no matter if those criticizing him have the moral ground to do so or not.

I am a middle age black american I have listened to Imus for years. Although it may have been extremely in poor taste he is not a racist. and he has always been equally insulting to every one. Don I except your apology.

You`re all fucked up US`ers anyway, so what does it matter to the rest of the universe?

I do not think Imus needs to offer an apology. He was using picturesque language.

The notion of racial distinction [Caucasian vs. Negroid] is nonsense from a genetic biochemical scientific viewpoint. We are all upper human primates!

There should no longer be any governmental statistical classification of human beings by these arcane, outmoded false categories rooted in the ignorance of historical language terms---which are totally obsolete for our advance technological society.

His comment was non-offensive to any urbane, sophisticated sensibility. Fools must parade their mental incapacity by making a mountain out of a mole hill.

To my fellow African-Americans...ALL whites hate us. Now what??? Live!!! Let them hate you...so what. This is America, are you expecting something different? Make your own lives better, seek peace and pursue happiness. My new motto in life is "I can not control the actions of others, I can only control me." Therefore, I turn off the television and radio and I read. I seek after things that are more important than someone's opinion of me. You can't control that. The best you can do is pray for those who hate you. They only affect themselves when they carry that junk around. In the meantime, I am on my way to the bank to make another deposit. I am living and loving my life.

common'. Forgive him and move on. He already has apologized. Now, you want to execute the man for it or what? Forgive but never forget. We all make mistakes.

I believe life is a zero sum game....add it all up on the Imus balance sheet...put his comment in as a big minus and what do you have left? The man is still way in the black.

Mr. Sharpton has never raised any money for living African-Americans. He has only made money off of dead ones. It's the pot calling the kettle a 'knappy-headed ho.'

Both of these jokers can fall off the face of the earth, as far as I'm concerned.

Kudos to Shawn and Jo! How can Sharpton have any credibility when he never apologized for the Tawanna Brawley incident which ruined the lives of innocent white police officers! What does he do other than self aggrandize?! Talk about hypocritical! Anyone who listens to the Imus show knows he is not a racist. Between the serious bits is when he injects his "shock jock" banter which insults everyone equally. Let's not throw the baby out with the bathwater here and understand that this incident was a mistake, not indicative of a racist but of a bad joke. His show is intelligent and compassionate. Look at what he's done for kids with Leukemia & Autism, veterans, Hackensack University Medical Center, etc., etc., etc. There are far meaner people on radio and TV (Rush, Bill O'Reilly, & Sharpton) who attack people personally and without facts. This was not a personal attack, it was a joke gone bad. Fine him if it makes everyone feel better and move on.

It is notable readers believe Imus
did exactly what Al Sharpton, and others have
done themselves. The major difference is they
attacked white people!
It is not a suprise that the media is treated
as a biased entiity.
Of all shows to go on to say "I am so sorry"..Al Sharpton?
Maybe Imus should retire for apologizing to
the racist Sharpton

There is a big difference between racially insensitive or stupid and racist. Being racist is about hating someone to death! I don't think he is that. Let's not loose the big picture by branding everything racist.

Nina: Regardless of what you say, irregardless is not a word.

Um, didn't Howard Cosell lose his job for saying something similar to "look at the monkey run?"

I dont know what I'm more tired of, Black commedians basing entire stand up acts talking trash about white people, or people like Al Sharpton and Jessie James demanding appologies from white people for their comments made about the black community. I'm not a White American, nor am I a Black American, but if you ask me, in general I think black in whole, are equally or even more rasict than white people.

Imus should be off the air because he is not funny, not because of what Sharpton and Jackson think a proper punishment should be. Typical PC mentality run amok, with whiny white liberals wringing their hands and black muckrakers capitalizing on this.

How ironic that Jackson and Sharpton, who basically do nothing for a living, are demanding that anyone loses their job. This is America -- land of free speech. How dare you restrict that constituitonal right because of content.

Look around the world people. Bigger fish to fry. Oh no, black people, fried foods, please take away my job

Bottom line: whether you like what Imus had to say or not, he has the RIGHT to say it, even if its racist. If you don't like it, don't listen. It's really that simple.

This is an small part of what is wrong with all of us today. How do I teach my 5 year old grandson that he can't say mean or hateful things when a grown man with a radio and tv show doesn't realize you can't say mean, hateful things. Come on what part of what he said could ever be exceptable said to anyone at any time. Rude and mean is just that rude and mean wether you are "famous" or not. Free speech doesn't not mean Free to be a mean and rude person. Mean and rude isn't ever funny and we all need to remember that in every form of media and in our daily lives.

sometimes your words have an effect that you didn't intend. The Dodger executive who said that blacks weren't suited to be managers lost his life-long career, for that one comment alone. Jimmy the Greek lost a lucrative network job because he said that blacks weren't good swimmers because of their physical characteristics. Michael Richards will never work again...all for a 1 minute racist rant.

Sometimes you pay a stiff price, for using hideous words. Imus' words are (IMHO) worse than any of the above except Richards. It's sometimes sad to see, but that's life. He should be fired.

