Thursday, May 15, 2008

Curious George

Sorry: I have shit to do today. I can't get the link to work. You should check out, if you haven't heard about it already - the news about these curious george t-shirts that say Obama in 08.

Zhi posted one blog on his google thing.

Where do you guys weigh in on this? I personally think, while maybe indelicate this whole thing is in no way racist. Its a fucking monkey - I understand this historical connotations of slaves as monkeys, but nonetheless. I don't think that is the point. The anti-defamation league... honestly?

Just wondering if you think I'm crazy or what.

Later

2 comments:

Azim said...

I disagree, Alex. The reason for producing such a t-shirt was to publicize one person's view of electing an African-American president. We all know the derogatory meaning of 'monkey' when used in this way. That is cleary what this person was implying. I do agree, however, that this has been blown up way more than necessary, but that's politics. To be honest, GWB looks way more like Curious George than Barack Obama.

Zed said...

Several Things:

1.) Why didn't Google Reader pick up on this new post to Beeler St.?

2.) Link to story is here

3.) I personally think this is offensive. The connotation isn't that slaves were monkeys, but rather the one that people of African descent are monkeys: of lower intelligence, civilization, and culture. It portrays a clearly eloquent, educated, and empowered African-American as a beast, an animal.
However, the issue is just that. I find it offensive. This person clearly has a right to say whatever he wants to say, and wear whatever he wants to wear. At the same time, the Anti-Defamation league is well within their rights to find offense at the comment as well.