Thank You, Roland, for telling it like it is!!

The whole thing reaks of double racial standards! If Jessie Jackson was white and he had said to cut off a black mans genitals, he would be protesting racial discrimation along with Al Sharpton!!

I am very disappointed and shocked with Rev. Jackson's comment no matter how trash he considers it. If gold rusts what will iron do? With his civil right history he should know better unless he is mad that Barack has come from "nowhere" to reap the fruit of his 54 year old labor. Rev. Jackson please leave Barack alone, people are now more interested in higher ideals and are sick and tired of destructive comment like yours that does no person any good regardless of race.
I am black and I am shocked and disgusted with your comment soaked in bitterness and jealousy.

UE Uche, CT

I can't agree with you more Roland and I appreciate you taking time to share your opinion with us..I think what Obama is speaking about (taking responsibility) is something that Jackson should truly embrace because it is a path to some real action and results for all Americans (not just those in the African-American community). Would Jackson rather Obama say that there is no moral responsibility and blame everything on society..that would not result in any CHANGE.

I can excuse Jesse Jackson. His views are legitimate but somewhat out of touch while current reality. What I cannot forgive is Fox News for their airing of a clearly private communication. Have these folks any common sense of common decency???

How different the story is now the the Rev. Jackson has talked "trash".
He was the first in line to bash Don Imus along with his buddy the Rev. Al Sharpton, who thinks the Rev. Jackson's comments should be forgiven. H.M.

I couldn't agree more Roland, well put. If leaders spent half as much time building people up as they do tearing them down, maybe we could get something worthwhile done.

Perhaps Rev. Jackson is jealous of not being in the same position as Obama for the presidential run. Obama has accomplished what Jackson could not. Also it is human nature to make comments about each other. Jackson did at the wrong place and at the wrong time. To say that in a news room with all of the big ears and big mouths in that room is like walking into a land mine field.

This painfully reminds me of a situation growing up. I grew up in a small town where teenagers, children, were dying from drunken accidents, girls as young as 12 and 13 were becoming pregnant, and kids were underachieving in school and in life, and when someone I love and adore stood up at a public forum and started to really call people on the carpet on these issues, there was a nasty backlash from the moral leaders of the community. I never understood, it made sense to me these things should be addressed, and yet the leadership of the town would rather turn a blind eye and blame the economic downturns and lack of opportunities that was occuring in our area at the time, rather than addressing some other pretty obvious facts about how they were allowing their own children to get away from them.

Thankfully, my parents allowed no such behavior, and I have to say I turned out pretty OK in the end.

What else is there to say but well put.

Roland. That was one of the best essays I have read on the subject. Thank you.

The biggest problem is that people continue to listen to this loon. He has been full of hot air and enflamitory comments for as long as I can remember. He never has anything productive or helpfull to say about anything. America needs to stop paying attention to him, the news media needs to stop asking for his opinion on anything and maybe if we are lucky he will fade into oblivion. So instead of having two outspoken, long winded, people roaming the streets fanning racial flames everywhere we'll only have one...Rev Al Sharpton. I mean seriously if I wanted to hear a skewed opinion on an issue I could go to any preschool and ask a 3 year old his or her views on politics.

Roland,
Way to go my man!! You took the words right out of my mouth! Jesse is just in this thing for his own gain. He has lost touch with reality and with his faith. He is too busy trying to make it all about him! He needs to realize that he isn't all that anymore and step aside and shut up. He causes more problems than the law allows! LOL

What is so wrong with all men, not just blacks stepping up and taking responsibilities for their actions? Why does Jesse have a problem with Obama saying that? Does he think that no one notices that we have a great problem in this nation when it comes to men having nothing to do with their kids or having them left and right, walking out, and never looking back? He needs to wake up and realize that we all see it! It can't be hidden by not talking about it.

Cindy...Ga.

It is nothing new for a politician to speak out of both sides of their mouth. But Jesse Jackson is the foremost expert at this. What he says to the public is what he wants people to hear – not what he thinks or believes in. His ultimate goal is what is best for him, his ego, and finances. If you think he is anymore than that – take a good look at his record and other "I didn't know the mike was hot" remarks over the years – it tells a competely different story – yet one closed ot the truth of what he is – and it is not a pretty picture.

