MSNBC Cancels Don Imus After Derogatory Statements - I Disagree

United States
April 11, 2007 6:20pm CST
Let me start by saying that the statements made by Don Imus were derogatory and very demeaning to women in general and to Black women in particular. I disagree with the decision to cancel his television simulcast. I've listened to Mr. Imus on WFAN radio for over 15 years. I've watched the Imus in the morning show on MSNBC since it's inception. Mr. Imus is what's called a shock jock. He is a equal opportunity offender. He has come down hard on Blacks, Whites, Males, Females, Politicians, Sports Figures, Jews, and just about everyone you can think of. One thing I know for sure is that Don Imus is not a racist. His actions prove this. He has a ranch for children with Cancer in New Mexico that caters to children of all colors. He's praised Black Ministers like Bishop Patterson who recently pasted away. He even donated money to Bishop Patterson's church in Memphis, TN because of the inspirational affect Bishop Patterson had on him. He pushed so hard this past election to get Harold Ford, a Black man, elected as a Senator in TN. I remember Mr. Imus telling a story about his son Wyatt. Wyatt asked him why some people were Black and some people were White. Mr. Imus told him it was just like cars. They come in different colors, but they all use the same fuel and they all acheive the same results. Getting you from one place to the other. Mr. Imus apoligized for his statements and agreed to serve his 2 week suspension with dignity. But that wasn't enough for some people. Didn't the Reverend Jesse Jackson's following forgive him after he acknowledged having an affair and a baby out of wedlock? Didn't the Jews forgive Mr. Jackson after refering to New York as Hymie Town? Did Al Sharton ever apoligize for accusing a New York city cop for falsely raping Tawana Brawly? I am a graduate of Rutger's University and what he said about those women basketball players was wrong. But he profusely apoligized and agreed to meet with them and ask for their forgiveness. For those advertisers and so-called Black leaders that called for Mr. Imus to be fired, you got your wish. Just don't expect me to support your causes or your products in the future. Just my opinion. Lloyd Cope
12 people like this
22 responses
• United States
11 Apr 07
You made some really good points and covered all the bases of this issue. You seem like a very positive thoughtful person. This is why I think you are missing the point. As for me I am shamelessly cranky and distrustful. MSNBC did not pull the plug for moral reasons they did it to stop the hemmorrhage of corporate sponsorship money. I think that is the American way ,and I am ok with that.
• United States
12 Apr 07
That is why I thing that the corporate sponsors are nothing but phonies and frauds. They had no problem with Mr. Imus when his rating grew some 30 percent over the previous year. They overlooked all his other comments. And why don't the corporate sponsors of the rap musicians cancel their sponsorship. I don't see Pepsi or Coke cancelling their summer sponsorship of tours by some of the most notorius rappers. I see a lot of hypocracy here. Lloyd
6 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
I would definitely not disagree with any of what you say but again you are bringing up issues of fairness and morality to defend Imus. MSNBC ignored all of those arguments and based their decision totally on business. If you want to save Imus you will have to argue that he is worth taking a financial risk on to save.
