Obama said, “but I would also say that there’s nobody on my staff who would still be working for me if they made a comment like that about anybody of any ethnic group. And I would hope that NBC ends up having that same attitude.”

“He didn’t just cross the line,” Obama said. “He fed into some of the worst stereotypes that my two young daughters are having to deal with today in America. The notions that as young African-American women — who I hope will be athletes — that that somehow makes them less beautiful or less important. It was a degrading comment. It’s one that I’m not interested in supporting.”

“What we’ve been seeing around this country is this constant ratcheting up of a coarsening of the culture that all of have to think about,” Obama said.

Obama continued, “Insults, humor that degrades women, humor that is based in racism and racial stereotypes isn’t fun.”

“And the notion that somehow it’s cute or amusing, or a useful diversion, I think, is something that all of us have to recognize is just not the case. We all have First Amendment rights. And I am a constitutional lawyer and strongly believe in free speech, but as a culture, we really have to do some soul-searching to think about what kind of toxic information are we feeding our kids,” he concluded.

Though every major presidential candidate has decried the racist remarks, Obama is the first one to say Imus should lose his job for them.¹

Therefore, the lack of reaction from Obama’s remarks suggest Americans have a set a rules for race, class and gender: If you touch them you will pay.

And another set of rules for individuals that have a mental or physical disability: If you touch them, it’s ok if you apologize. Oh, and by the way, it’s okay to laugh at the jokes that come at the expense of the latter.

Obama claimed he was going to have the world think ‘highly’ of America. Will this joke help?

For someone who spoke of equality as a creed. Does this joke match that philosophy?

For someone that said he would stand for all people. Does this stand up for those that participate in the Special Olympics?

The fact is Obama claimed a higher standard. He resides in an office that requires a higher standard. He resides in a country that demands a higher standard.

To much is given, much is required.

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Miss Independent – I am replying because you left your email address so you must have wanted me to reply. The saying is true. Opinions are like assholes, everyone has one. You are entitled to yours and I have no problem with that. Why not leave a comment of value containing at least your reasoning that I should “get over myself”. That’s how conversation works you know. I won’t allow you to turn this into a pissing match, because this is MY bowl of corn flakes you’re pissing in. I’m happy to continue the conversation if you can write something of value for me in a civilized manner instead of flaming comments on my post. Short of that you’ll be deleted. I mentioned your comment to hubby. His reply was “f*&$ her and delete her”. That’s actually not quite all he said but you really don’t need to hear the rest. Thanks for suggesting I include him, he appreciates it too!