If your not a part of the solution, then your a part of the probrem.

One Love

I have CNN on most of the day, and I have heard Jesse Jackson many times. This latest goof and some others make me wonder how he can still call himself "Reverend". I have known some "Reverends" but none like him !!!!

Rev. Jackson should be honest about it. Deep down inside when he thought he was going to be the next president, he was confident. Now he can see that a black man can be president also and a woman too. It's not a good thing to criticize. Especially someone that is the same color and nationality as you. Rev. Jackson should be glad and want to be as helpful as possible and do whatever is necessary to help Senator Obama. Rev. Jackson has paved the way and given Senator Obama the chance to run for President. He said something wrong and it hurts not just black people but everyone. The United States wasn't ready for a black man or a woman to be president, but it's the right time for it to happen. It's Rev. Jackson's fault and he is responsible for whatever he say's. If you are in the public eye, you have to be careful for whatever you say, on and off camera. He should ask his son for forgiveness and his love and to help him remember that the past was a real thing and not just in his head.

While many of my generation may feel the presumptive nominee Obama may be "talking down" to those African-American men who have faithfuly fathered their children, the truth of the matter is Obama must move center stream in American politics if he is to be elected. Now is not the time for petty bickering over his choice of words or venues chosen to address our societial shortcomings as an ethnic group. Nor should we expect Obama to be our champion, he is not that either.
Stay focus, bring our troops home, redirect our source of energy from foreign to domestic, pay our teachers decent salaries and return America to its dominance of the global market. Leave what is said in our churches and private conversations out of the public debate on whether Obamo is black enough for Jesse.

Thank you Mr Martin. Well written and very accurate.

Roland,

I agree 100 percent. Thank you for clarifying the issues for us!

Ruth
Martinez, Ca

Roland,
Thank you! You expressed my senitments perfectly! I am apalled that a spokesperson for God could even come out of his mouth with such nonsense! Rev. Jesse Jackson, in my opinion, built the foundation for Barack Obama to now become a strong viable African-American candidate. That is what he should focus on. Instead, though, he is displaying his jealousy. Rev Jackson's time was then but Barack time is now!

The other comment I wanted to make is this: Where is CNN getting these idiots who are spewing nothing but garbage aimed at dismissing Barack Obama as elistist, racist, sexist and anything else they can label him with. Please tell them to stop! Enough is Enough! I like CNN but I will stop watching it as I have stopped watching Fox News!!

Thanks! Please have a great time on your cruise! Don't worry! God has Barqck covered from head to toe!

Blessings!
J. Williams

I am a die hard Republican and supporter of McCcain but with that said I am also a Christian first and formost and the remarks that Jackson said against Barrak are anything but Christian.But who am I to judge for we all have our moments when we do something sinful. After all we have all sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God. Jessies Jackson did appologize to Barrack and hopefully he is seeking out the Lord right now for his forgiveness which he freely gives to any one who asks.
Although I disagree w/ Barrack on National Security, taxes, etc etc..I do admire the man for standing up and bringing to light the issues of the black community and it's not just a black community issue, there are plenty of whites, hispanics, ect ect..that are single parents...this is a moral issue in the US and it is what is pulling this country down to the depts of despair and this issue MUST be addressed. It MUST be addressed by the church today. It must be addressed and not ignored by our lawmakers. We must do more to educate these girls and to help single mothers get in the work force. So although I will not be voting for Barrack because of other issues that affect our very exzistance, I applaud him on this...
And Jessie Jackson needs to stand aside and let the younger generation build on the foundation of their forfathers.

Hi Roland, I agree with most of what you said. I just would like to know what kind of reverend who wants to cut someone’s balls off?

Leave God out of the race! This is turning into what everyone said it would. A election based on race. African Americans would vote for Obama even if Binladen was his buddy. Jackson may not like Obama and may think he is not to bright but he is backing him because of his race. No problem with electing a black person as long as he/she can do the job. Obama can't! Why do you think he was a candidate? Because he is bright? No because he is easy to manipulate. Clinton was not! Last election you got terrorized into voting for Bush again, now you want an historic election when you are in a recession! How much world respect do you want to lose. Thank God for Jackson, at least he is honest!