Sometimes a joke isn't funny, sometimes a joke is stupid, sometimes a joke is in bad taste, and sometimes a joke is a is just an unfunny, stupid, in bad taste joke. But it's not racist. The man said he is sorry, let it go.

i can understand the outrage over racially insensitive comments. But the whole Imus show is full of racist and culturally insensitive remarks, often very funny... which this wasn't particularly.

But isn't it hypocritical of Rev. Al to call Imus out so intensely for this one and ignore all the others.... homosexuals, middle age white guys, French, the Catholic Church, Hispanics, young women. etc. Are they somehow more appropriate targets or is sarcasm biased?

But then to label Al a hypocrit is redundancy squared.

Obama cannot get here soon enough... may he rescue Black Americans from their mindless generation of leaders!

I wholeheartedly agree that what Imus and McGuirk said wrong, being insulting not only to Blacks but to women in general... which seems to be a seriously missed point here.. the blatant insult to women, regardless of color!

I must agree with Shawn above that the African American leadership does seem to hold the white community to a higher standard, while they turn a blind eye to their own communities. I have met, and befriended, African Americans who plainly stated to me that they wouldn't date so and so, because (s)he was too black, or wasn't black enough. Is that not racism? I haven't heard many whites claim they can't date each other because they aren't white enough.

Worse, it seems that when a black man or woman has gained some level of achievement and then speaks up to hold the black community to a better standard, that individual is lambasted or questioned. Take Bill Cosby, who has repeatedly spoken against the violence glorified in rap and other media, the level of illiteracy in the black community, and the loss of children's education while being sucked into gangs - the black community was up in arms about his statements, and questioned whether he was turning against "his community and his people". Where were Sharpton and Jackson then? Why were they not echoing Cosby's encouragement to seek a higher standard for their communities as a whole?

Right now, there is a segment of society questioning whether Barack Obama is "black enough" to speak for the African American community! Is that not racism? I have not seen too much publicity about Sharpton or Jackson decrying these questions against Obama's abilities and his "Blackness".

Truly, there is still a blatant amount of racism going on everywhere, black and white.

However, what is further being ignored in the comments by Imus and McGuirk is the blantant sexism as well. How dare they call a group of fine female atheletes "hos". This overt degradation of women is unacceptable. How Imus, or anyone, could ever consider such degragation as humorous is beyond me. These women are college students, meaning they are seeking a better life for themselves than many of today's youth. They are excelling on the court, as atheletes in a predominantly male dominanted sport. These are upstanding young women whom he has no right to degradate or diminsh is anyway. Were it his daughter being called a "ho", I am sure he would find it slightly less humorous.

If only to be a fly on the wall as he faces these women, as he indicates he would like to, and tells them that he's sorry, (but can't they take a joke) that he finds their accomplishments so meaningless that they are no better than cheap whores.

I hope these women and their families give his apology all the weight it worth, which is nothing at all.

Being a so called reverend you think that Mr. Sharpton would accept an apology as stated and move on. Don Imus went on the reverend's show and put himself through the abuse of Mr. Sharpton and a bunch of his henchmen. Don Imus has done nothing but poke fun at everybody and evrything. The thing is if you don't like it turn the station, but for god's sake just let it go.

Dan

It constantly amazes me how brilliant folks do stupid things.
Imus is unquestionably gifted individual and is a good man who does wonderful things for sick little children.
Oh,it was a bad thing he did that day and will be with him for the rest of his life.
But, in the final analysis goodness will prevail the negative must be measured in a appropriate and fair way.

Ministers Sharpton and Jackson have both expressed their discontent with rappers who constantly degrade women. As an African America I can appreciate the art form of hip-hop and rap however, I cannot understand why the degradation of women is common in the lyrics. If someone called their mother the name that they call the women they would be upset and want to take action against those making the statements. What do you stand for? Will you do anything for money. Where is the conscious rap? More importantly we need to stop buying the music because it is the Jewish record company owners that are making the most money from these deals. Where are the Maxwell's of the world?

Shawn,

Obviously you're not aware of the ongoing criticism/fight against SOME of rap music and artists or your comments wouldn't be so "short-sighted". Many black leaders, or those the media try to appoint as black leadership (to include Sharpton), are waging a considerable war against the violence, oppression, and misogynistic mentality (especially against black women) that the negative aspects of rap have facilitated. Unfortunately, the media doesn't find those stories newsworthy. The bottom line is Mr. Imus' comments were ignorant and unacceptable. He should be held accountable (I don't care if he was black, orange, green or purple). and definitely shouldn't have the privilege and responsibility of hosting a national radio show. I understand this isn't the first time he's made racially charged comments ..... so my question to you is how do WE (Americans) find a "higher moral" ground where idiotic incidents like this don't occur? Let's start with his termination.

