Don Imus: Has justice been served?

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NERAE110@ATLANTICBB.NET Sun, Sep 2, 2007 at 09:52 PM EST

i MISS iMUS.I ALWAYS STARTED MY DAY WITHHIS SHOW AND IT WAS SO INFORMATIVE.THE SPONSERS OF THIS SHOW WERE NOTHING BUT COWARDS!!!!!!!

NERAE110@ATLANTICBB.NET Sun, Sep 2, 2007 at 09:52 PM EST

i MISS iMUS.I ALWAYS STARTED MY DAY WITHHIS SHOW AND IT WAS SO INFORMATIVE.THE SPONSERS OF THIS SHOW WERE NOTHING BUT COWARDS!!!!!!!

Dr BLT Mon, Apr 16, 2007 at 05:46 PM EST

In terms of this whole Imus ordeal, I'm looking first at the Rutgers team. The coach says they accept his apology and that the team is in the process of forgiving him. If they, being the ones most directly impacted by Imus's infamous remarks, then:

Imus Forgive
Dr BLT (c) 2007
http://www.drblt.net/music/ImusForgive.mp3

If anybody is puzzled over who I am, I was the first white artist to use the term "ho" in a song that climbed at top thirty chart. And I used it in a way that potentially helps troubled teens and their parents:

You're Not the Kind of Ho
(That Santa Had in Mind)
http://www.drblt.net/music/hosong.mp3

I also wrote a song that pays tribute to Don Ho, who just passed away. That song is called "Ho."

Fri, Apr 13, 2007 at 10:50 PM EST

I've been around for quite a number of years and i'm damn tired of having eleven percent of the population telling me what I can't say in public. It's too bad the CSA lost the war.

Here's the real point, I believe... Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 10:16 PM EST

Fact is, Imus, McGuirk, and Rosenberg came off like a bunch of obnoxious bullies in this. Nobody likes a bully. And, just like the bully caught smacking a kid around, Imus said "Sorry! Won't do it again!" (McGuirk and Rosenberg have said NOTHING, btw), but you sense he isn't sincere.

Imus' sponsors don't seem to believe him, either, and thus jumped ship. Once the ad money is gone, any reason for CBS or MSNBC to go to the mat for Imus was also gone. Hence his firing.

Here's hoping bomb-throwers like Limbaugh, Hannity, O'Reilly, and Cuntler get the message: Hateful, tasteless, vile speech ain't cool anymore!

gail Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 07:44 PM EST

I don't think he should be fired. I think what they are doing to Imus is definately wrong they want to make a big deal about because it gives them something to make a big deal about so he made a remark and apoligized but because this country is so screwed up and can't forgive people because everyone is out for themselves. The way I look out it get over it already. I think all these tv stations are making a big deal out of nothing and he shouldn't have been fired I hope Imus finds something alot better for himself and he will be the one laughing soon. I'm with you all the way people are just so immature and they will do anything just for publicity. So Imus i wish you the best

gail Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 07:42 PM EST

I don't think he should be fired. I think what they are doing to Imus is definately wrong they want to make a big deal about because it gives them something to make a big deal about so he made a remark and apoligized but because this country is so screwed up and can't forgive people because everyone is out for themselves. The way I look out it get over it already. I think all these tv stations are making a big deal out of nothing and he shouldn't have been fired I hope Imus finds something alot better for himself and he will be the one laughing soon. I'm with you all the way people are just so immature and they will do anything just for publicity. So Imus i wish you the best

Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 12:02 PM EST

There is a double standard and the white people have to be soooo politely correct, in all things. The whites can't have a "white only" club--that's discremination. But I digress, you know what I would like to hear? The female basketball players in their locker rooms--bet the racial slurs are flying like crazy! Diane B.

Tim Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 09:53 AM EST

Yes, words have meaning and the young women on this basketball team should feel offended by this comment. Imus owes them a heartfelt, public apology. My problem with this is the "off with his head" mentality that comes from the overblown media about something as stupid as this.

Steve Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 08:52 AM EST

While Imus' comments were horrible, I truly do not believe that he is a racists. How many times have ALL of us tried to be funny and said something that we sincerely regret. The man's job is to be funny -- he messed up -- Sharpton and all of his cronies are mostly trying to use this for publicity and promoting themselves as official censors. I'm not surprised that MSNBC are being cowards and kicking Imus out even though he has admitted his mistake and most likely would do any form of reparation that they ask. We should all examine everything that Mr. Sharpton has said over the years that may offend people and hold him to the same standards.

One more thought on this... Thu, Apr 12, 2007 at 03:00 AM EST

One of the prime offenders in this (and past) Imus fiascos is Bernard McGuirk, his producer, who made the "Jigaboo vs. Wannabe" comment and laughed at Sid Rosenberg's racist, misogynistic comments, both in this incident and in the past, usually egging Imus on.