Jesse Jackson is an antiquated, and useless, if not worthless relic of the past. I have had serious issue with him since he did nothing to pick up and wear the mantle that Dr. King was gunned down in. Obviously, jealousy is the fuel of the fire that spews from his lips. He constantly gushes rhetoric about the unity of the black community, but when he's upstaged by a viable candidate, he can't handle it. It's another example of the tribal ignorance that plagues Black America: when someone gets one rung higher on the ladder, there will always be someone there to pull them down. It would be most prudent if Bro Jesse would just bow out and fade away. He has been the catalyst for so much negativity toward us that it kills him to see another black man actually accomplishing something. It's sad to say, but he will do us the best service when he dies.

This just goes to show Jesse Jackson is a Racist, He cannot stand to to see a person who is not Racist and Half Black Half White running for the white house so he says things like that. And I don't care if he apologizes...if and when Obama becomes president we will see whose nuts will be cut off hahahaha.. It is funny how this guy who claims to be someone who brings good to people just causes trouble all the time..We should send him and Sharpton off to Iraq just to be rid of them they cause more Racist Tension then anyone anywhere...

Roland.

Barack Obama is talking down on everybody...not just African Americans. Remember guns and religion and clinging????

You have a real problem in your hands. Face it. Fix it. Spinning it won't help.

About being relevant...Mr. Jackson was next to Martin Luther King during the civil rights movement...

THANK YOU BROTHER ROLAND................ I KNEW IT WAS A REASON THAT I LOVED YOU..................

Roland, I think you should go on FOX/NEWS..they would dig your input.. Rev. Jackson should not stop with "Saint Obama's" nuts~ off with all the nuts & then some. Roland relax justbe glad a white dude didn't say that, because you & all the Rev.'s would send all the white's to hell & back.. exclude us mexican's we're not in it – thank the Lord.
No Crying in politics.

This is so true... I am glad that you are speaking the truth. It's time for everyone to face the truth and stop running from what happening to america. Even if it is a black problem now, it is America's problem too. Because sooner or later it is going to affect all America. I just want to say THANK YOU!!!!!!

Well done Roland, you hit it right on the head. Its time to stop sweeping the dirt under the rug. Barack shows courage at a time when most (Jessie) cower because its too hard to discuss. Whatever !
I applaud this article and Barack's speech on the black family.

WOW!!! This is awesome!! The only comment I have is for Roland to keep telling the truth...after all, it is "supposed" to make us free!!

Dr. King once stated in a speech as he reflected on the Montgomery Bus Boycott, "That's what we got to learn in the North, Negroes have to learn to stick together". This poor choice of words changes the image that was fixed in my mind as I watched Rev. Jackson weep with Andrew Young and John Lewis at the gorundbreaking ceremony for the Dr. King's Memorial in Novemer 2006. Were those tears sincere or was it just another way to get the spotlight on him ? It's a sad fact that these comments are related to the arrogance of wearing the fraternal colors of purple and gold. Like Bill, Like Jerimiah, like Jesse. WAKE UP!!! It's not about YOU!!

Roland , your bias is showing. Do you dream of Obama?

Jesse is Jealous and suffers from 'Obama Envy', Jesse knows it, his son knows it, I know it and the entire black community knows it.

Jesse stammered throughout the CNN interview because he knows as a ‘Reverend’ what you THINK is what you are. It’s not okay for Jesse to THINK these words nevertheless speak them. These are strong indications of jealousy, bitterness and envy. Senator Obama has not forgotten his roots (on BOTH sides of his family) and when Jesse injects HIS accomplishments he shows the world he has become a diseased dinosaur bitten with the bitter pill of Envy. To sum things up; Jesse has ‘Obama Envy’.

Maybe Barack's speech about fatherhood hit a little too close to home for the Right Reverend Chickenwing!!

Is this all we have for news? Jackson makes his comment as his own opinion. Yet, McCain's advisor says we're whining??? That there's no recession? Why doesn't CNN stop with the tabloid style news and do the voters a favor? CNN has been on Obama's butt since the primaries and it's time for McCain to take some heat.

