Imus’ firing and lingering questions
Re “A talk powerhouse is shut down,” April 13
Don Imus has been fired, so now what? I sincerely hope the social uproar does not end with Imus’ firing. I hope we do not simply condemn Imus and be done with it because Imus represents an ideology.
For the record:
12:00 a.m. April 18, 2007 For The Record
Los Angeles Times Wednesday April 18, 2007 Home Edition Main News Part A Page 20 Editorial Pages Desk 1 inches; 57 words Type of Material: Correction
A letter published Monday attributed a quote to radio host Don Imus that was printed in a Times news article published Friday. The comment in the news article, about the radio personality not “going to sit around like an old woman,” was not made by Imus but by a radio show co-host doing an impression of Imus.
His voice has reached millions of people, all of whom choose to tune in and hear Imus spew hate. I can’t help but feel that this whole ordeal has been about silencing someone we don’t want to hear, when it should be about confronting why there are so many people who do.
Racism and sexism do not start and stop with Imus. If we don’t turn our outrage into something bigger, we deny the rampant existence of racism and sexism in our society. I feel the opportunity for a real discussion is being lost on “leaders” who just want to stand on a soapbox and wait for the next inevitable uproar.
LAURA FRANKEL
Santa Monica
*
Kudos to the African American community and corporate America for caring and taking such an effective stand. But where were they and the Gay and Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation after actor Isaiah Washington spewed similar demeaning hate?
Racism and sexism in this country seem to be dying, and I’m happy about that. Homophobia, however, seems to be thriving.
TODD HAYS
Pasadena
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No one can condone Imus’ comments. His firing was appropriate. Plain common decency, market forces, public opinion and the rhetoric of minority figures forged the intense pressure that resulted in his termination. However, there is a lingering question.
Where were and where are these same principals when it comes to protesting the demeaning racial and sexist attitudes openly expressed in rap and late-night comedy? We need to recognize the overwhelming impact these entertainment genres have on our youth. It’s about time the same powers that sent Imus packing take responsibility with the same fervor to reduce or eliminate the pervasive sexism and racism in lyrics. Let’s see if these individuals have backbone.
LEONARD SLATER
Seal Beach
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Imus is correct. He is not “going to sit around like an old woman.” He is going to sit around like an old man.
JOAN MARTIN
Woodland Hills
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