5 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
In the 1990s, Imus and his wife Deirdre founded the Imus Ranch, a working cattle ranch near Ribera, New Mexico, 50 miles southeast of Santa Fe. The Imus Ranch is a charitable organization for children with cancer, as well as siblings of SIDS victims. Imus, maintaining his 2007 commitment to the U.S. troops fighting overseas, helped raise over $6 million toward Center for the Intrepid, a Texas rehabilitation facility. Considered to be the largest technological center of its kind in the country, it is designed to help treat disabled veterans and help them with their transition back into the community. More recently, Imus took on the Veterans Administration when the Washington Post published a story uncovering the deplorable living conditions at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Consequently, Imus's rants preceded many Army resignations, including that of Gen. Kevin Kiley, the Army's now former Surgeon General. Kiley apparently lived adjacent to the troubled building; he testified before Congress that he had no idea of the deplorable conditions because performing barrack inspections was not in his job description. This totally outraged Imus, who unleashed a daily relentless attack on Kiley's personal fitness for military duty and dedication to his wounded troops. Lloyd
6 people like this
@Idlewild (6090)
• United States
12 Apr 07
The NBS News pres. said there was a big outcry within the company over Imus's comments, and whether those kind of comments represent what NBC and its decades-old news division is all about. Yes, Imus has offended many groups over the years, BUT almost all of them have been politicians, media types, celebrities, etc. Imus this time insulted a group of 10 college students, 5 of whom were in high school last year! This is to me beyond the pale and totally inexcusable. Yes, he does a lot of good charity work, but that doesn't excuse the comments he made. He's not a terrible person. But these comments were inexcusable. Imus has for decades lived on the edge; he's gotten himself in hot water many times before and has apologized his way out of it. At a certain point you have to say that if a person apologizes for doing something but then does it again and again, is he really sorry? He's long known that he was skirting the bounds of decency and getting away with it, and on occasion getting caught. He pushed it too far this time. Bottom line, he attacked people who weren't celebrities, pols, criminals, etc. -- he attacked college kids who were doing their best to represent their state. That resonated with a lot of people.
6 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
I'm just going to miss all the subjects that were discussed on a daily basis. I looked forward to hearing everyone's position on current affairs. I even gained an appreciation of country music from his show. I heard Vince Gill on his program and was very impressed by his music. I learned the inner workings of Nascar from Imus. I learned about Autism, childhood cancer, the treatment of wounded veterans and many other topics from his show. I'm going to miss waking up to Imus In The Morning. Lloyd
4 people like this
@clownfish (3272)
• United States
12 Apr 07
Hi, Lloyd! I agree with you 100 percent! The reason I agree with you is because Don Imus has given so much back to the community, as you already pointed out. He tries to help people and forward serious causes. I understand autism is one cause he is all for championing, and believe me, there aren't many out there who will. In my opinion, people like Howard Stern and Rosie O'Donnell have been just as offensive, but have neither apologized nor given anything back to the community. I watched the show where Rosie ambushed Tom Selleck about being the President of the NRA. She was completely off base, rude, and nasty. I think she should have been fired for that, but Tom didn't complain. He was a gentleman about the whole thing, much more than Rosie deserved. There are people out there who are a lot worse than Imus. I don't think Imus deserved what he got. I guess apologizing only works for the right people under the right circumstances, but like you said, we don't have to agree with it or support it. :-) ** BTW, I used to watch Don Imus when he was a VJ (video jockey) during the early days of VH-1 (back before it was full of celeb-reality and garbage). He was so cool!
• United States
12 Apr 07
I learned more about autism for Don Imus than from any other source. He doesn't even have anyone affected with autism. But he fought long and hard to help those find the source of it. I think you have to weigh the facts and come to a more reasonable conclusion. Give him the two week suspension and let's have a national conversation on racism, women and free speech. Lloyd
4 people like this
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
12 Apr 07
Hi Lloyd, Wow, you've certainly covered the bases with your argument. Although I'm not an Imus fan, and have only heard his show a couple of times, I live in NM. There is certainly no shortage of opinions about Imus here, both positive and negative. The one thing I've never heard him accused of is racism. What Imus said was insensitive and highly inappropriate. However, the free market (which is you and me and every person empowered with the ability to change the station) should determine whether Imus recovers from his bout with 'foot-in-mouth' disease. His future should not be determined by the media, Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton, or any single irate individual. That gives an awful lot of power to the few. And, you know what they say about power corrupting! Incidentally, I have never personally heard a single person acknowledge that either Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton truly represent their views on issues within the Black Community. In fact, I have only heard the opposite -- vehemently and often! So, what entitles either of them to act as prosecutor, judge and jury? If all racial slurs are to become punishable by loss of career and income, then all references to Irish Drunks, Scottish brutes, Italian thugs, Jewish tight-pursestrings, English frigidity etc... need to be treated the same. Of course, outlawing any mention of racial slurs in no way deters the thinking of racial slurs. Racism will only die into obscurity when people stop empowering it by throwing tyrades every time some one is racially offended! On a slightly different note: I believe that Howard Stern saw this Political Correctness Crusade coming down the pike. Perhaps Imus should have jumped ship when Stern did.
