The memo that’s about to shake the Atlanta mayor’s race
A memo arguing that African-Americans should unite behind a single black candidate in the race for mayor of Atlanta is about to become a prime topic of debate.
The material, which we include below, is said to be distributed by Aaron Turpeau, a long-time City Hall figure, on behalf of something called the Black Leadership Forum.
Turpeau argues that Council President Lisa Borders is the only candidate who can prevent the election of Councilwoman Mary Norwood as the first white mayor since Atlanta Mayor Sam Massell.
Both Borders and state Sen. Kasim Reed, also an African-American, have scheduled pressers this afternoon. AJC colleagues Eric Stirgus and Ernie Suggs will be there. We anticipate that Reed will demand that Borders renounce the memo.
Here’s the statement Reed’s campaign has put out in the last few minutes:
“Not only do I find these comments racially charged and vitriolic, I completely repudiate them because they are fundamentally wrong and do not belong in today’s society. I call on Ms. Borders to do the right thing and denounce such divisive, racist language immediately.
“These tactics divide the very community that has made Atlanta emerge as a leading city in the South and dishonors the legacies of Mayors Maynard Jackson, Andrew Young, Ivan Allen, Sam Massell, and William Hartsfield. This campaign should be waged on the merits of each candidate, not the color of their skin.”
One more point: There is an assertion below that both Norwood and another candidate, Atlanta attorney Jesse Spikes, are Republican. The councilwoman maintains she is neither Democrat nor Republican. Spikes’ communication director says that Spikes is a Democrat, and his voting record reflects that.
Here’s the document at issue:
Introduction
The debate over the best strategic option for black leadership and the African American community as we approach the Mayoral election in Atlanta has become critical based on the fact that for the last 25 years Atlanta has represented the breakthrough for black political empowerment in the South.
It is debatable to what extent the objective socio-economic and political position of the African American community has improved. At the same time, most would agree that the Jackson breakthrough represented an unprecedented opportunity for black political representation nationwide.
A passionate argument has been made for us to develop a unity of purpose and position, and for that to be defined immediately, given the short amount of time remaining between now and November 2009 election day (two and ½ months from now).
There are unstated assumptions that need to be examined. Perhaps the most critical factor is the lack of an agenda against which to evaluate candidates. An agenda, beyond just electing a Black Mayor, would allow us to move from the margins of the debate to controlling the expectations associated with gaining our support.
Three basic assertions have been made. They are as follows:1. There is a chance for the first time in 25 years that African Americans could lose the Mayoral seat in Atlanta, Georgia, especially if there is a run-off;
2. Time is of the essence because in order to defeat a Norwood (white) mayoral candidacy we have to get out now and work in a manner to defeat her without a runoff, and the key is a significant Black turnout in the general election;
3. The reasons support should be given to Lisa Borders is: 1) she is the best black candidate in the race who has a chance to win the election because she can attract downtown white support; and 2) based on polling data drawn from a host of sources between May 2009 and July 2009, the numbers suggest Borders is growing stronger as we move closer to the election, while the most recent polling data suggests that the other black candidates are falling further behind over the same period.
There are also at least three unstated assumptions that should be further explored:
Unstated Assumption
1. With the “Black Mayor first” approach there is an unstated assumption that having a black mayor in Atlanta is equal to having a black social, economic and political agenda or at least someone in office who would be sensitive to that agenda if not a full promoter of that agenda;
2. By coming out for Borders now would eliminate Reed, Spikes and Thomas as viable candidates. Some would argue that if the polling data is correct then those candidates who are only polling at 8%, 2% and 1% respectfully, are already effectively out of the race; and
3. It is unlikely that there will be a unified preference among existing black leadership and in the African American community for one candidate prior to the general election.
The Missing Factors in the Current Approach
There are at least seven real world common knowledge factors that must be taken into consideration as we debate how best to manifest our support in the run-up to the November elections. They are as follows:
1. The impact of current alienation among Black Atlantans from the political establishment;
2. The imperiled state of the Jackson Machine, (in part because of the displacement of close to 100,000 black residents over the past few years) and the effect operation of the NPU system by whites;
3. Shirley Franklin’s perceived poor performance;
4. The changing demographics in the city, the potential role of new city voters and the diminished role of religious and labor leaders in mobilizing the black vote;
5. The importance of the City Council races (which to date seems to have been ignored);
6. The persistent poverty in the city, the educational crisis in the schools; the human security/public safety concerns; the type of economic development policies being pursued; and the city’s awful financial management issues;
7. A Black Agenda that any candidate should be evaluated against.
What’s At Stake?
Determining what’s at stake depends on perspective:
1. The view that the times are too serious to stand on the sidelines is absolutely correct from the perspective of a black mayor at all cost. In fact, if a white candidate were to win the 2009 mayoral race, it would be just as significant in political terms as Maynard Jackson’s victory in 1973.
2. Therefore, the question becomes, if that were the case, how would African American interests be addressed; thus, the need for a comprehensive agenda. At the same time, just having a black mayor doesn’t guarantee that African American issues and concerns would be effectively addressed either (as the current administration’s relationship to the African American community clearly demonstrates). In other words, are we simply providing votes without any expectations of the candidate that would enjoy our support?;
3. While some may think that Franklin represents the last link to the Jackson Machine, it is not widely known that both Borders and Reed are directly connected to Franklin; or that Spikes and Thomas are Republicans, as is Norwood. Additionally, it should not be overlooked that whoever is Mayor of Atlanta will be in position to play an important role in the upcoming 2010 Georgia Governor’s race;
4. The changing demographics which show a more rapid growth in the city’s white population (faster and a higher percentage than anywhere else in the country) requires that we critically evaluate all candidates;
5. To ignore the alienation that exists among black voters towards the Franklin Administration’s performance is naive at best and dishonest at worse; and finally,
6. We need an overall governance strategy and a definition of who really governs in Atlanta. In other words, in 2009 we have arrived at a place in time where we can no longer afford to just look at race in the Mayor’s race or individual council races.
At the end of the day, “when the morning comes,” a black agenda would better enable us to have our interests respected by and our influence realized in any administration.
For instant updates, follow me on Twitter.
Tell us what you think about the site
Customer Care »
Vacation stops, manage subscriptions and more
AJC Services
Sections
Other Editions
Visitor Agreement | Privacy Statement
© 2013 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
430 comments Add your comment
Wow, Just Wow
August 27th, 2009
12:53 pm
This stuff stinks.
John Doe
August 27th, 2009
12:54 pm
Norwood is the best candidate, and will win the election. Too much crime and corruption, Atlantans are tired of both…
Also, Atlanta is a diverse city, why should race still play a factor?
DW
August 27th, 2009
1:01 pm
As a black man, I’m disgusted by such a memo. We’re not a monolith. it’s healthy for a true democracy to have different candidates with different ideas. Not one candidate has all of the answers. Let everyone who’s eligible run and present their ideas, and may the best PERSON win.
Dash Riptide
August 27th, 2009
1:03 pm
To be fair, putting race and charisma above all else works just fine. Why, just look at Clayton County.
Gildo the Cracker
August 27th, 2009
1:03 pm
Aaron looks like me!!!
Insulted
August 27th, 2009
1:08 pm
I reject the premise that blacks must unite behind one black candidate in order to defeat whites who will all vote for a white candidate. That kind of thinking just keeps us more segregated and divided on lines of color. Besides, I seem to recall an African American candidate that was recently elected to some position in national politics even with a white majority . . . can’t put my finger on his name.
good grief
August 27th, 2009
1:09 pm
That is truly sickening stuff.
I am so sick of race. So few people are truly color blind.
Natalie
August 27th, 2009
1:12 pm
I’m black, live in the city and am completely offended by this ignorant diatribe of a memo. The “Black Agenda” is never really defined and even at the best of times has been no more than a nebulous concept in Atlanta.
The main issues that will drive my vote center around safety, taxes and managed growth. Education is another bucket of trouble and while i am being taxed to the gills, there has been a record of improvement in the school over the long run.
The Old Timers who think that the black vote is an homogeneous bloc are the same ones who don’t understand why the youth, such as myself, have moved beyond this type of rhetoric and no longer regard the old leadership as relevant in today’s society.
Move on!
Group says Mary Norwood a threat to African-Americans. — Peach Pundit
August 27th, 2009
1:13 pm
[...] The Political Insider has more. [...]
good grief
August 27th, 2009
1:17 pm
BTW, I have never even heard of Aaron Turpeau.
Shar
August 27th, 2009
1:19 pm
This may be vicious, pitiful, racist filth, but it is, at least, honest.
As repulsive as the racist assertions are – flip the races and you could use this as a KKK agenda – the absolute worst statement, in my opinion, is “It is debatable to what extent the objective socio-economic and political position of the African American community has improved.” The comprehensive failings of the most recent mayoral administrations, detailed by the writer as his/her sixth most important considerations, are: “The persistent poverty in the city, the educational crisis in the schools; the human security/public safety concerns; the type of economic development policies being pursued; and the city’s awful financial management issues”. However, it is clear that addressing these disasters is not uppermost in the writer’s selection criteria. Suffering, whether among the black or the white population, is immaterial. The color of the skin of the next mayor is all that matters.
Tolerating racism, much less encouraging is as this piece does, is to accept it towards all. This writer goes farther: Duping black voters in Atlanta into supporting a candidate and a “machine” that has repeatedly and admittedly failed them is warranted and appropriate in order to elect “a black mayor at all cost.”
The writer should be fitted for one of those stylish robes and hoods so charmingly modelled by the likes of David Dukes and Edgar Ray Killen. Or else taken out with the other filthy trash.
This is useless
August 27th, 2009
1:21 pm
Let’s keep in mind this is one individual who I doubt anyone knows who circulated this memo and not the group’s way of thinking nor the black community as a whole..This memo is as good as someone saying I’m not voting for Lisa Borders because she is not attractive, you should do the same.
David S
August 27th, 2009
1:24 pm
Scumbag Bill Campbell’s last election was between two african-americans and they were BOTH LOSERS. The blatant racism that plagues the black community in this country is a sad testament to the failure of everything MLK stood for. The assumption that anyone, just because they are black, can do a good job as mayor (or president for that matter) is about as absurd as believing that anyone who is white can do the same. The same would hold true about anyone who is a republican, a democrat, a man, or a woman. Evidence will show that most everyone who aspires to political office is more deserving of jail than the job they seek. We ended up in Iraq and Afghanistan because of blind faith and party loyalty. We got the first and second bailouts for the same reasons. We may get saddled with a horrible government controlled healthcare system for the same reasons.
It is high time that every voter started thinking for themselves, and stop allowing self-interested racist or political groups to do their thinking for them. Altanta’s next mayor will have to face serious challenges and make tough and economically responsible decisions if this city is to survive the ever-worsening depression this country is now in. Gender, color, or political affiliation are certainly no guarantee of common sense or good judgement. If the past 2 decades of Atlanta history (or american history for that matter) haven’t proven that, nothing will.
Intownwriter
August 27th, 2009
1:32 pm
Ach, already? I honestly didn’t expect the race card to be played until the last desperate moments of the campaign. I live in South Atlanta, and I can’t see what Bill and Shirley, et.al. have done to help the traditionally African American communities down here (or anyone much, anywhere). I’m all for a regime change, black, white, whatever, as long as the focus is making life better for citizens of the City of Atlanta, for a change.
moderation
August 27th, 2009
1:33 pm
Congratulations Aaron Turpeau. You are now the # 1 racist in Georgia.
Shar
August 27th, 2009
1:35 pm
Aaron Turpeau claimsto be “the premier African American Counselor in Atlanta” and the author of “The Harmonious Way”. He must be a proponent of the atonal scale.
good grief
August 27th, 2009
1:43 pm
Every once in a while I will hear someone make the argument that a black person cannot be racist. They base this argument on that a person must have power over another in order to be racist. Nevermind that the definition of “Racism” is a “Belief” and anyone can hold any belief. However, I have found this argument to have some validity to it.
I would like to know from those who espouse this idea that black people cannot be racist due to a power issue about local power. Certainly, no one could look at Dekalb County GA and argue that there is a White Power Structure in place.
Sorry, no cute name
August 27th, 2009
1:46 pm
This ain’t about race, it’s about controlling the purse strings.
That Turpeau thinks Borders is the best one to provide continuing political coverage over Reed is interesting, but i’m sure he’s been reading pollings numbers very, very carefully.
There is a saying “Never attribute to malice that which can be readily explained by stupidity.”
The second one: “Never attribute to race that which can be explained by loss of political connections, coverage, and financial gain.”
If you have any questions, please refer to the AJC article about the lawsuit over the airport contracts being rigged for political favor, and thus money.
If you don’t have the Mayor’s Nod Squad on Council, then you have no political lackies to turn the other way regarding dubious methods to address sewer problems, bad bond issuances to provide taxpayer gimmies to developers, preferential contracting methods, tax hikes instead of firing political appointees, etc etc etc.
Money, money, money, hunney!!!!
Jen
August 27th, 2009
1:48 pm
Wow! I can’t imagine what would happen if it were the other way around. Racist Jackson and racist Sharpton would be downtown having their little protests. What the thugs don’t realize is that Atlanta used to be a nice, safe city before the first black mayor Jackson took office and “white flight” started. It just proves that black leadership does not work. The thugs would be SMART to elect a white mayor so that it could be cleaned up.
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
1:48 pm
So much for the content of their character. If dey b black dey mus b gud.
Chief Wiggum
August 27th, 2009
1:53 pm
“I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character”.[Martin Luther King Jr.]
Sounds like the memo writer is still judging people by the color of their skin. Racism is still alive, and it isn’t always white folks.
Jrm
August 27th, 2009
1:54 pm
If this guy isn’t fired by the 6 o’clock news then this city hasn’t grown at all and a terrible double standard is painfully evident. Sub the word black for white throughout and see how racist this sounds.
Really?
August 27th, 2009
1:54 pm
Yeah, because judging someone on their skin color always makes for a good judge of character and ability, right? Awesome.
Get it right, mane
August 27th, 2009
1:55 pm
Revision: “….dey mus b goot.”
Glenn Thomas
August 27th, 2009
1:57 pm
For the record, Glenn Thomas is a known “Independent” who has never voted Republican; check it out. Thank you…btw, this memo is disgusting and I think that this is political chess.
AtlantaFan
August 27th, 2009
1:58 pm
As a black man. This memo makes me sick. I believe this may have been put out to stir up controversy. Stuff like this always happens. Chicago has a very large and strong African-American community, but every year they re-elect Mayor Richard Daley. But I guess race does play a part. Both L.A. and Miami both have a extremely large Hispanic populations and both of their mayors are of Hispanic. LA’s mayor is Mexican and Miami’s mayor is Cuban. So maybe it does play a part, but I believe this memo here is a plant to stir controversy. Black people do not have to be told who to vote for or to vote for one black candidate so the vote isn’t split up. Black people have sense, lots of common sense. If you were to go over to Peyton Forest, you would see LOTS of Norwood signs and we all know that’s a large African American community. So that just smashes a lot of ideologies.
Ashley
August 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
If the black folk want “equal rights” then why don’t they, and the morons Jackson, Sharpton, and other “black leaders” protest this and have the guy fired? Funny how they want everything equal but never support white people.
Native Atlantan
August 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
I think Atlanta needs some fresh blood in office, Reed reminds me of a younger Bill Campbell. Norwood would be a very good ambassador for Atlanta, and I beleive could turn around the mockery that is Atlanta City Government. And who cares if Norwoood is a Republican? We’ve all seen the shambles that Democratic Mayors have put Atlanta in!
Harriet
August 27th, 2009
1:59 pm
@ Jen and Truth Seeker, it happens the other way around because it isn’t spoken. When the choice is only ‘whites’, then no one has to say anything because that is what has always been for the most part. Whites or others, take that for granted, they don’t have to say it. Just like when whites describe someone, Whites tend to say, oh, he has blonde hair and blue eyes…well, there are other races with blonde hair and blue eyes including blacks but whites tend to think that ALL whould subscribe to, you must be talking about someone white, it never crosses their mind that it would be otherwise…it’s taken for granted that they are white. Not saying you should have to spell it out but I have natural red hair and I’m black and have freckles, or what blacks refer to red hair, sandy in color so if someone were to describe me to a white person and not mention my race, they would think I’m white. The same goes here…since we didn’t have the ‘choice’ before, why not?! If they are qualified, then yes (of course not if not qualified, I don’t vote for a non-qualified white person or anyone not qualified!) so why not help our own…we’ve not had a choice all along and we have been helping everyone else be uplifted and not always to our advantage and whites or others don’t even ‘have to’ consider it because it is a given for them and that is all that they know!
Missionary
August 27th, 2009
2:01 pm
Sounds like Lisa Boraders is tied to this. This race baiter is obviously tied to Boarders, she should have the knowledge enough to make sure a supporter of hers like this does not espew this kind of stuff, and she didn’t know well this is still the support she has. I am now going to start to look at the other candidates, white and black both, however no longer with Boarders.
reservoirDAWG
August 27th, 2009
2:02 pm
Wow. I think Reed about summed it up.
Chief Wiggum
August 27th, 2009
2:02 pm
Oh, a couple other things, missed the first time in the memo…
“the effect operation of the NPU system by whites
Can someone explain what the “NPU system” is? I either missed it, or I’m out of the loop.
“a more rapid growth in the city’s white population (faster and a higher percentage than anywhere else in the country) requires that we critically evaluate all candidates;”
If that were changed to say a growth in the city’s BLACK population, in a majority-white city, I can guarantee that every civil rights leader alive would be all over that city as a racist haven. It sounds like “We’ve gotta be careful, and entrench NOW, as the white people are coming back”
White flight of the 60s and 70s has been replaced by gentrification of the 00s.
Cedric E. Arle
August 27th, 2009
2:03 pm
Racism, black or white, is not pretty.
BiteMe
August 27th, 2009
2:04 pm
This is just pathetic. There will never be harmony amongst us in the South because certain people will NEVER let it happen, and trust me when I say the media THRIVES on that!
V.R. Lincoln
August 27th, 2009
2:08 pm
I am African-American. Regardless of this article, I certainly hope and pray African Americans will ultimately vote for whom they beleive to be the best candidate. Even if it’s a Caucasion candidate. Borders is obviously the most popular candidate but not neccessary the best and most qualified. Many believe, with her it will be as if Franklin never left the office. We need someone that can shake this city up, turn it around and point Atlanta in the right direction.
John
August 27th, 2009
2:08 pm
I guess all of us white people should run downtown and have riots and protests like the black people do over everything right? Pretty funny how you never see that. Why? Because we are calm, rational people.
Radioblitzer!
August 27th, 2009
2:08 pm
Dr. Turpeau just cost Lisa Borders any chance to win this election.