His profile (at WFAN.com) says "As executive producer (of the Imus show), McGuirk is responsible for overseeing the program’s on-air operations. McGuirk is also the program’s quick-witted on-air contributor, and is the voice and creator of such recurring characters as The Champ, and Maya Angelou."

Hmmm...nope...no previous racist leanings THERE, I guess...

The WFAN website also notes that Mr. McGuirk has a wife and 2 children. As the one Rutgers player put it so eloquently on Tuesday, "I'm not a ho...I'm a woman...and somebody's child." I wonder if McGuirk would appreciate tasteless, vile, and mean-spirited humor directed at HIS family in as public a forum as he and Imus have every day?

My guess would be "No"...

Words have meaning Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 10:34 PM EST

If words didn't have significance, society wouldn't function. If Sharpton leads "impressionable" youths to feel victimized, can the young women of the Rutgers team feel victimized by Imus' words. Until society accepts that language has weight and implications, and, whether we like it or not, who says the words can change their significance, our country will continue to stagnate in ignorance.

Tim Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 10:19 AM EST

Oh, Moses, it looks as if you have enough hate for both of us. I don't hate anyone for no good reason and that includes race. And, I have no love for Imus. I don't even listen to his show. I just believe we have become to hypersensitive about words. WORDS!! That to me is not as harmful as an Al Sharpton taking young, impressionable black men and women and making them think they are so "victimized" and thus robbing them of what could be a great life in this country.

Bam Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 08:13 AM EST

Whatever remarks were made by Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, does not make it right. Offensive, racist talk is just wrong, no matter who is saying it. It still does not excuse a radio "pesonality" for his blunder. Everything goes doesn't it?

Enough! Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 08:00 AM EST

I find it interesting the media has to consider Jackson's and Sharpton's opinions and suggestions when they themselves have been guilty of racial remarks in the past. Are they still working, or were they cast from society? "Let he that is without sin cast the first stone."

Moses Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 07:59 AM EST

Tim, you must be related to Imus. Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson are not the culprits. Imus In The Morning made a token apology. He spoke what was in his heart.
I admit, Al Sharpton can at times be annoying, but most of the time he is not. It is so sad that no matter what progress has been made, it will never be enough. Stratification will always be around. There will always be the hate mongers who will never accept African Americans being successful. Tim, I feel sorry for you. No matter what race any of us are, we all have to live in this world;even if you don't like it. You sound insecure. A Black person's success should not be a threat to you. It is your responsibility to be a functioning, productive member of society. Stop hating. Hate is a poison to your soul.

dawnroccadaboat Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 07:25 AM EST

If you are in the majority...lets say white, or Catholic..the world can say whatever it wants. If you are in the minority, some how you are protected.

bootsycolumbia Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 04:54 AM EST

If I came into work today and started making racist and sexist comments, odds are I'd be suspended for about a week. That would be for a first offense. If I continued to do it, I'd be fired. I've been at my job for over 20 years, but that doesn't give me an out. I know my company's policy on workplace behaviour, and that kind of talk is not tolerated. Don't CBS and NBC have similar policies? Imus made these comments at work, and to my knowledge, he's made similar controversial or offensive statements over the years. To say, well, the guy's been doing his thing for a long time is irrelevant. CBS should stick to their policies and fire the guy. But odds are they won't, because as was stated before, the guy is a cash cow. If he was a security guard or a sound technician and was heard making such comments, he'd be out the door. But because he's famous and has great ratings, his job is safe. What a shame.

Tim Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 03:34 AM EST

This is all getting ridiculous. He said something stupid, got in trouble, apologized and blah, blah, blah. We are becoming a society of mamby-pamby, hypersensitive morons and rabble rousers like Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson enflame stupid issues like this one because if they can't find some racial injustice "cause" to fight, they will be forced to find real jobs. Yes, Imus is a jerk, but Sharpton and Jackson are disgraceful.

ceej Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 03:07 AM EST

last word, I promise! I can't put to words together right this moment, so I'll let this guy speak for me:
http://www.chud.com/index.php?type=news&id=9700

Molly Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 12:33 AM EST

Abbagirl: Thanks for the love.

Imus in the Mourning Wed, Apr 11, 2007 at 12:05 AM EST

I think Imus is sincere in his mea culpas. But I've noticed that his
producer (Bernard McGurk) and Sid Rosenburg, who both had a hand (or
voice) in this fiasco have been silent. I don't really understand why
Rosenburg - an acknowledged drug addict and repeat offender in the racist, misogynistic comment department - still gets nationwide airtime. I'm all for rehabilitation, but Rosenburg has shown ZERO remorse for his reprehensible comments in the past about Kylie Minogue & Serena
Williams.