5 people like this
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
12 Apr 07
Good morning Lloyd, I hope you're right about Imus landing on his feet. Especially in light of this morning's news that his show has been cancelled. I haven't read the full details, but it is truly indicative of political correctness gone terribly wrong if any part of his career has been terminated. Oh, and you're absolutely right about having the thickness of your skin underestimated. It would really anger me to have my racial spokespeople wrongly informing the world that I'm not emotionally developed enough to deal with racially insensitive slurs. It is woefully wrong to treat any race of people as if they are children. When in fact, American's Black Community has experienced the single greatest societal leaps of any race of people throughout history. Shame on those who see their own as frail and underdeveloped!
3 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
Mr. Imus will definately land on his feet somewhere else. I just don't like the feeding frenzy that's going on. I just don't think we are as thin-skinned as some people would have everyone believe. Where does this all end? Who is going to write the book on what and what not can be said in our society? We really better think about what we are doing when we start to silence those who we may not agree with. You or I could be next. Lloyd
4 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
I saw a very interesting discussion on that "faux pas" and a very important point was bought up that it was taken as a racial slur when he used nappy to describe the hairstyle but actually more attention should have been made to his reference naming women as ho's (I don't know how to spell it) as this is a very derogatory comment made about all women regardless of their color.
5 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
I agree with you let them mete out the judgment as they were the ones most maligned.
3 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
He screwed up big time. And both terms are very derogatory women in general and Black women in particular. I just wish they would have given him a chance top meet with the Rutger's womens basketball team before making their decision to fire him. Lloyd
3 people like this
@KrisNY (7590)
• United States
11 Apr 07
I'm not sure if I can agree with you here. I think what Imus said was terribly wrong- Yes he has apologized-- Would he have if the comment didn't draw so much attention? I think taking shots at politicians, pro athletes, actors/actresses is fine- But when you make deragatory comments about young women who have done nothing but go to college- that is uncalled for and reason to be punished. Young women are already very impressionable- I think yes- he should have been suspended-- fired - I'm not sure- I think MSNBC is trying to stop companies from pulling out- Look at what happened when Kobe Bryant was accused of rape- He lost all his sponsors- He was untouchable-- He is finally starting to get sponsors again- I say apologize-- stop being a jerk-- meet with the team- I'm not sure if I would have even agreed to that if I was them. and take what you have coming to you.
• United States
12 Apr 07
I agree with you. Taking a shot at a group of student atheletes was totally wrong. That crossed the line. I think the two week suspension was appropriate and he openly accepted it. I truly believe that there are things in this world that are definately unforgivable, but this was not one of them. Both Reverend Jackson and Sharpton should practive what they preach in regards to forgiveness. I wonder if they are now pounding their chests now that they acheived their goals. Now I hope they move on and clean up the mess in their own houses. Lloyd
6 people like this
@KrisNY (7590)
• United States
12 Apr 07
I do agree with this- however I don't see them cleaning up their own backyard. I hope the girls find their meeting with Imus as healing.
5 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
We are all human and we do make mistakes. Our celebrities have proven that on more than one occasion! Some are more prone to sticking their foot in their mouths than others. WE do need to remember the good that the person has done and not focus on the bad. Thank you for your post. Huggers to you.
