(Background note: Broadcaster Don Imus made a set of insulting remarks on his program about female basketball players at Rutgers. Many are calling for his resignation or that he be fired. I just read about the controversy today and sent an email to my sister and some other friends expressing my belief at the moment that he deserved to be fired. My sister called me and gave me her insights into the matter. This entry is a result of my conversation with her. The details of Imus' comments are included in the entry. As always, your comments are welcome.)
I just spoke with my sister, Rhonda, about the Imus mess. She had a surprising response to an email that I sent about the Imus controversey, which has given me pause. Surprising only in that it wasn't what I expected from her. However, I respect her opinion a great deal, so it has made me pause and reflect.
Rhonda actually listens to Imus' broadcast; I don't. I used to but grew disgusted with his "in your face, because I insult everyone it's okay brand of journalism." I was introduced to Imus when I was in college, by my friend Rick. He was from Connecticut and came to NC to attend the law school at UNC. He was the resident advisor on my floor at Ehringhaus, the south campus dorm where I lived. I was a freshman and thought Rick, at age 22 was quite sophisticated and he listened to "Imus in the Morning." For a few years, I was a faithful listener, but never really a fan. I confess that it has been more than 20 years since I've heard more than a few snippets of his radio show.
My sister says that Imus should be given the benefit of the doubt, that his apology is sincere. She points out that he is equally irreverent towards all; it's his style as a radio personality. She was surprised that I jumped on the fire Imus bandwagon. She reminded me that I had defended the white teacher who had elected to read a book called "Nappy Edges" to her elementary school class. I thought that the book, written by a black woman, was a positive affirmation that the natural kinky hair texture of many black people was beautiful. The teacher read the book to her mostly black students because she also believed that it was about promoting a positive self image for young black girls. The author of the book spoke out in support of the teacher because she felt that the teacher "got" the intent of her book.
Rhonda, who has beautiful locks, says that she doesn't find the term nappy offensive. She expressed her frustration with the schizophrenic nature of black people when it comes to hair; controversies like the black sorority a few years back who didn't want to award the first place prize to the young woman who had fairly won, because she had locks. I think that my sister has a point, but I don't think that Imus' remarks added anything positive to the mix. I don't think that it was his intent to make a positive commentary on the beauty of black women's hair when he referred to the women on Rutgers' basketball team as "nappy-headed hos."
However, as I previously stated, I really respect my sister's opinion and I've been rethinking my original support for firing Imus. I still don't like what he said; I think it was an ignorant remark. But when taken in the context of the times, perhaps it is less an indication of any personal racism on Imus' part and more of an indicator of the pervasive disrespect for women, black or otherwise that permeates our culture. I confess that I am dismayed that all of the criticism of Imus for his remarks tends to focus on his use of the word "nappy" and not on the reference to the women on the team as "hos." Rhonda pointed out that denizens of the rap music world frequently refer to women as hos. I think that they are also ignorant and I don't buy that it is some sort of artistic expression thing that is supposed to be regarded in a different light. When I read Imus' remarks, I became angry. I'm still angry. I'm angry that he would think it acceptable, in the name of humor, to once again belittle and demean black women. I'm angry that too many men, white and black, publicly speak of women in derogatory terms and call it entertainment.
I decided to try and find the entire interchange between Imus and his producer about the women's basketball game and went to YouTube. It was there; you can always rely on YouTube to have the latest. The entire context of Imus' remarks was in talking about how rough looking the Rutgers' team members are. In his dialogue with executive producer Bernard McGuirk, Imus said that the Rutgers' team members were rough and had tattoos. McGuirk responded and said that they were hos; Imus countered with that they were nappy headed hos. But it didn't end there, Imus goes on to say that the Tennessee players (Rutgers' opponents in the championship game) were cute (when is the last time anyone referred to the cuteness of a championship men's basketball team?). McGuirk concurs and avows that it's kind of like a Spike Lee thing and comments that it's like the jigaboos vs. the wannabees. Imus agrees.(They incorrectly identified the Spike Lee film which they were referencing as "Do the Right Thing." The film is "School Daze." A central theme in "School Daze" has to do with the internalized color complex among black folks, the light-skinned versus dark-skinned obsession that has beset us since skin color became such an important part of the hierarchy of place in American society. Jigaboos refers to dark-skinned blacks and wannabees to light-skinned blacks.) Finally, Sid Rosenberg, filling in for an absent sports announcer, comments that the Rutgers' women look like the Toronto Raptors, and then McGuirk chimes in and comments that the team looks more like the Grizzlies (a Memphis team). If you want to watch for yourself:
I confess that after watching the video, I'm finding it hard to understand why all the heat is directed at Imus; Rosenberg and McGuirk should share the hot seat.
Maybe firing Imus is not appropriate. Maybe it's not reasonable to label him a racist because of his remarks. Imus has said that he realizes that he pushed the envelope too far; he was just trying to do what he does, be funny. He acknowledges that his comments went over the line. I do think that he needs to personally apologize to each of the young women on the Rutgers' team. In a society where we are continually bombarded with information telling us that we are a nation of couch potatoes, these young women should be commended for their athletic abilities and their team spirit, not publicly insulted with name calling. They played well for an entire season, well enough to play for the championship. They lost the game to Tennessee and I'm certain that the loss was devastating. They deserved better than to be publicly insulted in the pursuit of so-called humor.