The best solution to me would be: Imus keeps his job, but all his fecal-flinging cronies get canned.

Immediately.

If Imus is sincere in his repentence, he would accept this option, which allows him to keep up his charity work. And as a condition of this, Imus is NOT free to bring these sexist, racist louts back after the furor dies down.

Actually, it sounds like many of Imus' sponsors are jumping ship. Good. Nothing will affect his future actions more than cutting the funds.

nina Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 11:45 PM EST

This situation and several comments here brings out one of the things that so annoying to me about America right now. No one is held accountable for their personal behavior. Why are so many people shifting the blame of what Imus did to Al & R. Jackson & rappers & Isiah & Chris? Does it annoy anyone else that people drag all these people's names in to avoid having Imus held accountable for his own words.

Why isn't what he said enough for censure? He denigrated those young women and has been dancing the two step ever since. It makes me sad for America to read so many people here excuse his behavior. Obviously, passing the buck is not just a governmental problem, it's infected America.

Yes, the black community has it's own problem but maybe that's one of the reason Imus should refrain from kicking women who are succeeding!

He should be held responsible for the things he said. he did something wrong!

I'll forgive him and move on when those young women do.

johnathan Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 11:06 PM EST

This was an ill-conceived joke that was meant to be funny. It wasn't funny, but now people are getting hysterical about this. Hate speech is bad, and should not be tolerated, but Imus would have had to mean what he said for it to truly be hate speech.
I also find it disturbing that Americans can get so worked up about this, yet when Rosie O'Donnell says things that are overtly anti-american, there is barely a blip on the radar.

maya Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 09:55 PM EST

Why is everyone talking only about racism (and this includes Sharpton)? Why isn't anyone talking about the misogyny contained in Imus' comments. Why, when we talk about minority women, do we have to talk about EITHER racism OR sexism? Clearly, both are going on here (as the Rutgers team themselves pointed out today). It's not just Sharpton and the national association of Black journalists calling for Imus' ouster; so is the National Organization of Women (NOW). Because as much as this is about race, it's also very much about the denigration of female (black) athletes, using an old (like slavery-old) stereotype of the promiscuous black woman.

Cureboy Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 09:36 PM EST

Free speech does not apply in a case like this. Not when Imus is an employee of MSNBC and CBS.

If that were the case, then Imus could sit there and use the "N" word on his show 800 times a day and not be afraid of losing his job.

Don't believe me? Go into work tomorrow and try it yourself.

abbagirl Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 09:04 PM EST

Molly, I luv ya girl! :)

(ooooohhhhh, now homophobes everywhere can slam me for saying something "lesbianese!"

But yes, you are 100% correct my friend! ;)

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 08:37 PM EST

When someone says something racist & disrespectful about blacks, why do they go to Sharpton & Jackson? Go to the person or persons you offended (in person), and sincerely apologize. Sharpton & Jackson are NOT immune from making racist comments. (IE: "Hymie Town").

Sharpton and Jackson Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 08:25 PM EST

I find it very interesting that a blog that began with talking about the Horrible, racist remarks ends up becoming a discussion about two civil rights leader rather than the comments themselves. This is an easy way for people who don't actually want to face the fact that what Imus did was wrong REGARDLESS about what you think about Sharpton and Jackson. And for people who say that people in glass houes shouldn't throw bricks, what exactly does that mean? Because Sharpton and Jackson have made mistakes like everyone else in the world they are no longer allowed to call other people out when they royally mess up?The only reason I don't think that Sharpton and Jackson should have gotten involved is that it gives these racists an easy out.Instead of actually adressing the topic they can say "I can't believe Sharpton....." while never coming to grips with what Imus said or the effect it had. For all the people bashing the reverends you should relly ask yourselves is that what this about?

Molly Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 08:22 PM EST

Abbagirl: I agree. All human beings deserve to be treated fairly. Unfortunately, that is not the case in the world we live in. Individually, we can choose not to be racist, and hateful. Prejudice usually stems from the fear of the unknown. If people only look at skin color to judge, they will never get to know the real person. Stereotypes are another problem. Over simplification of groups is a great disservice to all.

Julia Lyons-Davis Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 08:18 PM EST

Has justice been served? Absolutely NOT! If this were the man's first overt racial outburst it would be one thing but it is not. The only way for the American people to speak out against people like him, whether they be white, black, hispanic, middle-eastern, asian, whatever is to A. not buy the products of the advertisers that sponser his show and B. turn the man off. Stop listening to his drivel. He may be truly repetent but that does not mean he shouldn't be punished by firing. If it were the every day work place, the man would not have a job, period.

