Dr. Boyce Watkins vs. Bill O'Reilly Fox News

African-Americans are getting tired of Bill O'Reilly. He has joked about lynching Michelle Obama, insulted the victims of Hurricane Katrina, described African-Americans as uncivilized people, and consistently attacked and undermined everything about black culture. Additionally, he and the rest of the right wing have engaged in unfair, racialized attacks on Senator Barack Obama.

It is time to fight the hate and oppression. Bill O'Reilly, Sean Hannity and others represent the ugliest of American traditions. As our country tries to move forward with peace and equality, these men use their platforms to engage in the facism and white supremacist mindsets our country fought during World War II.

It is time for our country to move forward. Let's get Bill O'Reilly OFF THE AIR!

I am so happy to hear that there are others sharing the same frustrations I am regarding Fox News and the reporters. To me Fox News has cause more racial tension during the campaign then any other I have witness. And what really gets me is that they know it and hide behind the phrase of being a conservative.

I definitely for the cause of exposing O'Reilly Limbaugh, Hannity.

Keep up the good work

Tamy Spencer

I really feel helpless when i listen to ALL of the mentioned personalities. You can see the disgust and distain of BLACK PEOPLE on their FACES when they be talking and they sound so stupid and you can see by the sneers on their faces that they know what they are doing and some of the guest that they have on their shows just have their scripts down pact right with the host. They ENJOY THEIR BLANTANT RACISM! Anything i can do LET ME KNOW!!!! THANKS FOR E_MAIL. Derrick Gaston St. Louis, MO> 55 yrs. old B/M

Thank you for taking the time to write your e-mail. I have never really listened to O'Reilly or Hannity (whom I have dubbed 'haggardty'). I don't watch Fox News currently but I have been told of their racist comments. I am sadden by the misrepresentation of Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright. I have heard more of the sermons and there is nothing warranting the behavior of any of the media. Fox has shown themselves to support this kind of racist 'lynching'. I strongly feel that there must be something that we as African Americans can do that is a peaceful, powerful, indelible statement of our distaste for this kind of 'lynching'. Surely they have laid down the rope and taken up the pen, video, and snippet as their new tool of 'murder'.

There is an outbreak of overt racism. The beating of the three young men in Philly is an indication of that not to mention the murderous habits of the Chicago police.

I do not feel that marches will be as effective as they once were. There are new tools available today. I am not tech savvy enough to know how they can all be applied but African Americans must make a statement to say that there is no way we are going to take this crap lying down. I pray something comes to mind soon that is strong, powerful and so visible the people that want to think that is acceptable wake up to find they are dealing with a new breed of African American.

I however, realize that an ego as out of control as O'R and Han will never be shut up or contained in their current form (but their chickens will come home to roost). They will leave Fox and go somewhere else to practice their insanity. Neither men seem to have enough brain power to be as backwards as they are so they are more doing what keeps them on the air.

We may stand a better opportunity by approaching the advertisers and their products. If we were to make it known that any companies advertising on these shows will be boycotted by all African Americans the advertisers may choose to bow out. Pepsi dropped Michael Jackson. If we make it clear to the advertisers that we will consider them RACIST and not use their services or buy their products that may be more effective in geeting those guys off the air and keeping them off. We need to make racism not cost effective. One thing most business know is that we spend more money on 'stuff' than any other ethnic group.

I hope this helps you and our people to make some changes in the way we are perceived in American by some. I know people like Barack Obama and you and many others have helped. The rest of us need to do our part to help, too.

Edna E Carter

Dr Watkins.

Thank you for your comments on Rev Wright.

Got your back, let them talk…

Jacqui Casto

Anthropologist & Historian

hotep.

as a contemporary descendant of enslaved africans, i feel compelled to 
express my outrage towards bill o'reilly of fox news who regularly uses
 the seductive power of television to assault the dignity of my people. 
o'reilly's racist remarks exploits the fear, hatred and prejudices of every 
day people who love america, yet believe - after listening to his unique 
brand of contempt - african-descended folk should be treated as
three-fifths of a human being. o'reilly is like nicotine: hazardous to my health.

mark j. tuggle

I'm just curious as to how Bill O' was able to make that sexual harassment incident go away... is he really that powerful? - Bessie Baker.

To The Editor:

As a 78 year old American of African descent, I feel compelled to respond to all this 'much ado about nothing' when it comes to the statement that Michelle Obama made about the fact that this is the first time in her adult life that she has been proud to be an American.

The country needs to hear this from the Black perspective.

Long before I was born, my grandfather Joseph Burleson, owned a considerable amount of land in oil rich Texas. Because during that era, Blacks could not vote, nor could they contest anything in the courts of the United States, my grandfather's land was STOLEN by his White neighbor. My grandfather, who was literate and better educated than my grandmother, drove to town. Seeing my grandfather leave, the covetous neighbor asked my grandmother to show him the deed to the property. He snatched it. She could not insist that he give it back, nor could she have reported this THEFT to the sheriff because of the fact that

Blacks had no rights in the 1800's. The prevailing law at that time was he who held the deed owned the land. Do you think that is something that I am PROUD OF? Right now I should be living off the oil and gas royalties.

In 1934 when my dad drove us to Texas to meet his family, when he stopped to purchase gasoline, his daughters and wife were not allowed to use the washroom. As a man it was easier for him to relieve himself in the bushes, but not for the females. We were, however, reduced to having to go in the bushes, also. Do you think I am PROUD OF THAT?

In 1938 when my oldest sister went to enroll in Hyde Park High School, she was told by the counselor that she did not want to take college preparatory courses, she wanted to study domestic science. Do you think I'm PROUD OF THAT? Of course, when Beatrice Lillian Hurley-Burleson went to school the next day, that was the last time anyone thought that the Burleson girls wanted to study domestic science.

When in 1943 my parents attempted to buy the 2 flat at 5338 South Kenwood, where we had lived since 1933, in Hyde Park, Chicago, IL we were told that we could not buy it because there was a restrictive covenant that said that the property was never to be sold to Negroes.' Do you think I am PROUD OF THAT?

In 1950 when I graduated from college, I was unable to get a job because I was considered 'overqualified.' the code word for they would not hire me because of my race. All of the want ads called for Japanese Americans or Neisis ( the word given to Japanese Americans at that time). Do you think that was something that I should have been PROUD OF?

