America has come a full circle & ripe now. It is time to think that all people living in America are one. There is no more black America, white America, asian America etc, etc.The time is perfect. I think the Massiah is Barrack. Let's march forward leaving all prejudices behind. Amen.

The race issue is mainly a southern white and black issue. Almost everyone else has moved on. No one I grew up around had any less respect for blacks than whites. It wasn't till I was older and moved south that I bacame aware of the problem. I think each group just keeps the problem going for thier own interest.

WOW, this is a wonderful Topic. I am glad that the truth about race is coming out. Many people hate to talk about race. Few black Americans hate to speak about the topic because it causes us to go backwards instead of forward. (We really didn’t come far if few words allow us to be moved back). And when they are white, they may feel that African Americans are only wanting a hand out, from their hard earned money….But that is not true. Condoleezza is a very hard working, and intelligent black woman, And I see no such trait. Because she calls America to remember the struggle of out past, makes her intelligent, not stuck on the past as many choose to believe.

Dialog is what Mr. Obama has asked for in regards to race, but obviously, the media would rather deal with a passionate church sermon and blow it out of proportion. Thank you Mr. Roland, for reporting on a topic that needs to be heard and discussed openly.

There are varying degrees of racism, some worse than others, but all forms of racism are harmful. Race is an issue in all parts of this country and until the time comes when people can look at one another as one human race, race will continue to be a problem.

I generally can't stand listening to anything Condoleeza Rice has to say, but her frank comments on race were pretty much on target and should've received more exposure than they have so far. I'm actually pretty surprised she was willing to even address that issue at all.

After hearing Rev. Wrights racist comments and Obama's comments about "the typical white person", I now understand why there is a race problem in America.

Race is still an issue not only in America but in many other countries too. I think the first step towards any kind of resolution is aknowledging this. Don't say there aren't people that – like Senator Obama said- will cross the street or hold their purse in a thighter grip when they see a black person. But.. the real question is then.. are those people racist?? I think alot of the times they arent. Its grown into them to be like that. There should be more discussion about this issue though. Denying there are racial based issues and saying everthing is just peachy is just like pushing the dirt under the carpet and say you cleaned. The mound of dirt will continue to grow untill you cant ignore it anymore. I commend Miss Rice for saying what she said. More people need to learn it doesn't hurt to talk about it. And A LOT of people need to learn it also doesn't hurt to hear it. Media has an extremely important role in this too. They have the power to open or close , to continue or stop this discussion. But, apparently unless it involves a major celeb. scandall it's just not newsworthy these days.

For those who believe that race is not an issue, and that America is made up of people who have no color, but rather a class, I must disagree. I notice while many primaries and caucuses are being tallied, that many political strategist say things that could be construed as racial… For instance, “Many people in the St, Louis Area are black, so I am sure that the votes will go for Barak Obama. Many People in South Carolina are black; So Mr. Obama will win that state, Just as Jesse Jackson Did�.

Are we pounding on a man who preaches Racial issues, hope and faith in a church to a congregation and letting these casual, almost accepting words be used everyday in the media? It just depends on the story and how bad we “hate� someone I guess. That is another issue though!!!!

Racism is such a complex issue , well if u are of a certain race(any) u tend to trust a person of ur own race more than a person f any other race even though the other person is a better person , many people in everyday life do things that can be considered racist if it is put under the spotlight , so i find it hypocrisy to point out at Rev Wright because I think it is taken out of context.

I AM IN TOTAL SHOCK! Well, it's about time! I didn't believe that Ms. Rice had it in her. Most African Americans I know, myself included, believed Condi Rice lacked the guts to face such a truth. WHAT A REVELATION! I guess it takes a Barack Obama to get us talking about the issues.

JPH, NY

Mr. J, just because it isn't as apparent up north doesn't mean it doesn't exist. I've visited Northern states and I can't speak from first-hand experience, but I've certainly observed it and I've met persons of color who live up North who would disagree with you. It's not only a Southern problem, and dismissing it as such only adds to the problem.

Despite my dislike for the administration she works for, I agree with Condoleezza Rice. And kudos to her for saying what she did; I can't imagine that it was easy, and I can't imagine that she didn't get some flack for it, from people like Lou Dobbs who say that she and Obama shouldn't be the moderators on a discussion on race. Because, clearly, white men should be the moderators on such an important discussion.

Roland, I saw you Friday on Lou (I never saw any racism) Dobbs. I thank you for standing up and saying to Lou that Condi Rice was right on with her statement. He seemed shocked. Was his life so secular that he's never seen any type of racism, oh please. I don't believe it for a second. Condi was absolutely right. Racism is a pox on America.

"The race issue is mainly a southern white and black issue. Almost everyone else has moved on. No one I grew up around had any less respect for blacks than whites."

yeah right...

Race has been used as a political issue to discriminate people and further the selfish interest of few sections for ages now. In the new millenieum where we have bigger issue of global warming and human surival at question we all need to unite as human beings not as where we come or belong to and work towards saving the humanity and making it a safer and better place for our future generations. Leave behind the petty feelings of race and beliefs move towards humanity as one. The media should play the pivotal role in condemning all remarks and comments which are racist.

Secretary of State Rice speaking the truth isn't a ratings grabber and can't be spun like snippets of Rev. Wright's comments. Besides that, she can't kill Obama's campaign. The hope probably was that Rev. Wright's comments would (even though what he was saying was truth also as much as people don't want to admit it). I don't care who gets the conversation going in the nation. We just seriously need to have it long-term and continuously until we can all appreciate each other no matter what our skin color, religion, or gender preference may be. The sad thing is, she is seen as part of the Bush administration, and some will shut her down for that reason alone even though what she has said has all the wisdom in the world.

I am so tired of hearing how Sen. Clinton is getting a raw deal with the press and t.v. coverage.. It seems to me she is the only one they like a talk about. All she and Bill do is cry about how unfair everyone is to them. I really like Obama and hope he wins.

