Comments
  1. www.theroot.comMichael Harriot11/26/196 min
    33 reads8 comments
    8.0
    www.theroot.com
    33 reads
    8.0
    You must read the article before you can comment on it.
    • ctwardy4 years ago

      Harriot vividly depicts the very real systemic disadvantages he and many face. But where he takes opposition to the 2011 Buttigieg quote, I read it as a shorthand for his points, and not, as Harriot reads it, some prescription for simple panaceas.

      Of course Buttigieg doesn't really know what it was like to grow up poor and black. Neither do I. But I'm not sure Harrit correctly reads the motive or meaning behind that one sentence quotation.

    • bill
      Top reader of all time
      4 years ago

      The opening and closing are sentimental, yet strong. I think that this is the main argument:

      “Men like [Buttigieg] are more willing to perpetuate the fantastic narrative of negro neighborhoods needing more role models and briefcase-carriers than make the people in power stare into the sun and see the blinding light of racism.”

      Yes. Of course. But here’s the thing: Bits and pieces of that ideology are present in the consciousness of almost every human I know, and definitely every white human.

      The use of “liar” and “motherfucker” don’t advance the argument. Instead, the anger gets in the way of a much deeper, tougher, and more nuanced conversation.

      It’s counterproductive to attack people when they say something clumsy. It divides us. Mistakes are wonderful opportunities to forgive people for blind spots.

      We need more ideas that bring us together. Especially on a topic like this, where there should be lots of common ground: ALL of the cards are stacked against young black kids.

      • Karenz4 years ago

        Bill, I appreciate your thoughtful response. There’s a lot more to Mayor Pete than a lying mothetfucker but make that comment at the risk of being branded a racist. This is bullying namecalling and don’t we have enough of that with Trump?

        • bill
          Top reader of all time
          4 years ago

          Thanks Karenz!

          And Yes, I agree! We do have enough of that with Trump!

    • Plum4 years ago

      Pete needs to learn how to listen to truths outside of his elite circles. Something not taught in elite circles.

    • Jim4 years ago

      Good stuff.... Angry and raw.... Pete is not a Liar, he is mistaken about some things but he is smart and empathetic and in my opinion a pretty good human. I could absolutely pull the lever for him!

    • TripleG
      Top reader this weekTop reader of all timeReading streakScoutScribe
      4 years ago

      Absolutely correct. He is one of the lucky few!

    • Pegeen
      Top reader this weekReading streakScoutScribe
      4 years ago

      Very Powerful, highly recommend.