I understood that America was trying to make up for the interring of innocent and patriotic Americans who were our enemy by association.

My cousin's barbershop was bombed in Mississippi in the 50's because he was encouraging Black people to register to vote. His wife who had earned a Masters Degree from Northwestern University lost her position as the principal of the local school because of the voter registration activities. Is that something I should be PROUD OF?

Now we get to Rev. Jeremiah Wright, the pastor of the Obama family. Rev. Wright like so many religious zealots overstates many things, that many of his members do not agree with. To suggest that Senator Obama should leave the church of his choice is not only a double standard, but it is absurd. Would any of the talking heads who are so alarmed by Rev. Wright's thoughts and speeches suggest that Catholics should abandon their faith or denounce and reject the Pope because so many priests have molested children? These children were exploited and taken advantage of and they had no choice to even know they could resist, reject and denounce. To me the situations are parallel, except for the fact that the priests behavior is a physical violation of the innocence of children who are marred for life; and the priests behavior is a crime.

Rev. Wright's speeches are just words, that one can listen to or not, the members have a choice. Should Governor Romney denounce and reject the Mormon Church because some of their members practice polygamy?

As Senator Obama has previously stated, we have entered the silly season.

Barack Obama is an adult, and most importantly, he is an exceptionally intelligent adult. Like most of us adults, fortunately, we do not accept all we hear or see. If we did, the world would be more amoral, debased and perverted than the world of today is.

I see all these 'so called' pondering's an attempt to marginalize the candidacy of Senator Barack Obama. I cannot truly call this racism because some ignorant Blacks have also spoken disparagingly about him.

I accept this as the darker side of mankind who because of their own inadequacies, they project their deficiencies on others. Barack Obama is a very rare individual, the likes of whom the world seldom sees. Like most geniuses, they are often misunderstood. They are objects of envy and jealousy. They are suspect because they soar above the average man who does not have the intellectual ability to understand the greatness of special people. They are also targets to be pulled down to the level of the mediocre who cannot stand to see an individual with deep convictions and high standards.

We have not seen a phenomena like Barack Obama in many years and many generations. Like Ghandi, like Jesus, like Einstein, like Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., like Mother Theresa, genetically, intellectually and spiritually, these people offer the world so much, but they are often maligned and misunderstood.

Barack Obama is a Christian in the true sense of the word. A true Christian loves his fellow man unconditionally. A true Christian wants the best and tries to bring out the best in his fellow man. A true Christian wants to unite and bring the world together in peace and harmony. This is what Senator Obama stands for; but, unfortunately, he has had to get off point to answer these false charges, innuendoes, and just plain lies.

We are in the presence of an angel unaware in Senator Barack Obama and this country needs him, more than he needs us. He is the only person atthis time in history who can restore respect for America with the worlds' people. Because of his family background, the influence of his beloved mother who instilled great values in him, the influence of his absent father who vicariously inspired a son to go to Harvard as the father had done, the influence of a minister who brought him to an understanding of the value and meaning of Christianity, the influence of a brilliant Harvard educated wife who inspires him and keeps him grounded; he is the epitome of a citizen of the world. He is of the world because the world is in him; and this is what America needs to bring us out of the abyss to which we have sunk in the eyes of the world.

Like, Michelle Obama, after living in this country all of my 78 years, loving my country and not understanding why my country has not loved me, I now for the first time in my adult life feel PROUD OF MY COUNTRY because I sense a maturing, a recognition of talent and character and not color, and a field of candidates aspiring to lead this nation coming from very diverse backgrounds of gender, religious beliefs, national origin, ethnicity, age and experiences.

This to me is the HOPE that America is coming into her own and will begin to CHANGE and will embrace the philosophy upon which this country was founded, where all men are created equal and are entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

Now I truly believe, YES WE CAN!

Sarah D. Wills-Dubose, MA, M.Ed, RHIA

Director Health Information Services

Summit Behavioral Healthcare

Thank you Dr. Watkins!

I have two black kids in my family-- I am their very lucky auntie-- and appreciate all you do very deeply. As far as I am concerned, this, you, Obama, Wright, progressive action is about all of us, but especially this is for the new generation growing up in America today. I am of Greek heritage and I understand that we are all one race, the human race, but we have cultural and political concerns and needs that are distinct and we have every right to our differences as well as to our oneness.

Yes We Can!

Olga Alexakos

Thank you. We may need to do the same about the Clintons as well. It is amazing that she continues to spread the message that Obama is not electable when she is not in the lead or has even barely held the lead. Her latest feed that she holds the white vote is one of the many reasons there is more than one America.

James K. Jefferson, Jr.

Dear Dr. Watkins: I'm terribly sorry about all the racism and institutional racism you and billions of African-American sister's and brother's are going through. This actually especially makes me angry as the Educational Community is were it does the most damage. These kids grow up and teach it to their children in turn. I have approximately 10 Professors and Teachers in my family and am in my own battle with them as they're racist too. My English Professor mother told me "Whites should be separate from blacks" and when I liked an African-American guy in school, she said "I don't want you with black boys". Around 8 years ago, as I make it clear to everyone I only date African-American guys, my "mother" told me "why don't you find a nice Italian guy?". I'm so tired of all this racism so the more I hear, the more harder I work to fight it. That's why I could be doing anything, but if I hear about any racial profiling/racist issue, I make a B line there! Please know that God loves you and all those racists you're surrounded by will pay BIG time when they leave this earth. They're probably paying big time now in ways they don't even realize as GOD DOESN'T LIKE UGLY.....RACISM. Wnen they insult you with their racist and shabby treatment, they're insulting God big time. All their words will be played back to them when they die and then they can continue on to HELL. Also, all these copycat noose hate crimes were something I knew would come. I CONTINUE looking forward to protesting those racist people who think think they can just go around doing whatever they want to disrespect the African-American Community. A crime against one of Gods children, is a crime against ALL anyway. When you start thinking about all the racism, remember........................those racist white people are dying spending millions of dollars at tanning salons and all sorts of tanning products in an attempt to get your pigmentation. The same time they're disrespecting you, they are feeling insecure about themselves so they look for someone to lash out at by going to the lowest levels they can find as they're of very low mentality. So, don't feel bad. Enjoy your greatness and be proud of it regardless of the idiots around you pretending to be Educators. They're not even educating themselves. They are the reason why the United States struggles so much in every shape and form. Everything starts with the core. Their core is rotten from racism which affects everyone negatively one way or another. I say this simply because we are all God's children and when we're not happy, that negativity travels far and wide manifestating in many forms. I applaud you for working so hard to be a role model to the African-American and ALL Communities. You're doing a great job and people just get jealous of that so they attack you. Don't take it personally. They're not doing much to educate and help people like you or they would be honoring you instead! You're such a good and respectful man and I'm sure everyone see's that. Just be proud of yourself and keep up the good work. Don't let anyone distract you from the great reality of respectable work you're doing. You'll prevail in all the great work you do and stupid accusations you're enduring to make a fool of those jerks out there. May God continue to bless you, your wife and entire family. Behind every great man is ALSO a great woman! Have a wonderful month and just laugh at the those that try to put you down. People are just jealous of your greatness!