Hamad Meander
August 27th, 2009
2:09 pm
Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican. http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=16500
CWILLI
August 27th, 2009
2:10 pm
Truly if Ms. Borders said something like this and it is a “trial baloon” it just got busted. I wouldn’t even consider her for a candidate to say something like that in the year of 2009 is really sad if this was 1959 I could understand.
ryanv
August 27th, 2009
2:11 pm
Did anyone else not know Lisa Borders was black until today? Just sort of a ‘huh’ moment I wanted to share.
Blindone
August 27th, 2009
2:13 pm
Who is he and what gives him the right to say what should be done. Let the candidates build their election machine see who wins. I am not for blind voting.
Roger
August 27th, 2009
2:15 pm
If a white political person would have the said the same thing for a pro white candidate, it would be front page national news. When it is said by a black person, it gets the back page of the editorial section of the AJC. The race card for blacks seems will never lose its value.
Travis
August 27th, 2009
2:16 pm
Is this a joke??? WTF is wrong with black people these days?? Talk about double standards! They will never have ‘equality’ as long as the refuse to treat others as such. Makes me sick.
Jason
August 27th, 2009
2:16 pm
Jen, how could white flight start after Jackson was elected? That would have required the white majority to elect a black mayor, something that would have been impossible during that time period. White flight started long before African-Americans started to get elected to office and is the primary force that allowed it to happen.
The silly thing about the whole race issue is that there isn’t really a racial divide anymore but rather an economic one. African-American yuppies will vote for a candidate of any race that will keep their interests in mind. Those interests are pretty much the same as those of yuppies of any race. An African-American CEO living in Buckhead is more likely to vote for a business minded candidate of any race rather than someone of their own race who is only interested in racial politics.
The racial makeup of the City of Atlanta is rapidly changing but more importantly the economic makeup is changing even faster. The old political machine is seriously miscalculating if it believes that African-Americans outside of the poverty class are going to continue to blindly give them support. If a candidate wants to win, African-American or not, they’re going to have to remove the race issue completely. Reed seems to understand this as Kwanzaa Hall on the City Council has long understood. It remains to be seen if this is true of the other candidates, including Mary Norwood.
billy bob from cobb
August 27th, 2009
2:16 pm
Atlanta = planet of the apes. Just watch that show housewives of the atl.
sickwitit
August 27th, 2009
2:17 pm
This is why so many larger city governments are so currupt. Large voting blocks simply vote based on race and spend absolutely no time investigating the candidates. Cities end up being governed by people Like Kilpatric in Detroit, Barry in DC, and Campbell in Atlanta. These thugs simply bring in their minions and befor too long most of the departments are infested with the currupt cancer. Until the simple minded voters start educating themselves and investigating the players in their cities, the goons and thugs will continue to rule the city because voting based simply on race.
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
2:17 pm
Sorry Get it Right…..I had a moment of grammar correctness. My bad.
poo to u
August 27th, 2009
2:18 pm
Why is it that politicians and media are trying to start a race war? We the people are long over this. I dont think most blacks want to vote for someone based on the color of their skin. What does skin color have to do with qualifications and fixing problems that atlanta has. Maybe, just maybe it has been the black unqualified officials running Atlanta, Marta and other high positions that is the problem here. I am sick of the race war. Vote for someone who will bring strength and loyalty and committment to the office requardless of color and we will do well. Forget about the color because its only skin deep. Go for brains and business approach and lets fix Atlanta once and for all. We are all Gods children. Stop trying to split us up and put us against each other.
Can you see it
August 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
I would like to see Americans, Atlantans standing side by side, white, black, white, black, white holding hands in unity in front of whoever wrote this article. Stop trying to insite a race war. Im sick of it.
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
2:20 pm
Is the AJC gonna charge for the political that RACIST Turpeau just posted???
ryanv
August 27th, 2009
2:21 pm
Hey Billy, maybe you should note none of those ladies actually live in Atlanta. Most of them are from Duluth.
Oh, and you’re a racist. Don’t forget to tell your friends how racist you are. Looks like you’re eager to share.
Shane
August 27th, 2009
2:21 pm
Lisa Borders’ relationship with Turpeau is no secret…she should be ashamed. Sad.
Turpeau Can't Spell
August 27th, 2009
2:22 pm
“ATALNTA” “CONSENTRATE” “CONVENCING” – what an idiot.
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
2:27 pm
I’m a young Black male and I am tired of most Black leadership. I have done my research and I am definitely voting for Mary Norwood if she is in the race at the time. It is time for some real change! Black folks have run the city of Atlanta into the pits of HELL and I for one an not going to stand for it anymore. This author has the nerve to suggest that I stand behind a candidate just becuase they are Black and to keep a White candidate out? I for one am not one of these ignorant minorities that is going to stand for nothing and fall for anything so stop insulting my intelligence. Black folks have had there time to prove themselves and I for one am not impressed and you have proven nothing to me but incompetence. I know there are going to be some people calling me an uncle Tom or whatever, and I say go get an education and come up with something better. To the other people on here with all the prejudice and juvenile statements, you only get one sentence from me, grow up!
BPJ
August 27th, 2009
2:27 pm
Then there’s “Jen”, who says,:
“What the thugs don’t realize is that Atlanta used to be a nice, safe city before the first black mayor Jackson took office and “white flight” started. It just proves that black leadership does not work. The thugs would be SMART to elect a white mayor so that it could be cleaned up.”
Wow! Speaking of blunt expressions of racism! Yes, it runs in both directions.
I haven’t decided who to support – I think we actually have 3 good candidates – just read the endorsement in The Sunday Paper of Kasim Reed, by Stephanie Ramage, one of the better political journalists around town……worth reading.
The Oddball
August 27th, 2009
2:28 pm
Dr. King took a bullet for this? As an Atlanta native, it just makes me want to cry.
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
2:28 pm
Can’t spell hell….have you ever heard him speak?
Arthur Thompson
August 27th, 2009
2:28 pm
Blantant black racism calling for support to defeat a very viable white candidate who could bring credibility to a city disgraced with black crime, black corruption, black unemployment and is now a national black led disgrace!!
Reality
August 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
Jen, what ethnic group does Cobb County’s Manager belong to? For the past sixteen years Cobb Conuty has had a black conuty manager. Surprise!
BigMac
August 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
Ok people, why are we wasting your time on “idiotic” arguments as to who is the best candidate. Strip all candidates of their names and designate them as #1, #2,…. Then have them publish their voting record and campaign contribution listings. Who do we want to vote for: The one who is interested in helping us or those interested only in creating their political empire?
Charlie G
August 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
Is Lisa Borders behind this?
The Snark
August 27th, 2009
2:31 pm
It’s not surprising that Aaron Turpeau is also supporting Lamar Willis, who is currently defending a lawsuit by the state alleging that he took money for charitable purposes and spent it on himself.
Race politics, black, white or brown, always lead to the same thing: corruption. Color is no substitute for character.
TS
August 27th, 2009
2:32 pm
How is this not racism? Someone please explain. I look forward to seeing Al Sharton in ATlanta this afternoon to protest. Yea right!
Hamad Meander
August 27th, 2009
2:33 pm
Shut Up! – are you the same “Shut Up!” that comments on the Falcon’s blogs? You are my role model!
Jen
August 27th, 2009
2:34 pm
To BPJ and “Reality” what did I say that was wrong??? All I did was state the TRUTH! Pretty funny how anytime a person says something that is a fact, and it involves black people, it is “racist.”
Diehard
August 27th, 2009
2:35 pm
Help me pick the title of my memo – “The Best White Candidate for Mayor is a Black Woman” vs. “It Takes a Village of White People to Elect a Black Woman Mayor”
providence
August 27th, 2009
2:35 pm
billy bob from cobb,
You’re just a disgruntled Borders supporter who’s probably black. Grow up and get a life.
Boneyard Randy
August 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
Can’t we all just get along. The city will prosper with new blood in office regardless of whether it’s Norwood, Borders or Reed. They are all very accomplished and driven candidates that will be positive forces for our city going forward. Agendas and priorities may differ, but in the end we’re all in this together. Aaron Turpeau needs to move to a different city…or rather, country.
Southside Slim
August 27th, 2009
2:36 pm
What in the heck is this guy thinking? I have to agree with Radioblitzer that this is going to cost Borders, and probably other black candidates, the election. Way to go Aaron. I’m glad you’re not in my corner!
Ash
August 27th, 2009
2:37 pm
I be black and Atlanta will always have a black mayor because of scrimination. We scriminate against the white peoples, we scriminate against the Asian peoples, and we shore enough scriminate against the hispanics. So, if you don’t be black, you don’t belong in Atlanta. Shoot, Obama don’t even qualify to be mayor of Atanta, he’s a half white half black mixed up half-breed, that aint’ black enough.
Eduardo
August 27th, 2009
2:37 pm
As a black man, this is disgusting. I have only been in Atlanta 4 years but what I have seen has disappointed me politically. The arrogance and ignorance displayed by black people in power in this area is astonishing. It seems like every few months, someone of color who is in power does something stupid to embarrass our culture and this country. This is no different.
providence
August 27th, 2009
2:37 pm
Charlie G,
Lisa Borders is absolutely behind this business. She and Turpeau have a long and entangled (and I emphasis the entangled part) history.
really
August 27th, 2009
2:37 pm
We have already let race rule over one recent election and look how that turned out. Race should NEVER be a reason to vote for someone.
Angus
August 27th, 2009
2:39 pm
If only OH MY GAWD @ 2:11 could have posted all of those email addresses.
I see a Young, a Lowery, DeCosta, Martin – and there’s no machine left? Huh.
Borders, I’m sure, is thankful that she wasn’t included in that email.
billy bob from cobb
August 27th, 2009
2:40 pm
I think its very important to keep the black power structure in place. They have done a great job over the last thirty years. We enjoy such a low rate of crime and a very high standard of living. Lets not forget our wonderful airport and that state of the art hospital Grady. Lets think of Atlanta as a micro example of what the entire country will look like under the chosen one Obama.
Rich
August 27th, 2009
2:40 pm
Thanks David S…I’m posting his post again because it needs to be said over and over and over!!!
The blatant racism that plagues the black community in this country is a sad testament to the failure of everything MLK stood for. The assumption that anyone, just because they are black, can do a good job as mayor (or president for that matter) is about as absurd as believing that anyone who is white can do the same. The same would hold true about anyone who is a republican, a democrat, a man, or a woman. Evidence will show that most everyone who aspires to political office is more deserving of jail than the job they seek. We ended up in Iraq and Afghanistan because of blind faith and party loyalty. We got the first and second bailouts for the same reasons. We may get saddled with a horrible government controlled healthcare system for the same reasons.
It is high time that every voter started thinking for themselves, and stop allowing self-interested racist or political groups to do their thinking for them. Altanta’s next mayor will have to face serious challenges and make tough and economically responsible decisions if this city is to survive the ever-worsening depression this country is now in. Gender, color, or political affiliation are certainly no guarantee of common sense or good judgement. If the past 2 decades of Atlanta history (or american history for that matter) haven’t proven that, nothing will.
AMEN!!!
Reality
August 27th, 2009
2:41 pm
When will blacks in Atlanta begin to think for themselves instead of letting black clergy do our thinking. Not every black reverend is an MLK. We in the black community lend absolutely too much credence to ministers. People, it is about power and control, although you are constantly being told that it is about your salvation. Do some research on the history of the Christian church and the behavior of the early power players. You will be absolutely amazed.
Corey
August 27th, 2009
2:43 pm
I’m voting white this time. There, I said it.
Kevrock/Smarty Jones
August 27th, 2009
2:43 pm
We have all known that Atlanta is a joke. Time is up! Other cities are taking notice too. These folks can’t balance their OWN checkbooks so we have these clowns running our city. FOLKS WAKE UP! Norwood for Mayor…DETROIT you are NEXT!!
Here comes ALPINE CHOCOLATE.
billy bob from cobb
August 27th, 2009
2:44 pm
Where is Hoesa when you need him?
cjamesatl
August 27th, 2009
2:45 pm
3 words: Pot. Kettle. Black.
EW
August 27th, 2009
2:45 pm
Why do black people perpetuate racism?
“There is a chance for the first time in 25 years that African Americans could lose the Mayoral seat in Atlanta”
“Time is of the essence because in order to defeat a Norwood (white) mayoral candidacy”
“if a white candidate were to win the 2009 mayoral race, it would be just as significant in political terms as Maynard Jackson’s victory in 1973.”
This talk is nothing more than racist propoganda, aimed at the ignorant and uninformed. How about a group for a mayor that can cut down crime, decrease budget deficits, create jobs, and MOST importantly, save our SCHOOLS! Our kids are falling behind the rest of the country and it’s sad. White or Black, we need someone who is a great ATLANTAN and can address issues. Please do your part and do some research on the issues before you listen to ignorant, racist propoganda.
TRUTH
August 27th, 2009
2:46 pm
As a black man, this disgusts me as well. The very thing that the majority detests we are guilty of. If we were to rally behind ANY candidate, please let us rally around them for merit, not for color. This idiot should be fired and never permitted to serve in government, in any capicity, again. I’m holding my head…
What an idiot…
don speaks
August 27th, 2009
2:46 pm
this shows how far out of touch our city and country are with the golbal reality that has and will continue to shape our future. our schools are terrible, crime is off of the scale, over 40 % of african americans do not have healthcare insurance,drugs and alcohol have devastated our people and poverty is as stifling as hurricane katrina. we had beetter wake up before our city,state and nation really become insignificant in the 21st century.ignorance is a dangerous thing !
EW
August 27th, 2009
2:48 pm
This is black on black violence at its worst.
Intown Lover
August 27th, 2009
2:50 pm
To paraphrase the words of Atlanta’s native son, Dr. King, “…one day, my little children will be judged, not by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character…..” Folks, wake up and let’s live the dream.
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
2:51 pm
@ Hamad, no, not the same person. I took a hiatus from blogging on this site because it all ended the same way, regardless of the topic. I started reading this particular blog, and for the most part people have been civil. I felt that my words would actually be heard and hopefully get through to someone reading. I hope we can continue to be civil on here. Thanks!
Captain Jack
August 27th, 2009
2:51 pm
As a black male, I undedrstand the desire to elect another “black” person. However, looking at the terrible mess the city of Atlanta has become under black leadership, I would welcome a change. It is time for the best candidate to be elected, be they white or black.
Go dogs.
Chris
August 27th, 2009
2:52 pm
I am blind. Can someone help me tell the candidates apart some way other than skin color?
Truly Angry
August 27th, 2009
2:52 pm
This is crazy. The Black Agenda? R u serious? So vote for a person just because there black. The AJC has become a haven for racist black people. Im sorry to say that the day will never come that we do not involve race into any issue. We are born into this world as equals and sadly no one wants to see it that way. I think All people of all races need to come together and put a stop to this once and for all.
Astute Observer
August 27th, 2009
2:55 pm
Were the author of caucasian ethnicity and wrote the same drivel favoring the charming and highly qualified Ms. Norwood there would be such an outcry of racism it would resound from the highest mountain. However, the author is of sub-saharan african descent and therefore will enjoy full immunity for his inappropriate diatribe. Typical Atlanta politics further entrenched.
Travis
August 27th, 2009
2:56 pm
Uh Oh looks like some people are getting nervous at city hall, no more rape and plunder of the city coffers, and the airport contracts.
FBriggs
August 27th, 2009
2:56 pm
Ouch! Borders Exposed. Playing the race card below I-20 huh?
Atlanta_Tiger_Fan
August 27th, 2009
2:56 pm
Why do these people insist on having a black mayor??? Look at all the big cities with black mayors…they usually have very high crime rates, are dirty and usually loosing money. You people need to look past the skin color and vote for the person that will best help the city. Just look what your vote for the black president is getting you….NOTHING!!! He’s ruining this country and it’s economy.
Atlantaguy
August 27th, 2009
2:57 pm
You can bet dollars that on election day, people like Jesse Jackson, Sharpton, and Lowery supporters will literally be driving door to door to load older black residents onto buses to take them to the polls to vote for “their candidate”. After living in Atlanta for 25 years I can honestly say that blacks are the most race-centered group of people here, and vote ONLY based on skin color and nothing else. If New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin ran here, they would vote for him over Jesus, because Nagin is black and for no other reason.
My challenge to local blacks – I DARE YOU to give someone else a chance. Just once. See what happens.
Chris Broe
August 27th, 2009
2:58 pm
Demographic analysis in a campaign memo? If that’s racist, then the Emancipation Proclamation is elitist. (Or at least snobbery)
We’ve lost our way. We invent motivations that aren’t there. Winning an election in Iraq could be called racism too. The Shia have to vote together or the Sunnis will run over them. and vice versa. Not to mention the Kurds.
mike
August 27th, 2009
2:58 pm
Racist drivel. What a disgrace.
Jen
August 27th, 2009
2:59 pm
Another great day in BlackLanta:
DA seeks death penalty 12:04 p.m.
Davis case treads new ground 12:08 p.m.
Women mugged near Tech 11:31 a.m.
3 linked to restaurant heists 11:11 a.m.
Long feud leads to shootings
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
3:00 pm
@ Astute Observer, very sad yet very true. To everyone else that is bringing up Jessie and Al, newsflash, only the ignorant follow them regardless of the issue. There are plenty of Blacks that want nothing to do with either of them, including myself.
sedimenjerr
August 27th, 2009
3:00 pm
Wow, amazing.
If you switch black and white it sounds just like something from 50 years ago.
Fortunately this memo is from one person and does not accurately reflect the consensus of all blacks.
EW
August 27th, 2009
3:01 pm
atlantaguy, you forgot that jesus is black, so it would be a dead heat to the finish
Duece Pigbelow
August 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
I’m an African American born and raised in Atlanta from the Dixie Hills Community(don’t laugh), and I’m not voting black. So many years we’ve been hoodwinked into voting for the black candidate who’s preaching to better our communities, reduce crime, and improve our schools. So far money has been taken from our schools systems, crime is horrible, and our taxes continue to rise. What am I paying for taxes for and my kids are graduating school as idiots? I can’t stop by the gas station without being harassed by more idiot worthless souls. I’m sick of it. Atlanta has a history, but it was forgotten when these clowns came into office. All Maynard taught them was to pocket some change, like the bums on the street. Look I’m out of change, as my man said before shooting Malcome “Get yo hands out my pocket!!!”.
Kels
August 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
I think we should not cast Lisa B. to the side already saying she is behind this. Let’s see what she says or if anyone really knows what kind of relationship she has with this guy if it even exists, he could just be some racist supporter. This definitely does not look good for either of the candidates though, especially for her.
mike
August 27th, 2009
3:02 pm
Anybody shedding any tears about the “imprerilled” state of the Jackson Machine that has given us Bill Campbell and Shirley Franklin?
T
August 27th, 2009
3:03 pm
John- you are just as racist and outdated as the person who wrote the memo. GET A LIFE!
English
August 27th, 2009
3:04 pm
This is disgusting.
