Nappy Headed Hos

Have you heard the one about the morning radio shock jock that called a group of black women basketball players "nappy headed hos?" No, it was not Howard Stern. It was Don Imus.
I am still in shock that the man has a job.
Here is my take...Imus is one of a dozen or so shock jocks filling the airwaves each morning around the country. These guys push the envelope, cross the line, break the barrier, whatever you want to call it, everytime they sit behind the mic. I love them for it.
I think that it is insane that our government bans certain words, topics, discussions, and demonstrations from being used on the air. It is a direct violation of the first amendment, but as we all know from recent events that the constitution is only pulled out, dusted off, and recited when it is useful to our elected leaders.
I hate Don Imus and never listen to him, but I love what he stands for. I love that he tries to push the line so that others have more freedom of speech. That in no way means that I condone what he said. It is a horrible thing to say and it makes me even less likely to listen to him than before. BUT...and I tread carefully here...the man is paid to speak his mind, share his ideas on topics, and stir up the audience enough to keep them coming back day after day.
So, I sound like I am using some double speak here, right. Well, not really. Imus should be allowed to say what he wants, it's his American right. NBC, who signs his paychecks, should be the ones who are in hot water. Imus was just doing his job.
Most listeners know that Imus' views do not represent NBC's views. I certainly know that. But NBC should never stand for their brand to be tied to something like this. Most stations would have suspended him immediately and ultimately fired him.
I know of several broadcasters suspended and fired for much less. A couple of incidents come to mind. One morning guy referred to black athletes as monkeys. Another made up a scientific fact about African-Amercians having more ligaments and tendons making them better at sports. Both were fired. Both were wrong and deserved to get into trouble. Imus' statement was even worse. It was meant to be both hurtful and hateful.
NBC should take responsibility and do what is right here. Until then it seems as if they stand behind being racist, just as ABC stands behind gay-bashing.

OUT!