Hello Professor Watkins,

First of all, I would like to put my hands together and applause your
intervention to put a stop to all this racist nonsense that afflicts
the United States, taking face through public figures like Bill
O'Reilly, who in his twisted way of thinking, and using the power of
the media, insists on presenting these remarks that sweep the floor
with a "black mop" and leave a bitter taste on the mouths of everyone.
I do believe in the power of words, and the incredible reach of the
media, for either benign or malicious causes; and any person who tries
to manipulate this huge resources with bad intentions, should be
brought to the hot seat and make responsable for his or her actions,
and future reactions arised by the first ones. This is exactly what
you did. It should be an example for the new generations, and a lesson
for the expiring ones that just didn't get it right!!!
Sincerely,

Cesar A. Reyes

My name is Eliza Villanueva and I am an Asian American senior in SOM.
I met you last year at the diversity business summit and almost ended
up taking one of your classes!

I just finished reading the daily orange and I was extremely
frustrated over how sensitive american society is. I think what you
said was completely rational and acceptable. Bill O'Reilly is a huge
ass. Speaking of asses, there are several in the business school
(including professors).

If you ever have the time, I would love to speak with you sometime and
rack your brain about finance, sports, etc. Please let me know if you
are up for it.

Dr. Watkins,
I always enjoy reading your updates and perspective on current social issues. However, I must say that this update really made me feel good to be Black.
You may or may not remember, but I was part of McNair's 2004 Summer scholars program and you spoke during one of our receptions. I remember being extremely motivated by your speech to continue on to higher education. When you shared your story about your journey to getting your PhD., I was so inspired, that I really wished I was in SOM so that I could take one of your classes.
I caught you on CNN a couple weeks ago, when you were commenting on O'Reilly's comment about Sylvia's restaurant, but because I don't watch the Fox Network, I haven't caught any of his responses to your commentary or what you said about his sidekick. And quite frankly, I don't really care to hear the man speak....
Anyway, this email is not about what you said about him or what he said about you, but I just wanted to let you know, in case you didn't, how motivational your emails are for young Black people. I often forward them to my male friends, because I find so much of what you share extremely relevant to their daily experiences. But as a young Black woman, your words are truly empowering. Especially when I second guess myself and actions for fear of being "initimidating" or "too" forthright and honest.
Thank you for consistently keeping the issues of the Black community at heart, when so many Black scholars and public figures often compromise in order to be liked. And thank you for setting such a good example for other young Black people to follow. I realize that we didnt get this far by compromising and hearing and watching you stand steadfast to your beliefs, encourages me to do the same!
Sincerely,
Limnyuy Konglim
Syracuse University
C/O 2005

Dr. Boyce I commend you. You are strong black well educated man, we need more black men like you, who believe in standing up for what he believe in. You also have the right to voice your opinion like every citizen in America. It is so ignorant to me for people to focus on the negative things in life instead of the positive things. Its time out for nonsense and to focus on things in this world that’s going to benefit people regardless of their race, how can we as people who live in America try to help others in our country if we are always fighting and bickering among each other. Racism is a huge problem in America, has been for a very long time and its like a sore that have spreaded and infected millions of people due to lack of knowledge. This issue needs to be addressed, we as people need to face the problem instead of sweeping it under the rug come up with a solution to solve the problem. O’Reilly is ignorant to the fact and wants to make a name for himself, he don’t even know who he is and to whom his god is .People say they know Jesus they have facts about him but no relationship, if they knew Him some of the things that comes out of their mouth would be selective words. Words that will build a person up and not tear them down. It’s a shame how we as people allow the enemy to use us and we don’t realize that he has us blinded to righteousness. People like him has a big void in his life money and know other desires will make him happy, he need Jesus. People think their fortune and fame and money is going to get them through life, this life is only temporary, we are sojourners passing through going on to our eternal home. Its time out for this ignorance. We always reap what we sow. If you sow love you will get love, if you sow hatred you will get hatred , whatever you sow you will reap. Continue to stand strong for what you believe in. God will stand with you no matter what man think. Its about knowing who you are, when you know who you are the enemy can’t touch you no matter how hard he try. Keep up the good work and don’t let people like O’Reilly get in your spirit and contaminate you. Pray for him, he need much prayer and others like him.

Mr. O'Reily:

I am highly disappointed in how you and Juan Williams have used a
national show to grandstand on an issue that may be trivial to you and
your sidekick.

That issue is how you handled the media attention you received on your
blatant, racial remarks about the patrons at Sylvia's and how you
responded to one critic in particular, Dr. Boyce Watkins.

Mr. O'Reilly, the way you have lambasted Dr. Boyce Watkins is not only
unprofessional, it was classless and showed a disrespect to a well
respected educator in the country. Whether you or Mr. Williams realize
it or not, but your propaganda war against Dr. Watkins over the span of
several days has only solidified the fact that you are indeed a callous
person who is about dividing people and not bringing them closer
together. Whether Mr. Williams realizes it or not, the actions of him
cackling along with you on your comments about the patrons at a
restaurant that is a minority owned restaurant shows the true lack of
understanding of why the comments were not necessary.

