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Christianity Today, April (Web-only), 2007 |

Speaking Out

Our 'Don Imus' Moment

Addressing racial issues in America is a lot like being trapped in Groundhog Day.

Edward Gilbreath | posted 4/13/2007 03:00PM

Thank you, Don Imus. Thank you for giving us one more shot at getting serious with each other about race in America.

Now that the spectacular fall of the once-invincible shock-radio icon is complete, America—and ...

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fred	Posted: April 23, 2007 1:48 PM

Prejudice, like the poor, we'll always have with us. It is just human nature - to feel most comfortable with people who are like you. It is extremely rare to meet someone of ANY race who is not prejudiced, although almost all will deny that they are prejudiced. Prejudice is simply expecting people of other groups to BE and ACT a certain way before you meet or get to know them. Racism is another, much more serious (and sinful), thing . The racist wishes ill for people of other races regardless of how good or bad they turn out to be. The prejudiced person expects people of other races to behave in a certain unacceptable way, but when it turns out that they are not that way, he treats them as if they are the same as himself. He gets pleasantly surprised. Prejudice is in the mind and can be changed by gaining deeper understanding. Racism comes out of the heart and needs a serious touch from God.

William

Posted: April 22, 2007 11:59 PM

I am disappointed by the offensive and ungentlemanly comments made by Don Imus. He is a radio personality I listened to many years ago and found to be thought provoking and entertaining if provocative. The women he referred to deserve praise and respect for their accomplishments on and off the basketball court. Imus' comments were insulting to and grossly inappropriate for these women. His dismissal was an appropriate response to economic forces in the entertainment business. It also disturbs and distresses me that so little is said about rap "artists" referring to black women in the same terms or worse. No one seems to care about that. It has been written, "A member of an ethnic group who tells a joke about that group is a "wit;" a member of another group who tells the same joke is a "bigot." I hope Imus' critics, including the reverend Mr. Jackson or Sharpton, will follow up their rhetoric about his comments with rhetoric about similar language used by rap "artists."

George Williams

Posted: April 20, 2007 8:41 PM

My take on the whole thing is to be insulted by Imus' claim that the remarks were accidental or offhand. I come from a part of the country where there is a certain dialect, and I occasionally will slip and use the term "y'all" when I should be more formal. That is a slip. If, however, I were to say, "Youse guys," that would be a deliberate choice of words, because I have never lived any place that this would be local dialect. Imus made remarks that might be considered a normal slip--but not for any white American less than 105 years old. It isn't a "double standard." People cannot accidentally slip and say things that they are not prone to say naturally. I do not believe that Imus' background contains anything that would suggest he ever used the term "ho" in private conversation with his own family. Just my take on it.

Bob	Posted: April 20, 2007 3:33 PM


Many views differ about the Imus debate. How sensitive did we as a society become? Don Imus made a bad joke....and got fired. How stupid. He was not running away from accountabilty. It was a bad joke. Keep it in the context of what really happened. Alot of double standards. We have heard much worse in the public against black and white. Way to sensitive about a bad joke. Get real.

Ann	Posted: April 20, 2007 1:31 AM


As long as anglo-saxons believe that they are the superior race, and most of the human race is not human, there will always be a problem. It is not up to black people to so call change white folks, or wait for them to see their wrong take on us as part of the human race, the ball is in their court, always has been.

Getwizdom

Posted: April 19, 2007 9:50 AM

I am saddended that Imus tried to pass the buck to rappers. I dont say that because I disagree. I say that because he is simply shifting blame. We all know that two wrongs dont make a right. But why isnt foul mouthed rap an American problem instead simply a 'Black' problem? Even though most white kids buy rap, I still consider it to be an issue for all Americans (even though most rappers are Black). When Adam tried to blame Eve, God did not fall for it. He dealt with them both. I see too many people lining up on different sides. Who is willing to challenge Imus and the rappers?

Bill Ramsey

Posted: April 18, 2007 11:48 AM


Could some one suggest one of the believers go to Don Imus, and attempt to convert him to a follower of Jesu? That will clean us his mouth, and he can become a tropy of God's Grace.! Please suggest a Cjuck Colson or a Franklin Graham, or SOME BODY contact Mr. Imus & attempt to CONVERT HIM! Thanks, Bill Ramsey@mchsi.com

Betty

Posted: April 18, 2007 10:27 AM

I find the article very interesting. Regardless of the comments made by Don Imus, I feel that he brought a whole new meaning to the need for forgivness and awareness of our prejudice. Yes there is prejudice on both sides and we don't like to admit it. Cultural differences are acceptable but we have to learn to respect others in the manner that we want to be respected. Unfortunately, (and I am an African American) we encouraged other people to use the words, that are used so fluently on a daily basis, by Black rappers and comedians. I want everyone to know that it's not okay, whether it's Don Imus or the very popular rap artist or comedian. When you drive down the street with your windows open you can hear the filthy rap music being played. It's being played by White, Black, Asian and Latino young people. Hopefuly something will come out of this problem that has existed long before Imus spoke those horrible words on radio and television.