The good news is that the divide is no longer between blacks and whites; the divide is between, non-racists and racists. The divide is between the good and the evil. The divide is between truth and lies. And we can safely say that there are more on the side of truth. There are more on the side of good. There are more on the side of being non-racist, and we're made up of Black, White, Hispanic, and Asian. 50 years ago there were more on the side of segregation, lies and hatred. We have come a long way. Are we there yet? No.
Regarding the media being so dismissive of Rice’s comments, I think they're afraid of saying anything good about the current administration. Soon Condi will be free to speak as she wills, and I'm sure we will see that she is really bipartisan. It's a new day.

Oh, and I agree with you about the coverage, Roland. Your colleagues need something they can sensationalize. I guess they'll old this until the know what Miss Rice will do after the Bush administration is out of office.

If it looks like Miss Rice will be asked to run with McCain or something like that, then they'll be ready with their daggers to go after her spinning, twisting and turning her words EVERY which way they can figure out t do it. They seem pretty crafty that way.

I believe that you and David Bergen are the brightest and most insightful two that CNN has got going for them. There are a FEW others, but their names escape me right now. What amazes me most, is that with all of those fancy degrees from the fancy schools up there on the panels, your team, save you and David, seems to lack and miss A LOT!

Keep on doing what you do, Roland. I got your back!

JPH, NY

I love your work Roland. You are so level headed and honest about presenting your point of view. If we can't trust people like Condoleeza Rice and Barack Obama regarding their experience of racial differences as they were growing up – then who can we believe. They know the communities, the issues, the struggles and the degree of successes which have developed. p.s. Lou Dobbs should be ashamed of himself. "cotton ..." and the assertion that he doesn't know anyone who can identify with the problem of having difficulity speaking about racial differences in America. As a white woman with very little cross cultural experience I know what you, Condoleeza and Obama have referred to is a FACT. We only need to listen to the struggles of the past and the ongoing struggles of 'black ghettos', black schools with less support, and how about just the very fact that we are all making so much of a 'black man' being close to getting the party nomination for the Presidential campaign. Now if we didn't notice and didn't need to remark on his historic campaign then we could say there is no difference in the opportunity for the races, but that is just not the case.

I do think there is too much complaining and finger pointing. The fact is that America has come a long way in the way it treats its Black citizens. Condi is living proof of that. I do belive Obama is playing the race card to his advantage, and now Condi is palying his game just to help him along. Who is to blame today that "Africans came in chain"? Nobody. This sounds cruel, but maybe if they didn't, Condi would not be where she is today. The point is that you cannot blame today's generation for the mistakes past generations made. Race should have not been an issue in this election. Rev. Wright brought it, Condi is continuing it...let's see who finishes it.

Go Condi!!!!

and roland, who always speak truth!!!

Roland,I couldn't wait to get off work and see what you were talking about toady.It sure is freshing to listen to you speak the truth on the race issue.I just read the comment from Beatrice above and I too saw you on Lou Dobbs but only caught the end and was wondering all weekend who the she was that you were refering to.I even watched Lou on the weekend and it was a different show.I'm so glad for you site.I too thought Lous response to wat you said was very condecending.I must say I reall had a different view of Lou until the issue of Rev.Wright and Obama surfaced and I started noticing a different person and I must say its a sad vision of Lou for me someone I watched for years now and had enjoyed now I can barely stand to watch unless you are on.I'm so glad to hear you speak the truth on black issues and defend what black people have had to endure and let it be known that not all of us are looking to be pitied but people need to know and except the fact theat there is racial division in good ol America.Thank you Rev.Wright and have you realized that most of the people commenting negatively about what he said are making the case for what he was speaking on.(LOL, and don't even realize it.Last but not least.Last week I read on the Hffington Post that Andrea Mitchel oF MSNBC did a peice on Hillary Clintons association with a right wing religous organization called "The Family".Can you please do a follow-up on that,please.Thank you so much for all that you do!!

Question-Why is it that Barack Obama is called a black man, but Hillary is just called a woman? No race is attached to her. That in itself is racism folks. Whether you like it or not, racism is alive and well in the USA.

Look at our schools and how they divide all of the different races into catagories when they report how the students do on testing. They say it is so they can help learn who needs help, but I believe it has more to do with the government wanting to be able to determine if the white kids are doing ok then they can turn their back on the school because it is expected for kids of different colors to do poorly. Wouldn't it be great if all we wanted to know was how many children were failing, and we demanded that no child should fail? Isn't that what "No child left behind" means?

Why does it always have to be black people that are making statements about the problems of racism in this country? Everytime I turn on the TV and racism is the topic, you have white people saying that there is no problem, and people like Roland Martin have to say that there is a problem. I am white, and I agree with Condi and Barack! More white people have to be able to say yes, it is not as bad as the 1960's in most areas, but we still have a lot of work to do before we all see ourselves as just human instead of a black human, a hispanic human, an oriental human, a middle eastern human, a white human. Oh yes, we don't call us white humans.

As a black woman, I am baffled by the fact that we as Americans absolutely refuse to acknowledge that racism exists. I think it is easier for someone who has not lived a life in America as a black person to say,"oh let's just move on." I think we can all agree that in order to effectively address any issue, the problem has to be acknowledged. Only then can you address the real underlying issue and move on to a point of resolution and reconciliation.

Reverend Jeremiah Wright has been demonized and belittled for his words spoken. While the delivery may have been offenisve, in essence the words were factual. We as Americans can continue to pretend that we have never harmed others around the world. Don't forget the weapons sold to Iran (George Bush, Oliver North, remember them?).

If we want to dismiss what Rev, Wright was saying in the full context of the sermon, then can we at least ackonwledge Condoleza Rice's comments on race? Why haven't I heard her comments being played 10 times within a five minute span? Just asking a question!!

Also, I don't understand this concept on being color blind. I don't want to live in a color blind society. I want to be recognized as God's creation, as someone of a darker hue. Is my color that offensive to America, that we have to pretend it doesn't exist?

I say all things in a spirit of truth and love!!

I too am surprised about the minimal coverage. I'm glad I saw the Situation Room's coverage of Miss Rice.

