It's time to join the 21st century. I'm half way through my Graduate degree and I have yet to pick up a pen in class. With all of the non-renewable resources that go into computers, and their capabilities there is no reason not to utilize this technology to the fullest. Paperless is the future.

Sent by Don | 2:06 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This topic should include the right wing bile spewed on Rush, Bennet ,et al.

Sent by Phil | 2:06 PM ET | 04-10-2007

would it matter or be different if Imus was on one of the satellite radio programs?

Sent by andrea | 2:10 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I am sick of Imus, and this good ol boy ignorance. And, I dont want to hear about whose fault it is... that is ridiculous. I will not be content until this man is gone!

Sent by m jackson | 2:11 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This story has already had all the press it deserves. I'll turn to a music station while NPR keeps this one going.

Sent by KC Beaner | 2:11 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Get rid of this racist, sexist guy. His day has come, and gone.

Sent by Maria S. Farmer | 2:11 PM ET | 04-10-2007

its not ok to call people names, period. whatever happened to civility and nice manners and just being pleasant?

Sent by kms | 2:13 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think this Imus issue is total over reaction. It is okay for an African Americans to call each other the "N" word, but if a white does, the world falls down. Where does this end? Where was Al Sharpton when Ann Coulter who calls people "faggot?" And listen to Black rap music -- it is full of slurs.

Sent by Robert InBoise | 2:14 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Who cares! Since when is this a major newsworthy story? Jimmy the Greek revisited. How about an appropiate dress code for sports? Why isn't that being addressed? Why doesn't sports adopt a no sleeve tattoo policy?

Sent by robin | 2:15 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I've never listened to Imus. I really have no idea what his show is like.
I think a 2 week suspension is nothing for what he did. He should be fired!
If someone in the workplace referred to another worker as a "nappy headed ho" that person would be fired.
Imus knew exactly what he was doing.

Sent by Nancy Firlik | 2:16 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Minority comedians and musicians use the term Hoe often and that seems okay, right? BUT take note, they aren't talking about some specific, talented girls who are working very hard and deserve respect. He called these young girls 'nappy headed hoes.' That is very different from talking about some ambiguous stereotype and poking fun at it.

Sent by Samantha Pennington | 2:16 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I don't think a suspension is enough. I don't care that he's known for saying inflammatory things, and I don't care whether these terms have been normalized in our society. Imus should be fired.

Sent by Seth Kimball | 2:17 PM ET | 04-10-2007

People are apologizing far too much these days. You have a right to disagree with what people say and think and they have a right to disagree with what you say and think. But, when you start telling people what they can and can't say, you're taking away their rights as Americans and forcing a level of conformity that caters to the loudest 1%.

If we're all scared of offending someone when we talk, how long will it be before we become overly politically correct drones, saying only what a group/committee/government allows us to say?

Sent by Brad | 2:17 PM ET | 04-10-2007

What about Imus' producer? He was the first one to use the word 'Ho'. He should be vilified as well.

Sent by Barry Bruins | 2:18 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I understand that Don Imus' comments were uncalled for, but why are we only concerned when the slur is made against a minority? I have a complaint that right wing talk radio host, Rush Limbaugh, calls women like me Feminazis, and is convicted of crimes, and still maintains not only his place on the air, but also his following. Don Imus has made a career of insulting everyone, Republican, Democrat, blacks, whites, etc.

Sent by Katie Kelley | 2:21 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Dont you think Al Sharpton and others need to take a good look at themselves when it comes to the language of racism? Why is it blacks can sing about nappy headed HO's and make money, yet when IMUS uses the language, his resignation is called for? Does each race or culture own the right to use the words that they find so harmful and offensive when people outside their race or culture employ them? Isnt this just ethnocentrism or intolerance by another name?

Sent by Matt | 2:25 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Also.. a lot of this smacks of "Mom Imus, Richards, is making fun of me!, stuff.
If I were Mom I would "Just turn this country around and go home if you guys can't get along!"

Sent by Gehrig | 2:25 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Have we all forgotten about "Jimmy The Greek?" Years ago he made a racist comment about African-Americans have a natural ability to run or something to the effect of being naturally atheletic. The country was in an uproar over his comments. He was fired! No discussion about what to do - just fired. These comments are unacceptable from public figures. It seems to me that today radio stations, television stations, etc are more concerned with the almight buck these DJ's, news/sportscasters bring in rather than what is socially acceptable.

Sent by Alyson Borisek | 2:28 PM ET | 04-10-2007

One more reason not to listen to him. There are many others. Maybe a boycott would be more effective than firing him.