Pago Flyer
August 27th, 2009
3:05 pm
Remember people, only whites are racists.
Where is Frank
August 27th, 2009
3:06 pm
Where is Frank Ski now? I’d love to hear his commentary on this issue and how it’s always only whites that are racist in this world. WRONG.
mike
August 27th, 2009
3:06 pm
“Demographic analysis in a campaign memo? If that’s racist, then the Emancipation Proclamation is elitist.”
What a load of crap. Stating “Time is of the essence because in order to defeat a Norwood (white) mayoral candidacy ” is not “demographic analysis”. It is racism.
Would you not consider a white group stating that “Time is of the essence because in order to defeat a black mayoral candidacy” as racism. Of course you would and you would be right.
Spare us the hypocrisy.
DK
August 27th, 2009
3:07 pm
Hmmmm…… is the face of racial prejudice finally showing which ones have it the most? Think about it.
LILI
August 27th, 2009
3:08 pm
I agree….what a racist….has he ever heard of Affirmative Action….base your jobs and what is required on performance rather than your physical description…RACE….if it would have been a white person saying this they would have already been fired….Is he?
Put your color blind glasses on people!!!!! Vote for the best person!!!!
D'Tavious
August 27th, 2009
3:10 pm
As an African American male I find the comments by this racist personally offensive and small-minded. These are the kind of statements that promote racism and divisiveness in our society. In my opinion there seems to be more examples of racism coming from the African American community these days than from white people in this country.
Truly insulted
August 27th, 2009
3:10 pm
EW your and idiot. Jesus was neither black or white. Read the Bible you idiot
Glad I do no live in Atlanta
August 27th, 2009
3:11 pm
I am a middle aged black man and have lived in the metro area for just over three years. The type of “propaganda” is what keeps Atlanta in the “stone ages”. Please citizens of Atlanta vote for the best person running for mayor regardless of race. This will put the entire region in the position to prosper.
GoJackets
August 27th, 2009
3:12 pm
Jesus was an arab.
Bert
August 27th, 2009
3:12 pm
Aaron Turpeau is Lisa’s Karl Rove; the strategic architect of the Borders campaign. Ms. Borders has hastily scheduled a press conference, likely for damage control.
What she says in that media event will provide a glimpse into how Ms. Borders might perform, were she to become mayor.
If she fails to acknowledge Mr. Turpeau as a top level supporter, or dismisses his racist act as that of an overzealous staffer, she will have shown us all a major flaw in her own character.
It would not be hard for savvy reporters to search for and validate Aaron Turpeau’s role in Border’s campaign. If his role is determined to carry significance, Ms. Borders will have lied to the people of Atlanta and should resign at once.
“Deniability” is a political term used to give a candidate a “clean hands” alibi, when “dirty tricks” such as Aaron Turpeau’s hate mongering tyraids are committed. If Ms. Borders didnt know that her chief advisor was going to distribute his racially charged memos,how could she claim the leadership acumen to lead a major city?
Call me stupid BUT
August 27th, 2009
3:12 pm
Call me stupid but, from reading the memo can we really be sure that the assertions and unstated assumptions were really the thoughts of the writer of the memo. Although these could very well be correct, but the writer of this entry/story does a poor job of ensure that the reader is aware of what information was part of the memo, and what areas were the writers assumptions. This story is slanted to cause an uproar and confusion while adding a racial undertone to an election that thus far has not been marred by racial tactics. This is an attempt yet again by the AJC or its contractors to stir up racial conflicts in this city. The HELL with the AJC, this crap is getting old. Journalism has gone by the way of sensationalism. AJC…National Enquire…is there any difference?
Amy in the ATL
August 27th, 2009
3:13 pm
I’m not easily offended, but this is offensive. Whoever is elected as mayor of Atlanta has the duty to serve the entire city of Atlanta, regardless of skin color, religion, neighborhood, etc. Atlanta has some very serious problems that need to be addressed, and Atlanta voters should choose who to vote for based on experience, ideas, past performance, etc., but not race!
I am a white woman and City of Atlanta voter, and I consider Ms. Borders, Mr. Reed and Ms. Norwood all serious and qualified candidates. I sincerely hope Ms. Borders denounces this memo as well. She should be above this kind of drivel.
DublDawg
August 27th, 2009
3:13 pm
John Doe:
Race means everything in Atlanta, even when the blacks are arguing that is should not. What they mean is, that race should not matter when it benefits them. When they sing the praises of “diversity,” what they really mean is that whites and all other groups have an obligation to accept the hiring, promotion, election of, and contracting with blacks. It is all black-centric, and if any liberal screwball concept should benefit anyone but them, they want no part of that.
The rise of the Afroacracy in Atlanta has been deleterious for the city, and its destruction will be Atlanta’s gain. Several things would benefit the city, as well as some others, like Macon and Savannah. One is to get a mayor that is actually capable of recognizing and attacking the material issues, like infrastructure, public services, a balanced budget, debt service, and trimming waste and fluff, and not just dwell on trivial and things that interest only ethnic groups, like minority contracting programs, minority recreational programs, reverse discrimination programs like those in hiring, firing, and contracting.
The other thing that would help GA cities is for the General Assembly to cut back on the number of members on the City Council. The number of members per registered voter in Atlanta (and in Macon for that matter is absurd). There is noway to get anything done with a 15 member council, and the expense of having them and a staff to support them is manifestly wasteful.
Atlanta needs one good mayor and 5-7 people on a city council, preferably 5-7 people that are literate and honest and distinguish the material from the trivial. Collectively, that group needs to take a chainsaw to trim the size of city government while preserving the essential public services like fire and police rather than using them as a negotiating tool to raise taxes.
The foregoing is wishing for a miracle, and I am not holding my breath. In the absence of something close to it, the city could end up as broke as Birmingham, and there may be a new flight of taxpayers to the suburbs to avoid the consequences of corruption and foolishness.
johnnyapple
August 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
Pretty pathetic.
H8R4LIFE
August 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
I would prefer that all whities/honkies/crackers/jiveturkeys henceforth be referred to as European-Americans. It doesn’t seem quite fair that blacks get to be African-Americans, and we’re stuck with such uninteresting nicknames.
I mean, if we want to really get technical, shouldn’t we all be Middle Eastern Americans since mankind is historically traced to that area of the world? At what point do you stop tracing your roots back and decide to be from a certain part of the world like Africa or Asia or North American.
BHO
August 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
Let’s all get together and work it out over a cold beer
Tim
August 27th, 2009
3:14 pm
Ok, I’ll call you stupid, Stupid.
Jimbo
August 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
What an idiot! This can’t be the guy whose been working around city hall for at least 20+ years. I thought he was a smarter man than this. I figure Maynard Jackson is turning in his grave.
I want Mary Norwood because she’s not Kasim “Let me screw my constituents for Shirley cause I’m angry” Reed or Lisa “I don’t want go to black events” Borders. Just maybe she can turn this city in the right direction.
I happen to be a black and I want Atlanta to grow and prosper.
Turker Slayer
August 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
I really don’t understand what the problem is here. I am black and proud of it. I demand respec and will pop a cap in yo arse if yo da whity comin down da screet. Den i wil rob yo as an git me som chikn.
dgroy
August 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
Racism is alive and well in Atlanta, Ga.
EW
August 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
truly insulted, look up the word sarcasm
Typical Atlanta Politics
August 27th, 2009
3:15 pm
Same old garbage, different candidate. Just think if Whitey had written this memo? The Civil Rights Dept in Washington DC would be down here in a second, as well as Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, and the whole crew. This is typical black Democratic behavior. Keep blacks in power, rather than do what is best for the City/County/State. For anyone new to Atlanta, there is a door you have to open to get into City Hall that is known as the “Black Door”. In order to get in you have to be black. This is a perfect example. Does this qualify as a Hate Crime? Who wrote it, Vernon Jones?
JB
August 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
No doubt that Mr. Turpeau is a racist after reading this. It’s unfortunate that we have people like this keeping racism alive and well in our country. If this was written by a white man I can only imagine the backlash we would be witnessing in the news. There is such a double standard in our country when it comes to racism. I voted for our current President because I felt he was the best man qualified to deal with the situation at hand. The color of his skin had nothing to do with my decision. When we all think that way racism will disappear and people like Mr. Turpeau will not be heard.
...
August 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
“It is debatable to what extent the objective socio-economic and political position of the African American community has improved.”
And where exactly does it say that the mayor of Atlanta is responsible for the political or socio-economic position of anyone? I’m 27 and I really can’t recall any politican saying I’m going to change your socio-economic status, and then actually doing anything about it. Responsible people take charge of their own lives. And this memo, frankly, is irresponsible.
Duece Pigbelow
August 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
I agree Atlanta will continue to be crippled by bigots and idiots. On both sides. You have AA’s who refuse to cooperate and compromise with whites, and you have whites who do the same and feel compelled to express their dislike as if it’s intellegent conversation. The south is a melting pot for condoned ignorant behavior. I blame that on whites. They do not police thier own people. I also blame AA for allowing ignorance to continue to run rampant in this city like cancer. We’re both to blame. That’s why when I choose a candidate it will not be about color. It’s about what you plan to do for my city, my kids, and my TAXES!!!!!!
EW
August 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
go to page one and actually read what atlantaguy wrote and what i was responding to.
An Observer
August 27th, 2009
3:16 pm
One thing that is a known fact, Black folks, especially in the Atlanta area, don’t always fall in behind this type of suggestion simply because someone decided to distribute such racist stuff. A prime example of this is when ML King III ran against Mike Kenn or when Vernon Jordan ran against Jim Martin.
It is not a given that ALL Black people will vote this way simply because Turpeau is making this recommendation.
JASon
August 27th, 2009
3:18 pm
I sat in on the city council meeting last monday- for five hours. And I can tell you what is going on down there is a pitiful joke. I do not understand how you can have such a great political career, and all you are able to do is sit there hemming and hawing and not be able to form a coherent thought. CT Martin, I’m talking about you, you pathetic piece of crap. Let Ceaser, Mary, Carla, and Ivory run this city and go sit in the corner with the other alzheimers victims.
pman
August 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
Truly an informed racist contrived this edict. Like another astute reader noted, this sounds more consistent coming from a Klansman or the Black Panthers than an informed Atlantan.
I think Aaron should look no further than the City of Baltimore, MD which bucked the trend of voting in the “machine” and swept Martin O’Malley into office in 1999. In less than a few years, Martin balanced the books, attracted dozens of fortune 1000 companies into the city, cleaned-up their inner harbor and made Baltimore relevant again…something Atlanta should look long and hard at: The best candidate not the “black” candidate.
ATL Scouser
August 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
I’d like to see an investigation into this matter verifying the memo’s authenticity and the identification of the author. I have a hunch that this is fake given some of the language in the memo–including the phrase “Black Agenda”. I’ve met Dr Turpeau and I’ve been present at many civic functions where he has spoken and none of this sounds like anything that he would purport.
Whether this memo is true or fake and given the fact that our country has elected the first black president recently, who really gives a damn if the mayor is black or not.
Robert
August 27th, 2009
3:19 pm
I persoanlly think we should elect them all, get rid of the council, and allow the co-mayors to steal equally. Let’s just drain the city coffers faster, go for the complete collapse, and THEN start over.
Ashes to ashes, rebirth, all that stuff. RESURGENS!! – the motto for Atlanta, really, it is NOT “Yo, duh A T L!”
Atlanta spent $1 million for a special group to discuss changing the name of the airport. The report was given, and they said no name change was needed but Shirley changed it anyway to push that stick deeper into whitie’s eye.
OH, that group was her friends.
Definetly time for a completely fresh start – worldwide!
EW
August 27th, 2009
3:20 pm
oh and one other thing atlantaguy, you meant to write “you’re an idiot” not “your an idiot” See you meant to write the word formed by “you” and “are” so when you put them together you get the contraction “you’re”, where you replace the “a” with an apostrophe. I know it’s not YOUR fault, you are probably just a product of our worthless education system.
Nativeson71
August 27th, 2009
3:20 pm
I am presently reading the book, “Where Peachtree meets Sweet Auburn.”
It is a fascinating document of Atlanta History. It is also interesting to see how the tables have turned. The above letter written from a black perspective, is very simlar to the views of Lester Maddox-white segreationist.
The blacks & whites need to learn their history – so they do not repeat it. Grow from it.
sickwitit
August 27th, 2009
3:21 pm
It’s a very sad fact that most voting blacks had rather be ruled and governed by a black person than led and encouraged by a white person.
Pauly
August 27th, 2009
3:21 pm
Rich @ 2:40pm – “It is high time that every voter started thinking for themselves…”
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!! *phew* that was a good one…
common sense
August 27th, 2009
3:22 pm
black…..white…..brown….green….yellow…..blue…
Take a look at your property tax bills … and a bloated ineffective city government………it’s time for change…..the color doesn’t matter
James
August 27th, 2009
3:23 pm
I don’t care what people say. I love my black mayor, president and congressmen. and I will work hard to keep them in office. the last white man I asked for some money from what George W. Bush and he tried to send me to Iraq.
sad brotha
August 27th, 2009
3:23 pm
NEGRO PLEEEEEEEZE!
pman
August 27th, 2009
3:24 pm
One more thing…you know if a white group or entity spoke of such collusion, there would be race riots or protests all over town. It’s time to start thinking like a first world country and not like a bunch of ingrates. What would you want – broke city with a tomato can bum as mayor or a city with leadership and accountability with a possibly white mayor? I’d vote for accountability and leadership before I vote in some dud because of race.
Ryan
August 27th, 2009
3:24 pm
These minority leaders are simply preying on the uneducated poor African American community. The middle to upper class black community can think for themselves but what is going on here with this manipulation of the lower class blacks is sickening. Plain and simple they are just not smart enough to act on their own. And I agree with one blogger who said they put so much emphasis on their ministry leaders that they become some accustomed to obeying whatever these so called people in power are telling them to do. Most of those religious leaders are all about getting money. This is a true story. I drove by a Baptist church on Camp Creek on my way to play golf and the sign out front read “ATM inside”. They put ATM’s in their churches. Unreal…
The Last Believer
August 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
I walked to lunch today – about 4 blocks on Peachtree Street. I passed: (1)a panhandler with a cardboard sign in one hand and an i-phone in the other; (2) a Mike Vick jersey; (3) a group of young Atlantans with pants hanging down past their cracks who tried surrounding and heckling a couple of females; (4) a newstand with headlines of death penalty, mugging, shooting; (5) another panhandler with an Obama bumper sticker on his wheelchair scratching off a stack of lottery tix; and (6) one caucasian. Just another day in capital city of our fine state.
Martin
August 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
“One day we will not judge a person by his color but by his character.” Not in the ATL, the City too busy to hate. What a joke.
PASS ME AN EGGROLL
August 27th, 2009
3:26 pm
Can we get a Chinaman in the mayor’s office puh-leeze? I’m sick of seeing some black dude or some white chick hold office. It’s time for the East SIDE!
Arthur Blank
August 27th, 2009
3:27 pm
Has the AJC fired Cynthia Tuckers black @ss yet? If not she should be all over this. AB
Agree
August 27th, 2009
3:27 pm
I DO THINK THE AJC IS AGAIN, AS WELL AS OTHER MEDIA OUTLETS, LEADING PEOPLE ON. THEY ALL SAY THIS GROUP SAYS BACK ONE BLACK CANDIDATE..NO WHERE IN THE MEMO DOES IT SAY THIS. THIS IS A MEMO CIRCULATED BY ONE MEMBER OF THAT GROUP, IF THAT GROUP EVEN EXISTS. THIS IS ONE RACIST GUY MAKING A MERE SUGGESTION AND OPINION. I DON’T THINK ANYONE EVEN KNOWS HIM IN THE BLACK COMMUNITY OR ATLANTA AT THAT AND FOLKS ARE GOING NUTS. WHAT A WASTE OF THE AJC.
Homer
August 27th, 2009
3:27 pm
Someone told me that black people can’t be racist and I laughed until my sides hurt. The best candidate should win regardless of their racial composition. This ideology is why blacks will always be in the position they are in, because they think with their eyes and not their head. Can a white person justly serve the black community? I say YES!!!!! THEY CAN!!!
James
August 27th, 2009
3:28 pm
There should be as much outrage from black and white people as there would be had this been written by white people.But its ok as long a we black people spread this kind of garbage.If the next mayor of Atlanta is white so be it.So sad that some people are not interested in the best canidate just the black ones..Sad sad sad
JB
August 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
Long-time Atlanta political insider and consultant Aaron Turpeau has been distributing the letter, but has denied actually writing it. He said the paper was produced by an ad hoc group of black Atlantans who have been meeting on and off since 1994 to promote a “black agenda.” -from AJC article.
Mr. Tupeau admits that there is a group of black Atlantans whose purpose is to promote a “black agenda” THIS SOUNDS VERY MUCH LIKE TERRORISM. MAYBE THE US DEPT. OF HOMELAND SECURITY SHOULD BE MADE AWARE OF THIS GROUP.
CDawg42
August 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
Y’all fell for it again…..Really, just REALLY, would this crap have even been known about on the large scale if the media didn’t publish it? At some point we’ve got to stop letting the media determine and bait us into believing that the majority of people feel this way. In my experience in this city, actually the majority of people (regardless of race) are neither extreme LEFT or RIGHT. Most of us are somewhere closer to the center.
Bobbi
August 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
I am a Black woman with enough sense to decide for whom I would like to vote. Besides, who needs another Shirley Franklin? I think Mary Norwood is the perfect candidate.
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
I am just as racist too. Just tellin’ da truff.
Bill
August 27th, 2009
3:30 pm
Memo or not, Atlanta is a majority black city. I seriously doubt that most African Americans are going to vote for this skinny old white lady. First of all, who is she and how does she has my intrest at heart. I don’t think she has a chance in hell of winning.
James
August 27th, 2009
3:31 pm
cythinia mckinny for mayor. lol at the white folks
GA Girl
August 27th, 2009
3:31 pm
This is reverse discrimination at its best! You want the white votes but you don’t want a white Mayor??? I applaud Kasim for his statement and I am a white woman!
Robert
August 27th, 2009
3:31 pm
Only in Georgia can black people be fooled to believe this trick. Remember Willie Lynch? He wrote the book on how to keep blacks in slavery. White people from the Potomac River in Virginia throughout the South used it to keep blacks from coming together. Willie Lynch invented “separate and divide” tactics that ware still used against Blacks.
William
August 27th, 2009
3:32 pm
We will see what the residents of Atlanta are really all about in this election.
Josh
August 27th, 2009
3:32 pm
Bill should be hung from a tree downtown. Thug.