I can not believe that people are trying to turn this around to Jackson and Sharpton. To Rappers and hiphop. They did not say "nappy headed hos" about a women's basketball team. Imus did. Tatoo's I have them and I am a lawyer for a large law firm our IT trainer has them. What has that got to do with calling some one a jigaboo? Society loves to shift blame. I am a Professional Black Woman and I felt if someone had stabbed me when I heard this. There is no excuse. The Rutger's team has not commented because the school asked them not to. One player did say she combs her hair and has never been a "ho."

All that I'd ask for is a level playing field. If Carlos Mencia and Dave Chapelle are allowed to make fun of race (black, white, hispanic, asian) then any white comedian is entitled to do the same. Toughen up or start picketing EVERYONE!

Personally, I think it's all funny but sometimes distasteful. Mr. Imus' comments were certainly distasteful and stupid but obviously he wasn't doing anything other than "trying" to be funny. Key word here, "trying." If you're going to draw the line ensure no one crosses the line, or, criticize when anyone does it...ALL OF THEM...EQUALLY...PERIOD!

I thought we had freedom of speach here in america
or should I say POLITICALLY CORRECT AMERIKA
SHARPTON AND JACKSON
IN THEIR OWN CROWDS TALK ABOUT US CRACKER'S ALL THE TIME
WHY IS IT WE HAVE TO CAVE IN TO EVERY ETHNIC GROUP AND GIVE THEM SPECIAL LAWS AND RULES

In fact I am simply saying that I would like us all as a society, White Black or any color, to rise to the next level - to treat others with kindness, respect and understanding, and to use language that reflects this.
I strongly feel that what Imus said was inappropriate, but that the issue is so much larger and pervasive. If MSNBC takes the step to fire him, I believe that to follow the same logic all major media outlets should immediately desist any and all programming/music/media of a racist or misogynistic nature, and this would include 'Gangsta' rap for one.
This is our society today folks, and I for one would like to change it - p.s. sorry for the double posts above.

i THINK that the more you dummies keep on and on about this MINOR MINOR incident (when all yo' brothas in the rest of the world are suffer'n at the hands of yo' own brothas) and wasting valuable energy. and so what if he said they are nappy headed hos. First amendment. I think you are too d@mn sensitive. Its not like an african-american has never said a racial slur to me, a short white redheaded irish/native-american. I dont see any legal action coming down on him. If its not true, why not sue for slander. Maybe, just MAYBE they might be nappy headed hos.

America...land of the free?!
Is Imus not 'free' to say what he wants?
Does he have to move to the satellite medium?
This whole country is becoming more and more like the Communist China of old.
I do not condone what Imus said...but I do support his right to say what he wants without all of thjis hoopla. It's similar to flag burning. THIS IS AMERICA...
You can always turn the radio off from now on -- which is what maybe mnore people should do, anyway!

Comedians and satirists over cross the line. When they do, they should apologize. And anyone care to debate the moral symmetry between Don Imus and Sharpton/Jackson is profoundly ignorant of the venom and racism in which these two have engaged.

That Rutgers woman team must have been a rough looking group of thugs. Whatever, so he described them as they appeared. Last I checked, if you show up to a business proposal weighing 500lbs and smelling like you had cleaned the horse barn you arent going to get the deal closed.

And that is why Rutgers lost, a poor self image of thuggery and nastiness and not the class that Tennessee and Pat Summit demand. On that note, Imus should be fired for looking like he rides the "Special Bus" to school every morning..

Let He Who Is With Out Sin Cast The First Stone!!!

Of all the hate, anger and violence going on in this world. Of all the injustices and tragedies...THIS is what gets all the focus? All the media attention? All the passion from Sharpton and Jackson? What a waste. Imus is a shock jock with nothing important to say, for sharpton, jackson and the media in general to waste their considerable influence on such a worthless cause should be what truely angers people. While they are busy trying to make some old white guy, whose job relies on his ability to shock people, apologize...how many people are out of work, starving, or barely able to scrape by due to prejudice and ignorance? Pick your damn battles.

Yes I am upset about what Imus has said about the Young Women of the Rutgers Woman Basketball Team. I am a Black women with nappy hair I love my hair, I love my nappys, I love my thick full lips ,I love my full figure I love who I am. Words from a Man of any color does not change who I am as a black women. We as Women need to stand strong together no matter what. All men should stop dogging women Black Men ,White Men were would Imus be at today had there not been a nappy head women to take care of him and a lot of other men.

Everytime I have tried to listen to Imus I have to change channels. I've tried to listen to him. I really have tried. Fact is I end up feeling insulted and none the wiser, no more informed about a given topic. I can't stand his acidic barbs, insults, cheap shots and then watch as he enjoys the offending "funny" he made.

This latest insult plopped out of his mouth, like a gum from a gumball machine, and it's fine with me to read and/or hear others voice their outrage.

As far as I'm concerned, it's about Imus and his offending speech. That's all. It's not about Twana Brawley, Al Sharpton, or Granny Goose, Father Time or going tit-for-tat. It's about yet another unacceptable and insulting slur flew out of Imus' mouth and sadly he can't wiggle free with more rhetoric.