Why not a story on McCain's horrible temper?

To be short and concise I am African American. I have donated several times to Obama’s campaign. As I talk with friends and family and others who support Obama we are quite happy with the campaign he is running and the language he is using. Jesse Jackson is a jealous has been. Instead of worrying about how Obama is running his campaign, maybe he should take Obama’s advice and be more concerned with being a father to his illegitimate child.

Roland,
Thank you for keeping it real, you are a gifted journalist! It is obvious to me that the "Right Reverend Jesse Jackson" has been paid off to spout off – any negative commentary that will dismantle Obama's campaign! My guess is that some underground interest group has offered him big $$$$bucks$$$ to deliver garbage and confusion to the American people. Hey Jesse, you old fart...IT WON'T WORK!

We all know the sticking to guns issue was taken the wrong way... I don't think by any measure Sen. Obama ever wanted anyone mentioned to have their balls cut off!!!

I agree with you Roland, but I think the apology, or lack thereof, deserves equal, if not heightened scrutiny. Jesse Jackson (and Al Sharpton for that matter) are irrelevant. I think that these comments are going to ring deep for a while because they expose the type of blind foolishness that Senator Obama is fighting to remedy. I can only hope this is a nail in his political coffin. He is finished, and I think America is finished with him.

Jesse Jackson is an embarrassment to himself and his family. Truth is he stopped representing main stream african americans a long time ago. I personally have the detested the man my entire adult life. He is a poverty pimping extortionist. Always has been, always will be. Good riddance!

Amem Brother Roland

Rev. Jesse Jackson is and has been a champion of causes for those who cannot and could not advocate for themselves. He is a man. He is a politician. Rev. Jackson is a man who got caught trash talking and conveying how he is disappointed with a position or particular view Senator Obama has been expressing or supports. So for all the bloggers and trashtalkers who wish to exile Rev. Jackson to "we don't need u anymore land", because he challenged the "golden one", I say be very careful.

As opposed to accepting everything our politicians do, perhaps if more people expressed their content with policies and views our politicians support- that they may disagree with- citizens may actually enact their right to participate in the political process.

As conversation and trash talk in salons, stores and elewhere gears up and switches from Rev. Jeremiah Wright to Rev. Jesse Jackson, I challenge "black folks" to carefully evaluate the whole picture. First, we must recognize that challenging Senator Obama's positions does not mean blasphemy nor does it emit envy. It does mean however, keeping him on course. Secondly, continuing to support and respect the "old gaurd" is not counter indicative to change. I beg my people(s)to stop putting all their eggs in one basket, while discarding the old eggs. The disrepect shown to the Clintons, Rev. Jeremiah Wright and others by black radio talk show hosts, in particular, was outlandish. Finally, stop waiting on the master to deliver you to the promised land. Become actively involved in local politics and hold all these POLITICIANS accountable.

Jessie Jackson doesn't owe anybody a apology. He has a right to express his opinions. Although, I don't like him. He is right

I wish people would stop calling Jesse Jackson "Reverand". The man has absolutely no right to refer to himself as a man of God when he curses, has affairs and exhibits the attitude of a moron when he speaks. He may not "speak down" to us but he is certainly an embarrassment to us and a very poor example for our children. We got tired of his rhythm and rhyme gibberish years ago because it no longer inspires us. The tv and radio stations waste their listener's time when they ask him to be on their shows. He needs to look in the mirror and see himself for what he has become and stop pretending to be something he is not.

Roland,

Thank you for this essay on the so called (Rev) Jesse Jackson. It is obvious that Jesse Jackson can't deal with the real issues of Black America, because he is part of these issues. To have power to speak on behalf of an issue, it can't exist in your life. He is not able to stand with Obama on behalf of these issues of fatherhood and others, because of his own sins, this doesn't give him the right to down another that's trying to make a difference in the Black community. I say to Jesse Jackson, let the REAL LEADER (Obama) stand and take care of the issues that we face as Black Americans.

Very very well said Roland. Thank you for taking the time to comment, and I wish you back at work to be able say it in person (but I defiantly respect your well deserved R&R).

