"Rev Al is a Racist" a Topic of Concern
How a Prominent African American Leader Claims Racism on the Part of Michael Jackson's Media Coverage
Rev Al Sharpton was preaching a Sunday sermon at the First African Methodist Episcopal Church of Los Angeles when he commented that media coverage of Michael Jackson's death was "disgraceful". He was quoted as saying the following:
"I am here because of the disgraceful and the despicable way some elements of the media have tried to destroy the legacy and image of Michael Jackson," he told the congregation, charging the media with using different standards for black and white performers. You have had other entertainers that have had issues in their life," he said. "But you [the media] did not degrade and denigrate them... Show the same respect for Michael and Michael's family that you showed Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley."
Say what? I can see where people would say that Rev Al is a racist. First, I don't know if Rev Al is aware of this or not, but Elvis Presley experienced some issues because of his skin color. When I was researching an article I wrote that compares Michael Jackson to Elvis, I learned that the "King of Rock" himself had to deal with racial issues.
When Elvis Presley came out with the hit "That's All Right" white DJ's wouldn't spin the tune because they thought it was sung by a black artist. On the other hand, black DJ's also wouldn't spin the tune because they knew Elvis was white. The black DJ's didn't want to play anything by a white artist, just like a white DJ didn't want to play anything by a black artist.
Now THAT'S racism. Rev Al claims that having both black and white performers embrace Michael Jackson is an act of racism. I would think that the fact that both black and white people are mourning the death of Michael Jackson equally just goes to show you just how far America has come in bridging the racial gap.
Living in the Memphis area, I know what racial tension is. If you have never experienced racial tension, I challenge you to move to Memphis for a few months. Then, you will know. Despite the tensions that exist, both races have worked towards improving their relationships with each other...until something happens that re-opens the wounds.
Comments like those made by Rev Al cause the racism wounds which were starting to heal reopen. It's really sad that a prominent African American figure who embraces his race has to make statements like this that cause feelings of alienation. Rev Al, shame on you. You should be encouraged by the media coverage of Michael Jackson's death.
Everyone loved Michael. No one cared that he was black - they just loved his performance and talent. Isn't seeing past color something that the black community has dreamed of since Martin Luther King, Jr. made his famous speeches? Why would someone take a good thing such as how everyone loves Michael and then turn around and play the racist card? I don't get it.
"Rev Al is a Racist" is a statement that many are quoting on the Internet today, and now I know why.
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Published by Meg G.
Meg G. is a financial professional. During her previous life, she ran a contracting business with her husband. Now, she likes to share late breaking news, financial advice, and do-it-yourself tips with her d... View profile
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25 Comments
Post a CommentYes, he is racist. The 8/28/10 D.C. speech confirmed it: he spoke angrily about "THOSE PEOPLE" trying to hijack the day. A listen to both Sharpton's and Beck's speeches shows you which one was preaching love, honor, respect, dignity, appreciation, and which was the demagogue with firebrand rhetoric. And Al saying "...we have a long way to go" clinched it! LONG WAY? Free schooling, open lunch counters, anti-discrimination laws, gov't assisted housing & mortgage initiatives, expanded welfare that's become a family tradition, billions spent on poverty since Johnson....He's not talking about equality of opportunity, he's talkiing about EQUALITY OF OUTCOME BASED ON RACE!
I don't know what planet this so called "Reverend" is living on but perhaps he should check out his facts before he speaks!! I will comment on the so- called respect that the media had for Elvis when he died since as an Elvis fan this is something I know something about! Even before Elvis' death rumors of drug use were circulating. As a matter of fact the book "Elvis What Happened"? by his bodyguards was in the works before his death. Elvis was very well aware that this book was being written. After his death the talk of drugs was immediate! As with Michael the cause of death given was Cardiac Arrythmia or Arrest in Michael's case. But as days and weeks passed the word "DRUGS" was everywhere! Do we forget the special that Geraldo Rivera did on Elvis? Exactly Reverend how was that respect?? I agree that both Elvis and Michael should be remembered for the wonderful contributions that they made to our musical history and for all the barriers that they BOTH broke! Even over 30 years when
Duh
"Reverend" Al is a race baiting, YT hating, sack o' crap that needs to have his voice boax removed & his jaw wired shut for the sake of humanity. Ramone, fetch me some scissors!
Rev Al (and his compatriots) are worse than racists; they are 'racial arsonists', fanning the flames and inciting hatred and division between the races (mostly black and white). Just when the wounds are healing nicely, along comes good ol' AL to rip the scab away once again!
Too bad he played the race card at a funeral. That is so sad.
Michael Jackson would be mortified if he knew Rev Al was playing the race card at his funeral! So sad!
ITA! Rev Al is so full of crap
Rev" Al is totally a racist and gets a pass with the media for some reason. He participated in this "circus" event and took it to the next level with his racist propaganda. His whole existance and career is based upon dividing human people and spouting race bating retoric. He constantly plays the "race card" any chance he gets. This should have been about a "person" named MJ and not about "black man MJ"! It really is too bad that this even has to be talked about.
And the beat goes on....