Sent by Pat O'Brien, Arizona | 2:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I really think he belongs on satellite radio, not the public airwaves. Obviously he's got an audience but he should not be talking trash on broadcast radio.

Sent by karen | 2:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think its important to consider the messenger. When a middle-aged, cowboy hat wearing white man refers to a young black woman as a 'ho' and a 'jigaboo', it is acceptable to consider the racist implications more seriously than when a teen ager make a similar statement. It's silly to pretend there is not a difference.

Sent by Bryan Harms | 2:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

On today's Talk of the Nation, several callers called in to comment on the Don Imus scandal. I was a little disturbed that many callers called to say "they did not condone what Imus said and that they felt the whole thing was being blown out of proportion".In other words its like saying you would not have said what Imus said because its wrong but if you did say it would not be a big deal. Isn't this contradicting?
I dont think the story is being blown out of proportion. The more coverage the better. People should be held accountable for what they say and especially when they blurt out racist and sexist comments like that. I wonder if the people who called in today would feel the same about this scandal if Don Imus was black and he called the members of a white female basketball team, blonde headed sluts?
Something to think about.

Sent by John | 2:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Don,
You made $$$ on stupid comments now pay up and pay off the entire teams college debt, then maybe the players and theeir parents might think you have an honorable apology. as a first true act of contrition then teach the other loudmouth jokers the same lesson....

Sent by Bob Hameln | 2:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

The people most to blame for Imus' comments are the listeners and viewers themselves. Public airwaves or not, his show is based on a capitalist model--if it wasn't popular, it wouldn't be on the air anymore. Over the years his attitude towards others different from himself has been applauded and awarded (increased circulation), so why aren't we chiding his fans?

Sent by Andrew | 2:34 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I'm surprised that the African-American woman who just called in didn't find Imus' comment offensive. As a white woman, I felt extreme hurt for the Rutgers women. These are university women, accomplished athletes, who have obviously worked very hard to get where they are, and in one thoughtless, hurtful moment, Imus reduced them to an image that is demeaning to both their race and their gender. Imus should be fired.

Sent by Christine Bertrand | 2:35 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I heard the comment live. It was offensive; however he was not angry. It was made in jest and it simply got out of hand. You must remember this is an edgy comedy program that attempts to make us laugh in the morning and enlighten the public regarding a number of issues. Context is important here. Don Imus has raised millions of dollars for the CJ Foundation for SIDS, he has raised millions of dollars for cancer research, established a cattle ranch for kids with cancer and donates many hours of personal time to the ranch. Don recently invited politicians on his show and brought to light the fact that the death benefit for our troops was a 9,000! Due to his efforts the death benefit has been raised to 1/2 million. And this list is not complete. I'd like to see some of his critics resume. Don Imus is not a perfect man, as none of us are. He recognized his error, apologized and has gone to great lenghts to make amends. Don Imus made a promise to come back on the air and raise awareness regarding this issue and make his show an even better program. Don keeps his promises....let's give him a chance.

Sent by Danna | 2:36 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Given all that's going on in the world around us,does this really merit the attention it is getting? Surely we have more important things to discuss in a forum as august as the Talk of The Nation.

Sent by John | 2:37 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I am not offended; last time I looked this was still the USA. As usual many people will be as offended as the media tells them they ought to be. Those that listen/watch Imus for no other reason except to wait for the negative comment to marshal their forces behind, congratulations you got your desperately needed tidbit. How often do those fighting for a cause escalate an event to an unhealthy level, generating a mass outcry, to further their own agenda or time in the limelight?

Sent by Gary Edwards | 2:38 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think it is interesting that people are calling for Imus to resign or be fired because of his racist comments. People say he should not be able to have this pulpit to spew his racist remarks. I have always wondered how Rev. Sharpton has been able to continue to have a pulpit to put forward his racism! Does anyone remember the Tawana Browley case in NY? The rules should apply to all of these mouthpieces the same way . Both should not be allowed to have their radio shows and to put forward their racist views either against blacks or whites!

Sent by C. Conlon | 2:38 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Sure the bigot should be fired - but in a country where the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs can slander gays without it bothering anyone, why should anyone care what a radio loudmouth says.

Hate comes from the top - our government and churches. Radio hosts just repeat what they hear.

Sent by Patrick ONeill | 2:40 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Imus has, at the very least, maybe started a dialogue that needs more attention. But, it is what we do with this that may or may not make the difference. Here in Detroit, with all that has been done to try to improve our image, the media still refers to us as a "murder capital". That is hurtful to all residents, Black, White, Latino, Asian, and Caldean(of which our Metro area has the largest group outside of the Middle East). Amongst the many cultures in this country, there is "infighting and insulting" verbage spewed on a constant basis, and while it does not excuse Imus, he certainly can't be held accountable for all that we have done ourselves. Too bad more people like Rochelle are not whom we look to as our idols, irregardless of race, religion, sex or whatever. We should all be proud Americans, the "Mutts" that we are, as comedian Bill Murray reffered to our strengths, which IS our diversity!