If someone said "nappy Ho" vs "cutting your nuts offs" I think the latter would be far more offensive. But since Jackson is not white all he has to do is give a 1 minute apology and then he can go right back to flapping his big mouth.

Although the Obama campaign quick accepted the apology, I’m glad the black community has stepped up to let people know that this is NOT acceptable. I cant belive anyone (white or black) can possibly not be offended by this type of talk.

Thank you so much for your awesome comments! It's about time someone told it like it is when it comes to Jesse Jackson!

I love it.. and this man wanted to be president of this great country.. what a jerk.. hey call al sharpton, see what he thinks of jesse the mouth,, what a turkey.

Hello Roland!

I hope you are trying to enjoy the rest of your vacation. A few words?

You said a mouth full...and it was all truth.

A local station talked about this issue this morning and said that Jesse Jackson is the old school (Sharpton too) and he should step aside for the new school of thought from African Americans. I agree.

No doubt he has his place in history, he served well. Now let new blood stand up front, conquer other issues that tear at the fabric of our society!

Thank you.

I agree with Roland Martin, it's time for African American's to move forward with change. It does not mean that, we have forgotten from whence we came. My heart fell on the floor. Rev. Jackson does owe God first, African Americans and the United States of America, an apology.

Yes, mistakes are going to be made, and we are not always going to agree with each other. I am sure Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. would be so proud, I see this historical event as Dr. King's dream coming to pass. ( Already has come to pass) Who would have thought an African American would succeed and come this far by faith and a woman as Presidential candidate.

Rev. Jackson, we are praying for you. It's Sen. Barack Obama's mantal, if you are being selfish, so be it, take your seat and sit down, I am so ashame of you. If you wanted to run again to late, I've always looked up to you, I'm sooo– ashamed, can' t you be happy for Sen. Obama and African Americans, in times like these? Get over it!!! I thought you had more class, but apparently not.

"The Wrong Reverend Jesse Jackson" ceased to be a relevant influence for me when he chose to have an affair and subsequent child outside of his marriage. Obama is right, and in his heart, the Wrong Reverend knows it. Jackson is simply playing 1970’s politics.

Excellent piece. You have stated clearly and succinctly exactly what I have long been saying. We must convince Jackson and those of the 60’s generation who have not "grown", to step aside for the next generation. The differences are not ALL generational. Many older children of the civil rights struggle have moved on from the hot button issues and have sought out 21st century ways of lifting others and us. We have not clung to the 20th century as if all solutions resided there. I marched and demonstrated in the 60's and campaigned for John Kennedy. Today, I am an active and passionate supporter of Senator Barack Obama. Go Barack, all the way to The White House!

It is hard to beleive that Jesse Jackson would even allow that type of
comment to come out of his mouth. While I know he is allow to make mistake like everyone else, those words has no place in a REV's mouth on stage to someone else. I think he is a little bitter, because what Senator Obama says about the African American community is true. I think Jesse Jackson needs to get out and speak to these issue regarding men......but I am not sure how it will go over now.
And I do think the media has exposed it now please put it to rest because I am sick of seeing Jesse Jackson on every channel now.

His comments were private comments. WE ALL DO IT!!! Asian, Hispanic, Black, White and as a matter of fact, this has absolutely nothing to do with race. His mistake wasn't his comments, his mistake was getting caught saying them. I'm sure he didn't mean it literally, its just a phrase. I'm sure if stuck a microphone in every cranny of your respective lives we will find that most of us/you say screwed up things. We all say mean and hurtful things about people we love and people we know, its a fact of life.

Now with that said, as a public figure there's no room for such mistakes. He did the right thing and apologized immediately, unfortuntely, its a bit late and now he's living up to his nasty nickname Jesse Jackass.

It's crucial that African-Americans take a hard look at the problems plaguing their community–calling Obama an elitist and saying he's "talking down" to blacks is foolish–these issues should be addressed. Jesse Jackson's crude and disgraceful comment about Obama made him look out of touch and a bit jealous.