This has really gone too far, with regards to the Rev. Wright's sermon. The contents of the ENTIRE speech were true from start to finish, it is a shame that the Caucasian audience had a problem with the 10-seconds that CNN played over and over again. True reporting would have been the complete contents of the sermon!!!! Face it white America, you did it, don't get mad and call it racism when it is brought back in your face. You beat and raped our grandparents for years, but because it was those good old boys we should forget. I don't think you would be so forgiving!

I think part of the reason it barely made a ripple is because they're different topics. It's easier to dismiss her comments because as a society, we agree with her. It's where we've come from.

Rev. Wright was spewing racist garbage. Of course there was a media frenzy over that. I'm glad it caused a stir, because it shows that we generally don't tolerate racism.

Anyway, very interesting blog =] Hope life is good.

brittany

Can spoken words be taken as truth depending only upon the person who spoke them?

Who determines which spoken /written words warrant priority? Is it dependent upon the situation involving the country as a whole, or should it be those which can be held in reserve for another time?

Truth never involves the few, it demands the masses if it is to become wisdom for the country in which we live. I, for one, did see the brief review of which you speak and at the time I felt other subjects were of more importance for my upcoming decisions. Until all questions are answered to my satisfaction, the election is my first priority.

Annz

I applaud Condoleezza Rice her for her honesty and true characterization of America on the issue of race. It has always baffled me as to how folks do not want to understand the ugly consequences of racism on a nation, as if it does not affect them in some way.

I must say I am very disappointed with CNN and their distorted reporting on Rev. Wright comments. Instead of seeking the truth, they have chosen to fuel the fire. Shame on them, they missed out on a golden opportunity to stand above the other networks.

It is written...

"Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law."
Romans- 13:8

This is amazing. I just read someones comment about being surprised that Ms. Rice had the guts to comment on 'any subject'. Does anyone pay any attention to the fact that she can hold her own in meetings with the leaders of the Middle East – who aren't known for listening to women – black or white. Never ceases to amaze me...

Good for Sec. Rice to speak up, sometimes I think she is totally blind to what is going on in our country.

Let's face it, some Americans are still racists and that's why Wright's words stung and insulted so many people. Look at how Muslims are treated in our communities. Seems like our people always need someone to hate, or to blame for the problems of our nations.

However, I believe that the MAJORITY of Americans are fair-minded people, who once they read, or educate themselves and think for themselves can be fair and have been. Sen. Obama's poll numbers are proof that Americans have and are changing. That we, are fair and are willing to give people a chance.

Ms> Rice provided real truth to Americia. I am pleased she brought our fore fathers into focus.

having been educated in a western NY, we need to look at the fact that northern people are just as racists as southerners. There continues to be a difference. North covert, South overt. And I might add, It is alive and well in2008'

Prior to the civil right movement, I was required to use the "coulerd " bathroom. Or pick up your food at the back window of a cafe. This was very confusing to a 6yr old A/A. That confusion, today, strickes an emotional cord. Lack of trust and isolation to stay safe.

I don't know if people that are white can understand this. But I really do want a diaglog. And not just with the whites that as "Oh you are different" Which gives me the thumbs up i guess????

"Soon Condi will be free to speak as she wills, and I’m sure we will see that she is really bipartisan. It’s a new day."

The problem is she should be able to freely speak right now. I think that's the problem some have with her.

Speak your mind now and tell people how you really feel. Don't parrot everything your boss says and does – especially with the kinds of gross misstatements & outright lying the Bush administration is guilty of. If the Bush administration cannot accept someone who speaks their mind and tells the truth – they can always find someone else.

Roland, I will gladly tell u why it did not get the same time as the so called Rev. (I use the term loosely) Wright. First of all I don't know what you all call a Christian Church in the Black community. From what I've seen you must worship a different Jesus and different bible. Just to let you know in the rest of the christian and even jewish worship services we all don't talk about how we should be afraid of black males walking down the same side walk like all of us "typical White People" do accourding to your candidate Obama. Just to let you know I was raised to accept all people and judge them on there actions NOt the color of their skin. I had HOPE when Obama first started to speak that maybe we could all come together, But now, I am VERY ANGRY and I have been driven farther from Obama and his HOPE and CHANGE. I had more black friends than white friends in high school. And through out life for that matter. Ya know it makes me wonder did ALL those white people that marched during the civil writes movement, and the ones that were killed by the KKK trying to register blacks to register in the south, or, the whites sitting in the Obama rallys now, are we all being played. Did those white kids that died in the south? Did they die for NO reason!! Were they played to?? Ms Rice in her words spoke like a professional. She was not speaking to insight HATE like that other person who is supposed to speak to the teachings of Jesus. No matter what color Jesus is. My 4th generation Grandfather was a Union Officer. He joined the cause because OUR family felt the south and slavery was WRONG!! How did that bnefit me?? I got Afirmitive Action. Roland, can you explain to me how it is ok for the man in the church to say what he said about whites and then Obama just pushes it off like it was nothing. Then, you have Imus and others who are white and are linched because they say what they said??? Was it rght what they said, no!! But if there is going to be a standard lets make it for ALL the people. Not just some of the people. Now surprise me and e mail me I am still waiting for Anderson to respond. What are you people in the media affraid of talking about this issue on the air.
OBAMA should be ASHAMED!!! ASHAMED!!!! HOPE? CHANGE??

Speaking the truth especially an uncomfortable truth will get passed over a lot of times. Plus with Condi being part of Bush's administration and on the way out the tendency may be to not pay much attention.

Whatever the reason, she was right. I hope we can get to a place in America where we can discuss race without acrimony and learn to respect each person's diversity no matter what it is. The younger generation that is coming into voting age now seems to be able to do that – I hope they teach us old dogs that new trick.

Annie Kate
Birmingham AL

I agree with Roland Martin, a CNN Contributor, that listening to the full sermons of Rev. Wright helps put the excerpts into context. I wish I could listen to or read the full sermon regarding Clinton and her lack of knowledge on what it is like to be called a “N_____.� I am hopeful that he was delivering a positive message. Without hearing the full sermon I can only wonder “Is this a sermon a parent, black or white, would want their child to hear?�
Obmama says he is the candidate for change, the candidate who can bring unity to America. In regard to race he said that we will need future generations to really see complete change. Where children in the congregation when Rev. Wright gave his sermon regarding Clinton and her lack of knowledge on what it is like to be called a N______? Did Obmama allow his children to hear this message? It’s hard to imagine that children, listening to Rev. Wright sermons on race, are going to hear a positive message on race relations. Racism is taught. Was Rev. White teaching a message to end racism or was he teaching racism.