4 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
Thank you very much. I need a hug after that last post. Your friend. Lloyd
3 people like this
@wildguy2 (1349)
• Canada
12 Apr 07
You are right in your post and have excellent points. If only a lot of others had been as opened minded about hs comments as you are he would still be in the seat doing what he does. Again excellent points
5 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
Thanks for your reply. I just didn't want to sit back and hold my thoughts inside. I just felt that MyLot was a excellent forum to express my feelings. I know there are those who disagree with me, but unlike those who silenced Mr. Imus, I'm free to express my views here. Lloyd
3 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
I'm with you, Lloyd. Imus did everything but bend over and kiss Sharpton's behind. God doesn't like spite, and I hope the good Reverends will remember that on their way to hell.
5 people like this
@mari610 (360)
• United States
12 Apr 07
lloydanthony: So you seem to be of the opinion,that because you as an individual, learned much from watching and listening to Mr. Imus'broadcasts,he should be able to continue to spew his racial slurs, insults and derogatory statements against every race under the sun. Do you hold your ears or change the channel when he's doing this? You say, he is known as a "shock jock" and a "equal opportunity offender" and has come down on everyone under the sun. And it's for this very reason,that finally, the gaunlet has come come down on him. Finally, this man went way too far.10, intelligent,bright and skilled individuals, who did nothing to this man, suddenly and without any wrong doing on their part,find themselves the subject of ridicule, shame and some of the most insulting racial slurs i've ever heard.No one knows, how long these young and impressionable women , will be scarred by his callous statements. And as far as his apology goes,what other choice did he have? He was well aware of the consequences his actions may produce, so let's just say, he had his reasons. You also speak of all the good this man has done for black people and people in general,how much you yourself have learned from him.This does not excuse his deplorable behavior, nor does it even the score in any way shape or form.Of all the people in this world, who are good deed doers, altruistic individuals, doctors and charitable orginizations, you can learn and gain knowledge from, you've decided that Mr. Imus, despite using the airways for his "shock jock"demeaning behavior should be allowed to keep his job,for what he's personally given you. I would suggest, you look elsewhere for this knowledge. There are many others who can teach you all you need to know, without the garbage included.
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
12 Apr 07
Well said, Lloyd!
3 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
We are all individuals. No one should be able to tell me or suggest where I should look for knowledge. Should I just subscribe to sanitized versions of current events? I'm able to criticize and be criticized. I don't want the same version for politically speach expressed to me everyday. Sometimes the exceptions have some value also. I know these young ladies didn't deserve this, but where does it end? How about if I was able to delete your reply to me? Would you like that? How about if MyLot determined that your reply to me was offensive? Would you approve of that? Think long term and not the spur of the moment. Thanks for your opposing opinion. You are always welcome here. Lloyd
4 people like this
@mari610 (360)
• United States
12 Apr 07
If I were to say the kinds of things to "you" that Imus said about these young women,(which I never would) I would "expect" you to delete my message. And I would expect Mylot to do the same. I give my opinion on someone you like and admire and immediately you use the old time method of "turning the tables" by saying I tried to push you into seeking knowledge from other sources.When, all I meant by that statement was, that there are many, many people who know as much, give as much, and share as much, if not more ,of their knowledge, their time and their expertise with others as Mr Imus has , without having their listeners or supporters be subject to the kinds of insults and ridicule this man has been dishing out for years.Believe and support, whoever you may, just don't expect everyone to do the same.
• United States
12 Apr 07
I* agree and as for the ""rev""al Sharpton the rev in front of ones name carries the idea that you are a christian why dosent he read the scripture on forgiveness ???If I had his e mail id send him the following (Matt.18:21-35 21 Then Peter came to Jesus and asked, "Lord, how many times shall I forgive my brother when he sins against me? Up to seven times?" 22 Jesus answered, "I tell you, not seven times, but seventy-seven times.