Excellent Commentary Roland,

Jesse is totally envious of this young man who God has ordained for a time as this. This cool cat is about to accomplish what Jesse could not.
The Rev needs to repent and join all the people who want to see this Nation going into a bight future. The words he spoke were hateful and only shows his private side which the media don't see often. As you pointed out, he destroyed his own credibility, bringing dishonor to his family and race. This gets him some lame light but we all need to focus on getting Obama elected. Jesse, retire in peace. Obama, Please lead the Nation, we need you.

Thanks Roland for saying the truth about Jesse Jacksons comments, People like Jackson and Wright I believe are envious of Sen. Obama. why can't they just keep quiet and let Let Sen. Obama run for the highest Office of this Nation, its difficult enough that Sen. Obama has Nagative comments coming from very Conservatives like Sean Hannity, Russ Limbaugh, Newt Gingrich and other conservatives Fox News Host bringing out anything Sen. Obama say because they just can't stand Sen. Obama running for C

Roland, I couldn't have said it any better myself. You are a man of insight and integrity, while Jesse Jackson has deteriorated himself into a vile mess, a disgrace to the Christian ministry he claims to represent, and a totally irrelevant voice in today's politics.

I'm a African-American woman who has resented these "self-appointed" black leaders for years who have perpetuated the problems in our community by turning their heads, denials, excuses, and even participation. It is refreshing to have the truth about the problems from with in addressed honestly and constructively by Obama. Thank you Roland for the best commentary on this subject to date. You are the Man!!!

Roland, tell Jesse we already have Hannity,Levine,Limbaugh,O'rilley and how many other hate mongers and they can express it so much better than he can.Please we are tired of the hate........Obama will be a refreshing change..............

Well said Roland. I enjoy you everytime I hear your comments on subjects such as this. It has been almost 24hour and I am really sick of hearing about Jesse Jackson....now it seems he is gloating.....He did a great job in the fight for Civil Rights. Currently I think he is a little bitter.....what Sen Obama said did not talk to blacks I attended the event in Power Springs, GA with my family and saw that when he
made the those we as African American applauded him, because it needed to be said.....everyday so Jesse should get out and do the same....even with his flaws, or he should just sit down and shut-up.
joann from Georgia

I think Jesse Jackson, Andrew Young, Al Sharpton, and Robert Johnson should all go on a deserted island together and stay there. When we say we have had enough, it is because we have had enough of them. Jesse Jackson should have learned his lesson from the nickname he called New York some years ago. SHUT UP JESSE!!!!! Those that are criticising Obama are jealous because they are not him. Grow up already. Step aside and watch in silence.

I've never really considered Jesse Jackson a Reverend. In the time that I've been aware of him (not being old enough to have seen him with Dr. King), it always seems like he's done more to stir up disputes and bitterness than ever helping people really move forward and try to make the U.S. more united. I think he's irrelevant, for the most part. I think of him (and Sharpton) as an off-topic politician than any kind of reverend or Christian. His latest comments just prove that even more to me. I sincerely hope that someday soon, he'll learn to just take a back seat and perhaps use that time to more closely examine his own life than to keep sticking his nose in everyone else's.

JJ's chickens have come home to roost. It is a sad state of affairs when a person recognized as one of the more prominent leaders of the AA community happens to be the loudiest critic of new leadership rising through the ranks. This is the time for the old gaurd to offer wisdom and guidance not scuttle but remarks that divide all Americans. I like to say to all the Jessie Jackson's, Andy Young's, and Bob Johnsons of the world – you open many doors so that America's sons and daughters would never have to encounter the injustices that you faced. Pass the baton – let the new blood prepare the way for the generation that follows. True leadership is best displayed by knowing how to follow.

Nice post Roland..............very nice. It is good to see someone tell it like it is without sugar coating stuff. Sharpton said it correctly the other night when he talked about Obama not being a civil rights leader. That is exactly it. Obama isn't. Jackson needs to realize Obama is appealing to all Americans. So, leave him be. What did Jackson think of Wright? He didn't like it. So why does he contribute to Obama's opposition by his remarks? Jackson............shut up