Being "famous" does not make one unaccountable. Forgiveness does not negate punishment. Is he going to enter a rehabilitation center now too like so many of the rich and spoiled?

abbagirl Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 07:52 PM EST

Molly, of course I don't think that all blacks condone the beating of white people. It's just to point out that if you are going to champion for the rights and justice of wronged people, like Sharpton and Jackson seem to want to do publicly, then do it for all people, not just a few. And I agree with you, hate is hate...comes in all forms, sexes, colors, orientation, and religions. It's ugly, it hurts, and it divides people. The Rutgers team did nothing to deserve the wrath of Imus but he is one of many who wrap hate in the guise of Freedom of Speech, which BTW I am all for in this country. Just share the blame or the guilt and don't just put it on one group of people, be they black, white, straight, or gay.

This is the greatest country on earth and some people insist on making it the ugliest as well.

Please Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 07:05 PM EST

Linda you need a reality check. Imus is not sorry. He just can't stand the thought of not being able to get on the radio and spew out his usual venom. The man is hateful, and ugly.

Jay Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 07:01 PM EST

Kim--What you're saying is that only Republicans use hate speech, which is more offensive than anything Imus could say. Imus is on a cross right now, and he doesn't deserve to be there.

Jay Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 07:01 PM EST

Kim--What you're saying is that only Republicans use hate speech, which is more offensive than anything Imus could say. Imus is on a cross right now, and he doesn't deserve to be there.

Molly Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 06:49 PM EST

I agree, Blacks, please stop using the N word. It is not a nice word. It means low-life, low-class. People of color have fought long and hard to overcome so much. Abbagirl, your post was hilarious! Hate in any form is just ugly. One poster spoke about the beating of a white woman by at least 8 blacks. I really hope you do not think that all blacks condone this. And no one has the right to beat someone because of their sexual orientation, period.

Joe Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 06:16 PM EST

People are sexist, homophobic, racsist. We can all talk a good line but what it boils down to is that real, everyday people hate. Will we change their views, no. It's sure nice to think so but we live in a media culture that promotes stereotypes, bad language and violence. Will the higher ups stop these attributes from hitting the airwaves...hell no.

cheriekeane Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 06:15 PM EST

After the Michael Richards and Don Imus incidents, the message should be clear to Black Youth: years and years of using the N-word and terms like 'hos to refer to Black women in rap lyrics has subconsciously desensitized the broader public into thinking that it is acceptable to refer to Black people using this language.

Don Imus can use those terms to refer to Black women all he wants in the PRIVACY of his own home, amongst like-minded people in private conversations and I would hardly care.

But as long as he is using the public airwaves which are a public trust regulated by the FCC, then he is bound by the rules and regulations governing these airwaves such as decency and community standards

Sharlin Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 06:14 PM EST

It really makes me sick seeing Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton always trying to profit from situations like these. They aren't any better than the ignorant people that make those comments. Since whn are they the only voice for an entire race and culture of people? Where was their outrage when Tim Harddaway said those ugly things about gays and lesbians? Was it because he was black that he gets an ok from them? Why don't they ever call out rappers that degrade women daily in their music calling them worst things than what Imus said? Hypocricy at its best.

abbagirl Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 06:08 PM EST

Personaly, I think that they should put Sharpton's really lame 60's looking Don King hairdo and Imus's really really lame looking flat pancake hairdo, put them both on an island and let the hairdos fight it out. Worst 'do gets kicked off the island and we can all go on with our lives without them.

abbagirl Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:59 PM EST

What Imus said was stupid and insulting. But please, don't act like this is going to do the Rutgers girls irreparable harm and that somehow they'll get through this! They'll glare at him in their private meaning and he'll pretend to be sorry and the whole thing will be blown over and then Sharpton and Jackson can go find another business to demonstrate in front of. How come when a white woman is beaten or assaulted by blacks (need I say more about the Halloween incident in California when a group of about 8 or so black youths set upon innocent women just because they were white and beat the crap out of them)Sharpton and his ilk aren't there demonstrating for the CIVIL RIGHTS of these poor innocent white women? Why? Because they only care about the plight of BLACK-kind and not MAN-kind. They don't see assaults or beatings or name calling as something that hurts the white or the gay community.

Imus is an idiot and a joke. So are Sharpton, Farakhan,etc. They're all racists.

Nancy Walker Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:34 PM EST

Sorry for misspelling apologies.