The republicans are going to have a field day with this.

Obama has a lot of things against him (1) He is not very smart. (2) He worships a racist church leader. (3) His wife will not be a proud American unless she is appointed first lady. (4) He must consult Oprah before making any decision or she might make him pay back all the money she paid for her own room at the white house.etc. etc.

Black children aren't immune from being called ni**ers so I don't see why anyone should try to mask the reality... As far as it relates to that point.

He wasn't calling anyone that word.

It would be different if he said "hey all you ni**ers out there, listen to my message"...

Tone is everything, when trying to make a point. This is the difference between an intelligent, articulate women and a ranting angry man.

Forget Wright! Forget Pat Robertson! and Forget Billy Graham!

Yes even the great Billy Graham who was advisor to 9 presidents was opposed to a Catholic (John Kennedy) from becoming president and accused "the satanic Jews" of controlling the media (Nioxn tapes of 1972)

Pat Robertson, had his own phrase of "America's chickens coming home to roost" when he declared Katrina was God's retribution for abortions.

Graham, Roberson, or Jeremiah Wright, are not Presidents of the United States and their comments don't matter.

Yes, racism is a terrible thing.
But neither John McCain or Hillary Clinton has closely and actively associated with a racist like the Reverend Wright.
If they had there would be an instant and justified clamor for them to resign from their candidacy.
It is important to have many more dialogues about racism, but we must include racists like Reverend Wright in the discussion.
With the revelations about his close relationship with Reverend Wright Barack Obama is not an electable candidate. If he really cares about the Democratic party he will step down and apologize to the American people.

Someone should send Rice's response to Hannity who is always ripping a major one at Pastor Wright.

I applaud Rice for her comments and can't help but wonder why the media doesn't pick this up.

Is the media itself biased and one sided?

Living in small town MN, I do not see any racist. The few people of different nationalities seem to get along very well. There is good and bad in all. If there was a group of young guys walking down the street and if they looked like trouble, I don't care what nationally they are I will be crossing the street ! There is one question that I would like to ask and I would like to have an answer. I agree with Ann why does the Media always divide people by nationalities ? My question is why do some people say I'm a "African American" when I know that they were born and raised in America...they are just plain Americans – No better, No worse than any other American. I don't walk around saying "I'm a French American".....I was born and raised in America.....

Racism is still very alive and kicking in some corners. Racism exists in different sides too. And some of the anger in the US is rooted in racism. Racism i's also a deeply-rooted problem in some areas. But by all accounts, there is a ground-breaking change and improvement for the better since 1960s. And it's also naive to expect that racism problem that lived for generation dies out easily. It evolved and lived for generations, it may take some generations to totally get ride of racism problem from the USA.

While I consider Wright's comments irreligious and politically stupid, what gave rise to them? The first words I heard from him, 'the reason people hate Barrack Obama is...' – Was he defending, though making it worse, against racist attacks? If racism didn't exist against blacks, aboriginals, muslims, and blacks against whites, that sermon would not have been spoken. I think Wright's 'intentions' were good, but his delivery was awful.
I cannot believe, as a man, minister, or marine; he has not , his choice, clarified, defended, or apologised. Step up to the plate Mr Wright, (unless he is senile, then leave him alone.)

ohh !!!The republicans are going to have a field day with this.!!!
Check out McCain pastor on Google. The republicans really should not invite the comments and beliefs of their religious backers brought out.
McCain will not campaign in the nasty manner of the Clintons.

I hope she runs for president when Hillary is done in 2016.

Roland u hit the nail on the head !!!!! unbelievable. Some of your colleagues and or producer dont have the guts to really talk about race , more importantly the ill willed feelings of african americans... If its Rev Wright, main stream goes on and on. They beat the story with 15 second clips every single nite alllll nite . It was hard to watch, I just turned, and not becuz i couldnt listen, but to hear one side only was so unfair, I just turned. Condi THANK YOU, for sharing, It may help some of the media, (even if its secretly done behind closed doors to themselves) come to grips with reality , and thats a start !!! Pat Buchannan should be 1st in line !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rice makes her points diplomatically, differentiating her speech from that of Wright. Her words are honest and without blame.

She is right, race prejudice is a birth defect, one that white Americans have as well.

The current following of Obama by young Americans is believed to be what some media reporters say is the generation that has overcome the race issue.

The rest of us are stuck with it till we die. And I hope that is where it goes, to our graves, because it is time to extinguish this torch.

Her comments were right on the money, and should have front page news, but the main stream media and other politicos wants to and will ignore for as long as possible.

Too many whites want to ignore discussing race in order to maintain the status quo. Other wise a true discussion would reveal why this country is so full of bias, prejudice, racism and hate.

Black people and the media can spin this Reverend Wright thing any way they want to but the facts can't be changed. The man is anti-America and his sermons prove it. Obama sit and listened to this for 20 years

Hi,
I am going to take the HIGH ROAD. With Condeleeza Rice. She is a CLASS ACT more so than GW Bush.. The subject of race is like LEMONS. You just make LEMON AIDE. That's UNITY AS Obama speaks of. Everyone loves Lemon-aide. Just stay on the "HIGH ROAD".

Am I the only one who is concerned that Obama's 'grammy; is a Kenyan woman living in a hut, doesn't speak a word of English, (I'm assuming is Muslim) and lives in a country that the next President of the United States will have to deal with diplomatically. Am I the only person who sees this as a conflict of interest here?
I will say this though; when the media (I believe CNN) interviewed his 'granny' I have to be honest and say that I have no idea what she or the translator siad; I couldn't get past the fact this this woman was sitting in a mudd hutt holding a LIVE chicken in her lap......... maybe Super Tuesday Celebration Dinner plans?
Seriously though..... I would be concerned about the conflict of interest he would deal with when it comes to diplomatic dealings with Kenya. Any thoughts?