Roland,
I spent 16 years in Fresno, Calif – 1980-1996
Please tell Rev. Jackson to go there today & walk down "G" street & Blackstone Ave between Shields ave & Belmont Ave- Its gotten worse over the years.
He just might run into a man driving a green Cadilac convertable
with gold chains selling drugs, quite a few homeless people walking the streets, teens with their pants hanging low & their boxer shorts pulled up high. Senator Obama had it RIGHT . The good Rev. would do well to go put His nose in a Bible & read what it says & Be a Doer of the word. & remember that " every idle word spoken will have to be accounted for" " To Whom more is given- MORE is required"

This is a very interesting example of how the underground sentiment really feels and looks. How many comments like this occur every day around the world not just in politics, but every day life itself. It appears that when someone has and idea nd the energy to strive for the betterment of the human race, those who did the same in their pasts are now comfortable and do not want change. We live in an ever changing world moreso today and we cannot sit still and rest on our laurels. We must strive to win the race of life, no matter what faction. To obtrain the greatest goal of all. TO GET ALONG AND FEED THE WORLD.

Reverend Jackson has lost any respect I ever had for him as I grew up in life.

I agree with your statement. Jackson is envious of Obama because he has not been in the limelight. All the attention has been on a younger black man rather than himself. Well he has gotton the attention and has been on all the news. I watch CNN and have heard Lemon trying to white wash what Jackson said. He acts as if he is in awe of Jackson and wants nothing wrong said to him. He needs to look at it for what it is. Jackson needs to step back and let the younger people start being in charge but be there with help and advise.

Remember Judas walked alongside Jesus, but had other underlying alternatives and motives. Association puts you on the scene with a person, but doesn't put you on the same paths of a person. Roland, if I heard what you just said preached by my pastor this Sunday I would stand up on both legs and say PREACH PASTOR!

Roland, Thanks for noticing!
Your commentaries are always refreshing.
Jesse and Al have shamelessly self-promoted themselves and their agendas at the expense of fellow Americans since I can remember. They are equally polarizing figures and stoke the fires of hatred for their own glory. I'm weary from them choosing sides and berating others and always elbowing their way to the front for that next great photo-op.

Thank you for writing this fair and accurate article. Simply put, Jesse Jackson is currently a liability to the black community, not only because of what he says but because of who he has become. And in his case, Obama's critique of the black community hits Jackson close to home because of the poor choices Jackson's made in furtherance of destroying black families.

Roland
Very well stated.

I'm also disgusted with the use of words by "Rev." Jackson. Very appalling.

I can't help but wonder what impact Rev. Jackson's utterings will have on Sen. Obama's wife and children, both now and in the future, as this incident will be included in the history books of the future.

My question is. Should Rev/. Jackson apologize to the entire Obama family, if not the entire DNP

There is a growing number of people who believe Jackson's comments were staged for Obama to look good with the white voters.

Chicago style politics.

Personally, I don't believe it. I believe Jackson knows more than we do. One thing that greatly disturbs me is the Chicago privatization of public housing scandal that Obama is involved in. While Obama and his children set in a million dollar mansion – his convicted friend and fundraiser Rezko received millions from the state of Illinois for housing developments that soon fell into disrepair. Also, on the short list of developers are Davis and Butler (both Obama cronies) To make a long story short – take a trip to Chicago and witness first hand what Mr. Obama has done for the poor. It is shameful.

Is it just me, a republican, that thinks that both the Obama lapel pin flap and Jackson's comments are meaningless and amount to nothing more than smoke. The real gaff of late is forgetting about his promise to aid in collecting money to reduce Hillary Clinton's debt and having to be reminded of it by an aide and then awkwardly trying to repair the mess. That cost Obama votes. At this juncture, Obama is his own worst enemy.

I watched Jessie Jackson as a high school student at the then Seattle Colisium back in 1979, it was electrifying and I felt honored to have that opportunity. To hear and watch him mumbling those derogitory comments made me think of that time. Has he always harbored such deep resentment of those who have the capacity to raise the bar.

In complete agreement with you and thank you for saying what needs to be said. Jackson needs to both step aside and consider a different title other than reverend. His attitude and behavior is shameful.

