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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 11:49 AM
Original message
President Obama, I understand ...
Edited on Fri Nov-19-10 12:00 PM by Kweli4Real
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/19/opinion/19fri4.html?_r=2&partner=rss&emc=rss



President Obama,

I understand what you must be feeling; in fact, most African-Americans who have worked in Corporate America know exactly the internal angst you are feeling.

On the one hand, you have folks calling you a punk-ass bitch because you "just won't fight back"; you keep trying to reach out; keep trying to ignore theobvious, but to hear "them" tell it - non-racial - daily slights; you keep trying to put on that unfazed face, while trying to move the ball forward. On the other hand, you have folks mistaking your concilitory approach as evidence of your "inherent weakness" and are thusly emboldened to pull wildly inappropriate acts of that by any measure are disrespectful to the Office of the Presidency; but moreso, to you as a Man.

Mr. President, we understand. We understand that you understand that you have a job to do and "fighting back" won't help you accomplish anything ... In fact, it will bring everything to a halt as the focus will not be on what you are trying to accomplish, but "how arrogantly confrontational you are."

We understand that you understand that if you were to fight back, you will be cast as that "angry Black Man" of american mythos.

We understand that you understand that those most vocal about your not fighting back, will be the first one's to criticize you for your lack of tact, for your strategic and tactical misjudgment of antagonizing middle america.

But more to the point, we understand that you understand that your historic presidency can be a turning point in this nation's racial history. If you respond in the way we all know you want to respond (e.g., snatching up our opposition by the throat and going straight street all on their ass), the other part of america (that had you suspect from the gate) will foreclose on ever allowing "one of them" in the Whitehouse ever again and they will rationalizze it by saying, "See? They just don't have the 'executive temperment'."

So Mr. President, go into the inner most chamber of that whitehouse ... out of earshot of any non-"family" member (because you know anyone else will snitch) and get your "fuck all you tricks" on. Then, close the door, and that portion of your mind, kiss your beautiful queen and princesses and keep doing what you are doing.

We understand.
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 04:29 PM
Response to Original message
1. Tell it, Kwelli!
Edited on Fri Nov-19-10 04:29 PM by Number23
Yes we DO understand. We understand all too goddamned well.

So Mr. President, go into the inner most chamber of that whitehouse ... out of earshot of any non-"family" member (because you know anyone else will snitch) and get your "fuck all you tricks" on. Then, close the door, and that portion of your mind, kiss your beautiful queen and princesses and keep doing what you are doing.

Why do I get the feeling that's exactly what's he's doing?? :) I've seen black people so angry about the Republicans not showing up for that summit they were almost in TEARS. (Well, over the phone/Internet anyway because it's been a looooong time (far too long) since I've seen any black Americans face to face.) The hatred and most importantly the DISRESPECT shown to this man from the right AND the damn left is almost too much at times.

You should read this piece, Kweli. Ties in beautifully with what you're saying here. http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=388x25804
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Kind of Blue Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 05:08 PM
Response to Original message
2. We've been under the Dred Scott decision
from Day 1 of Obama's presidency: black man has no rights which a white man was bound to respect. As far as I'm concerned that is all the republican party and their ilk in the tea party are covertly/overtly working with. And trying to teach other black upstarts about even thinking of running for the presidency. The media knows this and some of us democrats are ignoring it, but savoring it for their upcoming books and big talk when all is said and done. What a sham of a nation.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 06:26 PM
Response to Reply #2
3. So true ...
When I look at how President Obama is being treated ... I think back to how every "First" in our family is/has been treated. This makes me angry!

Then, I think about the daily slights that our family faces in the workplace; the literal thousands of times we've bitten our tougue, the hundreds of times when we've seen a family member being walked out the door for being "too emotional" or for just not being a "good fit." This makes me mad!

But to have our in-laws watch in silence, or even participate in these same acts, all while denying that race has anything to do with it because "not all of us (them) are racist" pisses me off!