Nancy Walker Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:33 PM EST

No matter if you have straightened hair or natural hair, if you are black, you are black. Don't fool yourself. Anyone who is racist will not care that you put "Dark and Lovely" in your hair. And no, it is not right for even black comics to make racist jokes. I believe it is in poor taste and shows self-hatred. It is a shame that there are many blacks who do not respect themselves. As far as Al Sharpton goes, there have been causes he could have sat out, and some that he was right on target. Everyone knows Brawley was a major fiasco, which he should have made apolgies for.

brandon Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:32 PM EST

The point has been raised that in pop culture, specifically rap and hip-hop, Imus' comment wouldn't be out of place. Isn't that a bigger problem?

ceej Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:29 PM EST

Oh and by the way: "Jessie Jackson (or Al Charlatan) is not the emperor of black people!"

we do not all think alike!

ceej Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:25 PM EST

Oh and by the way: "Jessie Jackson (or Al Sharton) is not the emperor of black people!"

finny d Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:25 PM EST

PJ you are correct. Not only Isaih but also the basketball player who said he would never even play on a team with a someone who was gay. what if a white player said he wouldn't play with a black man. Last time I checked Freedom of Speech was still a part of the constitution. Who listens to Imus anyway, only reason this is getting played so much is because of that race baiting hater Sharpton. He does not speak for me and I am a black woman without nappy hair.

Nancy Walker Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:25 PM EST

This is not going to go away because there are thousands all over who are just like him. The difference is, that he has a show. One that has been offensive to others as well. Racism is still kicking its heels in America. This is one of many racist incidents. Diversity will not come full circle-ever. There will always be people who will not accept others because they look different, because in their racist hatred, different means you are ugly, not good enough, you don't qualify, and a host of other things that they feel. Imus has the nerve to call someone such deragatory names. he should take a real close look in the mirror and see how beat up-looking he is. The "man" is mugly for sure. He looks like crap.

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 05:19 PM EST

Gboy, how can you say we're not to associate racist remarks as jokes, when you have black comedians making the jokes?
Oh, it's perfectly alright then, but when a white man says the same thing, it's immediatly racist. The problem is with the standards set towards the different races. And until they are dealt with, people can hardly complain about the words we use.

PJ Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:49 PM EST

Its funny how black community always claims there is a double standard when they are also benefitting from a double standard.

Grulg Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:48 PM EST

The idea that some opportunistic blowhard like Sharpton, of all people, would try to be some defender of decency or whatever is a bad, bad joke. Word association w/ him? Tawana Brawley. Plain pure and simple. Last I checked this clown never apologized to the cops whose names he defamed back when. As far's Imus and what he said-one I can't believe he was stupid enough to get into any kinda racial slurring period, having watched the Al Campanises of the world implode from doing just that. Some guys don't learn. I hope Imus learns from it. And I agree, there are bigger targets to go after than some college hoops team, what he called them was pretty vile, that I also fully acknowledge. As for Al Roker's take--Roker's show starts off w/ all things Anna Nicole Smith or Paris Hilton as much as possible. Roker-you are a tool and Lauer is an empty suit. Both of you can shut up anytime now.

PJ Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:48 PM EST

I'd like to know where Jesse Jackson and the NAACP were when Isaish Washington called TR Knight the f-word on international TV. They should be happy with Imus going to rehab for using inapproiate words like how Isaish did.

gboy Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:42 PM EST

For those who feel that we do not have to listen to it, you are right, dead right. However, take a look at how many other ways that we are supporting or silently endorsing this individual and company. Think about it. If turning off the knob were the solution, not until millions of listeners and subscribers turn off the knob will there be an effect.

gboy Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:38 PM EST

Freedom of speech has been used as a cloak for abusive, divisive language for years. Regardless of how we analyze what Imus said, it was simply wrong. I also fault his producers and employers for doing no more than slapping him on the wrist. I may have freedom of speech, but if what I say in the commission of my job violates someones civil rights, defames them are is interpreted has a hate statement, then I would be fired. If Imus worked for me, he would be fired, hands down. I also agree that the root problem is not being dealt with and that is Imus's racism. And guess what, you are not going to change him now! The only thing accomplished is that he will be more creative in how he expresses his racism. You do not make a racist remark like that and expect it to be interpreted as a "joke".

We have gotten to be a nation that wants to sterilize eveything that is offensive and make it seem to be acceptable and OK. I do not buy into that philosophy.

Brian Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:32 PM EST

However inappropriate someone's words we still practice free speech in this country and if you do not wish to hear the words simply change the radio station. No one - NO ONE - is forcing you to listen.

Kim Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:26 PM EST

Imus' comment was nothing compared to the hateful things that come out of Ann Coulter's mouth daily. Not to mention Rush Limbaugh, Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity and Michele Malkin.

bj Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 04:07 PM EST

why does no one get angry that Rush Limbidiot can call Sen. Obama a halflican american ok and people dont get all hurt feelings?

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 03:48 PM EST

Rush still has his job, right?

Nick Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 03:47 PM EST

There won't be any movement in this country unless people stop being so offended by everything and discuss what is behind the hurtful remarks. Did he do something bad; obviously. Do we all make mistakes and slips of the tongue; definitely. I don't even listen to the guy, but I can sure tell how the media soaks this all up. He is in the media so he should know. All I'm saying is stop all this useless coverage and talk of firing; lets talk about it blunty because everybody of every race is responsible in some fashion to the state of racism in this world. There is no such thing as reverse racism either; its ALL racism! Be divided or stand together...I prefer together.