The saddest thing is to see a once great leader looking like a complete fool and, worse, a man with no purpose. As an African-American woman , I always read with interest about so many young black men and women who are political active and intelligent who say that the old Civil Rights leaders are to be honored, bui no longer followed. Being a Baby Boomer, I've always had a hard time with this. But, when I see the likes of Wright and notwJackson behave like envious spoiled brats, I'm sadly starting to agree. The good news is that this flap will simply show how far removed Obama is from this emotional old-style rabble-rousing. That's also the bad news, I'm afraid.

I think Jesse Jackson needs to arrested by the Secret Service because of this riduculous comments. Whether it was said jokingly or not, it was said about a potential presidential candidate and needs to be handled accordingly. I've said for years that this man is shady and does NOT speak for all African American people. Finally the whole world can see exactly what type of irrevant and immoral person Jackson is. As an African American I fee this is a case of reverse racism. In the same way Imus was blasted, I feel Jackson deserves the same treatment. He should lose his radio show and people should think twice about donating to the PUSH Coalition. Furthermore the media should refrain from having him on as an expert guest. The church shoud also seek to strip him of his ordination of a minister. He is a black racist (yes there is such a thing) and a divisive man who is underserving of the title Reverend.

I think it serves Jesse right for being exposed.... If he wasn't jealous of Obama, he would not have made the comment. Especially not on Fox. Fox News is a very biased station that rarely has anything good to say about black folk. I agree with you whole heartedly Roland....

Mr. Roland
I just recently viewed the comment Reverend Jackson made about Senator Abama. Prayer is needed for Reverend Jackson and for Senator Abama. We must ask God to have mercy on Reverend Jackson. We all as well as Reverend Jackson must confess the scripture and hold it dear to our hearts because we need the Word of God to cleanse us from every sin.
1st John 1:5-10 "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do no the truth:" "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin." "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." "If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us."
Now is the time for us all to repent for repeating the words of people when they are negative and hurtful, people let us grow up and become mature adults and stop acting like children. All those who say they are christians and bash any person if they are wrong or right is dishonoring our Heavenly Father.
May the Lord bless you.

Right On Mr. Martin! Tell it like it is. Give me truth any day. I can handle it much better than the non-sensical excuses some use to make themselves feel better as sinners.

I have a hard time digesting the beliefs of some who say in passing that's just how it is today. I question why it is how it is today and why so many ignore the blantant irresponsibility, immoral behaviour and look the other way. I have to believe it's because it's easier to ignore than do something to change it. And I believe changing it is what we all should be rallying behind. What will the next decade bring if we continue to accept all that we know is morally and irresponsibly wrong? I for one shudder to think!

Roland, I don't think anyone is paying much attention to Jackson, his time has come and gone. When Obama gets to the whitehouse, he can invite Jackson, Sharpton, and Rev. Wright for chicken dinner, and watermelon, and smooth everything out.

To be clear, I do not support Barrack Obama. But this business with Rev. Jesse Jackson is starting to sound like a bit of jealousy on his part...old guard vs. the new. Even Al Sharpton is taking the issue of the newer generation far better and I commend him for that. And even Obama is trying to downplay the comment because he knows he needs to keep Rev Jackson on his side and wisely so. But as usual, the media is really making alot about nothing. And enough about reading something into the comments that really isn't there. Changing of the guard is tougher for some than people might believe.

When I heard Obama's remarks on absent fathers I thought it was for everyone, not just African Americans. This problem is a universal one and I was glad Obama addressed it; if the concern was only for African Americans then I have to say I'm kind of disappointed.

Annie Kate
Birmingham AL

Sandra Martin,

If you want to believe it or not GOD is this race. He is our very being in this world , and for you to say such thing is very sad. I am a christian I believe that Jesus die for all our sins. I was very please Sen. Barack Obama forgave Rev. Jesse Jackson for his comments. I also feel that we need to focus on the direction our country has taken, rather what a Civil Rights pioneer has sad. Rev. Jackson at the end of the day only have to answer to one person and that is God.

Also for you to say "African Americans would vote for Obama even if Binladen was his buddy. " was very insulting because I am an college educated African-American female with hopes and dreams for my country. So just because Sen. Barack is African-American and he is recieveing so much support from the African-American community don't make us funkies.
So since I am a christian I will overlook your misguided attempt to be funny.
Crystal- Mississippi