This is not a racial issue this was a bad joke that went bad, Don Imus apologized and it is over unlike the never receievd apology from Al Sharpton for the Tawany Brawley fraud. If anyone should be fired and in jail for giving false information to a grand jury it Al Sharpton.
Let's not forget about that next time he get on his soap box to criticize others.

Don Imus has made a career of such antics. This is nothing new. What he said was not hate speech. So calls for his termination, or resigniation are direct threats to his right to free speech. I don't agree with what he said, but I am compelled to defend it.

Free Speech doesn't need our support until it offends us. Then it needs all free thinking people to stand up, and separate protected from unprotected speech, and excercise our right to free choice.

If the humor of Imus offends, change the channel. How many of the people outraged by Imus have never used an offensive term, especially when trying to be funny, and failing? How many of those outrage people calling for termination listen to his show? If he show offends enough people, his own bad karma will end his show through lack of listeners.

If we require all shows on the radio to be sanitized to the point where no comment by any radio personality anywhere in the country, at any time of day, could possibly offend anyone, it wouldn't be worth a listen. I recognize that some speech is not protected by Free Speech. Hate speech being one of the fuzzy, ill-defined areas of unprotected speech. This was not hate speech, although there appears to be plenty of that on the radio these days. This is an old man trying to be funny and failing, not hate speech, but free speech.

With so many of our Constitutional protections eroding by the day, we need to remember that within the bounds of Free Speech, we also have the right to not listen. Vote with your radio dial, not with hate speech, and indignation for hire looking for a cause.

Amendment I: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

At least now you can tell your kids you have read at least one of the 10 Amendments of our precious Bill of Rights

Well said, Armando. I'm tired of being the target of jokes about my race on a constant basis by minority comedians or people who just think they're comedians. Making fun of my race isn't any more acceptable than me making fun of someone else's.

The hypocrisy of minorities is deplorable: on one hand they demand that a stupid comment like "nappy headed hos" leads to the firing of an entertainer, and on the other hand laugh along with comedians who indulge in racist humor against Caucasians.

It's not just blacks, mind you. I think that's where you're wrong: I've seen Latino and Asian people make insulting jokes about whites. You don't get off the hook just because you're a minority. You want to point the finger at others being racist, you need to point at EVERYONE who is doing so.

It is not clear to me why Imus did not see young college girls playing college basketball.
My eyes were looking at the same game -- I saw young American Women playing basketball. I focused on their shots, dribble... Where does thought of "Hos" --really-- come from when someone is watching young college women engaging in competive spots -- and sees them as Hos? Could he really see the texture of their hair? I feel sad in my heart that Imus look at young Black women and sees nappy-headed Hos! His statement implies that he sees nappy-headed Hos as school teachers, nappy-headed Hos as doctors, nappy-headed Hos as lawyers...

Can't we all get along?
sorry i had to do it...

Al Sharpton is just another slickster who is doing nothing more than selling himself and his career by insisting unrest among the general population. My answer to "Reverend" Sharpton related to his call for Imus to apologize is when he apologizes for the false accusations against the NYC police officers in the Tawana Brawley case of years back, then...and only then...should Imus apologize for his remarks.

White people are racist. What else is new? Some of them are unintentional racists, others are blatant, but all are racist. However, white people have inherited their racist belief systems honestly and unknowingly. The were born into an environment that was historically racist, and they unknowingly perpetuate a racist ideology. Nor do they understand the far-reaching and pervasive impact of their racist beliefs. They are the only ones that can be racist within the current geopolitical context (reverse racism is a myth - it is one-directional, a top-down phenomena). White people created the whole idea of different races in the absence of scientific evidence and are the only ones who benefit from the concept. Human beings are 99.99% identical. Race as a biological concept is pure fiction, but racism is real. We need to help white people understand that remarks like that perpetuate the mythologies of race and the realities of racism.

Al Sharpton is the racist here, pure and simple. I'm sick of the double standard. I hear more racist remarks coming from the black community than the other way around these days. When is the black community going to wake up and smell what these publicity hounds are shoveling? Stop blaming white people for everything bad in your life!

Not only did Imus offend black and women, by saying "Nappy Headed Ho's" he also offended all people who have a head on their shoulders...

Get real, this is ridiculous and nobody is mad at Imus, they are just perpetuation their own ethnic or gender biases. You and I are the ones who should be ashamed. Go shake your neighbors hand and tell them you love them.

STEVIE WONDER LYRICS

"I Wish"

Looking back on when I
Was a little nappy headed boy...

Imus should be canned. And take Carlos Mencia with him. Not because they're racist. But becasue they're not funny. Once Imus admits his radio show is a platform for politics, which he does, he should be held to a higher standard. No politician will be on his show any longer. Plus, I'm more offended at jigaboo than nappy headed hos.

Crazy world. White people are crazy.