4 people like this
• United States
13 Apr 07
I'm just wondering if the two reverends are feeling good about themselves. Is this another notch in there politically correct belt/ They need to start practicing what they preach. There is nothing wrong with forgiving a person. I forgive him and accept his apology. Lloyd
5 people like this
• United States
13 Apr 07
they need to ask wwjd (what would jesus do )and he would forgive !
4 people like this
@Kaeli72 (1229)
• United States
12 Apr 07
Hubby and I were talking about this on the way to his job and we came to the same conclusion: nothing. We don't prove nor disprove of his actions. One of the player's salon is called "Nappy hair" and is organized by a black woman. (I don't mean to be raicist here) Why is it ok for black people to call each other the "N" word but don't be a white or other calling a black man the "N" word? This man appologized...that takes guts. Mel Gibson did a bad thing and he appologized. Some people kill others in cold blood but do not appologize, yet they get all the media attention, movies and books written about it. Look at Jerry Springer. You have these not even half dressed women of all shapes and sizes come on with such a scary appearance, thank goodness I don't watch any of these shows. As these women are standing up, screaming at the others with their chest practically hanging out of the tops, their vocal expressions are bleeped. What are we trying to say? that visual is more accepted than vocal expression?
4 people like this
• Janesville, Wisconsin
13 Apr 07
That is a point that should be brought up. If One Race can not state or say something because it is Racist, then ALL races should be barred from saying that something. Otherwise it is Still Racism... and then it turns into Reverse discrimination... and is Racially self - degrading. - DNatureofDTrain
2 people like this
• United States
12 Apr 07
"Why is it ok for black people to call each other the "N" word but don't be a white or other calling a black man the "N" word?" You know it's not right. You have to take the circumstances into consideration. I don't like it when Black people use the N word, but you know it's different when someone of another race use it. It all has to do with the history of Black people here in America. I'm sure there are other people and nationalities that have certain names they call each other in private, but don't want others to repeat it. That is not the issue here. The issue is someone making a huge mistake, then realizing it and making amends for it. I personally forgive him. I don't think it's unforgivable. If someone is offended with his comments and find it in their heart not to forgive him, then don't patronize his shows, the products he endorses or anything he is associated with. I truly believe he understands the hurt he has caused. Lloyd
4 people like this
@agrigsby (224)
• United States
13 Apr 07
wow you really have put things in a completely different light. i had no clue that IMus was so involved with the community. i did know that he is somewhat like Howard Stern when it comes to saying what was on his mind. I do feel the statement he made was racist, but I do not feel that IMus, as a person, is necessarily racist. but do I think IMus dislike the African-American race? Of course not! He only made a stupid mistake, probably trying to live and upstand the reputation he built of crossing the line on several occasions. No I don't think he should've been fired, but I think he needed to do more than just apologize. He's done that WAY too often and all the network would do was slap him on the wrist. Something more needed to be done, but not something as justifiable as removing him from radio. I don't think this will be the last that we see of him.
• United States
15 Apr 07
Thank you for your resonable reply. What he said was indeed derogatory and stupid, but if that was the standard for being fired from your job, there should be a lot more firings coming soon. I'm glad I was able to expose you to some of the charitable work he does for everyone in the community. Lloyd
2 people like this
• United States
13 Apr 07
lloyd..i'm a black female...what he said offened me as much as it offended the young women he was talking to...he stated...look at them nappy head whoe play...i ask you..was he saying that because they were black females that they was by nature nappy headed?..then does that mean cause i'ma black female he would classify me as being nappy headed...i take offense...these are young women who are tring to make something of their lives...more then likely will graduated and become someone possitive in this world...they should not be degraded like that...maybe you're a man and can't relate...but i can...stop being a suck up and stand up to what's right...he was wrong...and in being wrong...whatever you're consequence is..you have to take it and deal with it..i say fire him...he's a public figure and he should not be able to low-rate any race creed or religion..and if you do as a public official...take the consequences
4 people like this
@clownfish (3272)
• United States
13 Apr 07
Well, they HAVE accepted Imus' apology. Should you do less? Or do you think you can continue to insult someone because you were offended? How does that make you better?