Parise Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 03:40 PM EST

Imus can say what he wants, he has a right to free speech. However, I have the right to not want to personally associate myself with any company or person who tacitly enables his nasty comments. Therefore I will not watch his show, buy any product from his sponsors or vote for any candidate that appears on his show. Other people can if they want to.

Lily Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 03:15 PM EST

No matter how mean or racist it is, people in this country have freedom of speech. I am not a fan of Imus, but he had every right to say that if he felt like it. And although I believe he was just making a joke (a bad one) and meant no harm by it, I don't feel he should be punished for exercising his free speech. However, if enough people were offended by his comments, his ratings will suffer and justice will prevail.

Me Myself I Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 03:01 PM EST

Maybe this is one of those situations that is hard to understand if you are not the one being called the names. "Nappy headed" can be considered a joke within the right context: but mixed with terms like "jigaboo" and "hoes" it's not so funny. It is very difficult to be a dark-skinned black female in America and retain some sense of self esteem and personal beauty. Comments like Imus' just reinforce the idea that the world sees your hair, skin tone and features ugly and animal-like. People forget, they also said the young ladies looked like raptors. I have a beautiful, dark-skinned 3 year old girl. Of course I will teach her that she is beautiful despite what people say, and to let ignorant comments roll of her back. But that does not mean I won't try to improve the environment she has to live in by speaking out when I hear ugly attitudes voiced. The problem is not so much Imus' words as the meaning behind them. And yes, the black community has been speaking out against rappers too.

Karla Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:50 PM EST

Good point, Casey, but let's take it further.

It's true that Imus is inconsequential, and yet as a wealthy white man publicly demeaning young black women, he becomes consequential.

Though it has gotten better, we're still trapped in a supposed democracy where speaking out against a futile, disastrous, and absurd war can get you called out as an anti-American who doesn't support the troops. WTF?

Perhaps in the Imus and Isaiah controversies, people are taking small steps, stupid-seeming though they may be, to regain the ability to speak out against massive injustices by practicing on the seemingly small ones.

That is my hope. We're still a country reeling from an attack made on us through seething religious and racial hatreds. And our response, unfortunately, hasn't been laudable.

These tiny steps toward civility are crucial. Entertainment is a bizarre mirror on society, but it is a mirror, and a commercial product, and we the consumers have a right to call it to task.

Sally Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:48 PM EST

My understanding is he said nappy headed hos in the context of their losing the game; correct? What's more offensive nappy heads or ho's? in my mind it's the ho's part. Had he said nappy headed women, it wouldn't have had that "sting". But Imus is past his prime time he should be off the air period. He looks ugly, he's Old, the Shock jock era has passed him by but he keeps hanging on. Why does he look angry all the time? Give him a break and take him off the air.

bj Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:46 PM EST

It makes me laugh in way. What he said was wrong but what is so different then what we see on TV. Come on you can turn on Comedy Central and Carlos Mencia is sythings about evryrace and sexual orentation. Is he getting in trouble? You can go to most comedy clubs and there can be a black comedian saying something against whites. Are white people getting all hurt feelings and getting angry I think not. Could this be not heard at all if the Womens basketball team did not do well? I m a hispanic man and I call my self a beaner and other names. My wife is native american and our family is of many other races and we all can call eachother names like cracker grahm cracker and others but you dont see any of us going in timeout cause we said something. Thats my box and im standing on it.
Why do latinos invent the lowrider?
Cause we were to short to get into the cars

Amanda Lee Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:41 PM EST

What a tempest in a teapot! Since when has people' speech been something to be so heavily scrutinized and regulated? We live in a capitalist society...if you don't like hearing guys like Imus say stupid things then don't listen to his show! Practice your right to choose and turn the dial! We are in dangerous territory here where people like Isaiah Washington, Ann Coulter, and now Imus are villified to the point of insanity over stupid remarks. Don't like it? Don't watch Grey's! Don't read Ann's column, don't listen to Imus's show....People are called names in day to day life all the time, why are two special groups being designated as a "off limits"? Isn't that discrimination in itself, these two special groups of people, homosexuals and African-Americans, can't participate in the free exchange of communication and insults like the rest of the world can, we should treat them with kid gloves!
Tempest in a teapot.

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:41 PM EST

Carey, who do you mean when you say "these people?"

Casey Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:24 PM EST

We live in a country where our very own president is not held accountable for the words he utters. Yet we do so to someone as inconsequential as Imus?! Yes, he's an insensitive a--hole, but all the hurt feelings are ludicrous. As a gay man, I wasn't hurt by all the recent hate-words flying in our direction, and I'll also point out that racial insensitivity is made to seem more important than hatred directed toward gays. It just shows what an idiot these people are.