Lee
August 27th, 2009
3:34 pm
If there is a relationship of any kind between Lisa Borders and Turpeau, she could come out very quickly and denounce this nonsense. I will wait to learn more before I say she should drop out of the mayors race.
jimcrow
August 27th, 2009
3:34 pm
glad to see the “fanning of the racial fires”….again. but let old whitey do it and watch out!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Todd
August 27th, 2009
3:36 pm
One must realize and admit that racism is still alive. Whether its the mayoral race in Atlanta or the Presidental race. The fact that this memo (if true and I am not doubting it) may exist as well as memos or intentions from whites. Do not think for one moment that other races do not think the same way. Just look at each candidates ‘real and close’ social circle. You will not be shocked to find not many, if any blacks in Norwoods close, social circle. Blacks are still ‘racial slurs’ to whites as well as whites are still ‘racial slurs’ to blacks; maybe not everyone. Even if not said, it’s a thought for quite a few. I think it and my girlfriend is white and jewish. I am human without perfection.
There are many who did ot want to vote for Mr. Obama, simply because he is black. How else to do explain the ‘taking back “OUR” county’ thing? Or saying he’s not a US citizen simply because he do not have a birth certificate.
Every race has an agenda. This does not surprise or upset me. Vote for who you want and for the reason you want; if its a ‘BLACK or WHITE AGENDA’. It exists, so get over it and move on.
Frank M. Davis, Jr.
August 27th, 2009
3:36 pm
Racist comments and attitudes come from all sides. And all such comments are disgusting and undermine the legacy of progressives everywhere, and especially the legacy of Dr. King.
shirley t
August 27th, 2009
3:37 pm
Race, not qualifications, should be of primary importance. It got us this president!
James
August 27th, 2009
3:37 pm
I’m taking donations for cynthia mckinney for mayor. why not she better that the top three canidates. she also has washington experience.
chuck allison
August 27th, 2009
3:37 pm
There is not racism here. Everyone knows that, in order to be a racist, you have to be white. The only racist organizations are those that exclude non-whites. Black only or traditionally black organizations therefore cannot be racist by definition.
Billy
August 27th, 2009
3:39 pm
Turpeau is as bad as some hillbilly neck out in the woods. He can’t spell; where did that DR. BS in front of his name come from??? Doctor of what??? It’s straight out of the movie “Idiocracy”….
Reign
August 27th, 2009
3:41 pm
Whatever!! I don’t agree with the article. It’s just a way to get everybody all up and crazy, seems to be working. Just mention race or African American and the entire country goes cuckoo. And for the record, Black people can be prejudice and ignorant like everybody else, but not racist!!! That requires the power to exclude from all industries, institutions, policies, etc. That requires the power to erase your history. That requires the power to prevent you from getting an educations, should I go on or do you get it , especially the insane Black people who call other Black people racist…how absurd. Again, I don’t agree with what the author is saying, I believe it’s just rhetoric to stir up trouble. Calm down people, get a grip, educate yourselves about all of the candidates and their ideas and experience level, understand what the city needs to move into the 21st century and to clean up whatever mess that’s out there, and go into the polling place and make an intelligent choice. Geez
falconfan
August 27th, 2009
3:42 pm
The comment “Frank M. Davis, Jr.August 27th, 20093:36 pm
Racist comments and attitudes come from all sides. And all such comments are disgusting and undermine the legacy of progressives everywhere, and especially the legacy of Dr. King.
———————————————————————————
Dr. King was in a league all by himself. While I respect your comments, I feel it’s a dishonor to Dr. King to include him in any conversation concerning today’s politicians….both black and white.
The majority of those either in or seeking “power” do not march to the same music as Dr. King.
Waucka
August 27th, 2009
3:42 pm
Aaron Turpeau is without question one of the most racist people I have ever hear of. The ignorant hate letter posted above should ensure his permanent removal from local politics. Turpeau and those who dare align themselves with his twisted, bigoted logic are no better than the old segregationists. Racism among a certain segment now is dangerously rampant and must be stopped and addressed head on.
Homer
August 27th, 2009
3:42 pm
James, you bash Bush but Bush started the agenda for Black home ownership because he thought all people especially black people should have a piece of the American dream. Bush also gave 1.5 billion dollars in June 2005 5-year plan to reduce deaths caused by malaria by 50 percent in 15 African countries. Former President Bush also fave $30 billion for the global fight against AIDS, 15Billion for Africa.
And many Black people blame Bush and the Republicans for their problems when the Republican party was founded to fight slavery…. Look in the mirror, some blacks are their worst nightmare.
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
3:43 pm
Why do people keep using the phrase “reverse discrimination”? Discrimination is discrimination. Also, people, can we please learn the difference between racism and prejudice. Racism is the inherent feeling that your race is superior to another, so it doesn’t matter what race you are. Prejudice is forming an opinion based on external factors, i.e. race, gender, sexual orientation.
Duece Pigbelow
August 27th, 2009
3:43 pm
Think about this for a moment. These black people have been getting rich from tax payers since before the Hartsfield-Jackson Airport was created. As much money that falls into this city you’d think there’d be better schools, lower taxes, and more community activities. NO!!! When was the last time you guys been to city hall. It’s filled with disgruntled people who act like they don’t appreciate their jobs. No one appreciates what they have here. Everybody wants more and they don’t care how they get it.
We must elevate our morals and standards. Live with honor and pride. Act like you live in the city King built. It starts with our leadership. So often they speak a good game, but their talk is just air with no substance. We need some action. We need new leadership. Atlanta should be a model for progressive forward thinking people, but year after year all we lead in is crime and higher taxes. We have to elevate our minds both black and white. Atlanta could be a beautiful place.
PS. Someone please lower our property TAXES!!!!!! This is ridiculus.
Jobu
August 27th, 2009
3:43 pm
Ironically, Aaron Turpeau has been renown for years in City Hall circles as being a total incompetent. His endorsement of Borders is the best reason NOT to vote for her; god forbid he gets a fresh opportunity to screw up city departments more than they have been already.
Samuel
August 27th, 2009
3:45 pm
YES THEY DESERVED TO DIE AND I HOPE THEY BURN IN HELLLLL!!!!
Anna
August 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
Jen, you said:
“It just proves that black leadership does not work.”
1) That’s NOT the truth, and
2) That IS racist.
You’re no better than the guy who wrote this article. In fact, I would argue you are worse. The author never assumed that NO white person could be a leader.
Shamwow Man
August 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
You guys should stop generalizing people. Atlanta is the black version of the good ol’boy system. It is designed so the the Rev. Lowery’s and the Andrew Youngs and that elk keep their folks in the power structure. Any outsider whether black or white will have a hard time breaking through. They line the pockets of these so called ministers and they instruct their people who to vote for. I hope that any white running for office has to understand that not all blacks feel and think this way and that they endear themselves to the blacks because they are are going to need the votes. This is coming from a black republican!!!
Batboy
August 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
I am please with many of the comments here. The memo is clearly racist and clearly inappropriate. IF the black community will reject this kind of race based thinking, it would be a major step forward for race relations in Atlanta. How the white community reacts is not of any real importance. Of course it would matter if the AJC were as clear about black racism as they are about white racism. But the heart of this matter is the reaction of the black community. This is a great opportunity for rejecting the old ways and setting a playing field for how all of us get along.
Tea
August 27th, 2009
3:47 pm
How is this different from any other political group trying to advance its special interest? Personally, I am a LOT more outraged over Big Pharma strategizing to prevent Medicare from accepting competitive bids for retiree’s prescriptions or Big Power strategizing to continue building coal plants that are likely to make the planet all but uninhabitable in a few generations. At least advancement for African Americans is an agenda that puts people before profits.
Stacy
August 27th, 2009
3:48 pm
Homer please Bush left black people to drown in new orleans for Five Days.
falconfan
August 27th, 2009
3:49 pm
Homer August 27th, 2009 3:42 pm James, you bash Bush but Bush started the agenda for Black home ownership because he thought all people especially black people should have a piece of the American dream. Bush also gave 1.5 billion dollars in June 2005 5-year plan to reduce deaths caused by malaria by 50 percent in 15 African countries. Former President Bush also fave $30 billion for the global fight against AIDS, 15Billion for Africa.
And many Black people blame Bush and the Republicans for their problems when the Republican party was founded to fight slavery…. Look in the mirror, some blacks are their worst nightmare.
———————————————————————————
Homer, why do you try to confuse people with factual data?
Rob
August 27th, 2009
3:49 pm
My daughters 2nd and 3rd birthday party pictures are full of her and her two best friends laughing, playing, holding hands and hugging each other as they ran around the bouncey place we had her birthday in. I hope she never loses sight of these friendships and what they mean and don’t mean collectivly. As a parent watching not only them but the other families there watch as well, it dawned on everyone that there played a white girl, a black girl, and an asian girl……….only in thier eyes there was no difference as they laughed and played together. As we all enjoyed the party we mixed and mingled, laughed and joked together, brought together by what we all had in common, our daughters.
To those who wish to perpetuate this racism, I pity the life you must lead wondering what motives lurk behind every little thing. We are all people, plain and simple, so get over yourselves. The stakes for this city are too high to allow nonsense to cloud our judgment on the next mayor and the future.
JB
August 27th, 2009
3:50 pm
rac⋅ism /ˈreɪsɪzəm/ Show Spelled Pronunciation [rey-siz-uhm] Show IPA
Use racist in a Sentence
See web results for racist
See images of racist
–noun 1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one’s own race is superior and has the right to rule others.
2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination.
3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races.
darrellharrison.com
August 27th, 2009
3:51 pm
<>So, here we go again. Black voters should support a black candidate primarily because he or she is black. The absurdity of such logic is that it implies that the black candidate need tout his or her qualifications for office only to white voters, because the only measure of qualification to black voters is the candidate’s race.
It’s about time black voters stopped tolerating such stereotyping and demand that they be looked upon as individuals; not as some monolithic, robotic voting block totally incapable of making an intelligent and independent decision on whom to vote for – regardless of the candidate’s race.
Trey
August 27th, 2009
3:52 pm
Hello Pot, meet Kettle.
Hello Racist person.
Is NOW going to tell us that only the women voters should unite against one woman?
If 95% of white people voted for republicans, that party would be branded as racist. Why the double standard? (Note, 95% of whites don’t vote for one party….)
Matt
August 27th, 2009
3:52 pm
Lisa Borders is “Shirley Franklin, Jr.” Do we really need more of that? I say no! SF needs to pull a “Palin” since she isn’t actually doing anything productive for this City. Mary Norwood is the clear choice.
BWood
August 27th, 2009
3:53 pm
I plan to get the support of ALL of Ben Hill for Mary Norwood. To me she is the most qualified to really make executive decisions. Thanks to Shirley Franklin this should be a landslide! We need new ideas and new blood, definitely not Lisa Borders give me a break! She is a part of the same corrupt machine and is just waiting her turn.
JB
August 27th, 2009
3:53 pm
The definition of racism does not mention the color of your skin.
Bukhead Betty
August 27th, 2009
3:55 pm
I COMPLETELY AGREE WITH THE MEMO!!!! They really should vote on strict racial lines for Mayor of Atlanta…..immediately following the secession of Buckhead from the City of Atlanta. They can what they want with downtown and points south. Seriously! I’m tired of our inflated property taxes paying for all this bullsh*t.
james
August 27th, 2009
3:56 pm
as I stated before cynthia mckinney mayor 09.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Whitey from suburburbia
August 27th, 2009
3:57 pm
When are the “racists are coming” ads going to start airing? You would think that race card would be quite dogeared by now…….but as long a race is the main qualification for office, Atlnata remains the cesspool it is….
Tray
August 27th, 2009
3:58 pm
Wow, i can’t tell you how many times I saw “I am a black man and i am offended…” above.
WHATEVER!! IF YOU BLACKS WERE REALLY OFFENDED, THEN CHANGE! Otherwise, shut the hell up and move out of the way. I’m am tired of the double standards, TIRED! Oh, sorry white guy, even though you are MORE qualified we HAVE to employ ‘x’ amount of ‘minorities’…
THAT’S THE PROBLEM WITH THE USA NOW!! It should be ‘who is better for the job gets the job’, but no, because BLACKS won’t apply themselves, they feel the need to have to be ‘given’ something.
If all of you are TRULY offended, then change! Spend time with your kids so they DON’T aspire to be a rapper. Make them believe they can be something or someone IMPORTANT that CONTRIBUTES to socitey! Quit teaching them to ‘fear the white man’. Start teaching them life gives them what they put into it!! DAMN it upsets me to see so many hipocritical people!!!
danno
August 27th, 2009
3:58 pm
What’s new the lack brother and sister always sstick together whether right or wrong.
Black comesw before anything.
I am white.
Trev
August 27th, 2009
3:58 pm
silly negros.
.
Robert Byrd (Democrat) KKK member since 1952
August 27th, 2009
3:59 pm
Ahz say! Deez people need to beez hungz! AHZ a memba of da democrat party and da souf will rizzzzzzzzzzzze ageeean! Ahm a DEMOCRAT!
New Ideas
August 27th, 2009
3:59 pm
When will become we beome free thinkers and stop riding on the coat tail of someone elses agenda. Take time and research each candidate and then make your choice on whom to vote.
EW
August 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
Stacy, it wasn’t Bush’s fault black people can’t swim. Sorry couldn’t resist.
Flo-Ri-Duh!
August 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
Of course voting on someone based on they color is racist………. of course Shirley Franklin is racist ……… of course Bill Campbell is racist……… of course Jesse Jackson is racis. Everybody knows that.
No mas Liberals
August 27th, 2009
4:00 pm
Stacy: “Homer please Bush left black people to drown in new orleans for Five Days.”
Hahahahaha!!!! You intolerant, hate-infested liberal. I’m sure you think Ray “Chocolate City” Nagan did no wrong during Katrina. Always W’s fault, eh? Hahaha!!! Thank you for again proving why liberals are nothin but excuse-making ignorant bigots.
Whitey
August 27th, 2009
4:02 pm
Looks like white people can’t be blamed for this debacle. This is really nothing new. Andrew Young used to tell people “if its black vote black” and no one would say a thing. Bill Campbell openly admitted to having disdain for white people and Shirley Franklin ran radio ads touting that the GOP would use hoses on black people. There is something seriously screwed up about the entire democrat party and some black people need to grow up.
Steve
August 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
I can see how Turpeau (and probably Borders) thought this kind of rhetoric would work in their favor though. Remember a couple years ago, when Shirley, Andy Young and John Lewis collaborated on that last-minute scare tactic to get the black community to vote for John Eaves for Fulton County Chairman? I distinctly recall hearing Lewis babbling about how if Republicans took over the commission, we would “return to the days of guard dogs and fire hoses.” He also said that your vote might depend on a vote for (black Democrat) Eaves.
Black Atlanta bought it and Eaves won by a landslide, despite a major outcry in the few days before the election.
Moral of the story: the average black Atlantan is dumber than a stale bagel and more gullible than a five-year-old. Why not employ the same form of political pandering and race-baiting that has worked so well in the past?
Homer
August 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
Bush did not leave black people to drown in New Orleans, it was Blanco and the NO mayor Negan. If you knew better and the laws of this country and did not have your head up your a$$ you would know Bush asked Blanco if she need help on Sunday and she said no. Its was on tape by the way. If you know anything about the Posse Comitatus Act it forbids the President of the US from sending in Federal troops without a Governors approval. What did Blanco tell President Bush about helping, NO THANK YOU WE ARE FINE FOR NOW!!!!!
Hence you are misguided and lied to by the Democrats.
free
August 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
dick williams and phil kent (the georgia gang) are going to have a field day with this!
Kia
August 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
Jesus isn’t black? I think it would at least be a run-off. Everybody relax, its not that serious. Many Atlantan voters are more intelligent than the readers of this memo or blog seem to believe. Most rational individuals will vote for the individual most capable of leading Atlanta into a better future for all of its citizens….right? Everyone has an opinion and Mr. Turpeau is entitled to express his, even if it may amount to the eqivalent of his attempt to commit professional suicide. The writers (use that term VERY loosly) at the AJC sure know know how to set it off…smh. This crap would never work in the north.
Atlanta Native
August 27th, 2009
4:03 pm
You know, I never thought that, as a white man, I should try to vote so that Thurbert Baker would not be elected Attorney General because he black, or for that matter a Democrat. I voted for him because he was, and still is, the best person for the job. He will probably make a good governor too.
What a bunch of bigots! We are the city of Martin Luther King and his dream seems to have lead to black people judging people on the color of their skin rather than the content of their character. Dr. King would be sickened by such bigoted tactics and, if still alive, would probably pack up and leave Atlanta if he saw his dream perverted by the very beneficiaries thereof. Do you really think that people went down to Selma so that their descendants would have the opportunity to vote for candidates just to keep a certain race in power?
If we are ever to become a post-racial society, certain people need to look very hard at the person in the mirror, put white skin on that face, and loudly pronounce that all steps need to be taken to keep the white people in office. Congratulations! Now you are a white bigot too!!!
Whitey
August 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
Stacy, ever heard of the black mayor RAY CHOCOLATE NAGIN??????????
HE LET ALL THOSE POOR BLACK PEOPLE DROWN AND STARVE.
Geez, you idiots like to beat a dead horse don’t you.
Gullah Griot
August 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
I am an African American woman and a proud Mary Norwood Supporter. She has been a great at-large advocate for all people and issue in this city for many years. She is the best candidate for the job. This memo does not reflect all African American people.
danno1
August 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
If you want the Atlanta to prosper and get out of debt vote WHITE
If you want better Educated children Vote White.
If you want less crime vote White
I am White
Steve
August 27th, 2009
4:04 pm
He said that your LIFE might depend on a vote for Eaves, rather.
WBM
August 27th, 2009
4:05 pm
It is a fact that liberals are far more racist then conservaties. Ebonics was the result of liberal whites who believed that African Americans couldn’t learn the English language which I thought was very offensive. This letter is another example of race trumping performance. Sad world we live in.
Whitey
August 27th, 2009
4:06 pm
Jesus was Jewish. Not African and not Anglo.
The_Vessel
August 27th, 2009
4:07 pm
Curious….The author writes….”On behalf of something called the Black Leadership Forum”.
I wonder does he refer to the Buckhead Coaltion, Central Atlanta Progress, and other self-appointed Atlanta regulation groups as “something”. I can assure you he doesn’t. When a journalist fails to reach down in their well equipped lexicon when describing an African American designation, the hypocrisy becomes apparent. Don’t be so simple, Jim.
Kia
August 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
Thanks Whitey…knew you’d have the answer!
day-o
August 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
If you want another Detroit vote Black
Blacks have done nothing for this city except have more blacks move here.
What hve blacks done for Atlanta
Dwanda Farmer - Post 1 At Large Candidate
August 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
I am appalled (to be polite) by the blatant racist perspective of the presenters of this “so called black agenda.” I am black and this is NOT my agenda. If I had an agenda for black people in Atlanta it would be a quest for a quality education; safe, decent affordable housing; access to healthcare; jobs that pay a living wage; and public transportation that goes where people want to go timely and economically!