19 comments:
Wow sheria..
You are taking a very calm approach to this....
I am glad that people are forgiving in this day and age.
Bc I personally being white myself feel bad becuase some Jack A** said something very stupid like that.... I mean that dude wouldnt like it if someone African American called us Crackers. I mean what gives this dude the right to say that about yall... I think he should be fired though, personally for saying something that NASTY and RACIAL and I think the radio station should be FINED for letting that slip thorough and NOT be bleeped out or Censored out
take care,
Christopher
http://journals.aol.com/cmarlow330/ChristophersJournal/
Everything I have heard about this Imus thing is all hearsay on my part but I too would say it is commendable that the ladies are doing something constructive with their life not to speak of the good exercise. As for nappy hair I don't even know what that means but then I live down here with the cows and they don't care what my hair or your hair looks like as long as they get their green grass. Paula
I agree with you all throughout this article. Simply put we live in an age where sensationalism is rampant, no longer do people actually want to hear or respond in like with intelligence. Since when is journalism trading racial slurs or degatory remarks? Sadly the use of ho, whore, are acceptable language towards women these days. My thoughts all together if you can't say something nice , don't say it at all. I would love to see something in the media actually thrive based on facts, and intelligent observation. (Hugs) Indig
P.S. I grew up being called a halfbreed, I wasn't one or the other (indian or german) therefore I was referred to someone who didnt belong. So I know the hatred and ugliness that comes with this kind of acceptable behavior.
Totally inappropriate. Of course, I think of our kids, who idolize sports players, listening to this language. It further desensitizes them... they hear it in the rap songs, and it's no big deal to them. Whenever a student wants to tell me about their favorite rapper, they'll qualify it with the statement, "He don't use bad language, Ms. G... they's no cussing in this song." I have to correct their grammar. I have heard students use the word ho' playfully. They laugh when they say it. I tell them it's inappropriate, and I wonder, is this normal talk at home? So when people like IMUS speak like that, and Rosenberg, I wonder, don't they know that they are setting the example that others will follow? This is not something to be proud of. I have never listened to Imus, so I don't know, but I get the idea of the flavor of his shows from your critical description. I admire those lady players... they are setting the example for young people, and working darned hard at it... they don't get the hype the male players get, they don't get enough praise for what they do. What are our younger ladies in elementary school supposed to do when they are asked to be on a team, and all they've heard is indifference to their participation in sports, or criticism? I know some will overcome and push on, and give all they've got, but some need more support. If this is an example of humor, it is a sad example. Time for those people who make comments for a living to clean up their act. Bea
I agree with everything you said. It's time people learned to think before speak. It's also time we started teaching our young men that women deserve to be respected and treated with rrespect, oh and also time for us to teach our young women that they are not hos and that the word ho is not a term of endearment or a tag to be cherished. They need to think much more than that of themselves.
Marie
http://journals.aol.co.uk/mariealicejoan/MariesMuses/
I was livid when I first heard the remark and like you attempted to breathe in others responses. Yet, now that a few days have passed I remain perhaps even more livid in that so many seem to down play his words as a sign of the times in which we live. I have always challenged rap singers in how they address black women so there is no way Imus can get a pass from me. I see it as an insult to beautiful women who are out front with positive attributes to offer and doing something decent. If he is allowed to simply apologize and proceed with his off center comedic antics I see it as part of the falling character of our society. All of that feels like a thorn in my side and it aches.
I too noted many respondant's target was on the hair issue and not the low grade "ho" comment. All I can do is shake my head and sigh another painful frustrating breath.
Spencer
my husband listens to him every morning. I have never listened to him. I know he got a two week suspension. I do believe he is really sorry. We will wait and see how he is when he comes back.
Anyone who is in the media be it TV, radio, written word , music ect. should be held to a high standard as far as what they are allowed to say. What may come out of their mouths when they are in the company of friends is not the same as what should be shared with the world as it were. I agree that he should be fired I also agree that he should not be the only one and as far as his apology goes it means nothing because he knew what he said was wrong when he said it. He is just trying to save his job now. This has nothing to do with whether you care for the word nappy or not. It has to do with common respect for other humans it has to do with the reasonability that someone has when a mike is put in front of their face. It has to do with good old common sense and the history of this country and being held accountable disgraceful behavior.
An interesting discussion of racist remarks. Hi, I was able to listen to the YouTube video now I have Broadband! Your journal is my first test case. It works! Gerry
Thank you for your very insightful thoughts on this matter.
I found you through Kellen's tournament. I am also a finalist, LOL. Good luck!