No one is saying that all of our in-laws are racist; but no one can deny that some of our in-laws are acting out of racial animus/stereotyping ... AND when our in-laws join in, makes me want to cancel Thanksgiving dinner, a divorce and a hundred yard clear space Order of Protection!
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Kind of Blue Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 07:40 PM
Response to Reply #3
4. Oh, Man. Don't I know it.
I couldn't say it better if I tried. The overly sensitive meme, the constant keeping emotions under control when you know what's wanted is the angry black person, the flagrant innuendos from universities to the workplace with teachers and supervisors joining in or looking the other way. Like Maya Angelou put it, it's like the constant pinpricks in a balloon she likened to the spirit. And you better not fuck up while you're at! :rofl:

It pisses me off too and there's the big wonder why Obama is so "weak." Stop trying to reach out, Mr. President. Yeah, right. Like trying to run the country with even a modicum of force will get him anywhere either. It's laughable. He was screwed in a 1001 ways before he took the broken down office of a broken down government, before the racist electioneering and emotional breakdowns of wanting "my country back," to a very, very large portion of Congress that says straight up it wants him to fail, and the disasters kept coming. And he better not fuck up either while wading neck high in it :rofl:

I'm sick of arguing with "fellow" dems when the answers stare them square in the face. Yeah, we know what he's going through and I think racism is at the core of keeping the country unfixable.
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 08:51 PM
Response to Reply #4
5. Girl! You put this post on a t-shirt and I will buy a hundred of them!
Every single word -- TRUTH!

Stop trying to reach out, Mr. President. Yeah, right. Like trying to run the country with even a modicum of force will get him anywhere either. Truth!

He was screwed in a 1001 ways before he took the broken down office of a broken down government, before the racist electioneering and emotional breakdowns of wanting "my country back," to a very, very large portion of Congress that says straight up it wants him to fail, and the disasters kept coming. Truth!

I'm sick of arguing with "fellow" dems when the answers stare them square in the face. Yeah, we know what he's going through and I think racism is at the core of keeping the country unfixable. TRUTH!

I said pretty much the same thing -- that there are far too many people who won't even ACKNOWLEDGE the existence of racism, let alone discuss it and correctly ascribe it to certain behaviors. And they put that rope around the necks of the people who are impacted the most negatively by racism. How the hell do you talk about something that is affecting you personally in a million different ways with people who try to act as though what you're talking about doesn't even exist???
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 09:30 PM
Response to Reply #5
8. What I can't understand ...
and tell me if I have this wrong ...

We have a congress where just about half have made it their mission, from day one ... before he had passed any of the "objectionable" policies that the right AND left rile against, while they play to an audience that walk around in public with racists signs, spouting racist slogans, while our in-laws want to argue with us, but not them, that "not all of us are racists." We have pundits claiming President Obama is that mythic "Angry Black Man" with a "deepseated hatred of white people and white culture." And we have to fight with our in-laws about whether there is a measure of race-based motive?

Sometimes I just have to wonder ...
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 05:22 PM
Response to Reply #8
14. Too many think that they'll be swept under any broad brush discussion of racism
Edited on Sat Nov-20-10 05:25 PM by Number23
So in order to prevent that from happening, they'd rather not EVER discuss it or ascribe it to any behavior short of cross-burning skinheads calling black people "ni**ers." Anything more nuanced than that confuses them and raises their hackles.

What kills me is the number of "progressives" who will flat out deny that liberals can ever be racist. I've never understood that. My thoughts have always been that racism dwells within both parties/political mindsets. Repubs are just more upfront about it.
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cilla4progress Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 11:26 AM
Response to Reply #8
19. And don't forget that screecher Palin's
racist comments in her "book" about Michelle and Rev. Wright! (Words to the effect that the Obamas sat through 20 years of Black racist rantings...).

Yeah, so, racial bias is only OK if you are white....
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Kind of Blue Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 09:57 PM
Response to Reply #5
9. Yeah, that's why I think change is so incredibly slow.
because they act like the obvious doesn't exist but we're always ready for the long haul. Like Nancy Pelosi said, they want to get rid of them because they're effective even with the slimmest of majorities.
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butterfly77 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-10 07:53 PM
Response to Reply #2
53. +Millions
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firedupdem Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 09:03 PM
Response to Original message
6. Thanks for posting this!