Sent by Roy A. Barnett | 2:40 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think one important aspect of the Imus incident was neglected in your discussion. As young women, don't the members of the Rutgers women's basketball team have a right to expect that adults will try to protect them from the sort of vile attack Imus unleashed? After all, these are youngsters who have done all that was asked of them and excelled at it. They are not criminals, dropouts, drug addicts. They work very hard and many have made difficult and mature decisions to have arrived at where they are. Why would any sane adult who cares about the future of our society let anyone pick on these young people? Let's be a society that protects our young.

Sent by Eileen in Cleveland | 2:42 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I have a problem with people who can't take name calling. "Nappy-headed" is tasteless and hurtful. But the target needs to be "big" enought to say I am not, you are wrong.

However, I have a greater problem with people who use such a denigrating term for a woman. I feel "ho" is over the line.

Perhaps I should envy people who can enjoy the "little funny", but I can't forget or listen without making the connection that the word is short for "whore". The judgement in that term is not even acceptable for a prostitute, let alone college women earning good enough grades to be allowed to perform their sport to represent their college at a sporting event at the top level.

I try to be fair and let people use terms they find acceptable in private conversations. However, broadcast news is not private. You are then addressing a wide audience and have to take responsibility for how your mesage is received and by whom. No one has the right to use terms that are hateful to others, especially in such a public forum.

Although I have overheard black men and women call women that term in conversation, I did not appreciate it myself. However, that is their cultural choice to use that word along with the "N" word.

I feel that using those words BY ANYONE will leave those words in the acceptable category because it is to easy for someone to hear it used and feel it gives them the right to use it themselves. I do think a term should be either acceptable for everyone or not.

I feel that people whould always avoid terms used in a negative denigrating way, whether being friendly, or for comedy or as a slur. I think people should have more intelligence than making such lame comedy out of tasteless words.

Sent by Sue Marshall | 2:42 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Mr. Imus did not break any FCC rules.

Anyone who chooses not to listen is within their rights not to listen or watch.

The word "Ho" is now so common,
especially among college age people both male and female, that the political correctness police and the language police that wish to stop this kind of language missed that boat years ago.

If you are seeking blame for this type of language you really must look towards the pop black community which currently tends to set the trends in the USA.

Sticks and stones...
and before there is too much knee jerking (oops..too late) maybe try actually listening to Mr. Imus for a week to understand that this was A Joke and not intended as a serious insult.
Or should we start banning all "insulting" humor such as the jokes that are directed towards the President of the United States constantly and are certainly intended and hoped to cause pain and insult.

Sent by Jesse Staton | 2:42 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think it was just a joke gone bad. Consider the source...Don Imus....Do we expect anything else from him anyway?

Sent by John Christian | 2:42 PM ET | 04-10-2007

There should be zero-tolerance for Imus' comments. Saying it's just entertainment or just a joke is the oldest excuse in the book. Likewise, telling people who are offended that they are too sensitive is also a cop out. Talk radio perpeuates the worst type of intolerance, bigotry and stereotypes. Although comments we disagree with are part of the free speech that way value so much, it's the obligation of every individual who finds such speech offensive to speak out against it. It's the only way to fight continuing prejudice and stereotypes. To chalk it off as just a joke only keeps hate and prejudice alive. And no, the people that find such speech offensive do not need "sensitivity training" as one caller put it. The fact that people find it offensive and disturbing means it's exactly that, offensive and disturbing. People should not have to stifle or otherwise modify their reactions or feelings to speech and actions that they find hateful or offensive. Victims of prejudice and hatred should not have the burden of altering their behavior...it's those that perpetrate the hate and prejudice that need to change how they respect other fellow human beings. Making a living out of hate speech doesn't exempt them from the fallout that ensues.