Enough of all this firing nonsense. Don Imus is a national treasure who adds far more value to this world than all of these hypocrits combined. Get a life and get a sense of humor. Remind jessie of his xxxtown reference a few years back. Who delegated moral judgement to these demogoges

Focusing on Al Sharpton is irrelevant to the issue we are discussing. There are other forums dedicated to that. Here we are talking about Don Imus and the comments that he made. He said they were meant to be funny. There is nothing funny about racism. The “nappy headed hoes” he referred to are African- America women working toward their college degrees. Not only are they full-time students, they are student athletes. The amount of focus and drive they have is remarkable and should be applauded. Imus’ three words minimized them to being nothing. His comments were deplorable, not humorous

I agree. The reverse standard is quite appalling. It is a wretched hypocrisy when the difference between a joke and a racial slander is based purely on the people being spoken of.

Like Zack said: [Mr. Imus] has done over the course of his career. He has donated millions of dollars to pediatric cancer research, and his Imus Ranch in New Mexico offers an invaluable experience to young cancer patients and their families. The guy advocated for Ray Nagin for geez sake, one of the most inept and failed mayors in recent history, giving him plenty of air time on national radio.

40 years of good, lost over a foolish slip of the tongue in an age of oversensitive speech monitors, looking for any excuse not to address the actual social issues plaguing minorities.

Imus is a bigot most likely, but I don't believe there is a person on earth the man wouldn't try and help in some way, a far cry from Sharpton et al who would check your race card before giving the time of day.

HOW ABOUT WE QUIT KISSING ALL THE MINORITIES ASSES
OH HELL US CRACKER'S ARE THE MINORITY

I agree 100% with Denise. I'm sooo sick of this dog and pony show that Sharpton and Jackson put on with a wink to these racist and arrogant white folks. First of all, stop demanding them to give these insincere apologies. I have more respect for a white man standing up and saying " I said & I meant it. Now what?"
It is nothing but an attempt to hijack media coverage and watch some filthy rich white person squirm for maybe a week at most. Are you telling me you didn't know Imus was racist? What planet have you been on? So he helped Black sick kids at his ranch, big deal. Missionaries educated, housed and fed kids whose parents they slaughtered to save their souls & plunder their gold. Screw Imus, Sharpton and Jackson and all the rest of the dog & pony show crowd.

John Love:
We are not blaming Sharpton or Jackson for what rappers say. We are blaming Sharpton and Jackson for not condemning the rappers in the same way they are condemning white people. Historically it has been Sharpton and Jackson's commitment to call to attention all the degradation of the black community by the white people. In today's society, white peoples words to not contribute to the majority demise of black society. It is blacks themselves who demoralize their race more consistently and with more damaging effects each time they write the sort of lyrics which are typical in rap music. We as a society, and not just blacks, need to focus on encouraging the youth of today to be less tolerant of any music's lyrics which demoralize, degrade and ostracize a group in our society. Yes, freedom of speech in art is fine but morality is encouraging.

Imus should have lost his show years ago because his schtick is derivative and rather boring. Others have done the same act in a more engaging and interesting way.

He asked for forgiveness. Forgive him and move on. How can you blame Imus? Blame yourself for listening to anything that is not what you feel is appropriate. Is your Radio or TV channel stuck on one station? Let MSNBC be the judge, they are the people that pays his salary. Turn off Imus and do not support MSNBC you will be heard in a big way. By the way I do not listen to Imus, Sharpton, Jackson and I cannot stand Hip Hop crap for two seconds. I turn it off!

I'm ashamed of Imus and ashamed of the rappers who peddle racist, sexist, homophobic lyrics in the songs they sell; Shame on us for listening and buying. Imus is a dinosaur whose time is over.

His idea of whats funny is a front-of-the-bus/back-of-the-bus spin on American humor. When something insults you it insults me. When McGirk the producer referred to the college players as 'hos', He should go too.

Imus ALWAYS insults EVERYONE--equally and for fun --It keeps the adrenelin flowing and keeps people who are watching his show--alive!!! Imus is never boring. Pa--leeeeeeeeze---give Imus a break!!!!!! He apologized---let it go!!!!!! Quit "harping" about this.............It is turning stale and boring!!!!!! Be quiet and move on to other subjects.

Again, everyone is still all about free speach until someone SAYS something that they don't like. Snap out of it.

Want racism look to the black community. Look at the comedians, rappers, politicians and band wagon jumpers. If a court would here a argument about racism by black toward white there would be no success in a major portion of the black community. It is funny when it is black on white but whoa let it happen from white to black. They seem to get away with it at any and all cost to the white community. Too many people are too scared to challange it. Got three words for you, "Get over it". If this applies to you, stop getting your sensitive feelings hurt and press on with your life. Stop looking over your shoulder every two seconds and be the bigger person.

What is so sad about this entire incident is the manner in which it deflects attention away from real issues. As has been stated above, Imus revels in all forms of criticism, much of it distasteful and, from a political correctness perspective, indefensible. Nonetheless, by focusing on these inappropriate, often racist remarks, we, as a nation, valorize race and identity as a way of making people feel good about themselves and reaffirming their status as historical and metaphorical victims. Instead, we should be looking at the way in which the groups that gain identity capital from these incidents move away from the salient issues of income and status. Instead of worrying about a racist remark from Imus, why aren't Jackson and Sharpton protesting the inequities in this country that mire minorities in poverty, without real educational and employment opportunities? What Imus said was egregious, but it was far less harmful than the obstacles that deprive individuals in this country of access to educational and employment opportunity. The culture of political correctness has been successfully employed as a shield to protect the elites from having to address the real disparities that continue to haunt our country.