Karla Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:24 PM EST

Hate speech is not free.

It costs every one of us.

Let's stand up for people who challenge hate speech, and stop making poorly thought-out responses that allow people like Imus to batter people with his unregulated mutterings.

We've swung all the way out on the tether of 'anything goes' speech. But we're waking up slowly. It's important that we do wake up.

tnygrl Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:16 PM EST

I think justice has had blinders on. Why has no one raised a flag against the producer who began the truly stupid exchange with "hardcore hos"? Where's his punishment? These girls aren't getting paid to play. They haven't sought any public attention. They're college students who are doing more with their talents at a young age than most people ever do in their lives. Black or white or whatever, they're completely undeserving of the aforementioned comment.

khia213 Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:16 PM EST

Point of information - The First Amendment is a right extended from the GOVERNMENT to its citizens. It doesn't apply to everyone else. Your employer can fire you for saying the wrong thing. Your spouse can deck you for calling him or her the wrong name. It's not a right to say whatever you want, without consequence. Don't believe me? Read the Bill of Rights. Get back to me on it.

Shawn Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:08 PM EST

I am deeply upset by the outcome of Imus words it hurts to see that prejudice is still alive. I feel that Imus should be fired for making such cruel and hurful words. But as we know this world is built on money, so we see what is important. I hope Rugers can prevail for this horrible event.

Stephanie Travitsky Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:07 PM EST

Whoever you are that responded to me, we have a right to freedom of speech unless it causes violence. Imus has said a lot, A LOT worse then what he is getting suspended for which by the way was started by his idiot producer. And I am sorry but I don't care for rap artists calling women b-ches and hoes, that is my point of view. I find it offensive. But rap artists have a right to freedom of speech. Isaiah Washington said a stupid thing too, but from what I understood it was during a heated dispute snd I am shocked that TR Knight did not slug him. Knight took the high road which I repsect.

Chuck Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 02:00 PM EST

People, people...

Both Sharpton and Jackson, among others, have staked out positions against hip-hop misogyny for years. You never heard about it, probably because your mainstream media outlets (EW?) do not cover such things. And publicity hounds Jackson and Sharpton move on quickly, partially because of that.

Re:sharpton Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:54 PM EST

TO "Sharpton"-
Sharpton speaks out against misogynistic lyrics and rappers all the time. THe mainstream media just doesnt generally cover that I guess because it's "our problem" not yours. LOL, thats why so many of you seem under the misguided idea that all Black people are just banning against whites who are using their 'free speech'. not true, not true. I guess thats why so many of you see Sharpton as just a troublemaker? Many if it was happening to your kids or your community you'd understand why troublemakers are necessary.

kayla Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:54 PM EST

Imus, with the many years of radio he has had so far, has absolutely no excuse for the racist comments he made. I had assumed that one who is in a similar position as he is, should first of all learn to THINK BEFORE HE SPEAKS, and not let his tongue run away without "filtering" his thoughts. He should be fired for what he said and no amount of excuses will do.

Chuck Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:50 PM EST

A lot of the commenters seem so twisted up with their hatred for Jackson and Sharpton that they cannot begin to consider what's truly offensive about this episode.

Imus and Co. gave us a window into how aged White males talk on certain topics with the filters almost completely off. And the aim seemed less to make fun of than to dehumanize.

I'm tempted to give Imus some credit for trying to confront some of the figurative (Sharpton) and actual (the Rutgers women) wounded parties of his actions. But really, all he's doing is fighting for his job. Any actual changes in his attitudes will be slow in coming, if they come at all.

melanie Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:49 PM EST

Miriam- I couldnt care less if Imus loses his job, because I'll never be one of his listeners, so forgiveness isnt that hard.
However, I think when we sweep these things under the rug and pretend like we still dont have issues in this country we do ourselves a disservice.

We need to do more talking about stuff like this than 'moving on' and pretending we're all the same...until the next little time bomb explodes of course. I have no problem forgiving Imus, but the issue is actually bigger than him.

ceej- I totally agree with you. I think my generation has done itself and our country a disservice by never continuing the civil rights movement where it left off in the 1960s. we jsut wanted to pretend along with everyone else, its our fault we're as fractured as we are. Much of our fasade has changed, but sometimes I think we still havnt done the rooting we should.

Ken Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:45 PM EST

Too soft.

Imus has done this stuff before, he's said racist, anti-semitic, and misogynistic things before. This was no mistake, just more of what he's been doing for 30 years, which doesn't make it right.

Fire him, CBS and MSNBC.

