“That’s some nappy-headed hos there.”
These were the words of radio personality Don Imus about the Rutgers women’s basketball team on Wednesday.
Not your typical morning show topic.
The Rutgers team, which is predominately black, lost the NCAA championship Tuesday. Imus and executive producer Bernard McGuirk decided to discuss the game on their morning show, which led to a major controversy.
McGuirk added to Imus’ comment, referring to the ladies as “some hardcore hos.”
The following Friday Imus gave an on air apology. However Imus, who is a member of the National Broadcasters Hall of Fame, was not publicly disciplined.
Very disturbing.
WFAN and MSNBC condemned his remark, but condemnation is not enough.
Imus’ racial slur was aired for millions of listeners on more than 70 stations including the MSNBC television network. Each one of those listeners should have the privilege to never hear his voice again. Period.
This isn’t the first controversy for this radio station.
Recent issues involve Imus former morning team member Sid Rosenberg who was dismissed two years ago for a similar racial remark about Serena and Venus Williams.
Imus deserves the same punishment as his colleague.
According to the National Association of Black Journalists this is not the first time Imus has been cited for racial remarks. He has referred to PBS’ Gwen Ifill as a “cleaning lady” and William Rhoden of the New York Time as a “quota hire.”
But as the Rev. Al Sharpton said, “This is an established figure allowed to use the airwaves for sexist and racist remarks.”
NABJ is calling for a boycott of the Imus show.
Enough is enough; it’s about time for a new host.
Stephanie Haughton for the Editorial Board.