This is classic idiocy. Imus apologized, but that isn't enough for Sharpton or Jesse Jackson? Reverend Jackson referred to NYC as "himie-town" in his 1984 election, so Reverend Jackson, out of respect to all the Jewish Americans, please step down from any and all posts you currently hold. Mr. Sharpton famously supported Twana Brawley and accused half of NYC and officials in counties to the north of an attack that never too place and has since been sued in the courts over this event. He also believes so strongly that Imus should not be on radio, that he had Don Imus ON HIS RADIO SHOW to tell him he shouldn't be on radio? Can you say RATINGS?

What Imus said is deplorable. He also insults every ethnic and religious group every day. It isn't racism if he goes after EVERYONE. It is called "bad taste" and "going too far" for which Imus has apologized. Since Jackson and Sharpton believe Imus should be off the air, fine. He should walk out of the booth just as soon as Jackson and Sharpton do. Until then, just don't listen to Imus in the Morning if you don't like what he says.

He isn't a biggot. He's just in bad taste.

I really don't like Don Imus that much, but his lame attempt at being funny by embellishing his executive producer's setup, is being blown completely out of proportion. Hypocrites like Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson and all their ilk have no room to talk. When people can't see a "bad joke" for what it is, shame on them. When people can't laugh at themselves, then shame on them. This "hands off the blacks" in this country has to stop. Why you would think they are prima donnas or something. Imus calls his wife, "the green ho". Take a deep breath black people, and learn to laugh a little rather than going for the jugular. Good grief.

Black comedy, or comedy by african american comedians comprises of a great deal of racial jokes aimed towards white people. It should with go both ways or no ways.

I am proud of my Rutgers nappy headed hoe basketball team, just as much as I'm proud of my rutgers air headed blond bimbo softball team.

or

I am proud of my rutgers women's basketball team and also my rutgers softball team.

-Rutgers Alumni

In today's society we have decided to tell other people what to think, and call it a free country. Tell people how to think and call it a free country. Tell people what to eat and call it a free country. Tell people how to raise their children and call it a free country. Tell people not to smoke in public places, around other people, and soon possibly their own homes, and call it a free country. Tell people it isn't their right to own a hand gun (note: Bill of Rights -- Right to bear arms!) and we still call it a free country.
I don't think it was a good thing what Imus did. However, Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson have an agenda. It isn't Imus or what he says. It isn't Michael Richards or what he said in the past. It is to force fear into white society and corporate America so they can get whatever they want later just by threatening to use the word racist. Imus is just the pawn of the moment. The sacrificial lamb, you might say. If they can destroy these public figures in short order then look what we can do to you. Toyota Motor Manufacturing is a prime example. Jesse Jackson's Rainbow Coalition went after them on hiring "minority" contractors to help build their plants all over America. Toyota immediately buckled and gave Jackson millions of dollars and started actively trying to hire "minority" contractors. Those who were registered minority contractors but were hispanic, or women were told that isn't the "minority" we are hiring. Hmmmm! The "minority" they were hiring was only African American contractors and only African American contractors were going to get any special consideration. The reason isn't for any other purpose but to get Jesse Jackson off their butt. In my book, I call that blackmail! Outright BLACKMAIL. My father told me years ago that life isn't fair and whenever you say something in public you'll never make everyone happy. Well, Imus has a lot of people not happy at him and what he is going through isn't fair. But I guess that is just life. Good luck Imus in keeping your job and the work you are doing with the young kids, but I got a feeling you'll be on the hot seat for awhile. America needs to wake up -- To live in a truely free country means you can say and feel what you believe in, not what somebody else wants you to believe in. Even if that is uncomfortable and goes against everything you morally stand for, but breaks no laws.

Imus was more than a bit crude -- he apologized -- leave it there. I've always admired Al Sharpton's sharp tongue-in-cheek comments, but gimme a break, Al. Let the guy off the hook. If any of us has done as much good with philantrophy as Imus (including you, Al) I'd hope we'd be cut a little slack for a stupid comment. I hear you've made a few of them yourself, Al baby.

Personally, i think he should lose his job... too often, people of every race speak in public unappropriately... Imus is guilty, Howard Stern, same thing... Chris Rock... and numerous others, both black and white.... IT's NOT A RACE ISSUE... it is a Human Decency issue... when people like Imus and Stern and others in the public eye are allowed to speak degradingly about anyone, publicly, thats wrong! The people they are speaking about aren't there to defend themselves... it's cowerdly and malicious....