Why would you make such comments in the first place? Don't you know how
to state the obvious without saying it? Whether you know it or not,
your audience is not ignorant and they do not need to have every point
broken down to them in a manner that makes them feel like they are five
year olds. There was a proper, professional way of saying that you
wished that all the thugs, gang bangers and low lifes in the African
American community aspired to be like the patrons you saw at Sylvia's
or any other place that is a Black owned business.

But to go on and then try to trample on Dr. Watkins because he called
you and Mr. Williams out on the matter? That was a five year old move.
You and Mr. Williams were flat wrong in how you handled the Sylvia's
comment and you should have known that there would be prominent people
in the African American community that would let you know that. Did you
correct your mistake? Did you have Dr. Watkins on your show so that he
could have defended himself personally against your verbal attacks? No
you didn't. You decided to have a cackle session with your #1 fan and
try to bring down a man who has accomplished quite a bit in his career.

I have watched all of this from afar and I have seen all of the video
on this incident. Mr. O'Reilly there is a reason why this country
cannot go forward and it is because individuals like yourself would
rather throw gasoline on the problem instead of looking for the fire
retardant foam. Your comments about the patrons at Sylvia's started a
firestorm that could have been avoided but evidently that was not your
intent. You love controversy. You love attention. There is a word for
people like that and the word is narcissistic. You love having people
admire you and you love the attention. Well Mr. O'Reilly, so does O.J.
Simpson but I don't think you want to be put in that same category.

If you really want endear yourself to more viewers and non-viewers,
maybe you need to step back and see where your comments land. The
African American people are a proud people and when one person, no
matter what color or ethnicity they may be, decides to demean the
accomplishments of one of its members, then yes you will catch hell.

What you did to the patrons at Sylvia's that fateful day and what you
have subsequently done to Dr. Watkins hasn't endeared you to this
community; it has made you a person that is not trusting. But more
importantly, you have solidified the very opinion that so many in the
community have labeled you as: spiteful, arrogant and hateful to the
point of making racist comments only to grab ratings.

That Mr. O'Reilly is why you are despised in this community and in many
others.

Sincerely,
Gregory Moore

As a black man born and raised in Kentucky, one that has worked for Kentucky state government for 20 years, I see, deal and to the best of my ability tolerate the “Plantation Mentality”. As a true black man, the Juan Williams of the world are those I consider on the plantation as “House Ni_-ers”. As a “Field Ni-_er” I’d rather they stay in the house, shut-up and serve their master.

It’s clear that you are sincere, anyone that tolerated the “Big Blue Nation” and graduated have my utmost respect. Continue to speak on behalf of our people. Now, the Bill O’ Reilly’s of the world simply want to mention racism but never want to talk about it. When they do, they find themselves defending their actions and mouth forever, making no sense. What burns me is when they treat my people like they do and think we’re so ignorant as to not know that we recognize when we’re treated as such.

I tell my young sisters and brothers just getting into the institution to voice their thoughts. Let the opposition know that they are aware that he/she is being treated different. In the long run, a sense or self-respect and more strength is substantiated in the inner self. The bottom line is that “straw bosses” will hesitate on taking our young people for granted.

Dr. Watkins I enjoyed reading your version of Mr. Oreilly and I want to say to you stand for the right continue to try and educate our people and it is refreshing to see a black man not run from critics and most of all white trash who because of their own insecurites need to bash others for their opinions . The quality that you have in you is refreshing, GOD BLESS and definitely continue to educate.

Great battle points made in this writing; but all-in-all, you won the war.
Institutional racism is alive and well in this country. I can empathize with you, brother.
Keep doing what you do, Boyce; it makes a BIG difference and is inspirational to more folk than you might know.

Best wishes,

Tony in Louisville

I SUPPORT YOU 1000% AND THINK THAT YOU PRESENT ONE OF THE MOST INTELLIGENT AND COGENT EXPLANATIONS FOR RACISM IN THIS COUNTRY. THANK YOU AND HATS OFF TO YOU!
Susan Wynn Atlanta, GA

Hi Dr. Watkins, I wanted you to know that I did see your feud with O'Reilly. I think we should do a petition to get him removed from television he has gotten away with to much also.l watch you faithfully whenever you're on television and you are great, keep up the good work I also enjoyed your support for the Jena 6 for that as my hometown. I relocated to Houston, Texas in 1983. I would also like to see a petition to have the DA of Jena removed and the judge. All the best, Sandra Thompson

bill who???

Good for you Dr. Watkins... I cannot stomach o'reilly so certainly I DO NOT
lend to his ratings by watching him, so I was not aware of your comments or
his overkill response. I do, however, like Juan Williams. I will have to
follow up and understand his involvement. Quite frankly I am surprised he
would align himself with the likes of o'reilly. He seems grounded still
when I watch and support him defending liberal issues on Fox News Sunday
Morning. So to hear him described as or aligned with the dixie crats of
today (aka conservative republicans) is quite disturbing.

You hang in there and continue to speak the truth as you see it... Political
correctness is killing us as we all pretend or are silenced into pretending
(or accepting) that which is the most popular agenda. I have lost all
respect for PC and at this point, would almost prefer rudeness; at least
folks would be REAL... Cannot heal or fix the problem if we insist on
pretending or hiding behind the problem. I am convinced we will never move
on as nation.... PC helps to ensure that...

Have a GREAT day and Celebrate YOU!,
Helen Higginbotham, Esq.

Thank you for taking on idiocy of Bill O'Reilly, and his little friends, in a way that makes us all both think and chuckle a little more. It's gotta be healthy.

HELLO, DR.BOYCE. I AM A 28 YEAR OLD SINGLE PARENT OF THREE, AND I APPLAUD YOU FOR YOUR COMMENTARY REGARDING BILL O'REILLY, JUAN WILLIAMS, AND OTHERS LIKE THEM WHO ARE "CUT FROM THE SAME CLOTH." I WORK IN A CAUCASIAN MALE DOMINATED BUSINESS, AND AM FORCED TO PUT UP WITH MANY WHO ARE CLONES OF O'REILLY. I HAVE WATCHED HIM FOR YEARS, IN DISGUST, WISHING SOMEONE COULD SPEAK UP AND BE A POSITIVE VOICE FOR PEOPLE LIKE MYSELF. MY WISH HAS COME TRUE, AND HAS BEEN FOUND IN YOU. CONTINUE TO DO WHAT YOU DO, AND NEVER LET THE "POWERS THAT BE" SILENCE YOUR VOICE. GOD BLESS!