Yes, we understand.
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Fri Nov-19-10 09:23 PM
Response to Original message
7. Yes.....we understand Clear as a bell, and loud as a whistle.....!
Edited on Fri Nov-19-10 10:11 PM by FrenchieCat
Keep on keeping on, Mr. President!
We've got your back.....and I mean we've got it....


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Karenina Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 11:55 AM
Response to Reply #7
13. And YES, we hear the dogwhistles LOUD AND CLEAR. nt
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nofurylike Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 04:31 AM
Response to Original message
10. thank you for this powerful, deeply moving piece, Kweli4Real!!
:cry:


"and keep doing what you are doing"


YES YES YES!!!!!
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babylonsister Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 06:57 AM
Response to Original message
11. Wow, this is terrific. Thank you. nt
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treestar Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 11:39 AM
Response to Original message
12. Thank you for that insight.
A lot of white people need to hear this over and over and over until they get it. A lot of them think since an AA man was elected POTUS that proves no one is racist any more. Too many white people think it's all over, solved, no more problems for blacks, they're equal now. But they are not living with those little pin pricks.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sat Nov-20-10 10:06 PM
Response to Reply #12
15. But honestly ...
My objection to the "not all of us are that way" thing is not that I believe that they/you/most of them are ... It's that so much energy is used saying it, very little is left over to address those who ARE like that.

You/them telling me that you are not "that way" does nothing to resolve "that way."
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bliss_eternal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 01:09 AM
Response to Original message
16. no offense to the op...
Edited on Sun Nov-21-10 01:24 AM by bliss_eternal
...as i understand these are not your thoughts or opinions. unfortunately, i take great issue w/an editorial that more than once--feels the need to make points, using crass, misogynistic language.

the phrases "punk ass b*tch" and "f*ck all you tr*cks" are offensive. seeing such comments in this piece, make it more than a little difficult for me, to subscribe to anything else this writer is saying. (though i did read the entire editorial).

:puke:

but thanks for sharing, just the same op. :) this post provided an opportunity to point out the ways in which too many in the community are disparaging of women, and glbt's of color. we need to begin to take note of these instances, and the ways language is utilized before we can learn from such instances, and (hopefully) change.

ultimately, it isn't helpful to the community as a whole to condemn racism, w/one hand while using sexist, homophobic language w/the other hand. particularly given that...gee, there are black women and glbt's who voted for and continue to support this president. (sigh)

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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 08:42 PM
Response to Reply #16
20. With all due respect ...
Edited on Sun Nov-21-10 09:03 PM by Kweli4Real
In the environment in which I was raised (City of Clevand, Ohio - Inner City) neither the term "bitch" or "trick" is/was gender specific; but rather, referred to anyone weak or without substance. And the term "Trick" is used in reference to anyone easily fooled or taken advantage of.

Maybe it's a generational thing, a semantic thing, or whatever; but I accept your feedback and will consider it in the future.

One Love
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bliss_eternal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 09:50 PM
Response to Reply #20
21. interesting....
Edited on Sun Nov-21-10 10:02 PM by bliss_eternal
...while seeming to deny knowledge of how the words are used to support sexism, your comments seem to support my prio post.

Quote:
neither the term "bitch" or "trick" is/was gender specific; but rather, referred to anyone weak or without substance.

b*tch, is defined as a female dog.
perhaps a review of the word's use in rap music (for one example) to refer to women (see example below), would be helpful. given that women are deemed as "the weaker sex," by the powers that be --your perception of this word's use, seems to support my comments. ;)

a tr*ck-is generally defined (in slang terminology) as an unimportant woman, or an act performed by a prostitute. both definitions would seem to support your stated perception of the word.

given your choice of screen name, i presume (perhaps inaccurately) that you are a hip hop fan. perhaps you've witnessed one of the many discussions (on-line and off) over the years, regarding the way women are portrayed in hip hop lyrics, video imagery, etc. (i.e. b*tches, hoes, etc.)

maybe you'll find an editorial discussing the use of these words (as sexist), interesting and informative (or not):
http://www.saidit.org/archives/jan06/article4.html

take care.

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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 06:07 PM
Response to Reply #21
24. I am fully aware ...
that the term "bitch" can be understand to be sexist; but the term "trick", not so much.

However, being rised is Cleveland, OH the term "bitch" generally was not gender specific, especially when referring to a male; it connotes "weakness" and I do not attach weakness to the female gender.