Walter B. Funk

Posted: April 18, 2007 8:58 AM

A thoughtful piece on a difficult subject: Imus. My guess is that I am one of the few readers of your piece who actually listens to him, and have since 1983 during his WNBC days. He's always been 'shocking' and 'outrageous.' That he would put down the Scarlet Knight Women's Basketball Team for tatoos, etc. is absolutely in the realm of what he does. What is so amusing is that Al Sharpton (he who is responsible for deaths and has never appolotized for the lives he trashed in the Twana Brawley situation) and Jesse Jackson (he who has the morals of a guttersnipe) would be juding Imus' moral character. IMUS is over; unfortunately, to paraphrase scripture, it looks like Al and Jesse will, like a low-grade virus, always be with us. One can only applaud the class of the Scarlet Knight Women and their coach! Heart Glad!

greenbarley

Posted: April 17, 2007 11:14 PM

Thank you Edward Gilbreath for this article. I am tired, and need to go to bed, but I was so startled and saddened by the negative comments (about your article) I had to put in a quick note of thanks and support. So many of the negative comments above really are a perfect example of the "groundhog day-ness" discussed in your article. I was shocked... but I guess even CT readers aren't perfect. ;) Thanks again, a sister in Christ.

J Bruman

Posted: April 17, 2007 5:31 PM

To all of my fellow anglo-Americans that are quick to critique Mr. Galbreath, I say "shame on you". Mr. Galbreath presented a balanced and Christlike approach to a shameful happinstance that can easily occur any day in this great country. I can use many terms in referring to fellow anglos without consequence that would be taken as racist or discriminatory if uttered by any of my African American friends. It is no different than siblings teasing each other, but being quick to rise up and defend each other whenever an outsider utters similar barbs. It is a normal fact of life we all need to "get over", and be sensitised to rather than roiling the waters. Imus made a serious and stupid (his word) attempt at trying to "sound hip" by using terms that are normally reserved exclusively for African Americans referring to each other. It was stupid and wrong no matter how you cut it. Christ didn't tease or belittle the woman at the well, he offered her "living water" of love and compassion.

Steven Skaggs

Posted: April 17, 2007 4:12 PM

Did you watch Imus? You seem to infer that he is right-wing, which, if you did watch him and know the causes he champions, you would know he is not. Is he racist? Considering only these remarks--perhaps--but considering a broader spectrum of his work (his support for African-American & Jewish political candidates; his early-on assertion that the lack of immediate relief for New Orleans was purely racial; etc.), it is a little harder to judge him. And, given the fact that I am not God, I cannot see his heart, only his fruit (and a mixed bag it is). The racially charged moments on his show are disturbing, not only for him, but for those of us who would tolerate it. More disturbing for me is his track record on the treatment of women. John Lennon addressed this topic bluntly in his song "Woman is the N__ of the World." And finally, let's add to our indignation some outrage over the general insensitivity displayed in the use of language in our society. "Jesus" is not a by-word.

Sly	Posted: April 17, 2007 10:37 AM

You cannot compare Rap artist to an individual employed by a major media outlet. The expectations are extremely different. And by the way, they(Al and Jesse) have repeatedly addressed the lyrics of the rappers and created a dialogue with them. They, along with Bill Cosby, are very critial of the rap culture and lyrics. If the producers and radio stations refused the filty it would go away. Everyone knows middle class white american youth finance the rap industry. (NIM) Question: Why do you call them "old school tactics?" What has the new school done and what have you done to assist on a national level? You should be careful to criticize their efforts because no one speaks else speak and get change. I dont agree with all they do nor do they represent all African Americans but I applaud their effort. I only received this article because of a friend but I have never heard of the author nor his book. But everyone know Jesse and Al and they will listen. Until He comes!

Ron	Posted: April 17, 2007 10:13 AM

I agree with the premise of Mr. Gilbreath's article. This issue is truly about our hearts. Many of the responses to the article make me think that we are not yet ready to "Let this mind [the mind of Christ] be in you" as Paul admonished in Philipians 2. Intead of seeking and being open to the mind of Christ, we seem to focus on the actions and words of others. All of our individual arguments about Imus, rappers, and everyone else don't bring us any closer to the mind of Christ. We need to look inwardly and examine ourselves, to see if we are truly open to the mind of compassion, forgiveness and mercy that led our savior to the cross.

Tex	Posted: April 17, 2007 10:09 AM

I really concur with the above notice For all of us it is hard to forgive and forget and go forward with a change of heart. I was tired of the rant on all sides, and frankly wished the commentators would devote their concerns to the systemic racism and discrimination in all parts of our country and world. Ironically, I think we give individuals who "publicly recant" their words or behaviors a forum for others entrentched in like minded thinking and behavior. Conntinuous excoriatingsothers only fuels the fire. Tex

El Cid

Posted: April 16, 2007 6:00 PM


Racism is abhorrent, but it is not mentioned in scripture – because it is the byproduct of sinful hearts. There is a danger that fighting racism can become another gospel, as seems to have happened to Rev? Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. 2 perspectives Have we as a nation become the home of the Brave, and the land of the aggrieved? What if in heaven your neighbor is your most undesirable person?

lostintranslation

Posted: April 16, 2007 4:38 PM


BlaablaaBlaaaaa....get over it, get on with it, and grow up...its just another racebaiting, povertypimping ploy from the clan with a tan. The "justice brothers have done more to hurt racereltions than the KKK ever could dreampt of doing ...that being a quote of walter E. williams..of whom is a premenimit "black" schaolar....hmmm....