Juan Williams, Fox News and the NPR conundrum
by Eric Boehlert - Mediamatters.org

For years, journalist Juan Williams has straddled the divide between two unique media worlds; the thoughtful and erudite journalism of National Public Radio (NPR), where Williams serves as an analyst, and the rowdy hothouse at Fox News, where Williams works as a contributor. Most of the time, the two worlds don't collide. But recently they did, and NPR has the bruises to show for it.
That's because last week Williams wasn't commenting about the news, he was in the middle of it. First, he became entangled in the controversy that swirled around Bill O'Reilly's puzzling comments about visiting Harlem, which were seen by many as being racially insensitive. Williams, a prominent African-American journalist, strenuously defended O'Reilly on Fox News' The O'Reilly Factor and accused his critics of launching a smear campaign.
Then later in the week, Williams made news when he complained that NPR had turned down the White House's offer to have him interview President Bush and discuss race relations. Officials at NPR were uncomfortable having the White House handpick the interviewer, so they passed. Fox News though, quickly accepted the invitation, complete with restrictions, and Williams conducted the interview for the all-news cable channel.
With his often over-excited and misleading defense of O'Reilly, as well as his need to publicly side with Fox News and badmouth NPR's decision regarding the Bush interview, it seems Williams no longer straddles that peculiar media divide. Instead, he's deliberately marched over into the Fox News camp and in the process has stripped away some layers of his journalistic integrity.
Worse, real damage is being done to NPR by having its name, via Williams, associated with Fox News' most opinionated talker. In fact, Williams' recent appearance on The O'Reilly Factor almost certainly violated NPR's employee standards, which prohibit staffers from appearing on programs that "encourage punditry and speculation rather than fact-based analysis" and are "harmful to the reputation of NPR."
Content-wise, The O'Reilly Factor is a complete train wreck. As O'Reilly biographer Marvin Kitman recently noted, "Frankly, I can't listen to him anymore. As much as I praised the early O'Reilly, I think he's gone nuts. ... He just seems to go berserk more often now."
That's no secret, and my guess is that senior executives at NPR understand that about O'Reilly. And yet NPR let Williams appear on The O'Reilly Factor in his effort to bail out the host from a brewing race-based media scandal. The fact that Williams repeatedly misled viewers while recounting O'Reilly's comments last week also did not help NPR's cause.
Evidence suggests that, behind the scenes, NPR is not happy about Williams' relationship with Fox News. If so, now is the time for the network to address the growing problem.
Complaints about Williams' alliance with Fox News are not new. For years he has drawn criticism from liberals who protest his weekly appearances on the more grown-up Fox News Sunday, arguing there are better advocates for genuinely liberal positions than Williams, who, for instance, was a supporter of Clarence Thomas' Supreme Court nomination. Over the years though, I've found Williams to be among the most consistently focused and aggressive of the so-called Fox News Democrats, often (though not always) pushing back against the particularly egregious Republican talking points that swamp the Fox News Sunday telecast.
If Williams wants to serve as a well-paid prop, a self-described "foil," brought in to manufacture entertaining conflict in front of the Fox News cameras for un-persuadable viewers who vote overwhelmingly Republican, that's his choice.
What changed last week was that Williams inserted himself into the news and cast himself as the great Fox News defender, and did it on The O'Reilly Factor, a program no serious NPR journalist should ever appear on.
Williams played a starring role in O'Reilly's saga surrounding Sylvia's restaurant in Harlem, because it was on that same broadcast that the host interviewed Williams and the two men talked about race in America, including damaging stereotypes that exist. (Williams was busy promoting his book, now out in paperback.) So when more and more news outlets began asking questions about why O'Reilly was surprised a black restaurant in Harlem was like a white restaurant in midtown Manhattan, Williams was quickly invited onto The O'Reilly Factor to help explain away the story.
Clamoring about how news organizations were guilty of "rank dishonesty" in covering the O'Reilly controversy (they're trying to "shut you up"), Williams conveniently sidestepped the host's most inflammatory remarks from the telecast. Williams had nothing to say about O'Reilly's condescending suggestion that "black Americans are starting to think more and more for themselves." Again and again, Williams took to the airwaves to defend O'Reilly, including on Fox News host John Gibson's radio program, and again and again Williams simply flushed that quote down the memory hole and pretended it never happened. I assume that's because the quote did not fit into Williams' defense of O'Reilly being the victim of a smear campaign, or simply being misunderstood.
Meanwhile, appearing on The O'Reilly Factor, Williams wouldn't touch O'Reilly's Quote of The Week:
And I couldn't get over the fact that there was no difference between Sylvia's restaurant and any other restaurant in New York City. I mean, it was exactly the same, even though it's run by blacks, primarily black patronship.
Days later, on September 30, Williams appeared on C-SPAN's Washington Journal, and a caller very specifically asked him to address that quote. Williams though, ripped it out of context and told viewers that O'Reilly made that comment as a way to compare the peaceful scene at Sylvia's to the ugly stereotype of black America that's portrayed through gangsta rap videos. But that's simply not true. The discussion O'Reilly and Williams had about rap video images came well after O'Reilly made his initial comments about Sylvia's. It's simply not accurate to suggest O'Reilly told the "no difference" story about Sylvia's amidst a larger discussion about gangsta rap. But Williams, playing defense for the Fox News host, did his best to re-tell the story in an O'Reilly-friendly way.
Writing an essay for Time magazine, Williams made an absurdly shallow (and dishonest) attempt at explaining the details of the controversy. According to Williams' thin spin, O'Reilly was unfairly "slammed" simply "for saying he went to a restaurant in Harlem and had a good time." That's like saying Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID) got slammed for simply not flushing the toilet at the Minneapolis airport. Williams could not even bring himself to reprint O'Reilly's quote about being surprised that Sylvia's was just like any other restaurant "even though it's run by blacks."
Of all his media appearances last week, it was Williams' stint on The O'Reilly Factor that was most noteworthy, simply because Williams provided O'Reilly with crucial political cover by rushing to his defense. I understand why O'Reilly was desperate for Williams to appear on The O'Reilly Factor. I cannot understand, however, why NPR allowed it.
Public broadcasting guidelines clearly state that when appearing on outside programs "journalists should not express views they would not air in their role as an NPR journalist." They should not appear on programs that are "harmful to the reputation of NPR." And, "They should not participate in shows, electronic forums, or blogs that encourage punditry and speculation rather than fact-based analysis."