Atlanta has had a black Mayor and majority black leadership for the past 36 years. What benefit was it to more than a handful of black people who because of their “name” get to participate in politics or government contracting opportunities? Where is the opportunity for the rest of the people in Atlanta? This “black leadership” has failed to enact a “black agenda” in 36 years and there should be little expectation from black people that these same “black leaders” are going to do anything different if they continue to reign in power. The problem is these people are NOT “black leaders” they are “leading blacks” and they have been leading black people in the wrong direction for far too long. What happened to “the city too busy to hate”?
What Atlanta needs now is to elect the best qualified candidates with the ability to deliver what is important to Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, Asians and any other ethnic group that may call Atlanta home. Atlanta can no longer continue to elect people because they are their “friends” or because their “name” is the same as someone else who was prominent in their own right at some time in the past.
In my book, “everybody is somebody” and we all want the same quality of life in Atlanta! When I am elected, I will open city contracting opportunities to more local businesses so they can hire local workers and contribute to building a robust local economy. I won’t go to council with a short list of friends to take care of from City Hall and I won’t owe any of these so called black leaders anything either.
I think the voters of Atlanta have enough common sense to elect who they believe is the best person qualified to serve them despite their race and they don’t need the Black Leadership Forum to tell them different.
What should be important in any election, is the experience, education and ability of the candidate to get the job done! In the Post 1 race, I AM that person. When the voters elect me, I won’t say I’ll make you proud, but I do promise “I won’t let you down.”
Whitey
August 27th, 2009
4:08 pm
Atlanta has had black mayors for over 25 years. In those 25 years Atlanta has become a cesspool of crime and corruption. It might be time to put in a competent person who can get Atlanta back on track.
Liberalism Is Racism
August 27th, 2009
4:09 pm
Liberalism is racism. Yulp.
Whitey
August 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
Kia, sure thing.
booger
August 27th, 2009
4:10 pm
How is this any different than Mayor Franklin stating at a national Mayors meeting that her biggest fear for Atlanta was that Black leadership would be lost as the population shifted. And let’s not forget the famous political ad last year where the Mayor and John Lewis said Blacks would be hosed and hunted down by dogs in the street if a white were elected as head of the Fulton co. commission.
Hamad Meander
August 27th, 2009
4:11 pm
Dr. Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican:
http://www.humanevents.com/article.php?id=16500
He also said: “I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.”
Why can’t we do that now?
Steve
August 27th, 2009
4:12 pm
Booger – that was actually in ‘06. But yeah, those shady white Republicans and their fire hoses. Watch out!
GA voter
August 27th, 2009
4:13 pm
Unbelievable. I’m going to rally all of my friends to vote for Norwood. She’s going to win anyway. Let’s get the racists out of positions of power in this city.
free
August 27th, 2009
4:13 pm
the daily AJC blogs are more racist than the memo. it’s naive to think racism doesn’t exist in the ATL on both sides. why are we surprised?
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
4:14 pm
Tray, how can you call people hypocritical that you know nothing about or what they stand for? You are just making generalizations about an entire group of people and you don’t know how ignorant that makes you sound. So before you go off into your tirades, stop and think, then type.
homer
August 27th, 2009
4:15 pm
There is no news here. This blatant racism has been part of the black Atlanta “culture” ever since they grew to a plurality and took over the city. Only problem is, one of the “homies” screwed up and put the agenda in print. I see there are a few black people on here proclaiming their disgust with this and vowing that they “vote for the best candidate”. Maybe they say that to make themselves feel better about their own racist feelings. In reality, however, when they go in the voting booth the record shows they vote black regardless of past record, transgressions, or total lack of competency. If you don’t believe it, then explain how Atlanta continues to be represented in the House by that old, incompetent, racist fool John Lewis, and explain how 98% of black Americans helped to elect our current disaster of a President. For the black community, he had no qualification for President other than being black. Black leadership in Atlanta has built nothing; they have destroyed the foundation that started Atlanta on the road to being a great city. Atlanta’s best days are behind us. And by the way, you can bet we will have another black mayor, whether qualified or not and he/she will get 99% of the black vote.
KAD
August 27th, 2009
4:15 pm
LIKE SHEEP
chirper
August 27th, 2009
4:18 pm
America is basically finished. Face it. The majority of the electorate is TOO STUPID to vote. I can’t wait til our family can fold our tent and get out of this place in three years. Look where the last four mayors have taken us (really great choices, eh?)! This City is just like our Country – in serious trouble. Atlantans better wake up and make an informed and wise choice and not simply choose by skin color again(who are the real racists here?)! Everyone will suffer if they put ANOTHER pathetic candidate in office…and I mean everyone (from top to bottom).
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:19 pm
As a white guy with white skin and white parents, I would gladly vote for plenty of great black leaders. Some that come to mind are Thomas Sowell, Larry Elder, Condi Rice, Michael Steele, Shelby Steele, Harold Ford Jr., JC Watts and many others.
Darb
August 27th, 2009
4:19 pm
Im an Atlanta native, but completely believe this city has gone into the toilet, and black “leadership” is the reason.
I need not say anumore, or I’ll certainly be labeled a racist. (maybe that isnt so bad)?
President Obama is a communist
August 27th, 2009
4:20 pm
President Obama is a communist.
President Obama is a communist
August 27th, 2009
4:21 pm
Darb, being labeled a racist just means that liberal dead beats won’t talk to you. Is that a bad thing?
Shut Up!
August 27th, 2009
4:21 pm
Oh well, we were civil at first but then all the ignorance came. Time for me to go and I hope everybody has a wonderful and safe evening. Do extensive research before your vote the next time, please.
darrellharrison.com
August 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
@ Thomas Sowell: I would add economist, professor and black conservative, Walter Williams, to that list.
M Kirkland
August 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
Ms Borders refuse to address concerns of all citizens as I have emailed her repeatedly and talked with supporters to contact me. She cares less about Northwest Atlanta where Mary and Jesse do. The supposed breakins seem like media swell when a time she needed and she is just more of the same.since I have been in Atlanta for twenty years. This letter is revolting.
Keith Olbermann is a racist
August 27th, 2009
4:22 pm
KEITH OLBERMANN:
I hate to intrude with the facts but ours is the highest rated cable news program viewers 35 and younger and the highest rated cable news program for all viewers not on Fixed News. And since Fixed News has since now migrated completely over to serving propaganda to tin foil hatters, conspiracy theorists, paranoids and racists it is not a news organization making this show the highest rated cable news program, period.
The O’Reilly Factor – 3,440,000 viewers
Hannity – 2,937,000 viewers
Glenn Beck – 2,810,000 viewers
On The Record w/ Greta Van Susteren – 2,450,000 viewers
Special Report with Bret Baier – 2,066,000 viewers
Fox Report w/Shep Smith – 1,860,000 viewers
Countdown w/ K. Olbermann – 1,114,000 viewers
Larry King Live – 1,063,000 viewers
Typical
August 27th, 2009
4:23 pm
Now tell me who the racists are in “the ATL”!!!
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:23 pm
darrellharrison.com, yes, I said many others. He would be one of them.
JB
August 27th, 2009
4:25 pm
The haters have arrived…..C YA
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:25 pm
Typical, sure thing:
1: Shirley Franklin
2: Bill Campell
3: Frank Ski
4: Rev. Joseph Lowry
5: John Lewis
6: Ludacris
7: Cynthia Mckinny
8: Cynthia Tucker
9: Jay Bookman
10: Billy Mckinny
My allegiance lies with Auburn, not the SEC
August 27th, 2009
4:26 pm
Kudos to Sen. Reed and many leaders of the black community for immediately dismissing this drivel. Now, here’s the litmus test: Is there ANY reason Turpeau should have a job come Monday morning? This is 1000 times more blatant racism thatthe stupid antics of Don Imus and John Rocker, and 1000 times more important (the welfare of a city is at hand here; who did Imus and Rocker truly PERSONALLY wrong?)
Let’s see if the media treats it as such.
Aksarben
August 27th, 2009
4:26 pm
This is disgusting. We shouldn’t be united any race behind any single candidate. The city of Atlanta is is dire straits right now and needs a competent mayor today — regardless of his or her race. Put the good of the city ahead of any kind of ethnic consideration. PLEASE.
Mechanicsville
August 27th, 2009
4:27 pm
Move over whitey and welcome welcome the black man to GREED and HATE.
One in Atlanta
August 27th, 2009
4:27 pm
I think people are jumping to the conclusion that the counselor (Dr. Turpeau) is the person cited in this story, looks a bit young to be part of Maynard Jackson’s campaigns don’t you think?
Possibly this man – but I don’t know for sure
http://www.monumentalmedia.com/arc/gaw/aaronturpeau/001/
http://www.environmentaltrademission.org/aturpeau.php
Aaron Turpeau
Work Experience — City of Atlanta Mayors Cabinets for 17 years: Maynard Jackson’s Chief of staff, Commissioner of Administrative Services, Director of Employment and Training; Andrew Young’s Commissioner of Planning and Development and Commissioner of Administrative Services. South East Manager of Abt Associates, Director of Metropolitan Lima Ohio Urban Coalition, Director of Hamilton County Neighborhood Youth Core.
Business Experience —President of 3T Unlimited, Chairman of The Aaron Group.
Community Experience — Chairman of Keep Atlanta Beautiful, Board Member of Atlanta Regional Council, Chairman of Global Atlanta Advisory Council, Chairman of Atlanta Black Agenda Business Resource Center, Treasurer and Past Chairman of Fulton Atlanta Community Action Authority, Past Chairman of Cascade United Methodist Church Building Committee, Past Chairman of Church Administrative Council, Past Chairman of PPR, Past Chairman of Council on Ministries, Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Leadership Atlanta Alumnus, Leadership Georgia Alumnus.
Political Experience — Committee Chairman for Atlantans for Maynard Jackson in 1973, Campaign Manager, Atlantans for Maynard Jackson in 1977, Campaign Chairman, Atlantans for Maynard Jackson in 1987, Lead for Volunteers for President Jimmy Carter’s 1976 campaign, State Deputy Director of President Bill Clinton’s 1992 campaign, State Get Out The Vote (GOTV) Director of Governor Roy Barnes’ 1994 campaign, GOTV Director of Mayor Shirley Franklin’s 2001 and 2005 campaigns, Director of City of Atlanta bond issue campaigns.
Education — B.A., West Virginia State College, M.Ed. Xavier University
Family — Married 44 years to Brenda Clarkson Turpeau, family’s first entrepreneur; Aaron M. Turpeau Jr., Phd, Psychologist and Author; Michel Martiné Turpeau M.B.A., Business Partner; Alem Dester Turpeau, M.D.; four beautiful grand children, all consistently on honor roll at their schools.
Eric
August 27th, 2009
4:29 pm
The disgusting racism exhibited by the black community in Atlanta makes me glad I moved two years ago. How am I supposed to be blind to your color when you flaunt it in my face like a badge of honor?
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:29 pm
My allegiance lies with Auburn, not the SEC, WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAR EAGLE!
JASon
August 27th, 2009
4:30 pm
SUPPORT ONE WHITE CANDIDATE.
Why can’t I say that? Ajc just said it on their front page.
...
August 27th, 2009
4:31 pm
“The comment “Frank M. Davis, Jr.August 27th, 20093:36 pm
Racist comments and attitudes come from all sides. And all such comments are disgusting and undermine the legacy of progressives everywhere, and especially the legacy of Dr. King.
———————————————————————————
Dr. King was in a league all by himself. While I respect your comments, I feel it’s a dishonor to Dr. King to include him in any conversation concerning today’s politicians….both black and white.
The majority of those either in or seeking “power” do not march to the same music as Dr. King.”
Sadly, the ideas of Dr. King have moved on. Most people, regardless of race, have the mindset that society owes them something, and that they are the victim. Dr. King would be ashamed of the lifestyles of many black and whites today. We no longer fit his dream. He wanted a world where people were judged on the content of their character, but we seem hellbent on maintaining that race is an aspect of character. I heard so many people during the election saying they would vote for Obama just because he was black. I didn’t vote for Obama, not because he’s black, but because I disagree with his policies (issues of character). It’s sad that race still has to be called into the issue.
My allegiance lies with Auburn, not the SEC
August 27th, 2009
4:31 pm
War Eagle, my friend!
GT GRAD
August 27th, 2009
4:32 pm
WOW!
So many people on TV and other media outlets claim (& sometimes argue) that only white people can be considered racist. This incident is embarassing for Atlanta and the organization who created the memo. They should be ashamed. I am sooooo glad I no longer live in the Atlanta area. This is the kind of thing that escalates racism and causes problems for African Americans.
Assume whatever you want about me (I do not plan to read any more respones anyway & I could care less what ignorant people think of me), but I am not racist in any manner. It sure seems like a huge percentage of the so called “African American Leaders” are VERY racist and make a concerted effort to keep racism alive. There actions prove they want racial tension and strife in America. Patriotic Americans should shy away from these people and organizations (like ACORN) and do everything in thier power to diminish thier impact/power. Maybe one day all of the ignorant and selfish people who consider a person’s race as a factor when they judge people, make political decisions and/or other important decisions will be dead or insignificant. I am a white male and almost everyone I know (except for a few elderly people) do not have a racist heart.
The more African Americans who stand up and publically denounce this memo and these type of actions the better America will be in the future.
My allegiance lies with Auburn, not the SEC
August 27th, 2009
4:33 pm
The issue at hand is with Turpeau and the authors of this memo, people. The “entire black community” has nothing to do with this. Stay focused.
The Faithful One
August 27th, 2009
4:33 pm
I removed all reverences to race and bloc voting in the memo and realized it’s an excellent document. Too bad it wasn’t sent forward that way. Change is coming to Atlanta and it’s needed. I would love to see a non black candidate win to put an end to the so called Jackson machine. It’s time for the next generation of black candidates in Atlanta that will not forget the past but refuse to be held hostage by it and will lead with a focus toward the future for all residents. I am Obama inspired. His election point to the fact there are new possibilities and we all need to move forward. Some will go forward willingly, some will go kicking and screaming, and some just want go. At least move to the side of the road and get out of the way.
Sheree
August 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
Well said Rich!
I could not agree with you more Natalie!
To Turpeau and a few African-American-Atlantan-Old-Timers. Atlanta will change with or without you. This is the very reason why our generation has little respect for you. You don’t seem to recognize when it’s time for change. Perfect example: Councilman Jim Maddox of District 11 is known for napping during council sessions and known for being the most un-informed and in-effective councilmember of them all. He has been sitting in his council seat since the days of President Jimmy Carter. Why? Because you keep voting him in. You resist change by any means neccessary. It won’t be long before these same pathetic unqualified officials that you believe so much in, will have you on bread and soup lines.
...
August 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
Thomas Sowell for president – you left off Herman Cain
YetAgain
August 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
So amazingly typical. Cry racism whenever there is an agenda that the black community is pushing and someone does not like – implying that being against anything a black person might want is inherently “racist”. On the other hand, when you want to push a “black agenda” – which is inherently bigoted on its face- use race as the rallying cry. Aaron Turpeau and is blatantly proving here that the balck community is the most racist and bigoted part of Atlanta.
Joe
August 27th, 2009
4:34 pm
Hey Chris,
: .: ::.. .: :. ::: .:.
’nuff said
NICK
August 27th, 2009
4:35 pm
Blacks would vote for O.J. if he ran for mayor. Especially since he brutally butchered two white people and got away with it! Blacks don’t give a s**t about the issues (they are too stupid). They are too concerned about getting their next “hand out”. Rather then go to school, stay out of trouble, not have kids out of wedlock, get and maintain a job and be productive citizens, they would rather smoke the rock, drink the 40 oz. and blame all their failures on the white man. Blacks are THE MOST RACIST people in this country (note Aaron Turpeau’s memo and nothing will be done to him for his comments, unlike if a white person had said something similar, their career would be over), because they are the only group of people who have never made it out of poverty, even though they have BEEN GIVEN EVERYTHING (free medical care, free housing, free food, free education, welfare, etc.). I hope Mary Norwood wins and turns Atlanta’s “thug-ass ghetto image” around…
darrellharrison.com
August 27th, 2009
4:35 pm
@GT GRAD: Excellent post and I completely agree with you. (By the way, GO JACKETS!!!)
mark
August 27th, 2009
4:38 pm
I’m voting for Frank ski or wanda from V1033. Hey white people if you don’t like black people. Move to the surburb. oh that’s right you jack up the housing markets and banks. lololololol
Tancred
August 27th, 2009
4:39 pm
Rupaul For Mayor!!!
Yes I Said It!
August 27th, 2009
4:43 pm
For all you Obama haters – He had done more in 6 months than Bush did in 8 years:
1. Cut taxes for 95% of Americans. 2. Stimulus Package stopped the economic free fall. 3. Stock Market is booming. 4. Home sales are up. 5. Car Sales are up. 6. Placed 1st Hispanic Woman on Supreme Court. 7. Allowed Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. 8. More funding for childrens healthcare. 9. Signed bill for equal pay for women. 10. Closing GITMO 11. Ending the war in Iraq. 12. Middle East peace is now closer than ever. 13. And, Soon all Americans will have affordable Health Care.
socialismsux
August 27th, 2009
4:44 pm
I’m sick of black agenda being the only thing that matters. Enough is enough. We have a black president. The field has been leveled.
My allegiance lies with Auburn, not the SEC
August 27th, 2009
4:46 pm
At least we don’t have Supreme Court justices who claim they are smarter than white people will ever be…..wait, nevermind.
Moe Ronn
August 27th, 2009
4:46 pm
Well, how good is Atlanta doing now? How about Clayton County? It’s time for “a change”.
hoodtechie
August 27th, 2009
4:47 pm
as an african american i am appauled at the notion to vote for a canidate because they are black.this goes against everything martin luther king jr. fought for.judge not a person because of the color of their skin but the content of their character.why shouldn’t the best canidate win,reguardless of race.if this was the other way around jesse,al,john lewis and lowery would would be up in arms with striking protest.lets see if their character will withstand this foolishness or stand up and do the right thing.if you are not qualified to do the job then you should not get the position.just because of the color of your skin qualifies you.plaese!!!
Truth Seeker
August 27th, 2009
4:48 pm
So George W left those poor black people in NO to drown during katrina…..Mayor Mr. Ray had nothing to do with it nor did the Gov of LA. Here is a hint…Federal help and aid MUST BE REQUESTED BY THE GOVERNOR OF A STATE BEFORE ANY AID CAN BE SENT.Can you guess who DID NOT request aid….the gov and the mayor. What about the film footage of over 150 school busses sitting in water up to their doors. Could someone in New Orleans possibly have PUT THOSE POOR IGNORANT, WE DEPEND ON SOMEONE ELSE FOR EVERYTHING,PEOPLE ON A BUS AND DRIVEN THEM SOMEWHERE? When Nagin was asked this question his answer was…we didn’t know where to take them!!!!!!! HOW ABOUT AWAY FROM THE RISING WATER AND THE HURRICAINE YOU MORON….YEAH…THEY GOVERN THE BESTEST AND GOODEST WEUNS HAVE EVER SEEN.