Ruthie

Posted: April 16, 2007 3:06 PM


To those who say there will always be a divide, I wonder how long you can go on being sad, feeling bitter? I admit, as a non-Caucasian in North America - life can be hard. However, you cannot go on in life without forgiving when we all were forgiven first...

Scott

Posted: April 16, 2007 2:52 PM

Although I do think this moment offers us opportunity for deeper dialogue and healing. most whites don't understand the difference in the rhetorical force of what a Chris Rock and a Dave Chappell says and a Don Imus. The former use certain words and stereotypes to address and deconstruct the stereoypes. while what Imus was doing was playing on racial sterotypes, even if they do come from a segment of black popular culture, to play to white bigotry and prejudice. There's a big difference! If one cannot see the difference, then it shows how gaping the racial chasm is, culturally speaking.

Jo-Ann

Posted: April 16, 2007 2:22 PM

His comments hurt because it attacks the physical beauty of a race and its virtue. He disparaged the hair of a race as ugly and undesirable. He belittled women who fought hard for respect not only for the sport of female basketball itself but it also says the work and achievements of black women should not be respected. Saying whore attests to the history of rape of these women by white males; being viewed a property and not worth more that instant gratification. History show that in slavery black women were forced to reproduce with "Bucks" to provide slave masters with a stronger slave population. Treated like animals their mental, physical and psychological need were tossed aside creating a horrible cycle of abuse from white males and black males. Rap artists usually rap about their lives, and their groupies on their cd's or cable. Don Imus is a public show. So you can see how these hurtful statement would not only hurt but cause a woman to feel unsafe.

sry	Posted: April 16, 2007 1:58 PM

This is in response to JDH's comment "as long as we have NAACP's, KKK's and BET's and Miss Any Special Color America Pageants" I find it always sad that whenever the issue of race comes up especially with the African-American community we are told to basically "get over it". This by caucasian people, who fail to realize that past wrongs and interferences by their race is the reason that we are on the defense, and we will always be separate and not equal. Why not study the true American history and understand that African-Americans did not start segregation, we were not allowed to participate in mainstream events and that has carried on into the present. Jesus taught about compassion, and live as a Man in order to show empathy for what we experienced. For those of you who fail to realize that our hurt is real and valid, try taking a walk in our shoes, being judged by the color of your skin and not the content of your character.

Mary	Posted: April 16, 2007 1:29 PM

THANK YOU! THANK YOU! I was deeply saddened that out of all the comments and commentaries that were written on this incident, most called for punishment; a scant few called for more and deeper dialogue. I had actually hoped that imus would be allowed on the air again and could be a catalyst for this dialogue in the highest places. As you said, "Rather than exiling him from meaningful participation in the human race, why not use his mistake as an opportunity to speak forthrightly about those things that keep us apart?" Our churches should be the place where this dialogue begins - where each of us can admit our complicity in racism and ask for healing and forgiveness.

Chuck Warnock

Posted: April 16, 2007 12:39 PM

Edward Gilbreath has covered this incident admirably. White evangelicals have been strangely silent during this entire episode, leaving the moral high ground to media moguls and corporate advertisers. Where is our outrage at the use of the public airwaves for racist, sexist diatribe? Where is our demand for justice for bright, accomplished African-American women who were demeaned on our airwaves? Until we as evangelicals take up the ministry of Jesus to set free prisoners and preach good news to the poor, we will have failed to care for "the least of these."

NIM	Posted: April 16, 2007 12:32 PM


So much for you as a fair and balanced writer, a bit one sided aren't you? What Imus said is nothing compared to the revolting lyrics of the rap songs and their films and acts on TV. Let the Rev's Jackson and Sharpton clean that group up, before they judge others.

Rob	Posted: April 16, 2007 10:21 AM

Reality Gentlemen, Reality! First, I can't stand Don Imus. He makes me physically ill to watch and listen to him. But what happened to the first ammendment? Did it go out with the recent "extra-large load of whites"? I don't believe Imus is any more of a racist than Soop dog, emminemm, Jesse or the riducluous, always showing up for the "Show" Sharpton. Ever watch BET? Get stuck listening to some ghetto rap at a stop light and so on and so on... the "N" word is routinely used by blacks (did I get the term right this year)? Imus made a comment on a program noted for its shocking content. Surprise? Fired! His only mistake was not being cognicent of the country he now lives in. Everyone is racist, I can prove it. But what is really the point, he insulted "high-achieving" B-ball players? I can't wait to see and hear what fun Cris Rock and Dave Chapelle have with this. I would have been insulted being called a "wannabee" when I am a "high-achieveing" B-ball player. Jesse & Al shame on you!

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