Come on people – this is the 21st Century and it's time to get over this whole race thing. What a ridiculous waste of time – people should spend their time more wisely by doing more constructive things, like more of an interest in the environment and how we can make a difference now and in the future.............Al Gore is on the right course – so should we all be.

What our forefathers did to African Americans was clearly wrong. But it is time to stop holding the rest of us hostage for what they did. Just like what Hitler did to the Jews was so very wrong but the Jews while unable to forget and should not bury their history they do not hold all of Germany accountable for what was done many years ago. Set us free from your years of anger. We are not responsible for what was done so long ago.

I think that if Obama is elected PRES. it wll not be long before something he does or says will either anger blacks & or whites. Anyone who speaks against him will automatically be labeled racist by Al Sharpton, Roland Martin etc. etc. It is a good thing many Americans love to fight because in the next four years you all are in for somer rough times CIVIL war Part 2.

I don't think it is good to open old wounds, particularly when people have moved so far forward with racial equality.
Also, talk about "birth defects" – women got the vote after African American men and are still paid less than men of any colour. So, how about talking about how disenfranchised black women and all women are. This is what Hillary represents to me – she will send a message to the world that a woman is in charge and that will help women everywhere of every colour. But I guess you'll never discuss that on CNN.

I wonder When Republican Canadate Senator John McCain,and Democrats rival senator Hillary Clinton speaks of Senator Obama as being inexpirence to be commender in chief.Did the Constitution states that you should have certain level of expirence,or wasn't there an age set to run?If Senator Obama is above the running age,as the Constitution states,than let the issue of expirence be laid to rest.
Fresh and ready for change,he is the best man for the job.

"Black people and the media can spin this Reverend Wright thing any way they want.."

Black people this, black people that...

It's amazing that with all the people still talking about Rev Wright, they still refuse to articulate what exactly they claim was racist about his sermon. They prefer to attach easy labels and refuse to engage their brains in analysis and then honest discussion. It is really sad.

But then Rev. Wright is a follower of Jesus and look what happened to HIM when He spoke uncomfortable truths ... crucifixion

She did not get the same media coverage because she is a woman!
How biased is the media..............VERY. ALWAYS. They show woman mainly in empty or submissive roles such as beauty queens, housewives, Brittney Spears dancers....actresses looking perfect....(or the opposite) why? Because it sells. This is a very sick society...
For reasons to change our views on woman for the good and health of this country (and the world) I say...GO HILLARY!

RACISM in America is real. On Monday Night O’Reilly Show his true White Superiority Complex by threaten a black professor that Black Pastors better be careful about supporting Jeremiah Wrights comments about the unjust policies of pass and present parts of our Government. Claiming that it would increase racial division Instead of having an intelligent conversation he continuously interrupted the truth from being exposed

i think blacks are gods choosen.they praise him and they have super talent,when it comes to singing.blacks have the right to think people [whites] are raciest.because 8 times out of 10 they are.there are still kkk people out there.there are white supremiest still out there,that think blacks should all be killed and it makes me sick.i got a surprise for them.we all bleed the same color.there is no place for raceist in this world.but you will find them over and over again.i can't wait for jesus to look in his book of life and say -i know you not.to the raciest.or the lord tell them-step back at the pearley gates and wait for the blacks go thru first.and no im not black.im lilly white.

I agree with Jacqueline; I was shocked to see Condi take such a stand on race–particularly ours (African-American). I believe it will make a difference in the minds of the "aristocratic" White majority.

Personally, I'm waiting for White-American mainstream to nod its head and say, "You know what, I'm proud of African-Americans. Against all odds, they have run the course, have stopped while running to pick up due process, and continue to construct schools for the blind to send her lady justice, in spite of an ongoing, undermined economy."

As far as Mr. J, are you sure? I'm in a work environment right now where it has been revealed that our Manager decided to pay the White girl $1 more than she decided to pay the Black lady for doing the same job. Here is the clincher: the White girl doesn't even have a GED. The Black woman has college credits.

I recently finished up my Sociology class. After reading any Sociology textbook, you will find this is regular business in America.

Ed K... as catholics we sat with priests we trusted. When we found out how ugly they were in their acts we did not abandon the catholic church nor did we disown our Pope. These priests were not punished enough. . Stands to reason that we should not ever judge another human based on what someone elese says but on what they do.
I say enough Obama bashing from Wright sermons . He was not even there when this sermon was delivered. Think again who was too benefit from this? >> Hillary. I would not put it past her campaign to have church spies who gave this to the press to garner votes in penn.
That is Hillary's M.O.
I am very proud of Condi ..

"Wow" does not seem to the best response to a statement that clearly legitimizes white control over the black community. In fact, I would argue that such a response is a continuation of the "love it or leave it" mentality of current American politics. It is the typical answer of the status quo–you wronged us but were ok with that because it made us stronger–we love this country, even though you defined our being as less than human for over 300 years. It just does not seem enough to What I would like understood as a black American is that black Americans loved and had faith in this country even when this country didn’t love and have faith in them — and that’s our legacy,â€�

It seems like a coup-out to maintain the status quo. Maybe another way to say it is that it is too PC–not string anything up, playing it safe.

Ed K.

If you knew much about American foreign policy you might understand these "anti-American" views. Lets just say black people are not the only ethos we have taken advantage of over the years. Furthermore, of course the media does not really report on these activities could. That could be because American foreign policy and corporate interests are one in the same and hey, guess who owns the media?

If you guessed corporations than you were right!!

The definition of racism is that “members of one racial group consider themselves superior to members of other racial groups.” I can safely say that blacks have not considered themselves superior to whites. On the contrary. There really is no such thing as black racism. Racism goes beyond color. In the case of American History, racism existed in the hearts of the European pioneers and founding fathers, who as a majority thought themselves superior to other races. Any resistance from slaves could not be considered racism, but simply fighting for justice. Today any expression of injustice from the Black community cannot be called racism. The underdog resisting a bully cannot be called a bully, but a survivor. The term black racism should never be used, because it simply does not exist. As Condeleeza Rice stated, “Africans and Europeans came here and founded this country together, Europeans by choice and Africans by chains.” It’s an ignorant notion to tell Black Americans to get over their past. Imagine telling White Americans to get over their past, both the good and the bad. They would not know who they are and or where they’re going. It’s time to learn, grow and work towards the Abolition of Ignorance.