Sharpton Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:43 PM EST

how about sharpton also attacking the rappers that sing about hos and pimps... and the industry that awarded the 3G mafia for a song about pimps. Sharpton along with Imus should be banished from public life.

Lee Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:40 PM EST

Many seem more concerned against being TOO politically correct than actually standing up for whats right. "Right" is subjective, because i think most of the commentary here is harsher for people like Jesse Jackson & Al Sharpton than for Imus. Thats why race is still the most intractible issue in this country, we still dont stretch to see the other POV.

I suspect many people on this blog would prefer to see Al Sharpton fired from HIS job for always speaking out where he thinks he sees injustice than for white entertainers that called a losing basketball team 'nappyheaded ho's' but said the more white team were cute girls. That speaks volumes, literally volumes. Im not saying he should be fired, because the problem isnt really HIM, its the audience that allows him to say stuff like that & not feel uncomfortable agreeing with it.

THATS the real problem in this country, if that was solved you wouldnt have to see Sharptons mug so often.

Miriam Jakubowitz Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:30 PM EST

G-D gave us the capacity to forgive --
isn't it time we use it and move on!!!!

ceej Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:26 PM EST

I would much rather for all the people who feel compelled to make racist, homophobic, or otherwise insensitive comments stand up and be counted. That way, we know what everyone really thinks.

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:25 PM EST

Stephanie--nappy hair IS a reference to Black people. I dont care how liberal you want to take it..there is an image & a put down in that throughout our history.

As far as everyone else saying 'well black people sometimes call each other hoes, so whats the big deal'? Umm, why was it UNIVERSALLY accepted that Isaiah Washington said something wrong and vile, yet Im SURE Ive heard the f-- in gay comedies (will & grace). I dont recall there being much DEBATE about that on internet blogs, defending Isaiah.
Yet when it concerns race issues, we're so quick to get angry at Jesse Jackson for showing up, wondering why Al Sharpton is always involving himself. Many of you seem more angry at THESE people than at some of the stuff people are saying on-air. Thats why they're ALWAYS there, other people make it necessary.
When its time for us to come together & say 'hey thats not right', we dont. Because the truth is we're STILL divided and we dont care about each others plights as much.

Tim Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:24 PM EST

Imus is a bitter, mean-spirited old man who spews hate and twisted opinions and gets away with it because he's a shock jock. I believe in Freedom of Speech but there is a limit to it. Send the old man home!!! I'd love to knock that cowboy hat off his head.

Karla Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:20 PM EST

I think we're moving into a fundamental misunderstanding of what free speech actually is, and what it's for.

I promise you, the founding fathers didn't set aside the privilege of free speeech so adults could run around calling each other names without consequences. The "humor" here is at the level of the 8-year-old who has just graduated from laughing hystericaly when someone starts a sentence with "But."

Are we really so confused as to place clearly racist and misongynistic hate speech - however stupidly voiced and perhaps unintentionally meant - in the same category as our right to speak out against tyranny in our government and abuses in the church?

Hate speech is not free, and never should be. And free speech comes with a serious responsibility, and the adult understanding that free response will follow any free speech.

Free speech doesn't mean that you get to say anything you like. It is also not a cover for - or an invitation to - hatred.

linda Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:18 PM EST

hey give the poor man some relief.jesus forgave judus and us. we all have said things in life that is just as bad .black and white so let up he is sorry so forgive and please forget.al sharpton and jesses jackson you both have been as guilty. so be christains and forgive...don imus we are all guilty.so sleep at night all of you and look upon something else in your life that needs your attention.

Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:17 PM EST

To the people who say that Imus should not lose his career over one statement are grossly incorrect. If I do recall when Isaiah Washington made his comments so many of you called for his immediate removal from Grey's Anatomy...let me be clear as possible I do not condone what Isiash said or what he did afterword, but in all the same what is the difference between what he said about TR Knight to what Imus said about the Rutgers women's basketball team. Hate is hate and should not be accepted...

Melanie Tue, Apr 10, 2007 at 01:15 PM EST

How could ANYONE think that jigaboo comment was OK? Likening Venus & Serena Williams to animals? Along with recent coments, seems to think dark people are sub-human while Blonde & white is beautiful. Im tired of that thinking, I realize many aren't, but we've had TOO much history in this country to not be collectively uncomfortable. Black, white or Asian.
I think his producer is almost more to blame & I wonder why people arent calling for HIS firing? He's the one that has made many of these incindiary comments and eggs on Imus. This is the culture they have fostered & seem proud of, that scares me because what does that say about what really goes on off air? When Glen Beck said he doesnt have Black friends because he doesnt know how to act around Black people it made me roll my eyes, but when I see all the internet voting against disciplinary action for Imus, that makes me sad. Why arent his frequent guests chiming in here? Not to villify him, but to stand up for what they believe in?