If you are one of those who believes that words don't matter, and that racism is not a serious concern in America--and many here do believe that--then I understand your inclination to see Imus as a victim. But I and others don't agree, and once again, I don't know for sure, but it's my strong suspicion that you'd feel differerently if these remarks had been aimed at you.
Actually, I am one who believes that words matter very much, and would appreciate and take part in a discussion and conversation and discourse on race, sex, homosexuality, culture, etc. in this country.
But not if we're going to seek blood, heads, and trophies, and then walk away with the issues that caused the bloodletting intentions unresolved. It's almost as if getting Don Imus was the goal, and game set match--and that race and sex relations in this country are all fine, great, wonderful.
That is far from reality.
Not only do I feel that words matter very much, but I also believe that more words from everyone matter a whole lot. It doesn't really do much for national discourse if we're going to go ape-s**t at the sight of something impolite or impolitical or that makes us uncomfortable. I've been called a Nazi fascist babykiller to my face by white guys, and in college was accused, again to my face, of "my people" etching swastikas into a black guy's dorm room.
My reaction was not to run to the college and have the guy sanctioned. I asked him what he meant, and made him explain himself to me and those around me who were in earshot. And then I took to the air.
We can disagree about the Imus situation, and I'm sure we will. But the reaction to this should not be for blood and the lessening of speech of any kind---but for MORE openness.
Sadly, if Sharpton, et al. are true about their crusade against rap and hip-hop, we're going towards more restrictions, not less.
And, once again, since it is a crusade...no discussion.
That's what disturbs me the most.