3 people like this
@clownfish (3272)
• United States
13 Apr 07
Wow! I understand your being offended, completely, but you didn't need to insult Lloyd. Being a kind-hearted man with the ability to accept an apology and forgive does NOT make him a "suck up" or in the wrong. He is very gracious to forgive Don Imus and he sets a wonderful example. It's well within your rights to be offended, but does that give you the right to offend others? Just something to think about.
4 people like this
@mari610 (360)
• United States
13 Apr 07
You state that Lloyd was very "gracious" in forgiving Imus for his offensive behavior and I say, why shouldn't he be? He wasn't the one,nor were any of his family or friends,put down,insulted and degraded by this man on national t.v and radio.How easy would it have been for him to forgive Imus,if this had been any female relative or friend of his that these terrible things were being said about? And although he may be a very good hearted person, in this case, it doesn't even apply,I myself am a very good hearted person and a very forgiving one at that, but you don't seem to see, that this has "nothing" to do with forgiveness of Imus,none of us,(being we're not related to these young women or know any of them personally ) have anything to forgive.The only ones who can do any forgiving, are the young women themselves and that could and should be called "gracious" and "good hearted" indeed. As women, I and Diamondjewel and the thousands of women who were unfortunate enough to have heard Imus comments on these young women, are offended,angered and extremely hurt by his comments, I'll leave the forgiveness part to God and these women.
3 people like this
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
15 Apr 07
Good morning Lloyd, Did you hear that in the aftermath of Imus's firing that it was revealed that George Soros was behind the witch hunt to destroy Imus? Apparently, Soros has five others on his chopping block, with an intent to begin crumbling other career castles immediately? Nope, Rosie isn't one of the five. Instead, they are all well known conservatives. Interesting that Imus was first to be taken down, since he's neither conservative nor liberal. So, now at least we know who was behind the Imus move. And, we now know it was political -- 'cause Soros is all about money & politics. Looks like the fear that a PC war is coming have been realized. This is going to get alot uglier before it gets better.
2 people like this
• United States
15 Apr 07
Where did you see that information? If it's true George Soros is sadly misguided. Don Imus had more liberals than conservatives appearing on his TV and radio shows. He endorsed Harold Ford a Black democrat for the Senate seat in TN. I'm really hoping he is not behind this because it makes the democrats seem petty and sneaky. Lloyd
1 person likes this
@irisheyes (4370)
• United States
19 Apr 07
I don't like shock jocks and I don't listen to any of them. I thought what he said was awful but I think every thing those guys say is awful. Isn't that what they call them shock jocks? Actually, I think some of the remarks our politicians have been forgiven for were worse than what Imus said because they are suppposed to be creditable leaders that set an examle. Even though I would never bother listining to his radio show, I also disagree with his firing.
1 person likes this
• United States
19 Apr 07
I liked waking up to his show every morning. He had great guests. I learned a lot about things like childhood cancer and autism. It was a forum to meet many of the people who run our government. He was very offensive, but it didn't really bother me. He was offensive to everyone. Now that he is silenced, all we have is the politically correct talking heads. Lloyd
@Carrie26 (1587)
• United States
15 Apr 07
I agree with you.At least he apologized and admitted he was wrong.Heck their is people that probably make remarkes like that and do not aploogize.I feel that people should forgive people if they apologize.Some people act like they are so perfect when actually no one is.We all make mistakes.Like for instance Janet Jackson never got fired and she showed her you know what on live tv at the game.I think she knew waht was going to happen but who knows I cant say because maybe she didnt.I think people shoudl leave people alone if they are truley sorry.Some people act like that it the only time someone has done that.