ONE PEOPLE
August 27th, 2009
4:48 pm
Thank you “Dr.” Turpeau for sealing Mary Norwood’s WIN.
Robin
August 27th, 2009
4:51 pm
What has always amazed me about Atlanta under black administrations is that they always scream racism against them caused by the whites when it is always the black politicians, not the black community, who use the race card to get whatever they want in whatever way they can. I am so glad to be out of your city.
atllady626
August 27th, 2009
4:52 pm
I thought when Barack Obama was elected the race card could finally be dropped but things are only getting worse, it appears. I am so ashamed to live in Atlanta now and I used to be so proud. What people don’t realize is that those of us who are black can think for ourselves because we have educated ourselves on all the candidates that are running. Please give our race some credit!!! We can elect who we want because we are smart enough to do that!!
HardTruth
August 27th, 2009
4:52 pm
What most blacks don’t want to admit is that they have given a few people the power to be their official spokesmen. Those people -and I don’t have to name them, do I – would never let racism die because it is their BUSINESS. Their ONLY source of income. Corporate shakedown artists. WAKE UP! They are using YOU!
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:53 pm
mark, white people did move to suburbs. Your idiot people ruined them too. IE: Clayton, Dekalb and Rockdale County. Oh, and if you are going to throw out insults at white people at least learn correct grammar, moron.
I am white btw
August 27th, 2009
4:53 pm
I am noticing a lot of you Neil Boortz types on here showing your true colors. You all claim to despise idenity politics, but you are all are the ones who are truly obsessed with race. Nothing makes me more angry than the “cry baby oppressed southern white males crowd.” You all need to examine your own views before you attack other races voting behavior. I for one find this memo disgusting, but equally disgusting is what you Shawn Hannity types are spewing on this blog. You all are the reason that middle class and wealthy minorities want nothing to do with the Republican Party. Congrats! YALL wave the white trash flag proudly and make Democrats jobs much easier!
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:54 pm
HardTruth, Clayton County black racist school board members tried to blame whites for Clayton County school problems but there was not one white person left on the board. The blacks ran them all off and single-handedly collapsed the entire school system. Black people, you gotta love em.
Thomas Sowell for president
August 27th, 2009
4:55 pm
I am white btw, you need to have an anal exam.
Steve
August 27th, 2009
4:56 pm
Look I was there in New orleans. I love atlanta but I would rather be home. but I can’t because there no home because the leve broke. so when you talk trash talk to a person who was there and live in it.
ThaMan
August 27th, 2009
4:57 pm
Yes I Said It! Did you just get back fron outer space. Spit out the Koolade fool! You CANNOT substantiate any single thing you’ve said, because none of it is true. Pitiful, just pitiful.
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
4:57 pm
I am white btw, no, the reason most blacks don’t like the GOP is the GOP won’t give them welfare and hand outs.
Not at all Surprised
August 27th, 2009
4:57 pm
Once again, “The Double Standard”! It’s okay that a black, or African American, to be politically correct, writes such garbage, but if I did it as a White person, would be deemed a “racist”. I have to ask, Where is the NAACP? You want to be treated fairly, and without prejudice, then start demanding that your colleagues, associates, or “peeps” do the same!!
socialismsux
August 27th, 2009
4:58 pm
Screw political correctness. No more
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
4:59 pm
Yes I Said It!, are you retarded? Unemployment is above 10%. He did not end the war in Iraq. We’re still there. The Gitmo terrorists will be on your doorsteps pretty soon with an AK47.
Oh, and Obamas approval number is now at 45%. He will make Jimmy Carter look like Reagan.
Hoss
August 27th, 2009
5:02 pm
Lisa Borders as mayor? Ha! What a crock.
You can trust me
August 27th, 2009
5:02 pm
One should only vote for a candidate that has the courage to put us on a better path AND has leadership abilities. Ms. Norwood lacks the latter.
SD
August 27th, 2009
5:03 pm
I firmly denounce the “memo” that was outlined by the author of the blog (or should I say, points that were drawn out and an opinion provided). However, its interesting to see the responses from white people when things like this come out. “Thgus” “Deez” “Homies” blah blah blah, as if every black person can be described as or uses the aforementioned words or diction. You immediately call the author of the memo racist, then proceed to spew racist stereotypes or simply make blatantly racist statements. However, the blog writer will get credit for generating major interest today. Nothing stirs up outrage and a quick response in Metro Atlanta faster then introducing race into the conversation.
ATL
August 27th, 2009
5:04 pm
this city needs someone to step up and do the job, if Norwood is the person i will support her. Right now atlanta is in a bad shape..
Another Choice
August 27th, 2009
5:04 pm
There is another choice in the race – Jesse Spikes. Go to his website at jessespikesformayor.com to find out about his platform. He is a Rhodes Scholar, a Harvard Law Grad and an Oxford Grad. He rose up from a farm in Henry County to the halls of justice as a partner in a major international business law firm. He represents just what Atlanta needs, a sharp intellect with strong business and finance skills. These are the skills we need to turn this city around, not more of the same, more hand-picked politicians so those who are picking will keep their connections and insider incentives. Look at who is financing these campaigns and you will see who will be beholding to who. But don’t take my word for it, please research it for yourself. Atlanta needs a New Direction, New Ideas and a Fresh Perspective not another extension of Shirley Franklin (which both Reed and Borders represent).
Real Deal Wilson
August 27th, 2009
5:05 pm
Shirley Franklin’s perceived poor performance;????
Perceived my behind, it is reality.
And we all know that the black political machine in ATL is about as racist
as anything in the world today. It is all about graft, nepotism and handouts.
They don’t give a damn about the city and it’s well being.
Facts are facts Jack!
Duece Pigbelow
August 27th, 2009
5:08 pm
Hey Keith Olbermann is a racist….You know why the ratings are so high? AA don’t have time to watch that much TV(LMAO). Of course those shows have high ratings, there’s nothing on TV substantial. I even watch them, I love to see American ignorance on TV. Been watching it since Hee Haw.
socialismsux
August 27th, 2009
5:09 pm
I sure hope the State Bar is paying attention to the racist Mr Turpeau.
david
August 27th, 2009
5:11 pm
That my friends is Atlanta politics in action. They have proven my theory that the problem is TMAAIC!! Please say or prove that I am WRONG.
No, I Said It
August 27th, 2009
5:12 pm
In response to “Yes I said It”….you didn’t really say anything. Let’s look quickly at your argument as to why Obama has been such a savior for our country.
You wrote: “For all you Obama haters – He had done more in 6 months than Bush did in 8 years:
1. Cut taxes for 95% of Americans. 2. Stimulus Package stopped the economic free fall. 3. Stock Market is booming. 4. Home sales are up. 5. Car Sales are up. 6. Placed 1st Hispanic Woman on Supreme Court. 7. Allowed Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research. 8. More funding for childrens healthcare. 9. Signed bill for equal pay for women. 10. Closing GITMO 11. Ending the war in Iraq. 12. Middle East peace is now closer than ever. 13. And, Soon all Americans will have affordable Health Care.”
1. This will soon change as he now must find a way to pay for more than $10 trillion in national debt. Taxes will be raised for EVERYONE. No way around this.
2. The stimulus package wasn’t Obama. It was Bernanke, who was appointed by Bush, BTW.
3. It has improved, yes. But this is simply a natural reaction to consumer/investor confidence after suffering through 11 months of dismal news and performance. No Obama magic here.
4. Were they going to go down? No where for them to go but up. This isn’t the magic of Obama.
5. Yes, car sales are up. And the government helped pay for many of these new cars (refer to #1).
6. How is this a grand accomplishment?
7. I would hardly call this an amazing presidential accomplishment. But it is a good thing.
8. I’ll just skip the healthcare topic for now.
9. Ok. I hear they can even vote now too.
10. And we’re releasing terrorists and criminals across our country and around the world. This was a brillant move.
11. It was already over by the time he took office. He’s just continuing the procedure to bring troops home.
12. Yeah right. Not in your lifetime, even if you’re 11.
13. See #8
Obama’s legacy will be the first black president. Other than that, he’s in way over his head and will not make our country one bit better. In fact, it will be the opposite.
Steve
August 27th, 2009
5:12 pm
white people stop being mad. and second there are educated black people out there. stop being mad that black people are starting to out think you
Grant Parker
August 27th, 2009
5:16 pm
@Call me stupid But (posted at 3:12 p.m.): Here’s an excerpt from your message:
“”This is an attempt yet again by the AJC or its contractors to stir up racial conflicts in this city….”
Yeah, that’s right, blame the messenger. Sidestep the real issue here, which is this: a nasty fact of life in Atlanta’s public life has been laid bare.
You know, I will call you “stupid.” Thanks for supplying the adjective.
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
5:16 pm
Duece Pigbelow, did you actually read the Olberman comment? Kieth is a moron and can not count.
Sick of all of 'em
August 27th, 2009
5:19 pm
This is disgraceful, but I am not surprised. And white people probably have their “secret” memos, too (anti-black). But they just keep them secret.
But as a Black woman, I am so sick of the way the city has been run in the past 15-20 years (it’s been embarrassing), I actually hope Mary Norwood wins and cleans house. And this memo might just invigorate folks to make it happen. I’m sick of Andy Young, V Jackson, Bill Campbell’s remaining legacy, Shirley’s lack of leadership and apparent secret life, and other people’s mess. I’m tired of all the old Black Atlanta “guard/leadership/A-list”, tired of Monica kaufman’s histrionics and now stank attitude; and some of the ‘new Negroes’, too in SW Atlanta and the trashy “Real Housewives”, (WTF!! is that mess?) and the celebrity crap going on here now. The city is a mess. Water, crime stats, transportation problems, gangs, etc. Celebrating criminals just because they are rappers, etc. Even crappy radio stations that Black Atlanta seems to just inhale; it’s all foolishness and damaging to the community. But ATL laps it up.
Okay, I admit it, it’s time for me to move from the area. I’m ready to bear witness to the mess in some other city. Let’s see some of the White folks’ mess for a while: Pat Swindall, Skandalakis-type stuff. Let’s switch it up a bit: Blacks and Whites take turns, every 20 years. yeah…that’s the answer.
ATLIEN
August 27th, 2009
5:19 pm
I’m an Atlanta native who is Black and this is bull crap. I would vote for Mary Norwood if I lived in Atlanta. Click link below for laughter.
By the way this a real business in North Carolina.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnOyMSEWNTs
Since the Mike Vick story racial divide in this city has gone to another level. Now this.
Get Along?
August 27th, 2009
5:20 pm
This disgusts me. However, I am entirely confident that a very large majority of blacks in Atlanta are intelligent and educated and informed enough to make this decision based on more than a candidate’s skin color. It’s unfortunate that such a small percentage of both whites and blacks alike continue the race war in this day and age.
sj
August 27th, 2009
5:22 pm
Same reason you will not convict a black in court if there is a black jury….
Black Politico: We Must Keep Atlanta Mayorship Out of White Hands! : The American Pundit
August 27th, 2009
5:23 pm
[...] Stephan Tawney Apparently this is all part of the new era of post-racism brought about by the election of Barack [...]
JB
August 27th, 2009
5:26 pm
I’m glad to read that there are young black Americans who realize that these older black leaders are holding back the black community because they can not let go of the past. Just do not let them make you feel guilty because you see that holding on to the past has done nothing to move the black community forward. We are all equal and can acheive the same things no matter what color we are.
Jesus
August 27th, 2009
5:27 pm
Marion Barry, David Dinkins, Maxine Waters, Andrew Young, Bill Campbell,Cynthia McKinney, Alcee Hastings, William Jefferson, Kwame Kilpatrick… yep real winners with that crew. THEY LINED THEIR POCKETS TO THE HILT and the people of color were taken to the cleaners!
VOTE THE BLACK SLATE. I saw that sign for years in Southwest ATL!
What a bunch of “baffoons.”
O.J.
August 27th, 2009
5:31 pm
When I gets out of the big house… I’m moving to the ATL. Black leadership and white women! I can get away with murder there!
WHAT?
August 27th, 2009
5:34 pm
LOL! You have got to be kidding me! LOL! Ignorance runs rampant!
Hamad Meander
August 27th, 2009
5:34 pm
Clark Howard – write-in candidate for Mayor of Atlanta. Just think, having someone that money conscious in a position of power. Someone who doesn’t think a million here or a million here is spare change. Someone who understands that every dollar the government spends come out of the pockets of its citizens (legal ones, of course). Someone who sees the airport as a revenue generator for all citizens and not a poltical playground and power source for his ‘friends’. Someone who would pritivatize the airport so that our property taxes would be cut IN HALF! Someone who would appoint a police chief that would be more interested in stopping crime than being creative about how crimes are reported. Someone who would encourage businesses to be downtown vs. running for the suburbs.
Can’t we find someone like that to be OUR mayor? (Yes, I live in the city limits).
I am white btw
August 27th, 2009
5:35 pm
To Bull Connor
“I am white btw, no, the reason most blacks don’t like the GOP is the GOP won’t give them welfare and hand outs.”
1/3 of African American households make more than 50,000 per year with 1/8 making over 80,000. Those voters aren’t eligible for most welfare, but they vote Democratic at a 90%+ clip.
The price Republicans pay for appealing to white people in trailers across the south is they offend middle class and wealthy minorities.
The rhetoric on this board is the reason Republicans are such bad shape across the country. Very few people on this board have actually defended this disgusting memo, or advocated a black mayor at all costs.
This blog, however, gave all of you white trash morons a forum to show your true colors.
The memo about to shake the Atlanta mayor’s race « Mcnorman’s Weblog
August 27th, 2009
5:41 pm
[...] The memo about to shake the Atlanta mayor’s race | Political Insider. [...]
Ghost of Teddy K
August 27th, 2009
5:43 pm
I am white btw, is not white but just a plain racist. This black racism in Atlanta must end!
Rebecca
August 27th, 2009
5:45 pm
By the way, if I lived in Atlanta, I’d right in Clark Howard’s name, too!!!
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
5:47 pm
I am white btw, yeah, and 98% of blacks in America voted for Obama because….because….because he is black. They don’t vote for the GOP because they have this problem in their mind brought on by the Jesses and Als of the country that the GOP is racist.
Guess what troglodyte, the current Democrat party has a member of the KKK IN IT RIGHT NOW!
THAT’S RIGHT!!!!!!!! ROBERT BYRD!!!!!!!!!!
Go sell stupid somewhere else.
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
5:49 pm
I am white btw, you’re writing off the GOP? Uh, I would look at the polls buddy. The democrat party is in for a beat down next November. Obamas poll numbers are BAD! The democrats numbers are bad and every incumbent democrat across the country is in for a beating.
Bull Conor was a democrat
August 27th, 2009
5:51 pm
I am white btw, by the way oh wise one. I have never lived in a trailer and I have a nice degree from Emory. So before you label us “white trash”, maybe you should get your facts straight.
The memo that
August 27th, 2009
6:40 pm
[...] about to shake the Atlanta mayor
The memo that
August 27th, 2009
9:29 pm
[...] [...]
Perpetual Denial | Blackinformant.com - African-American culture, news commentary, politics
August 28th, 2009
9:03 am
[...] Part of a memo from the Black Leadership Forum in Atlanta. 1. There is a chance for the first time in 25 years that African Americans could lose the Mayoral seat in Atlanta, Georgia, especially if there is a run-off; [...]
TPM
August 28th, 2009
10:07 am
Keep up the small mind race agenda and we’ll all keep heading to the suburbs
Lillian
August 28th, 2009
10:08 am
Turpeau’s analysis is not worth the paper on which it is written!
Black Voter
August 28th, 2009
10:14 am
As a person of color I am deeply offended by the fact that some people believe “we”, as a culture, are so ignorant that will vote for a candiate just beacause they are also black. Pick a black, any black dpes not agree with my intelligence.
Steven
August 28th, 2009
10:16 am
Stunningly short-sighted of the authors of this racist “agenda” to think that this wouldn’t get out. And it warms my heart to see some comments from black citizens rejecting this nonsense. I hope the most prepared, most capable candidate wins.
kevin mckillop
August 28th, 2009
10:16 am
What he said was RACISM and he should be dealt with just like the whites are.Whats up out there just because you wanted a black president and got a muslim don,t blame us.
luckydog
August 28th, 2009
10:18 am
I am voting “the Black Slate” as usual.
MaryA
August 28th, 2009
10:24 am
Publishing the memo certainly helps the newspaper business
Jim
August 28th, 2009
10:25 am
Like the negative of a KKK rally picture.
Mr. ATL
August 28th, 2009
10:29 am
I am black and I support Mary Norwood. I’m tired of these incompetent director, middle level managers, and commissioners who only react to situations. Why don’t they train their staff on how to deliver quaility service?
I call a police because of a voilent situation that was about to occur and 30 minute later a lazy ass cop shows up. It is sad how their operation is broken and they don’t know it.
In order words, many of us agree to pay high taxes because we want great and responsive service. Mary can’t do it alone but I think she can put people in place that will learn to work together interdepartmentally to deliver quality service that has been missing in Atlanta for years.
Mr. ATL Native
Decatur Bubba
August 28th, 2009
10:30 am
This is absolutely disgusting.
Black, white, Latino came together in November ‘08 to elect Obama, but right in our backyard, racism rages within the black so-called “leadership” community as evidenced by this junk from one of that group’s think-tank “whizzes.”
Turpeau and that bunch need to shut up and start evaluating individuals as individuals, instead of based on race — which is what that bunch preached for years, and which everyone else now believes in. Although that bunch can sure make it hard to do so……
md noitall
August 28th, 2009
10:32 am
Hum, now lets take a quick at all the cities with BLACK political powers–Atlanta, Detroit, LA, Cleveland, Washington,—need I go on !!!! Come to your own conclusion, these cities are such pillars of our society.Has anyone ever put 2 and 3 together and came up 4 instead of 3 ???? Wake up AMERICA.
No Peace, No Justice
August 28th, 2009
10:35 am
To BEGIN to rectify this deplorable situation, we must do the following:
1. Have an apology from the President of the United States, the Black Caucus in Congress, and the NAACP. Oh, the letter writer should apologize too and the President should have a cappuccino summit at the White House.
2. Implement a system of set-asides, job preferences, and quotas with the goal of increasing Euro-Americans’ participation in the work force and in government.
3. Require that all African-Americans participate in racial sensitivity classes to raise their awareness of the issues that are harmful to Euro-Americans.
4. Outlaw the use of the expression “White Americans”, for that is the new N-word. We wish to be referred to as Euro-Americans, though we intend on changing that about every 5 years in order to keep the grievance thing going.