Krissy
http://journals.aol.com/fisherkristina/SometimesIThink
i find it disturbing that such insulting, degrading humor is so popular these days...why is it ever funny to be so cruel towards others? and i also find it disturbing that many people didn't take offense with the term 'hos'. very well written, sheria.
gina
Well, I appreciate your consideration of different people's opinions. To just assume and go off on one person without full knowledge is what many do, but you're checking it out more rationally. However, I will add that, wow, I was aghast just seeing the words written. I'm not even fully clear what "nappy" means (but it wans't positive from him), and "ho's" not even saying whores which is HORRIBLE to call anyone, but slang for it? I hide my own head in disgust, I don't wish to hear those words even, about ANY color people. I have ever reason to believe that thsee are find, unstanding young women, ladies even probably, and certainly due respect, and even recognition for their achievements. To get accepted to Rutgers, and in addition, to be as successful in sports as they are, no matter what ethnicity, he has the audacity to even think such negative thoughts, but SAY them? I see now that he's lost his show. I didn't even know of Imus previously, nor his show. I hear he's spent time in the past supporting groups he has also dissed. I'm not so certain that anyone should maintain a show who continues to bash people, any "shock jock," even if many in our society find those shows amusing and entertaining. Then again, I like civility:) and basic respect. -- Robin
Oh, and when dating a male basketball player from my former University, yes, I referred to some of them as cute:) But, for journalism? Nope. Just with my girlfriends.
Well said Sheria! The meanings of words have always fascinated me.Strange how humans mess up things.For example--I've stopped saying something is incredible (when I mean amazing) cos it actually means NOT credible :-) So many examples like that!Have always wondered about the origin of words like "ho"? Anyhow--I detest actions like those from Imus (don't even know of him) and believe he should be held accountable for his actions.As Mr Trump would say 'YOU'RE FIRED!" Too many adults are not held accountable and so we have children mimicking them and the cycle continues. Let's stop abuse in ALL forms by NOT accepting it!! Take care Shauneen
PS Hope your blues have lifted :-))))
As a humble Brit, I have at last read something about all this that has put it into perspective He was talking about their hair and them being prostitutes, what a nice man!
In the UK, a nappy is a diaper, so there was me thinking he said they had diapers on their heads! Your nappy, = our dreads, that's what we call em. Long twists of hair am I right?
Other blogs have been written on this subject and some venemous too, but if I may comment?
I am more upset with the fact he was talking down about women, I am so tired of men, talking about women the way we do. Saying that, as pointed out in your entry, black men, call women 'ho's and bitches etc too. It seems that in popular black culture, it's 'ok', well, it's not ok, for ANY man to talk like that.
The average black video, now looks like a set from a porn film, and guess what? It's starting to happen here too.......... I hate any form of derogatory comments about skin, sex, orientation disability, anything.
The issue is why it's ok for some sections in society to get away with it in video's but if someone says it on radio, it's all wrong.
The sooner we look at the wider implications of words the better.
PS, thanks so much for mailing me your link, I did not have a clue, what Barry was on about? You are now on my alerts, nice to meet you!
Gaz
Recent events of the past few days have brought me back to JLand (as will be indicated on my own journal). I had never heard of this person Don Imus mostly because I don't listen to "talk" radio. Even after the whole controversy started, I didn't pay any attention because I still didn't know what he said. But when I finally found out, then the issue of his being fired became all too clear. Just like all the rest of black female America, I was infuriated. Then, taking it all into the context of our unique country, I found it amusing. The word "nappy" is a word that most blacks use on occasion when talking to other blacks. Within our race, it's just the term for the natural condition of black hair. But, at least in America, when a white person uses the word, it is usually coupled with other insulting words. That dates back to slavery times, when a slave couldn't complain. What Don Imus said was a racial and female insult. Men have categorized women they didn't like as prostitutes since time began. Mary Magdalene was supposedly a reformed prostitute. If I had been within reaching distance of Imus when those words tumbled out his mouth, I would have slapped his face as hard as I could.
Deb
The point is, to my mind, that Imus would never have been searching for any grounds for insult at all if the team had been white. I mean if it was the woman's olympic soccer team, he might have perhaps made fun of the stereotype that women athletes are lesbians, but he would never have singled out their whiteness or their femaleness as grounds for insult, and if he did, no one would have found it funny. It wouldn't resonate.
But just for being black and female--and no other reason--the Rutgers team is somehow fair game for being put in the same category of a certain kind of woman with who they have absolutely zero in common save they are both black and female. He wasn't insulting these women personally. He was insulteing all black women. And betraying an atrocious poverty of imagination and wit to boot.
There's nothing wrong with the adjective "nappy" to describe hair that is tightly curled as most black people's hair is. I could have nappy hair just as easily, no matter my color. Being called whores however, that was a foot-in-mouth disease slip. I say slip because when you've been doing the same thing since the early 1970's 4 hrs a day you might be prone to spew out something you'd give anything to take back. You get tired and stupid. I dare anyone to say they haven't done that. And to blacks who call each other nigger, I have to wonder about your intentions if whites do the same. None of this is right if it hurts any group of people. CATHY
http://journals.aol.com/luddie343/DARETOTHINK/
I found his remark to be offensive to all woman....showed how he truly felt about women in general. I'm not into shock Jocks anyway.....give me someone who thinks before they speak and I'm a listener for life.
K.
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