Sent by Mike Wojonowski | 2:43 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Imus comments were stupid...no doubt there but why does that make him racist. THe words he used came from the hip hop culture...from the artists that dominate the black youth and from the movies and television shows that many african americans watch. Is Imus any more racist than Fifty cent...a.k.a 50 cent....or DR.Dre who all use the word "ho" and "nappy" including many other words...its a shame that as a white man those words are racist but if you are black they are part of the culture? Shame on Imus and shame on anyone who does not see that this is a problem that reaquiers all our attention not our pointing fingers

Sent by Rick | 2:43 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Imus claims not to be a racist--to be a good person. The language he used would not occur to a non-racist. I agree with Clarence Page that one should give a person a chance to "cure" ignorance, and to educate them. I have a "3 strikes" rule. The first time a person expresses a bigoted opinion, I try to point out why it is bigoted. The second time, I will again try to educate the person. The third time, I assume that the individual really does believe what s/he says, and at that point I believe I am justified in concluding that s/he is in fact racist, sexist, homophobic, or whatever bigotry is applicable. An apology is nothing when one continues to spew hateful words. The individual is not sorry if, like Imus, s/he repeats the offense. Imus's show, if he keeps his job, should be required by his employer to put out a warning every day that listeners risk hearing racist, sexist and possibly other hateful language.

Sent by Diane G. Crowder | 2:47 PM ET | 04-10-2007

A caller asked whether or not Imus' comment was slander. The issue to be debated should be, should the bar for slander and libel be lowered so injured parties can get monetary satisfaction..Allow free speech to reign but hold people responsible when someone feels they have been slandered.

Sent by peter knight | 2:50 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I was listening to the your show - on my way to work - re: don imus - and your woman guest was very well spoken and I liked her point of views. very well put. I'm a 56 yr old white male - in california, I don't listen to, or even knew who don imas was before the blowup. I always enjoy listening to NPR - it gives such a great cross section of views and really makes a person think about the issue. I think there's no question Don Imas made a racist - insensative comment, that is apparently the nature of his show.. (I've never heard it) I liken him to Howard Stern - they both are probably capable people, have some talent - and have clawed their way to the top of their field. They generate and get paid huge sums of money. The both have a huge following - and I assume are funny in their own genre. I personally don't care for Howard Stern - he can be funny but you have to wade through hours of bathroom fixated titalating oriented humor - which I find sophmoric. The fact that they're both national figues doesn't really allow them to demean and slander publicly anyone. Which is what I think occured and why Don is even apologizing in the first place. He really should (if he's not truly racist) go directly and in person and publicly apologize to the young women on the team. That would be a first step to genousness. Otherwise everything else truly is disingenous - and will mean nothing. I figure he will eventually end up on satalite radio like Howard.

Sent by Tim Campbell | 2:55 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Instead of firing Don Imus, is there a way to have him pay, literally, for his racist, sexist rant?

It seems to me that requiring hefty donations to Rutgers and/or to organizations that promote women, African-Americans and tolerance in order for him to keep his job would be more beneficial to everyone concerned. In addition, require him to attend sensitivity training and community service.

If we, as a society, show that there is a price to pay for ignorance, maybe celebrities (whatever their race or sex) would be less inclined to shoot their mouths off.

Sent by Beth | 2:58 PM ET | 04-10-2007

All of this criticism of Don Imus seems to becoming from people who don't watch his show or from people who generally have no idea what he is actually about. the fact is that Don Imus has done more for the good of mankind than he has bad.

What about Imus Ranch Foods, the company that Imus constantly plugs on his show, that donates ALL of its profits to Imus' charity organization that provides children with terminal illness one last chance to do something life affirming before they die? Imus frequently honors these fallen children on his show. Imus is also anti-war, anti-Bush, and generally a pretty liberal guy. He served in Vietnam.

What about Deidre Imus' founding of the The Deirdre Imus Environmental Center for Pediatric Oncology, quite possibly the greenest hospital or public structure ever built?

So why didn't Imus apologize for his comments immediately? Maybe because Al Sharpton and Jessie Jackson's cadre of PR people didn't even notice his comments until almost a week after they were made. This data is then fielded to Al and Jessie, spun around in their heads for a few seconds, and then the mouth piecing and face time begins.

What we're seeing now are a bunch of political opportunists trying to smear Don Imus' name. These same people are showing their ignorance by calling him a shock jock, equating him with Howard Stern and Opie and Anthony. He never has outright debauchery on his show like those DJs do: bringing in lesbians to make out on the air or sponsoring competitions to see who can have sex in the weirdest location. People don't listen to Imus for the shock value. They listen to him for his weird insights and silly comments, for his rants and raves. Whenever I listen to the show, I feel like I'm listening to my grandfather talking on the radio.

I think that Imus will recover from this. He has done more good than harm. What he said was definitely tasteless, but seriously, it's been blown WAY out of proportion. It was just a passing comment made by a senile 66-year-old ex-drug addicted former alcoholic. A slap on the wrist is all he deserves.

The dialog opened now is healthy for everyone, and I think Imus realizes that. Hopefully he will be able to share his experiences and insights with all of us on his show when he comes back.