Let's take them one at a time. First, when he appeared on The O'Reilly Factor last week to announce that there was a media conspiracy in motion to try to shut Bill O'Reilly up, was Williams expressing views that he would not air on NPR? My hunch is yes. And FYI, according to a Nexis search of the transcripts, Williams did not discuss O'Reilly on NPR last week. Second, is The O'Reilly Factor a program that is harmful to NPR's reputation? Of course. And third, is it a program that encourages (wild) speculation? It is.
Additionally, the NPR Code of Ethics forbids all NPR journalists from participating in appearances that "may appear to endorse the agenda of a group or organization." Fox News, as an organization, has an open political agenda, and by defending O'Reilly on The O'Reilly Factor, NPR's Williams was endorsing that organization's agenda, which was to attack and smear anyone who raised questions about the host's incendiary comments.
Clearly Williams' appearances on The O'Reilly Factor ran counter to NPR's established guidelines. Or can you name a single other "news" program that, based on public broadcasting standards, would be more inappropriate for an NPR employee to appear on and pontificate?
And last week wasn't the first time Williams sprinted to O'Reilly's side during an embarrassing media moment. Back in January when O'Reilly appeared on CBS' Late Show with David Letterman, the host, during some entertaining banter, zinged his guest by claiming 60 percent of what O'Reilly says is "crap." O'Reilly was widely seen as the loser in the televised tête-à-tête.
Once again, Williams rushed onto The O'Reilly Factor to help his glass-jawed pal get back on his feet. Williams, acting like he'd never seen two grown men argue on television before, decried Letterman's "antagonism" towards O'Reilly and all the "horrible things that he said to you." Williams compared Letterman to a serial killer and expressed amazement that O'Reilly didn't have a "black eye." After all, he'd been in a "knife fight" on the Letterman show.
The fact that O'Reilly doles out far nastier insults to his Fox News guests on a nightly basis went unmentioned by Williams.
Juan Williams sides with Fox News over NPR
If Williams was appreciative of NPR for bending the rules to allow him to flack for O'Reilly on Fox News, Williams had a strange way of showing it. The day after his September 25 ill-advised visit to The O'Reilly Factor, Williams was featured in a Washington Post article about the fact that NPR passed on an interview that Williams was offered with Bush to discuss race relations, as well as the brewing controversy in Jena, Louisiana, over charges of excessive prosecution for six black teens there.
Ellen Weiss, NPR's vice president for news, told the Post she "felt strongly" that "the White House shouldn't be selecting the person" for the interview. Williams lamented how he was "stunned by [NPR's] decision to turn their backs on [Bush] and to turn their backs on me."
I think NPR execs might have been too polite to express it publicly, but based on the tenor and response to Williams' much-hyped interview with Bush last January, back when the president was out selling his surge strategy for Iraq, it's possible NPR brass simply didn't think Williams was up to the task of going one-on-one with Bush.
As firedoglake blogger TRex noted, the January sit-down Williams conducted with Bush, "was a travesty." The problem? "Williams was in full, Fawning Fox News Toady-mode, pitching softball after softball at the president and offering no follow-up questions. It left the line between journalism and PR way behind and crossed into the territory of worship."
Indeed, one memorable moment came when Williams assured Bush that Americans were praying for him. At the time, NPR listeners took notice and they were not impressed.
So why would NPR send Williams, armed with the same lapdog approach, back to White House to interview a president who, since January, has managed to become even less popular?
Plus, there's a backstory. In his seven years in office, Bush has basically stiffed one of the nation's most prestigious government-funded news organizations and granted NPR just a single interview; the Williams puff session in January. To this day, Bush has refused to allow an NPR anchor or new correspondent to interview him on a range of topics, the way ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and Fox have all been allowed to do. What exactly is Bush afraid of? (Williams is an analyst, not an anchor or news correspondent.)
Then again, the antagonism should not be surprising since the administration's contempt for public broadcasting is well documented. (Question: Do NPR bosses allow Williams to maintain a high profile at Fox News as a way to defend public broadcasting against relentless right-wing critics who claim NPR has a liberal bias?)
So I'm not surprised NPR balked. And I'm not surprised Williams ran to the media to tell his sad tale of woe.
But the story doesn't end there. Because after NPR passed on the interview, Williams went ahead and did it in his role as a Fox News contributor. Fox then made a big deal about how NPR had turned Bush down, complete with issuing a name-calling press release about how "appalling" NPR's treatment of Williams had been.
In truth, Fox News' treatment of Williams, and his Bush interview, was even more insulting. Because what did Fox News actually do with Williams' interview? Fox News basically ignored the contents. As best I can tell, Fox News last week aired less than two minutes from the interview in which Bush discussed race. In fact, Fox News spent more time talking about how NPR punted on the interview than it did broadcasting that portion of the interview. (During the interview, Williams also asked Bush about the 2008 campaign and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad; Fox News aired more of that.)
There was a telling moment when Williams appeared on The O'Reilly Factor to hype the Bush interview. O'Reilly, a public broadcasting hater, went on and on about how NPR turned down the White House interview offer. Turning to the interview, O'Reilly announced, "[W]e'll run a clip of it because it has to do with Ahmadinejad." [Emphasis added.] As for race or the Jena 6? O'Reilly couldn't care less.
Same with John Gibson's The Big Show; the host asked Williams about Bush's comments regarding the 2008 campaign, as well as Ahmadinejad. Zero interest, though, in Bush's comments about race or the Jena 6 demonstrators, whom Gibson had already mocked on the air for allegedly inventing claims of racism in America.
But that's what Fox News does; Fox attacks black America.
Note that while making the rounds on his spin control tour last week, Williams appeared on Gibson's radio show, where he mentioned that they're both employed by Fox News.
"They don't much like that at NPR, do they, Juan?" asked Gibson with a chuckle.
"Oh boy. Ugh," came Williams' response.
If NPR is unhappy with Williams' increasingly high-profile and controversial appearances on Fox News, then now is the time to tell him that he has to choose between the two media outlets. Although from the looks of things, with Williams providing cover for O'Reilly and then trashing NPR for not obediently accepting the White House guidelines for a Bush interview the way Fox News did, it looks as if Williams has already made his choice.