The term "Trick", meaning one whom is easily fooled or played, is asexual as well.

But to keep peace in the family, I will refrain from using these terms in the future.
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bliss_eternal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 06:31 PM
Response to Reply #24
25. that's not necessary.
Edited on Mon Nov-22-10 06:43 PM by bliss_eternal
sharing my thoughts about the choice of words, doesn't mean i'm attempting to edit or censor you, at all. no where in my post do i ask that, or even suggest it. my goal was merely to share, how words can hurt and damage a culture. in this case, the culture of women and gays who are also african american.

you've shared that you dislike seeing people in the main forums state "everyone isn't like that," when the issue of racism comes up. it feels like a dismissal, as if they are minimizing the impact of those that are, "like that."

perhaps you could consider how it felt when i shared my thoughts on word use, and instead of taking responsibility for your word choice, you chose instead to minimize and dismiss me, by attempting to deny the definitions of the words and phrases. doesn't matter if your intent was to minimize...that's what occured, by your choice. oddly ironic, imo.

whether you agree w/what i've shared (or even understand), isn't the point. the point is, words have power. just as the words in the main forum had the power to hurt and offend you. my goal here, was merely that you consider how your words, impact and affect others that share your community.

take care, and again thanks for considering.

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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 11:01 PM
Response to Reply #25
29. I'm sorry that ...
you feel I was being dismissive ... that was not my intent. But I really don't know what more I can do beyond refraining from using the offensive language.

BTW ... I do recognize that words have (hurtful) power. I also recognize that words have different meanings to different people based on their orientation, locations and life's experience; my explaining this is not a failure to take responsibilty for my words ... that would look like me explaining this and then continuing to use, or arguing my "right" to use the terms; I have done neither.
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bliss_eternal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 06:37 PM
Response to Reply #24
26. oh and fyi....
a "trick" is and always has been a reference to prostitution, whether you are aware of it's use in that sense or not. prostitutes "turn tricks."

but of course, you don't have to take my word for it:

Slang .
a. a prostitute's customer.
b. a sexual act between a prostitute and a customer.


taken from:
http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/trick



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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 10:30 PM
Response to Reply #26
28. Yes, I realize ...
that the term trick refers to a. a prostitute's customer.
b. a sexual act between a prostitute and a customer; but that doesn't make the term sexist. In fact, the term comes from the having fooled the customer ... It is a situation where the prostitute is in control (as much as someone being exploited by a larger system can be "in control."

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bliss_eternal Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 11:27 PM
Response to Reply #28
30. wow. you know what...?
your refusal to acknowledge the sexism, and the ways such terminology is a spit in the face of gay men, is telling.
given the outpouring of support shown for your post here, i'm not sure why you've bothered to respond to my critique/comments.

i appreciate your time but, given the examples you've shared, it's obvious to me that i'm wasting my time and energy.

take care.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Nov-23-10 12:49 AM
Response to Reply #30
31. Okay ...
But where have I refused to acknowledge the sexism of my words? Did I not acknowledge that the term "bitch" can have sexist connotations, depending on context and orientation? Did I not say that I would refrain from using such terminology?

Short of slitting my wrists or self-flagellation, I do not know what you want. But that said, I will not fight with family ... I will take under advisement your comments and refrain from further use of offensive terms.

Peace?
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lamp_shade Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 03:51 AM
Response to Original message
17. Kweli4Real, all I can say is WOW... what a beautiful essay. Thank you.
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cilla4progress Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 11:19 AM
Response to Original message
18. So much truth here -
in my limited experience as a white woman, but having worked in communities of color, I have seen this, and you articulate it beautifully. This is frustrating, shameful, angering, and tragic.

Thank God he has his beautiful queen and princesses, who are all, ultimately, that really matter. And he has us. And we will continue to support, respect, admire, and pull for him - even when we disagree with him - EVERY step of the way.