Furthermore, it's this kinda thing that has slowly (but not that slowly) dropped the moral value of America in the last decade or so... The language that these type of people make "OK" to use transfers to everyday people, kids, etc... It's this kind of thing that has given birth to 10 year olds talking like trash mouth adults... the desensitizing of America.... why do kids talk like they do and acy like they do... because of what they see and hear.... this radio "host" is an example as is other comedians and TV is guilty.......

things were way better before it was "OK" to talk like this in public.... i say fire him as an example to others that have the same media presence

Since when are Americans only allowed to say what others want to hear? I thought we were free to believe and say what we choose. If you don't like what a radio host thinks or says, turn the dial to another station.

yes he said something wrong. AND we all havent in our life. he said he was sorry and really meant it , so give him a break. he is a good guy. he does great things for kids. opens his heart and his ranch to make kids forget about being sick. he has paid his dues in his life. this is just another black and white thing. we have more important stuff going on in this country, focus on that !

Imus was wrong and he apologized let it go. The thing that happened here was the Sharpton & Jackson got another 15 minutes of FAME. It took the pressure of President Bush today good job Al & Jesse now do something construction in your lives for the rest of the week or least pretend that you really care what happen. Ratings is not what this is all about fellows. Pacman Jones is a SAINT compared to you two.

This is all BS. I would have a problem with his comments if Al Sharpton wasn't leading the protest. He calls jewish people "diamond traders" and "interlopers" and nobody topples him from his pedestal. To make it worse, Sharpton doesnt even seem to do this for any reason other than publicity. Hes on TV every week with some new outrageous story. Imus remains relatively in the background while doing a lot of charity work, for which Sharpton gives him no credit. In my opinion Sharpton should be ostracized and kicked out of town and Imus should be given a reprieve for his apology and charity.

Imus is a raging racist. Imus uses his so called Cancer Ranch as a way of maintaining personal property without having to pay any taxes on it. Imus needs to be fired, immediately. Any of the Execs who back Imus on this one will subject their own networks to the legitimate charge of racism. Someone needs to send Imus packing to satellite radio, where his racist audience will have to pay in order to hear Imus' racist rantings.

Our laws define crimes and their punishments for which there are degrees. When we get away from that, we are lawless and mob like, and not very American at that. It's the same thing here. Define racist first, then define the degree of punishment so we can all follow along. Then ask when punishment is cruel and unusual? Your answer will define YOU.

Sharpton, you have lost all credibility with me and to think I used to give weight to your arguments.

I've been wondering. Is it only white people who are racist? Nobody else has prejudicial thoughts in their heads? Or are non-whites just better at not uttering such thoughts in the public forum?

To the psychologist: Get real, everyone is racist. Its just hip and cool to point out that Whites are the racists because Anglos are the dominions of the land.

This is a free country, with free speech rights.

The same rights that protect black rappers when they refer to women as "bitches and ho's," and whose music perpetuates violence, stealing, the "gangsta" mentality and thuggery, protects Imus when he speaks.

Al Sharpton is the last person in this country who should sit in moral judgement about what someone has said or done. He's the Don King of religion.

When Al & Jesse make Chris Rock and all the other black comedians apologize for their blatent racial slurs and outright hatred for white people, maybe, just maybe they'll have a bit of credibility. Otherwise, it's all entertainment, whether, sports entertainment or comic relief!

The sad statement is that bigotry and hatred sell in America. After he gets fired from this gig, I am sure he will get hired by some Fox affiliate or start doing side by sides with Rush.

Sad commentary on radio and TV.

Yes, Imus' statements are clearly hate speech. Let's get him off the air right away. And while we're at it, let's kick off Howard Stern, who makes lots of sexist remarks, because I'm a woman and that offends me. And let's kick off Opie & Anthony for...uhh..everything they say because it's guaranteed to offend someone.

Let's get rid of Bill O'Reilly, who offended my falafel by confusing it with a loufah. And Hannity, because his hard-lined religious conservatism offends my atheisitic beliefs.

While we're at it, all talk radio hosts should be silenced, because they might say something offensive, or at least think something offensive, and that will make the whole world offended and then it will explode.

What will be better is if we just use AM/FM and even Satellite radio waves for pure silence, and maybe occasional classical music. We wouldn't want to allow any songs with words--even opera--because who knows who will be offended by the lyrics.

And, actually, classical music should be left off, too. Who knows what Beethoven said in the past, or Mozart, and we wouldn't want to support those potential racists, either.

And while we play the silence on the radio, we should hum just one, single note, so that we can't think. That way we never have to worry about having offensive thoughts, or saying anything that might upset someone.

You have rights of speech but not on the Platform the Imus is own, Imus has a responsibility the MSNBC as network and the viewers that he covers, in no way can he be compared to a rapper or artists with personal views, there's radio talk show host in the black community who has racists views that are degrading to white people or openly hateful. Furthermore it would not be tolerated or accepted. His actions cannot be accepted or overlooked, if he decides to write a book or make an album then his opinions are on a different stage of personal concerns but this is a matter of national concern.

Sharpton is a Rev right? Practice what all religions teach Rev. Forgive and you will be forgiven.

Please. No more excuses that Imus' charity and ranch aren't getting fair press. His show regularly draws attention to the good works of his ranch. And other media have focused on his charity.