5. We expect reparations. A letter such as this has caused harm that will last at least 10 generations. Financial reparations will only BEGIN to soothe the harm that has been caused.
6. Rest assured, we will not rest. We’ll be back for more.
Ed
August 28th, 2009
10:37 am
Shirley Franklin should resign if she has any sense of decency left. I do not live in the city of Atlanta, i dont have any interest of doing so. I would like to say it is complete wrong and it is racist to suggest to vote for someone just because he or she is black. I do agree with alot of the earlier postings, if a white person made similar comments, black leaders would be outrage and demand the person be fired.The way things are going in the city, once Atlanta is labeled an unsafe place to live, to do busniess and visit, it will be doomed. I think it is time its resident take their mayoral candidates seriously and not vote for someone base on race. I truly believe this city cannot afford another incompetent, corrupt mayor like the previous two.
Mr. ATL
August 28th, 2009
10:38 am
For everyone voting and still undecided, please give Mary Norwood a chance.
At this point, I don’t believe it can’t get any worst to try something different.
Mr. ATL
Mr. ATL
August 28th, 2009
10:39 am
For everyone voting and still undecided, please give Mary Norwood a chance.
At this point, I don’t believe it can get any worst to try something different.
Mr. ATL
UglyPuppy
August 28th, 2009
10:39 am
Will someone let me know when it’s time for us crackers (European Americans) to go downtown and riot and do some looting in response to this? I need to restock my bar and possibly get some new furniture…
Karen Callaghan
August 28th, 2009
10:40 am
Whites have to take Atlanta back. Only we can save this city.
Viewer_1
August 28th, 2009
10:41 am
Racism at it finest.
Vernell
August 28th, 2009
10:43 am
Atlanta needs an African-American mayor, not some rich white woman who doesn’t understand the needs of all the African-Americans in the city. Atlanta has more African-Americans than white people and so the mayor should also be black.
BuckheadBetty
August 28th, 2009
10:44 am
Mr. ATL
Crimes aren’t being reported properly. It is the Pennington numbers game. The guy was a failure in New Orleans and has brought his sham with him. Shortly after he left New Orleans discovered a few problems….
As reported by the New Orleans Times Picayune on Oct. 24, 2003, “a review of more than 700 reports written in the 1st District from January 2002 to June 2003 found 42 percent of crimes were incorrectly classified and another 17 percent were ‘questionable.’ More than 200 of the downgraded incidents found in the sample studied were serious crimes that included violence or threats…”
Get rid of this low-life! Support Buckhead secession from the city of Atlanta!
Gale
August 28th, 2009
10:45 am
The suggestion that a white mayor would ignore the needs of black residents is just plain insulting. It is divisive and we have moved beyond that. Atlanta is better than that. We are a very diversely populated city. We are many colors, many religions and many ethnic backgrounds, and it makes for a lovely mix.
Flo-Ri-Duh!
August 28th, 2009
10:46 am
The question posed by CNN and the liberal left was: Is America ready to elect a black president? The question now should be by CNN but is not being posed because they support the left; Is Atlanta willing to elect a non-black mayor? Will Atlanta look beyond color and elect the BEST available person for mayor regardless of race? I say the answer is NO. I hope I am wrong.
proud white male
August 28th, 2009
10:50 am
All blacks are racist and much more than any whites i know. So no matter what is said or done it is always gonna be about race when a person of color is involved period. You all can deny it all you want but when you wake up and really look at it with an honest view, you will see it is as plain as day. Now i will admit i am a racist but only because i am forced into it because of all the negativity towards white males these days. I for one am very proud to be white and you can call me whatever you like but you have to admit if i were black and said i was proud to be black that would be ok, which in my opinion it is and so it is ok for me to be proud. Now as far the letter in question, it is totally a racist letter and any candidate that does not denounce it and the people and groups that wrote it should be disqualified and labeled a racist and not be able to hold any position or office in this or any city. I for one am so over the black people and there racism that some how is ok for them to be and get away with. I also cant understand why they still have the naacp, you have a black president now so you won your argument now get over it and disband this racist group.
d fowler
August 28th, 2009
10:51 am
this would be considered racist and all over the news if any other race had done this. it does stink and norwood will win!
Fed up
August 28th, 2009
10:52 am
I really can’t imagine that many would be truly surprised by this. It’s funny how so many minorities would accuse whites of been racists, but the truth of the matter is I personally know many more minorities who are the proverbial racists. We wonder why the Republicans worry over judges like Sotomayor. Some folks are color-blind no matter what color their own skin happens to be. You don’t have to be white to be a racist!
Mark
August 28th, 2009
10:54 am
Fire all blacks and replace them with the superior white race. Blacks can’t run anything but their racist mouths.
Miran D Belyue Sr.
August 28th, 2009
10:58 am
As i Believe it to be wrong to vote for any candidate based on the color of their skin. I do however believe a person should take into account how a candidate presents themselves to their community. If your particular community has never seen any involvement by these candidates in the problems that their communities faced in the past, if their elected, Why would you think you would become a priority then? The Right choice is the candidate that already has a track record in the community. They already have knowledge of the problems and concerns of the citizens from the least to the greatest of these. Certainly that would be the best candidate
Chuck U. Farlie
August 28th, 2009
11:04 am
Ashley you are totally right!!! Sharpton, Jesse, where are ya fellers? Time to step in and straighten things out, ohh yeah, forgot, you only show up if it is to better black people only, what a bunch of chumps! THis whole memo thing is nothin but a bunch of racist garbage! I think its time for white people being in minority in Atlanta to start getting special treatment, ex: WET white entertaiment channel, historically white colleges, NAAWP, hey its only fair, equal rights!
dale in newnan
August 28th, 2009
11:06 am
Jen, I Love you. Are you single. ATL< Clayton< Dekalb govts have single- handedly rendered the term black power into an oxymoron. Whats wrong with the cattle who keep electing these self- serving wanna be potential hustlers?
Fed up
August 28th, 2009
11:06 am
Vernell, you, my friend, also remind me of a racist. “Some rich white woman who doesn’t understand the needs of African-
Americans.” This statement might be a little more understandable if Shirley Franklin, Bill Campbell, Andrew Young or Maynard Jackson did something so profound to help lift Blacks out of the funk, but they didn’t. I, for one, am ready for the (ready for this?)…CHANGE!!! By the way, you probably didn’t have much of a problem voting for, supporting and the election of Barack Obama; although, he didn’t run on race…remember? So, I find it ironic that you sir would bring up that Atlanta needs to be governed by a black mayor, because Atlanta is primarily made up of blacks. If that’s your rationale, why support Barack Obama? Isn’t America made up primarily of the white race? I don’t support either argument! Care to respond racist…I mean, Vernell?
Make'n A Live'n
August 28th, 2009
11:08 am
Everything you wanted to know about Atlanta’s 25 NPU’s:
Neighborhood Planning Units
http://www.atlantaga.gov/government/planning/npu_system.aspx
http://www.atlantaga.gov/government/planning/neighborhoods_by_npu.aspx
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neighborhood_planning_unit
FrankThaTank
August 28th, 2009
11:13 am
Vote Mary Norwood!!! The “change” we need!!!
Deborah
August 28th, 2009
11:15 am
What the memo fails to delineate is an agenda of any kind. For that reason, it seems obvious that the memo is manufactured for political intrigue rather than advancing a true dialogue or agenda.
Time
August 28th, 2009
11:18 am
Hmmm…what a blog of BS. Reading the BS here (on the blog, more than the memo) confirms that this nation is in deep kimshi. I would rather vote for whomever wrote the memo as they show more character and understanding than most people on this blog.
Is ‘New World Order’ a myth or reality…keep track of your politics.
Miran D Belyue Sr.
August 28th, 2009
11:19 am
Normally, I don’t respond to nameless, Faceless cowards that spew hatred but on this occassion i will make the exception. To the person (the alias) proud white male. Racism comes in all colors. But it would be idiotic to assume all people of any one race is racist. I am black and i believe there are misguided people of all colors. As far as Civil or Human Rights groups are concerned they are definitely needed. The election of the first black president only highlighted the Country’s desire to elect the best man for the job. However it does show that such (Groups) as you called them (Human and Civil Rights organizations), Need to begin to focus more on unity as the country is at the crossroads of ecconomic disaster.
Chuck U. Farlie
August 28th, 2009
11:24 am
LOL very true Frank, we vote for “CHANGE”!!
PAT FROM ELLENWOOD
August 28th, 2009
11:29 am
Just looked up jesse spikes voting record and he is not only a democrat he is a strong democrat. He has never voted anything but democrat. sorry aaron–you’re wrong on that one. what a waste of ink. you should be ashamed of yourself.
Dangerous
August 28th, 2009
11:31 am
I don’t think anyone could argue with the notion that CLARK HOWARD would truly be a candidate for the PEOPLE! Sound economic guidance is what this city needs to correct itself! ALL WOULD BENEFIT!
CoooolRider
August 28th, 2009
11:32 am
Oh Miran, now dont forget, Obama is not just “black” he is white too. Saying that electing the first black president only highlight’s the country’s desire for the best man for the job is a racist statement. Who cares whether he is black or white, its what he stands for, not the color of his skin, sooner or later black people are going to come to realize this, unfortunately it probably wont be in my lifetime. We need a mayor who can get the city of Atlanta out of the mess its been in for quite some time, no matter whether they are black, white, purple or even polka dotted!
UglyPuppy
August 28th, 2009
11:35 am
WOW! Time….I’ve got say – let’s hope you can’t vote or breed…
“Character and understanding”? REALLY?
New World Order? REALLY?
Ever heard of ACORN?
FrankThaTank
August 28th, 2009
11:46 am
Whats sad is how the majority of black people that voted for Obama only voted for him because he is black, not knowing at all what he represents. Just ask someone why they voted for him, and they can never give you a straight answer, ohh what this country is coming too! I think the mayor race is going to be the same way unfortunately.
Time
August 28th, 2009
12:03 pm
UglyPuppy, I guess you are a bible thumper also. Breed? too late, and hope to do more.
Cut the CRAP
August 28th, 2009
12:03 pm
So white people are saying that if they grew up and never heard of a viable white candidate, if they were forced to vote black or not at all. Then finally got to the point in their adult lives that there was a choice among candidates and more diversity. After 30 or 40 years, they are finally able to vote for a white candidate, they would want to focus on the agenda. Gimme a break. Put yourselves in the position of black people. Racism is alive and well. Today it’s more economic and political. We now have a voice and representation and we shouldn’t use it? We should focus only on qualifications and not what’s important to US. You have been doing this ignorant crap for centuries. Now it’s our turn. Deal with it.
R B Gilmore
August 28th, 2009
12:26 pm
Just think if a white person had said this the blacks would be all over them but since a black said it then it must be ok wake up people. Atlanta is already in the pits and anyone who can help needs to step up and do it
Deborah
August 28th, 2009
12:31 pm
Does anyone here doubt that Reed’s campaign operatives are neck deep in this? Throw out a divisive memo– one that makes sure to advocate on behalf of your only viable opponent. This stuff is so old-skool politics it ain’t funny.
UglyPuppy
August 28th, 2009
12:37 pm
Well, now that’s expected – Time. The more you breed the bigger your welfare check. I imagine you’re probably using a computer you stole.
And CRAP cutter – yes, we’re dealing with it. Us crackers have been hiding our cash and stockpiling ammo for awhile now. When the revolution comes – we’ll be ready:)
MontrellB
August 28th, 2009
12:50 pm
The whole state of Georgia is run by the whites, so Atlanta should have black people running the city. I’m tired of all the white georgia legislators trying to keep the black man down in this state. We need more representation in the city and state!
Time
August 28th, 2009
1:30 pm
UglyPuppy. Your comments show what you really ‘Don’t Know’, but why others should pay attention. Its people like you (white, self-rightous, ignorant piece of s&*t with a superiority complex) that breed people like me.
Bring it On !!
GOV MULE
August 28th, 2009
1:42 pm
Seems like I recall this all being started by Andy Young calling some people:
“Smart Ass White Boyz”
Chrissy
August 28th, 2009
1:49 pm
Amen, John Doe!
I wish we were all the same color. Then it would be easier to see that Mary Norwood has been deeply involved for years in really listening to Atlanta residents–all of them–and working to bring about the changes they want, public safety being at the top of the list. Lisa Borders is a great person, but she has been in and out of politics; most recently she left to care for her aging parents. She only reentered politics this spring. I wonder whether Ms. Borders’ heart is really in this race and whether she is as invested as Ms. Norwood in bringing about what is best for all of Atlanta.
luckydog
August 28th, 2009
1:50 pm
Will blacks riot if a white is elected Mayor of ATL?
Name One
August 28th, 2009
1:55 pm
Aaron Turpeau, the Black Leadership Forum, Jim Welcome, and Newsmakers Live will never ever have any credibility in this town. Hey fellas, this is an embarassment you’ll never recover from.
Sad Stuff
August 28th, 2009
2:01 pm
One group that received the e-mail analysis is Newsmakers Live, a predominantly African-American group that frequently invites local leaders to talk about major issues. “We thought it had merit from the standpoint that people should see it or hear it,” said Jim Welcome, Newsmakers Live’s publisher and executive director.
Welcome said Turpeau sent the analysis and believes it was “assembled by political scientists and activists,” but did not know whom. Turpeau declined to say who actually wrote the letter.
Let Mr. James Welcome, Publisher of Newsmakers Live, jwelcome@newsmakerslive.com, know how you feel about him trying to give this hateful memo credibility.
Chrissy
August 28th, 2009
2:03 pm
Hey, Atlanta_Tiger_Fan! Who you calling “you people?” I don’t like that tone.
neckofthewoods
August 28th, 2009
2:04 pm
what are all you Nwords gonna do when the white people finally get sick of your crap, take up arms against you and drive you into the sea. its gonna happen soon.
neckofthewoods
August 28th, 2009
2:08 pm
the whole city of atlanta is already surrounded by whites, they are gonna move in oneday and take it back! its gonna happen soon
Tired of BS
August 28th, 2009
2:11 pm
While the black candidates running for office won’t like the controversy stirred up by this flyer, we all must realize and admit that this is the mindset that just elected Barack Obama president. With only 11% of the population black, it must be stated that many whites voted based soley on party affiliation. When this happens we all lose. With that being said, I hope that we can see a mayor elected who will represent all of the people of Atlanta. It is not “a black city”. It does not belong to one group of people, but to all of us. Truly if it is to become only a “black city”, maybe we shoud consider taking our white money elsewhere.
Chrissy
August 28th, 2009
2:15 pm
Shut up, neckofthewoods. If you weren’t so obviously a joke I’d ask the administrator to take down your nasty comments.
T Knight
August 28th, 2009
2:15 pm
Please explain to me how this is not racist. I am shocked and saddened by this.
Dangerous
August 28th, 2009
3:08 pm
Cut the CRAP thanks for the info. I’ll definitely vote white…errr Euro-American. But you know what, I’m voting because 25 years is long enough for mediocrity, waste and scandal!
Hurricane
August 28th, 2009
3:58 pm
As an African-American, I ask that everyone vote for the candidate that is the best candidate for the job, irregardless of race or political affiliation.
Atlanta_Ed
August 28th, 2009
4:29 pm
This memo shows that all the black politicians of Atlanta are racist and corrupt. Remember,the Bull Connor ads of Shirley Franklin and John Lewis in the Fulton County Commissioner’s race.
None stand on merit just the color of their skin. Just make the election honest all whites vote one way and all blacks vote one way. The most who votes wins. The real black and white.
JB
August 28th, 2009
4:53 pm
Just like it was time for America to elect a black President, it is now time for Atlanta to elect a white Mayor. Change is good for all of America.
Jane
August 28th, 2009
5:48 pm
ROTF! I went to that video…http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vnOyMSEWNTs
At the Red House…..that was funny! I expected it to camp up more, but it seemed an honest and humorous attempt to heal divisions AND SELL FURNITURE>
<LOL! We need more stuff like that!!!
FUNNY~~~
Jane ….and thank you ATLIEN for the laughter! I needed that.
Malcom X
August 28th, 2009
7:06 pm
You PATHETIC COWS… You sheep just keep being lead to the slaughter… Can’t you idiots recognize a conspiracy by the “blue-eyed devil”… how pathetic and SAD you ALL ARE… You always DO what you always DID, you always GET what you always GOT… the MAN has MANUFACTURED this memo and fed it to a SIMPLETON PIMP under the premise of BLACK UNITY… THE WHITE DEVIL has orchestrated this whole event, utilizing the tools they have placed in our midst to CONFUSE AND DISRUPT the UNITY of our BLACK NATION… STOP playing into their hands and UNIFY… ARM yourselves for the coming REVOLUTION!!! DOWN WITH THE MAN! POWER TO THE (BLACK)PEOPLE!!! OBAMA is a UNCLE TOM to his WHITE HANDLERS… Rahm Israel Emanuel…the REAL PUPPET MASTER… WAKE UP, EMBRACE YOUR MUSLIM BROTHERS!!! ALL WHITE MEN ARE JEWS!!!!
Shack
August 28th, 2009
7:19 pm
I am in Atlanta or Disgusta AKA “Augusta” Georgia? Same racist in fighting that keeps the city advancing to better place the quality of life and prosperity for all.
nonsense
August 28th, 2009
9:39 pm
How is it real change when Lisa Borders and Mary Norwood have been sitting there for eight years with no clue. Lisa Borders has not voted for anything and Mary Norwood doesn’t know or have anything to do with the budget–so how could she be fiscally responsible? It’s a joke.
lets b equal
August 28th, 2009
10:03 pm
how many whites have gotten a scolarship from the united negro college fund? how many white women have won the miss black america contest? we have the naacp. can whites have the naawp? it seems its ok for an organization to be all black, just cant be all white.
slavery has been over for almost 200 years, but i still hear people talking about it like its the reason they cant get what they want out of life. whites will never be forgiven for slavery as long as people can use it as an excuse for why they cant get ahead. education is free to everyone. if you choose to quit school that is your fault, not whitey’s.
i am the race that is being discriminated on by every minority in the country. i am a white male
if i would have written this letter, i would be called the grand dragon of the kkk
Dharr
August 29th, 2009
2:00 am
Sounds like the same problems we have in Memphis. There’s an almost unwritten policy here, “Whites need not apply.” Funny thing is, when I look around at all my “white flight” neighbors here in the suburbs, they are men and women of color who left for the same reasons. Crime, corruption, high taxes…..
Jim Whitaker
August 29th, 2009
2:57 am
Look people, there IS racism in America, in North America, in the world. It is called preference.
