Jenn critically analyzes Rosie O’Donnell’s “ching chong” statements as well as taking a look at the myriad of racist responses from the media/blogosphere. O’Donnell’s statements on the view seem to have been overtly overlooked by most mainstream news outlets. It appears to be a trend that media coverage of racism against Asian Americans, Latinos, and Native Americans is swept aside to make way for the more stereotypical and polarized “white vs. Black.”
Note: Jenn’s blog, Reappropriate, is a great read. Her critiques on social justice issues are top notch. You should add her feed to your feedreader asap.
Tags: discrimination, Race, racism, Social Justice, white privilege
Thanks for the link!
Don’t be afraid of words - they can not harm you.
I think that words can definitely be harmful. In fact, I feel that words can be just as harmful as so-called “sticks and stones.” The psychological impact of hate speech can have an impact that lasts far longer than the time it takes to heal from a physical injury.
It amazes me that Rosie O’Donnell is still able to find work. She is colossally unfunny.
Thanks for the link!
“Don’t be afraid of words - they can not harm you.”
But they do. Labeling, or verbally degrading someone hinders them as much as a physical injury. It is foolish to say “Don’t be afraid of words - they can not harm you.” or “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”. It’s ridiculous. It’s anectodal. It leaves room for people to make derogatory comments because “words are just words”. Stop trying to simplify racism/bigotry/hate.