I never found sympathy from my parents when my excuse for doing something bad was "others did something bad too." If one wants to deal with the issue of rappers, do so. It should; however, not be used as justification for another person doing something bad. Imus should be fired for his remarks. Furthermore, his employer should be subject to boycott for not taking action following his remarks. The response to date has been "we are looking into it." This translates into "we want to keep him for the ratings, but we want to see if this is going to blow over first." After all, his comments are on videotape. What is there to look into.

Also, Al -- remember the proverb, "They strain at knats and swallow camels"? Think you might be doing a bit of that??

c'mon guys.... Chappelle and Chris Rock don't make fun of the physical characteristics of white people, or generalize white women as 'ho's. If they did, you are gd right that there would be an uproar.

Can someone please explain or provide basis/justification as to why Mr. Imus is wrong in what he spoke? By what standand are we measuring his speech/behavior?

"When a true genius appears in the world, you may know him by this sign, that the dunces are all in confederacy against him." -Jonothan Swift

Reposting of this comment: Well stated!

Posted by A Psychologist
April 9, 2007
White people are racist. What else is new? Some of them are unintentional racists, others are blatant, but all are racist. However, white people have inherited their racist belief systems honestly and unknowingly. The were born into an environment that was historically racist, and they unknowingly perpetuate a racist ideology. Nor do they understand the far-reaching and pervasive impact of their racist beliefs. They are the only ones that can be racist within the current geopolitical context (reverse racism is a myth - it is one-directional, a top-down phenomena). White people created the whole idea of different races in the absence of scientific evidence and are the only ones who benefit from the concept. Human beings are 99.99% identical. Race as a biological concept is pure fiction, but racism is real. We need to help white people understand that remarks like that perpetuate the mythologies of race and the realities of racism.

TWO WORDS COVER THIS : FREE SPEACH

Imus is a Racist. We dont call college ball players nappy headed ho's. It is unacceptable.
He should be Fired..................

Don Imus makes other sexually explicit statments,
as well. All you that think this is just so right, how would you like to have your wife, daughter, sister, niece, or mother called a nappy-headed HO? If you think this was alright,
as many of you seem to, it only shows the USA has slid in its morals, and values. You probably cannot string 5 words together without using the F--- word. Get a life.

Not only were Imus remarks wrong they were racially motivitated and biased against the black community as a whole. Im sitting here reading these posts about how the black community should just let this go. Thats a load of crap. The media can try to spin this any way they like but it wont change the fact that Imus as well as richards are point blank racists. Al Sharpton is not the one who called the players hoes imus is. Being a black man in america from the south I see racism everywhere I go. America still has race issues and the black community will not give in to bigots in the mainstream media. Fire Imus and burn him in hell for all I care

Al Sharpton has little credibility as a spokesman for African Americans. After observing his racist behavior over the years I think he has a lot of nerve referring to Imus or anyone as a "bigot."

This is an opportunity for him to push his self-serving agenda. The Imus show is unnecessarily rough at times, but it is good media, and Imus pushes several agendas that have positive effects on us all. What has reverend Al done for the African American community other that point out the negative (and often imagined) obsticles hidden in every shadow.

There's a huge difference between the Michael Richards and Don Imus incidents. It's all about intent. Richards meant every word that came out of his mouth, but Imus didn't mean a word of what he said. Richards wasn't joking. Imus was. Anyone who knows Imus understands that he loves people of all races. He shouldn't have said what he did, but he sincerely apologized. Let it go, people.

I think everyone needs to get a grip. I think Sharpton needs to shut up. Me thinks he doth protest too much!
I'm also tired of everything needed to be
"PC" this and "PC" that. Imus said he was sorry, now leave it at that. Move on

Wow A Psychologist has made a statement from effect of crack.

The comments here truly sadden me. I understand Al Sharpton is an opportunist, but Imus did something you cannot just apologize for.

Forget race, let's say he called all women who go to Rutgers 'Whores' instead of 'Hos'.

Imagine someone called your sister a whore on a national broadcast just because she had a tattoo.

If Imus was a 20 something newbie covering WNBA then maybe forgive & move on. But he's in the hall of fame, he should know better.

And tj, he never meant his apology, read above, he initially said lighten up. If I said that about your mother would your reaction be the same?

People doing their job on live air have a duty to the public. Even a tacky comb over like Donald Trump fired a person on the Apprentice for calling himself 'White Trash'. Why?..because it was unnecessary. A person like that will do it again. Imus is the same way.

To me, Imus is out of control & the public should be protected from him.

Speaking of being stoopid didn't Jesse Jackson cheat on his wife?? Or did he have an illegitimate child?????Is the Pot calling the kettle black????

Personally I dont have a problem with someone expressing a viewpoint publically. The guy has his own show, said what he did ON HIS SHOW, and even if it was the most ignorant possible thing he could have said, people are allowed to have an opinion. Al Sharpton has an equal right to say he disagrees with the opinion and bring it up as a matter of discussion, but I think he crosses a line on freedom of expression, even 'dumb' expression by demanding this dude get fired for, what is somethi