Perhaps Rev. Storey is correct. Maybe ‘Dog’ is not racist. But he sure knows how to use racist language in a denigrating manner that racists use. And he has no problem having his associates do the same. So based on that alone, I respectfully disagree with the reverend.
The worst part of this is that news commentators, and no doubt pundits in general, are using this to attack hip hop and organizations that seek to improve the condition of African Americans. I am no fan of Rev. Al Sharpton or Rev. Jesse Jackson, but I respect that they and their organizations do try to improve my life from time to time. I am no fan of 50 cent or gangsta rappers. But pundits comparing Chapman to 50 cent is wrong.
I disagree with any use of the N-word. Yes I realize I have promoted the Boondocks, but I believe they emphasize the idiocy of the common use of this word. And I hate the message promoted by corporate executives of misogyny, drugs, and imprisonment that is gangsta rap. I am upset that the rappers that are the figureheads of this genre have sold-out for a few pennies and are aiding in the pain, suffering, and difficulties many African Americans live through to varying degrees daily.
But Chapman is not an entertainer. He is a bounty hunter that happens to be televised. He is not being artistic in his words or actions. He is not commenting on society. He is just doing a job, like all those who don’t get television shows in his industry. So even that flimsy excuse of art is unavailable to him. Those pundits that try to draw a line between Chapman and gangsta rap are merely trying to change the subject and turn away from the fact that another White male has been caught being a racist and it embarrasses them.
How long will this be a public issue? Not long. Very quickly this story will be dropped, perhaps after Dog goes to a program to help him with his ‘insensitivities’. But the issue will not end. Like with Imus it will be deflected to rap and hip hop. The argument will become, “if Blacks say these words why can’t I?” Because ALL African Americans don’t use that word or such language. Most African Americans whether entertainers, celebrities, or regular people don’t speak in this manner in private or at work. But the media loves to promote the idea we all do. But because some don’t understand the meaning of a word, and executives of corporations want to continue to make money off this ‘inside’ joke, the accusation is made and sticks.
The biggest reason why the issue will be deflected and then dropped? Because the thought that some Whites are as racist today as in the 1950’s is unpopular. The realization that PC does not end racism is undesirable. Because too many Whites will be embarrassed, and like reparations or Slavery the issue is unpleasant for some Americans. Besides, the media can forgive Whites that act in a racist manner. They forgave Michael Richards, and sales of the Seinfeld DVD’s have gone on unabated. They forgave Don Imus, and he has had a 9 month vacation, a multi-million dollar windfall, and a new job for millions more.
Just don’t be African American and be controversial. OJ Simpson is going to go to jail not because of what happened in Las Vegas, but what happened over a decade ago. Mr. Genarlow Wilson spent 2 years in jail for a trivial action. Ms. Megan Williams won’t even be discussed by the media.
So is Duane ‘Dog’ Chapman racist? I say yes. Will he lose his television show? No. [And remember that will not affect his ability to work since he is a bounty hunter and not an entertainer anyway.] Do I feel bad or accept his apology? No, and I’m insulted by his attempt to preserve his income with this slap in the face. But he shouldn’t worry, and we should. White men that degrade and disparage African Americans are forgiven and their actions forgotten quickly anyway. At least according to the media.
Don’t you feel happy now? I would suggest that I would stop watching his show, but I don’t watch it already. If you are upset, stop. I’m not sure the demographic of my readers actually watch this but it might make a difference. The other thing is to contact A&E with letters for ‘Dog’ which can be sent to feedback@aetv.com.
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