• United States
15 Apr 07
I just don't understand the glee some people get from bringing others down. I wonder if they are in some back room giving each other high fives. Lloyd
2 people like this
@Carrie26 (1587)
• United States
15 Apr 07
I think some people do not have a conscience(sorry I hope I spelled that right)they do not apologize wherease the people that apologize seem to have maybe a soft heart .
• United States
15 Apr 07
Lloyd, i agree wtih you. Yes, what Don Imus said was inappropriate. Yes, it was hurtful. Yes, it was wrong. YES
• United States
15 Apr 07
The way people were carrying on this week, you would have thought that he flew a plane into a building. I think they all feel a little silly right now. I just couldn't believe the attention it received. I blew Anna Nicole Smith and Larry Birkhead off the front pages. Lloyd
2 people like this
@Rozie37 (15499)
• Turkmenistan
24 May 07
Lloyd, I am so sorry, but I have to disagree with you. I don't feel that there is any place in this world for shock jocks who make fun of or disrespect any race, including their own. It's like saying I am handicap, therefore, I can make fun of other handicap people. Maybe he has done great things for all races and that is good, but how do you think it would feel for those same children to hear him on the radio making fun of the races. The question is what are you willing to do for money? It's like these politicians who come out and say that they support abortion, but personally, they are against it. To me, this is talking out of both sides of your mouth and it is disgusting. There are still a lot of people in this world who are very prejudice and no one should be encouraging them in their sickness, especially not getting paid big bucks to do it. What ever happen to "To thine own self be true." I could hate a race in my heart and still include them in charity events to make me look okay. The point that I am trying to make is that, if you do not feel something in your heart, why let it come out of your mouth. Now I had heard something about him wanting to sue the network because they allowed him to go to far and even encouraged it and then fired him for that very same thing. If this is true, then I feel that he definitely has a case. If they were totally behind his comments, then he should not have taken the fall for it.
1 person likes this
• United States
24 May 07
I've been listening to Don Imus for over 15 years. He didn't do anything that day that he had done in the previous years. There is a reason that he had a $140 million dollar contract. It's because he was popular and people listened to and watched his programs. There is a reason that we have hundreds of radio and television stations. If a person don't like what they are seeing or hearing, then they have the choice to change the channel. Where does this end? What kind of pure society do we want? I don't want everything we see or listen to being judged by a few people. Just my opinion. Lloyd
1 person likes this
• United States
24 May 07
I think you are giving humans too much credit. We all have faults. Sometimes a little forgiveness is the right thing to do. Thanks for your opposing opinion though. That's what makes the world go round. Your friend. Lloyd
@Rozie37 (15499)
• Turkmenistan
24 May 07
I want a society that is as close to purity as we can get it. It does not matter if everyone in the world loved him, that still does not make him right to say the things that he said. A lot of people are for abortion, does that make it right? A lot of people are for gay rights, does that make it right? A lot of people wanted Jesus Christ to die on the cross, did that make it right?
@Drakhan (240)
• United States
15 Apr 07
I think people should be more worried about the precedent this sets. We've now established that it's okay for corporations to put profits above fairness and morality. They can now say they are combating the coarsening of public discourse. Minorities, the people who should value free speech most, are cheering for censorship. How long do you think it will be before it gets turned against them? Do you truly believe CBS or Proctor and Gamble care about blacks? No, and it will be a little easier for them to close doors now. Hip hop, rappers, comics ... I hear a lot of them use language worse than Imus'. Even Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton have frequently said things more racist and demeaning. I wonder if they'll still cheer if networks begin to decide their agendas are too controversial to air? It can happen. They've just shown all it takes is enough noise to scare the greedheads.
3 people like this
• United States
15 Apr 07
You hit the nail right on the head. Minorities are the last people trying to censor someone. And when they do bring down a big fish like Mr. Imus, it makes it easier for themselves to be censored. We should welcome freedom of speach. Why not know what people are thinking, instead of them holding it within? This is going to come back and haunt a lot of people in the end. Lloyd
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