Thank you!
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Blue_Tires Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Nov-21-10 10:13 PM
Response to Original message
22. well said... n/t
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 12:08 AM
Response to Original message
23. Kweli, you're famous!
Edited on Mon Nov-22-10 12:16 AM by Number23
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=433x528587

Babylonsister posted your OP in GD-P. It is getting the exposure that it deserves. Beautifully written and powerful. And the response from the few remaining thinking people on DU is a definite :thumbsup:

Edit: And those of us who aren't Net Nannies trying to dictate and police what is and is not said in this forum genuinely appreciate it too. :eyes: Damn, who needs mods??
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Nov-23-10 05:27 PM
Response to Reply #23
32. Wow ...
I'm all ablush!
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Kind of Blue Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 12:26 PM
Response to Reply #32
35. You most certainly deserve it! n/t
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firedupdem Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-22-10 09:20 PM
Response to Original message
27. Just popped back in to tell you that I've shared your piece
with more than a few people and they loved it. I hope you will continue to post in this forum. I like talking to my folks in our 'language' from time to time, and I wanted you to know you're appreciated and sorely NEEDED in this forum!

:hug:

I'm a south sider from Chicago...so I understood you clearly my brother!
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 02:57 AM
Response to Reply #27
33. Seconded!
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 02:59 AM
Response to Original message
34. Great Piece....
Great Piece....and it is making the rounds on the Internet.

I will be posting it on my hubby's FB. He's got all of the Black pastors as friends
from all over the U.S., and as you know...in the Black Community, that's how the word gets out; church.

Thanks for writing! :hi:
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 01:06 PM
Response to Reply #34
36. If I had known ...
Edited on Wed Nov-24-10 01:12 PM by Kweli4Real
my thoughts would have gotten THIS much attention, I would've taken the time to edit out the typos (and out of respect to Eternal Bliss' comments) and moderated the language. I don't think those of the cloth will appreciate the F-word, the A-word, the B-word and the T-word.
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 01:50 PM
Response to Reply #36
37. If you want to edit it then, and PM it to me.....I'll post the revised version on my journal,
and link that version instead.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 04:31 PM
Response to Reply #37
39. Will do ...
Gotta big paper to get a start on the weekend, but I'll get it to you ... if I can figure out how to PM.

BYW, that piece was just my thoughts ... I couldn't imagine that it would resonnate with so many people. Imagine that!
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 04:00 PM
Response to Reply #36
38. Kweli,
Edited on Wed Nov-24-10 04:06 PM by Number23
this thread is full of women (strong, seriously opinionated women) who love your piece and have told you so in no uncertain terms.

There will always be some who take issue/offense with anything that is written, said or done. If you want to edit out the curse words because you think they may be offensive to the religious, then I understand that. But you would not have gotten the props that you got for a piece that was truly sexist. You can rest ASSURED of that. :)
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jmm Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 04:41 PM
Response to Original message
40. As much as people complain about this group being watched..
some of the responses in this thread are proof it is not because they wouldn't be allowed in any other forum. I may not agree with some of the language used in the OP mainly because Obama himself has spoken out against it numerous times but...let's just say I'm now glad I've been too busy to spend much time here lately.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 10:19 PM
Response to Reply #40
41. What are you talking about?
The OP would have been "allowed", as evidenced by it's appearance in the GD.

Maybe you have heard or seen something that I have not, but what in the language has PRESIDENT Obama spoken out against ... the term bitch, ass, trick? I think PRESIDENT Obama doesn't use those terms (in public), but I'm fairly certain he knows where they are coming from ... and would not protest (too much).

But that's just my thoughts.
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jmm Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Nov-24-10 11:44 PM
Response to Reply #41
42. I didn't say the OP wouldn't have been allowed, it's some of the responses that...
wouldn't be allowed. Do you remember when Obama criticized the video Ludacris did about him? Below is some info on it. I don't know how he speaks in private but in public he has spoke out against people using words like bitch even when they support him. I know he's made other similar comments about the language people use before. I'll try to find them later.



http://www.boston.com/news/politics/politicalintelligence/2008/07/obama_campaign_2.html

...

The problem is that the video also disparages Hillary Clinton using the b-word and calling her "irrelevant" -- and mocks John McCain suggesting that he belongs in a wheelchair, not the White House.

"As Barack Obama has said many, many times in the past, rap lyrics today too often perpetuate misogyny, materialism, and degrading images that he doesn’t want his daughters or any children exposed to," Obama spokesman Bill Burton said in a statement today.