If I were Asian, I would prefer an Asian mayor,etc..That is not exclusive to blacks and whites. We are but two of many many races to strive for a prosperous existence in the face of a plethora of adverse conditions. Each race faces it’s own struggles There is no gauge to indicate who is more deserving, but that of character.. History provides many examples of one race wielding power over another simply to benefit “their people”. It is our nature.As shallow as that is(especially when you consider that often times different races are found to be more than suitable organ transplant donors for one another than even relatives are, (look it up)).The concept of preference for those who look like you is not unique to this time nor place. It is as ingrained in us as it was in Issac and Ishmael. Almost every street corner, every church, every grocery store,every bar,every neighborhood is a testament to this. It is not wrong to simply prefer someone of your “kind” to be in power, but it is wrong when we use race as the ultimate factor in deciding what is right for the whole of society.That can never be race based. One race can never be the end all be all for the others. We must share the power and abiltiy to shape the future. It does not belong to any nation, tribe or tongue alone. If ever it did come to that then we would surely fall. Simply being in charge is not enough. There must be inclusion of all, at all cost. This day and age will not tolerate such single-mindedness because we are all fully aware of our own prejudice. I mean preference.
Mack Lyons
August 29th, 2009
4:06 am
I think everyone’s been had here.
If someone wanted to single-handedly sink the opposition’s chances of winning and inadvertently rally people into supporting the preferred candidate, then this would be a way of doing so. And it worked. I wonder how much Aaron Turpeau got paid to manufacture that memo…
Someone is pulling Atlanta voters around by the nosehairs, using the various assortment of political pimps and pushers to corral voters into a preferred outcome. Meanwhile, the upper-class and middle-class blacks continue to distance themselves from any perceived or actual negative actions on part of their lower-class brethren. Those same lower-class blacks may just decide to piss in the electoral punch bowl by voting Black™. Doesn’t matter who, or what they stand for, just as long as they “look just like me”.
Funny thing is, there are a lot of whites who secretly wish they could say out loud that they prefer to be among their own people…..
Concerned for ATL
August 29th, 2009
10:19 am
I am a white female attorney. I reside in Midtown Atlanta. I believe Kasim Reed is the best choice for our city.
BlackOnly
August 29th, 2009
12:08 pm
Atlanta is a chocolate city–and needs a black mayor to serve the interests of the african american community.
Amazed
August 29th, 2009
12:47 pm
Though this memo is totally deplorable, it seems to me that there are just as many whites that want to support Norwood solely based on race as blacks that want a black mayor for the same reason. As someone that knows a lot about Atlanta politics, let me assure you all that Mary Norwood is not a leader. She’s a panderer that has done a great job of being present. Her presence hasn’t done much to change the city, because she came in with the class of 2001 running for mayor. She’s ambitious, but not she’s not a leader. She’s a talker, but not a thinker. Yes, I’m African American but I supported Margaret Kaiser over Doug Dean; Jim Martin over Vernon Jones and a host of other non-black candidates
For the likes of a more qualified white candidate. I am supporting Kasim Reed because he, unlike his opponents, has a solid record of service to Atlanta and Georgia. I’m sorry Atlanta, Norwood’s just not the “Great White Hope”! Someone said earlier that blacks supported Obama just because he was black. Well this black person didn’t.
Check Norwood’s record against Reed’s and tell me who’s the most qualified. Reed is the only person that can get Atl a listening ear in the statehouse. Check the facts people. Yes, he managed Shirley’s campaign and she was greatly qualified too. Ciy’s are having rough allover America, Chicago, New York and LA included all headed by non-black MEN! Yes, Reed helped select Pennington as Chief who at the time was winning awards all over the country for his police work. Put the race crap down and really look at the records. You’ll learn something. And please all non-Atlantans stay out of this conversation. You’re uninformed and ignorant to what’s going on in this city. Atlanta is a lot greater than WSB news presents it!
TJ
August 29th, 2009
2:13 pm
Aight this is 2009, hallooooooo!!!!!!!! smell the coffee.
Sven
August 29th, 2009
4:20 pm
I appreciate all the black folks saying that race should not/is not an issue to them. That shows true character.
But let’s be honest…. blacks, latinos etc. will vote for “one of their own”. Yes, the majority of whites did vote for Mccain, but that was just by a small margin. It was 52/46 I believe. 98% of the blacks voted for Obama and so would have hispanics etc. if it was a hispanic candidate. Whites do not do it by such a huge margin.
We are not one America, sadly.
Amazed
August 29th, 2009
6:22 pm
UNCF actually gives scholarships to non-black kids. The scholarships are attached to the universities and not the race of the recipients. White women can enter the Miss Black America pageant. Hell, Morehouse College had a white valedictorian last year!! White people, please stop acting like because Obama’s president that all of sudden racism and prejudice doesn’t exist among whites. Blacks are prejudiced, whites are prejudiced etc. Let’s grow past this immature bull!
The Real Candidates Of Atlanta « Chamblee54
August 29th, 2009
6:40 pm
[...] as the author of “Cloud Cuckoo Land”. PG suspects they take stands on the issues. A memo was recently circulated by the “Black Leadership Forum”. The memo states that Lisa [...]
Atlanta: The Post-Racial Memo | Black & Right
August 29th, 2009
6:59 pm
[...] now “post-racial”, the city of Atlanta has a way to go to catch up. It would appear a “memo” has surfaced, advising the black community to unite behind a black mayoral candidate. Again, imagine the [...]
The Man
August 29th, 2009
11:24 pm
no way a white mayor ever wins again in the city of atlanta. blacks vote for any black candidate, regardless of qualifications. It’s a black thing–you wouldn’t understand. A backward city, stays backward, with a full deck of race cards.
Pinecone
August 30th, 2009
12:37 am
How enjoyable it is to watch the shoe on the other foot. As Atlanta continues the spiral downward into Third World status, it is gratifying to watch the specter of racism from the “African-American” community. Just goes to show you that underneath the skin, people really are just the same.
A backlash is coming people, and you would do well to prepare for it.
LutherVan
August 30th, 2009
10:23 am
The white people in Atlanta kept the african-americans down too long. Now that power has shifted, the whites don’t like it. Too bad! We need a black mayor.
Atlanta_Ed
August 30th, 2009
12:19 pm
Black Power First Detroit next Atlanta!!!
Ric Spratlin
August 30th, 2009
2:32 pm
No surprise since 95% of a the black population voted for B.O. this past election. What else do we need to realize which race is really the racists!
Steve-o
August 30th, 2009
2:54 pm
@Harriet…..”I don’t vote for a non-qualified white person or anyone not qualified!) so why not help our own”. One of our own???? Disgusting and racist. Another example of what’s wrong with our city inside the perimeter.
For What it is Worth
August 30th, 2009
3:11 pm
Not much to say that has not already been said. It is pathetic though that here we are, almost 150 years since slavery was abolished, that either race feels compelled to vote for someone or against someone just because of the color of his/her skin. It is because of trash like this memo that cause some people to never let down their defenses and be colorblind. It is unfortunate proof that hate, racism,and bigotry run BOTH ways.
RBraswell
August 30th, 2009
3:12 pm
I think a black mayor, city council, chief of police and all other posts the voters fill by choice is just fine. As a black community, Alanta (metro) has been fashioned well by the communy’s choice. I would say that a reflection of Atlanta (metro) can be seen in the value of the real estate and the and the crime rate, which are inversly proportional. Yes sir, Atlanta is right at the top.
john Pride
August 30th, 2009
4:20 pm
The paranoia among blacks in Atlanta is understandable, especially given that Universal Healthcare is currently being defeated by a pack of old, white male rabid dogs (deteriorating brains, vicious attacks and they don’t quite know why or what they’re attacking ). However, this document is blatantly racist and is nothing more than the black KKK, without (yet) the lynchings. Atlantans should receive more respect than a letter of this sort, which assumes that its readers are mindless idiots (hello, townhall protesters!!) who can be led on a whim by any megalomaniacal ambitious exploiter (hello Republicans!!). Do we (Democrats) really want to be just like them, the Republican rabid dogs?
john wood
August 30th, 2009
4:21 pm
Atlanta has become a second tier city . Crime is rampant ,downtown is not a draw for people , Atlantic station is a magnet for hoodlums and criminals and Atlanta Government is a sham. It is time for a change but change knows no color. This is a racist and divisive memo .What if one had been written urging all white voters to get behind a white candidate ? Charges of racism would be front page in the AJC . Why is no one saying that now ?
Dan
August 30th, 2009
5:33 pm
This memo insults the African- American Atlanta community. There is not a collective mindset in this demographic group. I certainly hope not, anyway. Demographics have changed in Atlanta in the past decade. Atlanta was 66% African-American. Now that figure is down to 55%. Please vote for the person – not the color of one’s skin. That’s what we were told in 1973 when Maynard Jackson won. So, what’s changed?
Kerry Barton
August 30th, 2009
5:54 pm
Atlanta is a bed of racism and whether you like it or not there is a serious race relation problem. The blogs are just absolutely insane as a discussion regards to our weather erupts outright racial hatred. It’s a few people who incites this chaos and the rest of us fall into play. I am not an APE nor are members of my family animals this foolishness just pushes people over the edge and the white/black agenda begins. I was raised in a family not to judge people by race and not all white people were bad or racist. It’s OK for people to be comfortable with people who look them as well a room filled with men discussing football or women discussing child birth. There are employers within this city who have no minorities on staff. The truth needs to be told most blacks have not benefited from affirmative action and guess what life goes on. I don’t live in metro Atlanta and to be honest I prefer a man for Mayor just my preference. I could care less about color just be honest which is hard to find in a politician. The crime is out of control and parents should start being there kids role models. We have a nation of people who find every actor, actress, entertainer, rapper, pro-athlete, reality TV nut as a role model. We need to get over race black and white as both are disappointing to be honest we need an ASIAN. The most peaceful group of people you ever encounter. We don’t see there faces plastered across the news daily for murder, child molestation or kidnap, rape, embezzlement, adultery, etc. VOTE FOR THE BEST CANDIDATE AND DO SOME RESEARCH!!!!
joy
August 30th, 2009
5:57 pm
Thank you, Mr. Turpeau. I have now decided who will get my vote.
Taylor Wooden
August 30th, 2009
5:57 pm
As screwed up Atlanta and Clayton and DeKalb and Fulton are these days, you might want to try a different approach.
Just sayin.
JD
August 30th, 2009
6:38 pm
96% of Blacks voted for Obama in 2008 and look where that brought us – the brink of a total financial collapse.
Blacks work much harder than Caucasians at maintaining the rift between the races. As another poster wrote, “follow the money”.
DRdagreen
August 30th, 2009
6:44 pm
These ” old timers” are being ignored by everyone. They will do anything to grab the spotlight. The city understands that racism is still alive, but the country is trying to move forward. To create a memo like this actually hurts Lisa Borders, now K. Reed is demanding that Borders comment. He is using the moment to grab the spotlight…because he has very low support. Who cares what he thinks. This city is in a WIN WIN situation now. Borders and Norwood are exactly what we need, we win with either one. But please keep ALL of the others away! Kasim Reed……………………please.
Dixie Darling
August 30th, 2009
8:01 pm
As a person who has mixed blood, I would like to be described as an AMERICAN. Who cares if I have black or tan or white or mottled skin color? Let Atlanta rise from the ashes of discrimination and let the citizens vote on the person who will take this city to once again become the center of the South. Be proud and be right to vote for the best person to lead this city back into the light of respectability and safe living for all citizens no matter what part of the city they live in. Stop and think — what would Jesus say and do?
Gene
August 30th, 2009
8:28 pm
What???? NO COMMENT, AL, JESSIE, I thought you all hated racism!!!
Lucas ATL
August 30th, 2009
9:31 pm
Turpeau peddled access to power in the name of minority businesses for years. He has been losing access and will lose it completely with a well qualified Mayor, be it Reed or Norwood, who will award contracts based on qualification.
For him, this is a business decision, not political.
Gator Actual
August 30th, 2009
10:49 pm
What? All you crackers afraid another ‘bro is going to win?
Liberalism Is Racism
August 31st, 2009
11:57 am
Anyone else notice that CNN has ignored this story entirely? Shocker! Of course had a white person written that letter it would’ve been their featured story of the week.
Clark Atlanta profs claim ownership of 'black mayor' memo | Political Insider
August 31st, 2009
5:21 pm
[...] Boone and Jennings was just published by the Newsmaker Journal, the same outfit that distributed the original memo advocating that African-Americans line up behind Lisa Borders to block the election of a white candidate, Mary [...]
Ned Davenport
August 31st, 2009
9:31 pm
Hooray for Maynard, kudos to Andrew, shame on Bill, and it saddens me that Shirley’s last few months in office will totally overshadow her good years as the first black female mayor of my beloved Atlanta. However, scrolling through and reading these comments (poor Jen bless her heart) has forced me to write one as well…of the candidates who are in the race for mayor, only and i mean ONLY Mary Norwood’s staff/office has called my home, asked what traffic improvements I thought was needed in the Cascade/SW Atlanta area where i reside. That in and of itself gives pause to the issue of race, at least for me. I received countless calls from Norwood’s campaign and ONLY hers. Maybe it’s a matter of money, maybe it’s matter of organization…whatever the matter this black man appreciates the EFFORT. I cannot and will not any longer vote for someone just because of political party or race. Mary is on her game folks!! Atlanta’s first white female mayor is about to be elected and I, for one, welcome the change!!!!! Make US proud Mary!!
What Pundits Are Saying » Blog Archive » Group says Mary Norwood a threat to African-Americans.
September 1st, 2009
6:25 am
[...] Political Insider has more. [...]
Lackdaddy
September 1st, 2009
1:45 pm
I finally had an opportunity to read the original memo. It is truly the most ignorant, babbling and racist B.S. I have read in recent times.
Jerry Myer
September 1st, 2009
2:46 pm
With not just one but two Professors at Clark Atlanta University spouting the deepest racist remarks I have heard in years – Every Corporation – Every Business – and Every Individual must now examine their Contributions to Clark Atlanta while these two “Racist” are employed there.
Jerry Myer
September 1st, 2009
2:55 pm
I’m right there with you Gene – Where are Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson ! Shall they not step forward to shame these actions – They lose all Creditability ! Should they not !
Nation of Cowards » Blog Archive » Welcome To Your ‘Post-Racial’ Future…
September 1st, 2009
4:21 pm
[...] string for racial supremacy? This memo was circulated by Black Leadership Forum, enjoy the crispy, delicious ‘post-racialness’… [...]
Torrents
September 1st, 2009
8:39 pm
As a white voter, I say too bad this had to come out and make Lisa Borders look like she is part of this in any way. She is the most qualified candidate, understands the issues, and has a life story that needs to be heard. She truly has risen above race in her life.
Mary is flame thrower and while that would be exciting, she doesn’t have a grasp on the issues beyond sound bites. I’ve known her way too long. Plus she was too big of a Campbell supporter and spent her entire council budget on her campaign over the last 6 years (where is the investigation of that?).
I now would like to have the media do the rest of their job and interview the recipients of this memo, just as they would if the shoe were on the other foot.
FUNGAZI.COM » Blog Archive » A Censored But Amazingly Significant Indicator of Current American Racism
September 3rd, 2009
6:49 pm
[...] The memo that’s about to shake the Atlanta mayor’s race [...]
builder.b
September 8th, 2009
10:02 am
Sadly, scenes of a black controlled government in ” Birth of a Nation” seem to coming true. Luckily, there will be no KKK riding to the rescue.
Gilbert Wainwright
September 8th, 2009
3:54 pm
I am so happy that we can come here and be heard and exchange ideas. our future is able to be a better one if we allow our past to be the past it is, save the sugar and safe the decorations.admit our mistakes and move foward a new. Gil Wainwright http://www.unitedwestcoast.com
God bless this freedom and God bless this nation and everyone of us in it.Dear, Supporters
Thank you for taking the time to reach out and look into what is cooking. First of all let me introduce myself. My name is Gilbert Wainwright; I am a person dedicated to self-improvement and self-realizations. I believe that every young person out there has a good side that potentially can be cared for enough to create a very positive life out of a negative one and that young people have the potential to change their destinies. I did it myself. The battle that youth are in every day is not just the lack of opportunities and basic needs, though those are serious challenges. The battles that the youth are in which can transform the ground that the fight takes place on is self realization knowing who they are and the potential they can direct the outcome of anything in their own life. I have always maintained that the situation changes when the direction changes. Over many years of my life I have experienced the lows of ghetto life and survival, and the struggle of near death experience. Ever challenge in my life turned out to be a lesson. This idea that young people need guidance is no new idea. The idea that the people who made it out of the ghettos should turn around and give back is not a new idea either. I don’t think that our definition of a ghetto is the same as others around the world, I have seen young men in our ghettos walk around with a couple of thousand dollars in the pocket. Or a gold and diamond watch, the meaning of a ghetto is not the issue anyway, what the issue is for me is community improvement practices, resource development that self generates prosperity. The amazing piece in this letter today is that when genius is present and ideas are overlooked and values are preconditioned so that young people are missing their own potentials then we all limit what is possible to repeating the same old repeat of feeding the failures of yesterday while we hope to build success for tomorrow, it is insane. Self-righteous people are holding new ideas prisoners and goal tending against encouraging self-development. I am amazed whenever I look back at my success because for me to live this long and get to where I am of mind and in life amazes me. I decided to go back to talk to youth because I can see that I am one of those people who have an amazing intellect and strength of courage that is capable of reaching youth that need to be help up above where they are in mind in spirit and in reality. We can not help kids without giving them the tools they need, but we also need to give them the materials to build with and a blue print of what we want the to create. Our leadership has done well over the years and they deserve great respect and credit for all of their hard work in civil rights and education advances and every other human advancement including the blood transfusion,back before we knew that could be done, or the benefits of it , but the days of repeating past successes are wearing thin for 2009 and beating a dead horse is akin to pointing to the same old logic to encourage a new direction for our youth. I think that we need to unleash the newness that some of the ideas possess initiated from my visions of what our youth can achieve, in this time of our country suffering labor pains of change there is about to be a manifestation of a new greatness in America, and it will be new and beautiful. I truly pray that at some point in my begging and pleading with these words that someone with the capabilities to join me will get the ability to act and join me in a conversation to help our youth reach beyond this challenge of today. On every level in every way. Sincerely: Gilbert Wainwright Founder C.E.O United Coast-To-Coast One Love Movement 2009. Thank You. May you see yourself in the next person you see success.
TXatheist
September 16th, 2009
10:01 am
As a white male I’m glad to see blacks disagreeing with this nonsense. I voted for the best Presidential candidate based on his platform, not color.
Randolph
September 29th, 2009
7:08 pm
The City of Atlanta is in dire need of a qualified candidate. I assume some in the black leadership could care less about qualifications and are more interested in race. While the black community demands progress in race relations, maybe they should look themselves in the mirror. http://www.cmrji.com
Disgusted Reader
November 4th, 2009
7:54 am
I don’t understand why people get so ill over a white mayor. We have a black president for goodness sake. I think it’s about time to clean up the city anyway and make history, just like the blacks did to us.