Yes, I bet the Republicans will have a field day! with Rev Wright and again, that's probably why they hope that Obama will be the candidate.
I so wish the "Dream Team" debates would return or not have left! Again,it was the media that said Obama "must become mean and a fighter!" against Hillary, and of course she will have to do the same. So here we are and lost our "Dream Team"–that would be much harder for Republicans to squash or tackle!
Discussion on race is important, but not 24/7 at every turn! How about discussions on the human condition around the world!

Years ago, I remember hearing an old Baptist preacher speak. He was a white man, raised in the deep South, and he regularly used the " N " word throughout his sermon. The sermon was about race relations. No black people were in attendance. He was not asked to come back to preach, and to my knowledge, was told that his comments were unwelcome. Even though his audience was white, everyone felt that he was wrong in what he preached. He was a visiting preacher, and he has never been asked back. As a white man, a Husband, and a Father, and as a Christain, I can understand the difficulties that Obamma faces. What his former Pastor says is less important to me than what Obamma is saying, and Obamma is
saying what America needs to hear. I still think he is a good man, of sound character and moral fiber, and I will support him and I will vote for him, in the Presidential election, and I am proud to do so. We need
a good solid man in the White House, a man that can change things for the better. It doesn't matter to me what color his skin is, I like the way he talks, I like to hear the younger generation all excited about politics, and I like to hear a voice ringing loud and clear that America is on the way back up.

Here comes the cavalry! Do we have to hear all this crap all over again. Having you people had enough of the "Speech" on race; like this is going to change anything. People who do not like Obama will not vote for him even if you resuscitate Mr. King himself. The reason being that we do not like Obama because we believe he is fake and not deserving of the opportunity to be incharge of our destiny; but it is not a matter of color or race. People dislike a lot of people for a variety of reasons but the dislke is based on attitude, character and a deep feeling inside that prevents you from trusting that particular individual. Is self preservation I guess.

I will not vote for Obama not even if you dressing as the pope.

Go Hillary or Go McCain!!!!!!

It is surprising to hear Condoleezza Rice speak this way. Her point is well heard, by myself anyways and she made her point so eloquently.

Reading the wonderful comments I believe that we are making strides to talk about this countries history however it is always that one sided person such as Ed K.

I pray for people Like ED K. To place judgement on a person who grow up during a time in this country where being black meant that you were less than a man. To place judgement on a person who went to fight for a country that never respect him enough to treat him equal. If anything ED K should be thanking REv. Wright and the many soldiers of all racial backgrounds for fighting for their freedoms. For people like ED K who clearly does not know how that would shape that person thoughts and views of this place that I love, America.

I pray that their are more open mind people in America than those narrow mind individuals such as ED K.

God is not the author of confusion. Obama would have been caught between a rock and a hard place had he turned and run away from his church because the media paints his former pastor as being anti-american. The media knows that if they would continue to bring up Rev. Wright that would bring out hidden biases that people secretly have but won't show it until they go into a voting booth, that is why they are always taking polls, they want to make Barack Obama pay for what (Rev. Wright )says. You can live with a spouse for 20 years, you don't divorce them because the comments they make are taboo to the general public, you take them off to the side and let them know that their comments were inappropriate and some may not understand your family history or background. While this is not an excuse for his pastor's comments, this has brought out many hidden prejudices. Even Hillary Clinton brought the subject back up when she was being asked about her own shortcomings as far as her trip to Bosnia and sniper fire is concerned. She knows how to work the media to her favor I have to give her credit for that. The only reason I can see the media continually running Rev. Wright's comments is because they want white America to think twice and not vote for Barack Obama, that's the only thing the media really have on him. He can't be racist he's half white himself. It's unfortunate that all men aren't created equal in some of America's eyes, (even the media). The medias job is to keep America confused on picking the candidate that they think is best in leading this country. But whether in secret of heart or out in the open, facts still remain and we absolutely don't believe in God like we say we do, we are just hopng he won't judge us according to the way we have treated our fellowman while tying his hands and breaking his commandments. I'm not a minister but I absolutely do know who God is. America is hurting and all you see is a contest of who can find the worse dirt on each candidate poor poor America.

Ed.K, this is a dead issue stop beating the horse. What are you white folks afraid of. Be proud of your democracy, it gives people the freedom to say pretty much anything. The real issue here is that you and your kind cannot stomach the thought of a black man in the white house – and.... you have the nerve to be sticking your nose in other people's business talking about democracy – hypocracy is more like it. what a backward bunch of loosers. The R Wright is anti-american? so what? his forefathers paid the price many times over for him to have the freedom to say what he wants. Get over yourself

Sad that in this day and age that so many can't see beyond color. There are those that are blinded by their own ignorance, and those that seem to relish dredging it up. I live in south Louisiana, and can honestly say that I don't see a lot of racist behavior in my area. I am a 42 year white woman, most of my co workers are black,I don't care, neither do they. Most of us in our town grew up together, went to school together, and see each other as people, not walking pigment. We all love our children, feel the same pain, and face the same issues, and hopefully will learn to see everyone as part of the glory of God's creation. Now to swing in from outfield with a completely off topic comment...if Colin Powell were running for President, he'd have my vote hands down. Mr. Obama on the other hand...

Why didn't you blow this story up like you did Barack Obama's race issues. Please, it amazes me how you all want to look at race through the eyes of deception. and not explore race like it really it. I now know that Rice is a human being with real feelings, and has spoken the reality even though you gave little or no media attention to this.

MY descendants were here LONG before the Europeans and Africans came along. You want to talk about neglect and enduring terrible humiliations....you have NOTHING on NATIVE AMERICANS. Our "legacy" was taken.

C. Rice's comments were up front but spoken in words that don't inflame. They words that people can think through. Wright's words are anti American, anti White – big difference. Again why doesn't the news media put Obama under a microscope and follow his life for the lsat 20 years and see who he has supported. The more that comes out in bits and pieces, the more it sounds like Obama is just another politician with lots of baggage. But nobody will call him on it because that would be racist. So everyday he pulls the racist card and we let him get away with it. It's either Clinton or McCain! I won't vote for Obama.