...
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Blue_Tires Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-29-10 09:24 AM
Response to Original message
43. It seems like GD has more and more "Primary Obama" threads by the day
it's giving me a goddamned headache...
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-29-10 03:01 PM
Response to Reply #43
44. I'm looking for more Democratic Pastures myself.
Let the various trolls have these boards!
Just like I no longer watch cable,
I'm breaking this bad habit as well.

And its a shame, since we never got to truly enjoy the First Black President,
except for on election night! Pity that this historical presidency would be
taken from us before it even got truly started, and mostly for bullshit reasons.
Amazing how folks "forget" how politics truly work, and yet call themselves
politically informed.
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Mon Nov-29-10 11:17 PM
Response to Reply #44
45. Don't go ...
I'm just finding a spot to feel at home!

I treat most of the DU anti-Obama klan like I don that "special" family member that shows up to all the family events. You know we all have then ...

You listen politely, say "Uh huh. That's nice ... please pass the greens", then turn to someone, anyone else, and start a real conversation.
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Blue_Tires Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Nov-30-10 06:37 PM
Response to Reply #44
46. I encourage you to stay as well...
Sooner or later the trolls and haters will get run off as they always do...

I'll be honest; I'm pretty far left and wish the President would do some things a lot differently, but the "primary challenge" threads are just fuckin' DUMB... Irony is dead -- I can't tell if certain posters are just stirring the shit for their own jollies or if they are truly that ignorant of how our political system works...
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FrenchieCat Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Nov-30-10 09:23 PM
Response to Reply #46
47. No, they are not truly ignorant, they are willingly and conveniently ignorant.......
Edited on Tue Nov-30-10 09:24 PM by FrenchieCat
as it serves their purpose of stirring up shit, either because that's all they know how to do,
or because they'd rather complaint that it is Obama that will hurt millions of innocent Americans
at any moment, rather than them realizing that it is their shrill cynicism that is telegraphing
to everyone that it is they in actuality who don't truly care who gets hurt in the process of
being able to call themselves accurate in their opinions.
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Karenina Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-07-10 07:54 AM
Response to Original message
48. Obama's presidency has pulled back the curtain
on the bottomless pit of Amurrikkkan dysfunction. This board has become unreadable for me... :puke:
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-07-10 11:21 AM
Response to Reply #48
49. I have to agree ...
Okay, PRESIDENT Obama went for the U/C (and payroll tax holiday and Earned income tax credit and several other working class friendly) - Tax extension deal and 6-some odd million people know how their going to eat tomorrow. Good job, Mr. President!

I got into it with my (white, gay) boss this morning with him saying that he will not vote for PRESIDENT Obama again because he "caved" on this.

I asked my boss, "and what about all the people whom are 13 months more income/food secure? Don't you think their better off, despite the giving away of something that has no immediate effect on them, or even us?

He responded, "If he had taken a stand on principle and not caved, the people would than have blamed the republicans ... you know, the Party of No. They will see that it is the republicans who are obstructing."

At that point, I couldn't contain myself (I really did try) ... just laughed and asked him, "So what has changed? What will suddenly give the people vision? The people that you claim would blame the republicans haven't blamed the republicans for 2 years of 'NO'. Hell, they rode through 10 years of republican B.S. with hardly a peep ... except of course to now blame PRESIDENT Obama for 'not showing leadership'. Never mind, that it is clear that if PRESIDENT Obama had taken a stand on any progressive policy, he would have been standing alone. Maybe 200 in the House and 30 in the Senate would have backed his play."

I then changed the subject and asked something about work. That was two hours ago, and he hasn't spoken with me since. And this is a boss that in order to get any work done I have to tune him out until he leaves my office.
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Karenina Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-07-10 06:07 PM
Response to Reply #49
50. People seem to ignore the "political process" and pin every failure
Edited on Tue Dec-07-10 06:17 PM by Karenina
on Obama personally. The obstructionists who have clearly stated their goal is to crush him receive NO BLAME here. Those who claim to support him merely stand back with their arms crossed, lobbing spitballs, happily joining the M$M, "We ain't happy. WE ELECTED YOU to reverse the momentum of 50 years of policy which we've ignored. Whatchoo gonna do about it n*****? Nevah mind those threats to your family. DON'T turn your back on the Secret Service either."