Comment: No you wouldn't as I would gladly sport the happy negro t-shirt. We've always known the mentality of the house negro and we knew that same house negro passed that mentality down to his own kids who went to white colleges and blended into white society virtually undetectable until now that a lot of black issues have come forward. Said house negro now feels obligated to team up with the grand kids of the grand wizard and with every word and deed not only support those grand kids but distance themselves from the very community they will come running to when the grand kids light a fire under their as.ses! Shame on you juan williams! But just like every other idiot in your position - those same chickens - when they come home to roost (and they will come home) by your very public support of block head o'reilly, will leave you standing in the yard looking miserably at how filthy they are.

at how filthy they are from the beating they took from the very people that may have supported them but for the things they were taught by the house negro.

Dear Dr. Watkins, Though you have suffered a deluge of negative emails ("SU prof in middle of O'Reilly uproar," Syracuse.com, 9.4.07), take heart that there are millions who laud your stand against the bigotry and hatred spewed by Bill O'Reilly and his sycophants. As a Syracuse grad (Maxwell, '75), one of my most cherished memories is sitting in the Constitutional Law classes taught by the late, great Michael O. Sawyer who also served as Vice Chancellor of Syracuse. Mike strongly believed in freedom of speech, but he also believed in responsible speech. Though he was a Republican, Mike would have abhorred most of what is espoused by the likes of O'LIElly. Personally, I am aghast that despite the lessons of the Senator McCarthy era, we remain intimidated by bullies and philosophical Charlatans such as Bill O'LIElly and Sean Hannerty plus the bulk of FOX News. Yes, I am a liberal, but I would no more support biased news coverage favoring my personal views than I do those opposed.
As a graduate living in New York City, I was appalled at the cultural ignorance and blatant bigotry of the statement regarding our beloved Sylvia's. But it is not simply a matter of black/white misconceptions. It is the willingness and the ability to use mass media to promote divisions among all peoples regardless of race. Paul Krugman put it best in today's New York Times when he exposed the modern Conservative movement, "What’s happening, presumably, is that modern movement conservatism attracts a certain personality type. If you identify with the downtrodden, even a little, you don’t belong. If you think ridicule is an appropriate response to other peoples’ woes, you fit right in." http://www.nytimes.com/2007/10/05/opinion/05krugman.html?ref=opinion Sir, Paul Krugman is somewhat protected by the fair mindedness of The New York Times. You have taken a braver approach by going directly into the lion's den. I agree with you that the University administration would rather have you just shut-up. Institutions tend to lean strongly to the status quo, least controversial, and even towards conservative (capital "C" and not) movements. I leave you with these words from Dante, "The hottest places in Hell are reserved for those, who in periods of moral crisis, maintain their neutrality." You do us all proud by not maintaining your neutrality. Hang in there, Bob Marino

Dear Professor Watkins,
I read your remarks about Juan Williams in the newspaper this morning. I’m very glad that you made them. I have listened to him on News n’ Notes for the past two years and am generally disappointed with the conservative slant of his stories and punditry. I have thought for some time that his remarks distort reality, and he always seems to downplay the force of racism in our society. I thought his NYTimes editorial on the recent Supreme Court reversal on Brown V. Board showed his tin ear for justice. No wonder Ed Gordon did not last at News N” Notes if Juan Williams represents the African American perspective on NPR! The show has become bland and rather conservative politically it seems.
I also teach at SU (the anthropology department), and I’ve taught a course on race and racism here. It is difficult to teach about contemporary racism to all our students, particularly white students. I can’t help but think it is, in part, because they hear voices like Juan Williams’ when and if they hear race discussed in our media.
Thank you for pointing out the deficiencies of such media commentary. I’ve been doing some work with people on the south and southwest sides of Syracuse recently, and only a more truthful telling of our racist social organization, past and present, will move these neighborhoods to the places they deserve to be.
I’m very glad you’re here at SU, and I wish you the best.
Sincerely,
Bill Kelleher
Department of Anthropology

Hello Dr. Watkins, I am a 38 year old black female teacher. I read your article on Black America Web.com, dated October 1, 2007. I would like to applaud your comments about Juan Williams. It is wonderful to see that there are still people in the world who have a podium and are not afraid to stand up and tell the truth. However, it disappointing to see that in the year 2007 Willie Lynch still has an effect on our people. That is why I try to impress upon my students the importance of getting a good education although this is somewhat difficult since I teach first grade in an inner city school. Stay strong and keep your head up.

I just wanted to tell you that you have my support in this current situation. I think, no I know, that it was time that someone stood up to Bill O' Reilly, and wasn't afraid to kettle the kettle black. I do belive the quote that was featured in the DO, saying that if you were a bus drier no one would have paid attention is very true.

As far as the happy negro comment, I dont understand why this is a big deal when it is evidently the truth. It kind of reminds me of one of Malcolm's speeches in which he was describing the house negros and the field negros. He stated that the house negos agrreed with the "Boss" no matter what and probably even loved the master more than he loved himself. It's very similar to this situation with Juan Williams. In my eyes he is playing the role of a house slave. I was taught that if the shoe fits, then don't be afraid to wear it. I hope that the population at large does not believe that Juan Williams views are representative of Black America, nor does he speak for Black people. The analogy to Hugh Hefner was right on.

In closing, I just want to reiterate that I am very proud of your appearance on that white racist's show. We truly need more real older brothers such as yourself. You have my unwavering support.

I cannot express enough for my love for you and your willingness to "go for the jugular." The day of the of bent-knee, bent-back, laughing when ain't a damn thang funny, singing went aint no music playing, scratching when he ain't itching, "we sick," Negroes should have been over when slavery ended. But unfortunately, America has a way of continuing to manufacture these "smiley face" negroes who do a better job of apologizing for racism than white folks themselves. You have a way of calling it like it is that is not only highly intelligent, but entertaining and funny--matter of fact as I was reading your email, your commentary was hilarious. Keep up the excellent work! And remember, as long as massa will always throw a few crumbs at a few planation negroes to keep them attacking their own folks.