Often times the truth hurts. I believe Rev. Wright words hurt many Americans. But understand how hurt he must have felt as a result of segregation, humiliation and deprivation. He grew up in a time when America abandoned African Americans in many ways. Of course, his experiences would be different from yours and mine. But who are we to judge or criticize this man? We all have different experiences in this country; this is a reality, a fact. Our experiences shape and mold who we are and who we will become. I think Rev. Wright is a product of those experiences....some good and some bad. Does this mean he does not love his country, I think not. What it means, very simply, is that America has disappointed him, as it has many Americans. To deny this will only keep us stagnant as a country. In order to move forward we must acknowledge the pain and hurt this country has caused. Acknowledgement + Truth = FREEDOM

Are you please with the racist comments your coverage has brought out? Mr Martin, you wanted to talk about it and here are the comments you wanted. Racism is alive and well in the USA and most of these comments show it but sadly they are certainly reverse discrimination. Have the blacks suffered, yes! Do I have to pay for something I was not involved with, yes! Did Obama sit in that church for 20 years and listen to the racist comments by a minister, yes! Do I want him as my president, hell NO!

I personally believe racism should be medically proclaimed as a mental illness. Racism seems to be representative of one who has low self esteem and needs the bar raised with professional treatment.

If we elect Obama we can move on... He will lead us to the promise land... Him and the good Rev Wright have all the answers. Just close your eyes... believe it to be true... and he will change the world.

Obama 08

Finally – an inner glimpse of Secretary Rice. What profound words and how amazing the press missed it – OR DID THEY!!!! I have a newfound respect for Secretary Rice for speaking her mind and heart.

Actually in the special on Frontline (sorry CNN) about the events leading up to the Iraq war, I think we can at least speculate that Rumsfeld in the way he disrespected Dr. Rice that he may have been disrespecting her gender or race. He was disrespectful of a lot of folks, but from what was reported he went way over the line with respect to her and Colin Powell.

She had to send people in to spy on what he was doing to find out what was going on. He probably knew that if she knew more about the faulty data and facts, she would have put her foot down as head of the NSA and demanded more time to verify the facts and joined Colin Powell in his reservations.

The most qualified opinions get maneuvered out of the way – isn't that today how the subtle forms of discrimination work? And the people who it happened to – they don't dare acknowledge personal events that may have impacted their own career as racist or sexist – because to do so will disqualify them automatically from future opportunities. But they do walk with their feet, and it's worth noting that Rice and Powell now seem to have opted out of politics. Even to say what Rice said shows courage.

Whites are shocked by black racism and black anger? I commend Obama staying in dialog with people who shared these views even if he didn't agree and he knew the political risks. That's the only way racism will end – someone has to facilitate the dialog.

What would show real courage is if McCain would go to these churches and speak, but we won't see that.

If this country is SO racist, why do we have black Mayors, Senators, Congressmen, TV Personalities, Radio Hosts, Actors, Presidential Candidates, Astronauts, CEO's, Company Presidents, Business Owners, Models, Entertainers and numerous other jobs & careers? It's because these black people WORKED HARD to get where they are at. It takes hard work and committment to get anywhere in this world, I don't care what color your skin is.

I have a niece that is a drug addict. She is always pulling the sympathy card. She says her mom & dad abandoned her when she was just a teenager. They did, and shame on them,but it was HER choice which road she went down. She could have come to live with her grandmother, but she chose the easy way out. She chose to not work, stay high all the time, and steal to support her habit. Her brother chose a different path. He has a job, wife, 3 beautiful children, a member of a local church and he is a volunteer firman/emt.

It's not about RACE!!!!

Mr Martin, I am glad that Secretary Rice made this statement. It continues to amaze me that many Americans think there is now no more racism, it is a truly color blind society "if only those black folks wouldn't keep complaining".

I hope more people will learn more about Trinity and its former pastor Rev. Wright, watch the other sermons available from the church's YouTube channel and the blog truthabouttrinity and learn that a minute or two of soundbites strung together cannot sum up this
former marine and his 36-year ministry who built a tiny struggling church into a congregation of 8,000 with an amazing array of faith based programs to help a struggling population on the South Side of Chicago.

For those who keep asking about the children hearing the sermons they can feel assured that there is a children's worship service just like in many churches. The kids are not with the adult congregation during the sermons. On the subject of the N word, I think there is a BIG difference in calling someone a N and talking about people having been called a N.

Ed K .....you are sensitive.....and you can blind yoourself with Wrights comments and never see the truth...but I can't hate you for it because this is the basis of alot of peoples faith in this country......let just makeup a reality; and stick with that........but as poor and uneducated as some are around me .....the Truth is all they have.....and no matter how much money or status....they will not let those like you steal their TRUTH.......unfortunately race and politics will never go together especially here because there is little truth in politics.....no matter who the candidate is!
Change 08

you can't blame citizens of today for there forefathers issues........but they are holding on to the inheritance of those people.....what is interesting to me is I was talking to a young man....he made the argument that slavery was before his time......but didn't understand that the civil rights movement took place in the 60's.........so you had alot of free blacks for around 80 + years living with no rights even though they were declared free..........and for all you historians.....the US would have been two or three countries if the union did not get the help of slaves in the south helping fight to maintain a country that had exploited them in the past........as a white man it is a shame ...howo we have used blacks for every advancement of the country but could not find it in our heart to try and advance them socially before the 60's ....it not a pretty picture but as Americans we must take a deep look ...if we are to continue to be the world leader

One of the reasons the media doesn't want to push this article or even the one where Fl. apologized to blacks for slavery is because most people want to use racism as a trump card when it is suitable like bringing Rev. Wright and Obama into this discussion. These are the real racist.

oner thing people in a mega church like rev wrights......there a kids church...children don't usually come into the main sanctuary until there about 13years old

And, as we come to find out with the out of context comments pulled from an entire sermon, and with clips of wild applause placed in the appropriate place to tell the "wanted media story," the language is near the same from Rice and Wright.