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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-07-10 06:37 PM
Response to Reply #50
51. Hell ...
Don't even turn your back on your fellow democrats.

I always thought the difference between liberals and conservatives was liberal want what they want, but don't begrudge what others get; whereas, conservatives want what they want, but also don't want others to get anything.

DU is proving me wrong. There are so many "punish the wealthy, even if it could backfire and hurt others" posts that my head is spinning. And then there's the, "But the deal's not gonna help EVERYONE so better we not help anyone" posts.

And we know, all these "stand on principle" democrats would be the first raising even more hell, come the first payday in January, when their principled stand of letting all the tax cuts expire results in THEIR paycheck coming up light.
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Karenina Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-07-10 07:35 PM
Response to Reply #51
52. Kwelikins
I can no longer even relate to the monikers or labels. IMHO, the vast majority of Americans are no longer able to think critically. I'm daily reminded on this board of Ionesco's "Rhinoceros" which I first read as a kid in its original language and counted my blessings that I was able to do so.
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firedupdem Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-08-10 09:21 PM
Response to Reply #51
54. It's amazing to me how people act as if they really don't understand
how government works when it comes to this president. Other Dem presidents get a pass because of the congress they were working with etc. This president walked into a fire storm and has basically been left to fend for himself and the house and senate get a complete pass. I won't forget how these professional leftists and bloggers etc. have treated president Obama. Nothing he gets done is ever good enough.
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-10 04:31 AM
Response to Reply #51
57. "There are so many "punish the wealthy, even if it could backfire and hurt others"
Have you seen this? http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_topic&forum=389&topic_id=9723929

Growing up, I never wanted for anything but my family was no where NEAR rich. I'm still picking myself up off the floor at the foolishness exhibited in this thread. I can think of only a few DU low points (out of many, MANY) that were lower than this.
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-10 04:18 AM
Response to Reply #49
56. You're a smart man, Kweli
"So what has changed? What will suddenly give the people vision? The people that you claim would blame the republicans haven't blamed the republicans for 2 years of 'NO'. Hell, they rode through 10 years of republican B.S. with hardly a peep ... except of course to now blame PRESIDENT Obama for 'not showing leadership'. Never mind, that it is clear that if PRESIDENT Obama had taken a stand on any progressive policy, he would have been standing alone.

Brother, if THAT ain't the damn truth, I don't know what is...
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Kweli4Real Donating Member (792 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Tue Dec-21-10 08:51 PM
Response to Reply #49
59. Follow-up ...
My white Gay boss informed me today that he has reconsidered his position on PRESIDENT Obama -- he came to the conclusion that PRESIDENT Obama is not a "caver" but is playing the hand dealt to him AND moving the ball down the field.

Maybe, he understands that PRESIDENT Obama got DADT along with U/C extensions (and the middleclass tax cuts/payroll holiday, i.e., money in his pocket) for the low, low price of a 2 year extension of tax cuts for the wealthy ... something that really only affects him in the distant, distant future, if at all.
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-10 04:13 AM
Response to Reply #48
55. I couldn't agree more. But Karenina, if you ever think about leaving
drop me a note or two before you do, okay?? :hi:

This board has become unreadable for me...

Join the freaking club. I've seen threads here lately that would make Hannibal Lecter shake his head at the crazy. MyDU has looked like a ghost town for the last four months I've visited so little and posted even less.
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mstinamotorcity Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-09-10 01:46 PM
Response to Original message
58. And when it gets too much
tell us!!!! I have no problem telling them when,where,how,and give they ass bus fare straight to hell.
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Name removed Donating Member (0 posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Sun Dec-26-10 04:30 PM
Response to Original message
60. Deleted message
Message removed by moderator. Click here to review the message board rules.
 
Karenina Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Wed Dec-29-10 02:28 PM
Response to Original message
61. Micheal Vick? Obama ATE DOGS!
:freak:
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Number23 Donating Member (1000+ posts) Send PM | Profile | Ignore Thu Dec-30-10 01:37 AM
Response to Reply #61
62. I just saw that in GD.
This place has lost its MFing mind.
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