Nov. 22, 2006
The recent vile, racist tirade of comedian Michael Richards in a Los Angeles night club and anti-Semitic raves by actor/producer/director Mel Gibson earlier this year point to a pervasive trend in American culture, says the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People.
"Race and racism are complex, emotional issues in America -- ones we are still reluctant to confront and address," said Vicangelo Bulluck, director of the NAACP's Hollywood Bureau. "Obviously there is an underlying current of racism in America. He's [Richards] a symptom of a much bigger problem.
"What is so disconcerting is these recent racist outbursts are coming from notable personalities that have benefited from the support of millions of minority fans around the world. Their behavior is totally inexcusable because they should know better," Bulluck added. "Mr. Richards' commentary was clearly racist and revealed racist thinking. His declaration that he "…is not a racist..." is indicative of the type of denial that too often accompanies racist rhetoric. Too many Americans are living in what has been called the 51st State, the state of 'denial'. Before Mr. Richards and lamentably millions of other Americans can confront and correct the cancerous disease of racism that is hidden in their hearts, they must first acknowledge that it exists and that they have it."
The NAACP believes that racism is taught. Media, particularly television, has proven to be a powerful teacher. The NAACP recognizes that when it comes to forming ideas and establishing norms, nothing is more influential than the images and concepts delivered into our lives on a daily basis by radio, television, film and the Internet.
When required, the Association directly confronts racism, the use of defamatory language and racist actions. Those that are given access to the public through mainstream media must be put on notice that they have everything to lose by spewing racist ideas and rants.
The NAACP Hollywood Bureau has placed calls to Richards' representatives and awaits a response.
Founded in 1909, the NAACP is the nation's oldest and largest civil rights organization. Its members throughout the United States and the world are the premier advocates for civil rights in their communities, conducting voter mobilization and monitoring equal opportunity in the public and private sectors.
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