However, the old adage of it's not what you say...but how you say it hits home once again. It's a sad fact but the truth of our society today in being PC.

What either Rice or Wright says about racisim, black culture, what we talk about and what we don't is not a shock to us as blacks. What is a shock is that we still don't talk about "it" at all, and that's why it's shocking to most Americans because they haven't had to care! Well, "The Chickens have come home to roost...and their talking now thank God!"

-Marvin Wadlow Jr

Sorry, just one more comment in regards to someone saying racism was limited to the south...sorry, you may have thought that but "It ain't the case" as my mother of ninety-four told me the racism that existed back in her day when she moved to California and built fighter plans on the assembly line for the war.

Don't forget, this country's early economic power base and wealth was built on the backs of slaves, there is no way that racism and Jim Crow wouldn't effect the entire country.

Was it easier to live in other areas besides the south, of course it was; but there were still issues of race to be dealt with regardless of where you were geographically if you were a person who was black, mexican, asian, or anyone of color besides of European decent.

What everyone needs to see, is that Americans are influenced by racism from their parents, grandparents, and peers. Not by media and churches. Why is it people are only good christians when they are sitting in the pew in church, and than it all goes out the door when the sermon is over? It is time to draw the line, this far no further! We are Americans, not divided into sub-groups of religion, race, or ethnicity. Racism is so 1960s, it is 2008, people! We will never progress as a nation until we can treat each other with respect and love and put racism and bigotry behind us. Turns out the Iraq war, the economy, and health care are'nt the most important issues in our country today, racism and bigotry are. Dialogue is the key here and we all need to sit down, work this out, and move forward, together as one nation.

The press is all about sensationalism and ratings. So I'm not surprised that Condoleezza Rice's comments did not get aired. I'm however disappointed that with her position of power she did not choose to speak out before now! What took her so long? I have found that people are afraid to confront race relations in America. We are still suffering from past woulds but the current state of race relations needs to be dealt with as well. Racism has taken on many different forms from that of the past. In addition to white racism against blacks, there is also black racism against whites and hispanics against blacks and vice versa. The country is in a bad way with only a few of us making the effort to live and work together. Comments by Wright are inexcusable and counter productive and do not help Black Americans. Just to hear views like that repeatedly continues the ill-feelings from long ago. Wright should be preaching about blacks forgiving whites for what was done to them and helping them to move on and deal with current race matters.

WELL ED K. JUST FOR THE RECORD IT IS OBVIOUS THAT YOU ARE WHITE AND IN DENIAL ABOUT THE FACTS BUT I MY MEMORY SERVES ME CORRECT IT WAS BILL CLINTON WHO GAVE THE REV. WRIGHT SUCH HIGH PRAISE AT A BREAKFAST HELD IN WASHINGTON BUT OH I GUESS THEY FORGOT ABOUT THAT JUST LIKE HILLARY FORGOT WHAT HAPPENED ON THAT TRIP SHE TOOK WITH HER "DAUGHTER" SO GET OVER YOURSELF IT IS NOT BLACK PEOPLE THATS DOING THE COMPLAINING ITS FOLKS LIKE YOU.....................................

AND TO FURTHER ADD TO PREVIOUS COMMENTS HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT THIS CHURCH IS ALL ABOUT THERE WERE A BUNCH OF SNIPPETS PUT TOGETHER TO MAKE THIS SOUND SO UGLY BUT IF YOU HAVEN'T HEARD THAT SPEECH ALL THE WAY THROUGH THEN YOU SHOULD NOT MAKE ANY COMMENTS BECAUSE TO UNDERSTAND WHAT WAS SAID YOU HAVE TO LISTEN TO THE WHOLE SERMAN.............AND WHO ARE YOU TO JUDGE AND TO TALK ABOUT SOMEONE AND HOW THEY SHOULD CONDUCT THE PATHS OF THEIR LIVES I AM SURE YOU HAVE MORE SKELETONS IN YOUR COLSET THAN THE LAW WILL ALLOW SO BE CAREFUL. REMEMBER GOD SO LOVED THE WORLD THAT HE GAVE HIS ONLY BEGOTTEN "SON"

Ed K. first did you hear the whole sermon because if you did not listen to the whole sermon you being deprived of the truth. Having said that to say this some people denounce what has happen or is happening surrounding racism because they are spectators or instigators of racist remark.

Wright's comments should be put into the biblical context in which they were uttered. They are a warning against creating an idol call America. The Prophet Amos had far harsher things to say about the Kingdom of Israel. .

It's laughable that people think race doesn't matter anymore or its only a southern thing. When the Rev. Wright thing blew up on TV, there were racist comments from many republican and conservative who weren't all from the south. America is still racist, it runs deep in the fabric and thread of our society and can be seen in all corners of our world. Her comments are so truth and we will probably never overcome the issue of race because we are too stubborn to open our eyes and ears to the issue of race in America.

Higher education still does not undo the long historical relationship of racism and America. Many people cite affluent blacks(Condi being one herself) as a source of relationship change because they are products of ivy leagues and this provide all other blacks with the same option; saying such comments on reveal someone true inner racist thoughts. Both Wright and Condi words are important because it reveals that America isn't perfect but because we gloss it over with you have rights and we are free - you have no right to complain. We are doing ourselves and the future of this country a disservice. The fact that we cannot have a civil discussion about race in America just means that we haven't come that far. Just because blacks are superficially "treat" better or there appearance from chained naked slaves has improve does not mean that we have come a long way from the issue of race.

Racism is like metal and minorities in this country wear a magnet whether we like it or not, because of this magnet racism is naturally attracted to us.

I am a 25 year old African American woman in Omaha, Nebraska. People act surprised that I am single without children and I have a college education. I have encountered people including blacks that have low or no expectations of me. When I go into department stores I am often followed, even though I work everyday and have never stolen anything from anyone. I have gone to the grocery store on the first of the month and was asked if I would be paying with my EBT card.

I know racism is still an issue in this country; it's a virus so we cannot get rid of it, but we as individuals can treat the symptoms and make our nation an example to the rest of the world.