Dear Readers,

Bernard here just dropping by and saying thank you for all your comments and support. Lately, my Blog post about Michelle Obama and the whole Monkey image that Google had in its database has been heating up a lot of strong opinions. I would like to apologize on behalf of those people who voiced themselves rather violently. Using foul language and derogatory phrases.

Well, I would like you to know that I am not the one who made that image in the first place. I found this “hot topic” on CNN. So, all those who read the post and felt it was necessary to complain/ridicule my reputation and beliefs because of my efforts of informing the public about this interesting article, I would like to personally say “Calm down”.

I like discussions and varying opinions about different subjects, but once the maturity level drops to zero then it is utter nonsense. We all do have our beliefs, but guess what there is a proper way to express such manners of ideas. I am not deleting or ignoring any comments that may seem to be violent in nature, because I do believe people have a right to express themselves.

It is in the manner of expressing that is uncalled for. Therefore, I will continue with my daily thoughts and will enjoy the open forum that is at hand. It is nice to pose questions and discussions as a way to see different perceptions.

I agree that the image of Michelle Obama depicted as a monkey is offensive in nature. If I was depicted as a monkey I would be mad as well.  However, if as much energy and debate over this image is an issue then it should be equally problematic across all offensive images that is circulated across the internet and other public forums. I did post two other pictures one of Rosie O’Donnell and John McCain to prove that there are other pictures that are offensive in nature.

Therefore, these images should be set as an example. We are constantly learning, so learn from this and think of others morals. Honestly, the image is of someone’s creative efforts of depicting Michelle Obama as a monkey. So, it is protected under freedom of expression.

Well I assume that the issue is Michelle Obama being African American and it is commonly noted that African Americans look like monkeys. This is the hot spot. So Racism comes into play. Well is it really racism? Okay, I am opening my dictionary online here to define race. And racism.

According to Merriam-Webster online, Race is defined as

[a class or kind of people unified by shared interests, habits, or characteristics]

Racism is defined as

[racial prejudice or discrimination]

There you have two definitions. Now, the picture is depicting a specific representative of a race (Michelle Obama represents African Americans) in a racial prejudice (African Americans look like Monkeys).

So this gives proof that the image is offensive in nature because of the bondage between race (African Americans) and racial prejudices (The Monkey characteristics).

I do not think we need scientific evidence to prove to us that there is a common perception that African Americans look like monkeys. For all you over analytical people, I underlined the above phrase, because I am emphasizing that I did not say they look alike, I said there is a perception.

Ugh that was quite a bit talking and clarifying.

Now, I know people can argue over this image all day long, but in the end who is right or wrong? There will always be those who don’t care about the image, and those who are really upset about this and then those who sway with the crowd.

This is my challenge to you. Think by yourself and act for yourself.

There will be more hot topics and it seems as though the United States is really sensitive about Race and social classifications and stigmas. Hmmm, will this ever go away?

To be continued…

-Your Host

Bernard Charles