Name: NYCsoul Comment: Thank you Dr. Boyce! I'm sick of the likes of Juan Williams who puffs his chest out to tell us how bad we are and how we are ENTIRELY responsible for our predicament. But never has the guts to criticize those who have benefitted from the blood, sweat and tears of our ancestors who brought over against their will. I'm not saying that we don't have any responsiblity for some of the negative issues that are going on in our community. We have to be taken to task for that. But to not look at the larger picture is doing a disservice and letting YT off the hook. Great commentary Dr. Boyce!....McNasty> ITA with you!

Name: HarrisThomas Comment: standing O for Dr. Boyce! . . . implicit in OReally's racist remarks is his understanding that AAs don't know socially acceptable behavior . . . in a world where everything affirms YTs and they believe the myth of their superiority, OReally's remarks are "harmless" due to his new found "discovery" . . . and we already ready know that nothing on the planet exists until YTs acknowledge it

Yes stand your ground no matter what!! I passed this on to some of my Boyce relatives that are just like you and are also professionals and making a difference in their communities as most of us try to do myself included. I was excited to receive this and cheering you on while reading. I have never cared for O'Reilly. And yes I need a size medium in that t-shirt.

Oh my goodness, I so glad you said what you said - all of it! How can they argue with this logic. I love every point you make. Juan Williams disgusts me and yes, like Clarence Thomas, his comments, attitudes and behaviors are detrimental to African Americans and our progress. Is he also a hypocrite like Thomas whose ascent was the result of Affirmative Action?
Please don't let up on the "Happy Negro" until he comes to his senses. We need your voice to speak loud and clear for those of us who aren't as well spoken.
Congratulations on your beautiful fiancee - you deserve her and I pray you will treat her like your queen as she makes you her king.
--

One of the things "massa" used to do back in the day was get a Black "advocate" for the African-American community to speak on behalf of our community. Never mind many in our community did not recognize this person as a advocate or leader; they used and ususally paid this person to say we had no problem with our "place". It is in this same vein that Juan Williams strikes me. There is not a person with a brain that does not know that Fox "News" is anything but. That organization is nothing more than a propaganda mouthpiece for the Republican party who has some less than effective Democrat on the payroll to give off the air of being "balanced". That Juan Williams is associated with this "news organization" makes all of his writings suspect.

Secondly, the truth is the truth--- and sometimes the truth hurts. He is a "happy negro". Any Black that can defend the racism of BIll O'Reilly is a "happy negro". There was no legitimate excuse for the statement he made and, as a result, no legitimate reason for anyone to defend him , including Fox. The problem is not only what was said; it was that he thought those events would happen in the first place. For centuries, Blacks in this country have had their dignity, pride and intellect assaulted by the likes of Bill O' Reilly and other so-called conservative "thinkers" (now there's a paradox if I ever heard one). There are a lot of us I dare say that know how to act and run a business. That he was surprised to see that is scary. And this guy has his own TV show. This is the sorry state of American media.

Then too, he is only following in the footsteps of a long line of ignorant people. Those who attack affirmative action often claim that these "liberal teachers give Black kids---only Black kids---a grade they didn't earn". Never mind none of these people have sat beside any kid in any classroom---in fact, some of them don't have a degree at all. Never mind the fact that no one in the history of academia has had an entire college career comprised solely of "liberal teachers". To make such a ridiculous claim is absurd. But these are the poeple condeming and critiquing those of us who have went on to get an education. How pathetic.

To work for such vile and unenlightened people as Fox is the moral equivalent of working with the Ku Klux Klan to try to offer an alternative opinoin about African Americans. They ignorant, arrogant and resistant to the truth. So, it really does not matter what you tell them or what proof you present to discredit their claims; they are not going to listen. Juan Williams may think he is helping the cause, but all he does is come across as a lackey. For his defense of Bill O'Reilly, Juan Williams far and away wins the sellout of the year award.

It was a sincere pleasure to read your commentary on Juan Williams and his
response to O’ Reilly’s shameful and racist remarks. I work in an office
with an African-American male who sees it as his duty to pacify white
Americans and shield them from the realities of what life is truly like
being black in America. Before the Jena 6 rally he made it his business to
remind everyone in the office repeatedly that we must not forget that a
white male was severely beaten. Well, just as you, the brother was almost
in tears when he and I finished talking. It is never the intention to put
another brother against the wall like that but he makes the battle that much
more difficult being the self-appointed white conscience.

I sent copies of your commentary to several people, all of which, agreed
with you and the point you were making. The power in it all is that you are
a brother at a major white university who is highly educated and you stood
tall on your principles. You could have chosen the opposing view and

America

would have cuddled with you happily. From the depth of my being I
thank you for verbalizing what needed to be said. If I am a whore, a thug,
or a rapist then we must ask the question, “why” and solicit viable and
honest answers or we will never get out of this situation. And yes, we have
some responsibility in being who we are but do not short change me in life
then get mad at me for falling short.

I saw the show and was suprised you received such criticism from racist O'reilly who doesn't know he's a racist. Racists always get black people to confirm they're not racists.

It would be interesting to see you on his show confronting him live.I'll send Juan Williams some tissues.

Keep your head up.

Florence swan

My name is Lauren Calandruccio. I recently received my Ph.D. from SU
this past May. I wanted to thank you for your strong words against
Bill O'Reilly and Juan Williams. You should be proud that you had the
courage to say what you said. If more people weren't afraid to speak
their minds this world would be full of less hate, violence, and
ignorance. Unfortunately, the main people who the world ends up
hearing the loudest are people like Bill O'Reilly. I hope that this
university, that I am proud to have graduated from, can also find your
actions commendable. We say that we are a university who believes in
a sustainable future, one that tries to "build bridges" within
communities, and doesn't condone hatred at any level. The O'Reilly
Factor is a breading ground for hatred and ignorance. As a university
we all should have the courage to yell from the treetops that we don't
agree with such behavior.

I wish you the best of luck.
Lauren Calandruccio, Ph.D.
Syracuse University - Class of 2007

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Natasha B