Repsect your elders. Respect Imus.

Sent by TomG | 3:02 PM ET | 04-10-2007

As offensive as Don Imus' comments about the Rutgers Women's basketball team were, I also find it offensive that everytime something like this happens the media turns to the leaders of the offended minority so they can broadcast their outrage.

They will rant about how dispicable the offending party is and will call for his firing or a boycott of his output but at the end of the day it will amount to nothing other than insincere apologies and alot of publicity for the the offender and the offended.

Don't get me wrong, everyone has the right to be offended but Mr Imus also has the right to be offensive. If you were put off by his comments just don't listen to him any more. Problem solved.

I personally don't listen to Mr Imus because he I don't find him entertaining at all. I find that most offensive of all.

Sent by Coleman Hayes | 3:02 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Imus is now and has always been "Imus". He offends everybody--that's his schtick. His role is the cranky old codger to Bernard's wise-cracking "youngster". Imus is and always has been an equal opportunity offender: race, creed, color, appearance, nothing has been off-limits in that past. Do I condone what he said? No. And maybe this was a necessary wakeup call for him at this particular time in history. But why everybody forgeting the positive things Imus has done and that he continues to do. I think that needs to be weighed against this backlash. Why is nobody balancing their negative comments with the fact that he has raised the tens of thousands of dollars for SIDS or mentioned his ranch for kids with cancer--where every summer, he, personally, gives kids an experience they would never have had otherwise. And HE works with them--not some hired help "representing" him. We need to counterbalance Imus's bonehead comments with all of the great and compassionate things he has done and continues to do. Does he offend people? Yep. Has he offended me as a woman before? Of course! But while he makes some idiotic comments, he is a man of compassion, humility, and tremendous generosity. He has used his name to accomplish tremendous good. This is much more than many other people who are in similar positions and are just as popular and influential. I say, give him this wakeup call, make him pay the price of his suspension and let's MOVE ON!

Sent by Maria | 3:06 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I was listening to TOTN on the road and could not call but needed to convey my feelings on this. What Don Imus said were the words of ignorance...but he has made a fortune with the words of ignorance. Intelligent, thoughtful, worldly people have agreed to be guests on his show. What does it say about us? Your guest who stated she just 'wanted the line back' can forget it. In my view it is Pandora's box; we can't go back. We need to be honest; what does the music, the movies, the magazines, the clothes, all of it, what does it tell the young? Our money feeds the beast. Hillary Clinton's book 'It takes a Village' was correct. It does take a village...but the village has been bought. I feel no hope. We can all be appalled to hight heavens. We have lost.

Sent by Peggy Schulz | 3:11 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I was very offended by Mr. Omus' remarks.
But let's not forget -- he's a shock jock -- same as Howard Stern and his side-kick Robin.
I'm totally amazed re the reaction from some members of the African American hierarchy, NOW, etc. I never heard "ho" in the language until "gangtsta rap" came spilling into the culture.
I'm not condemning all rap. A great part of it is poetic and wonderful. However, so much of it is wrapped around words like this. Total put downs of women.
You can blame whomever you want to, but please remember how these words came into our culture.
Should Don Imus be suspended for two weeks? Probably.
Should many political/social commentators on radio? Probably, as well.
The question is: Freedom of speech is important. Where do we draw the line?
The girls of the Rutgers Team didn't get there because they are wimps. They got there because they are strong, effective and intelligent women. And they will go on to do great things. Please don't let them be placed on other folks' agendas.

Sent by Ronile Lahti | 3:13 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This is absolutely not a case of over-sensitivity. As a young woman that graduated in 2003 as a college athlete, I was shocked that someone would refer to these young women in the way that he did. It is not acceptable to call any woman that, and I'm very happy to see this discussion happening.

Sent by Susan Mohn | 3:16 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I listened to your show about Imus and his comments. Personally, I don't care about Imus and his comments.
What interests me is how African Americans seek to control the discussion about race in this country as if they are blessed with some special insight that no one else has. The irony is that racism and sexism and prejudices of all types permeate a great deal of African American culture just as it does almost every culture in this country and around the world. People generally feel such a strong need for cultural identity and an affirmation of the self that they gain it upon the backs of the other.
Do I agree with Imus's comments in regards to the Rutgers team? No, I don't think they were mannerly. Do I think CBS will fire him? Probably not, because that's why they hired him in the first place-- to say stupid and sensationalistic stuff that would get people to talk about him and make him even more of celebrity that could make money for the corporation. But the fact of the matter is that he is being attacked because he is white.
When the big, bad, white, radio shock jock says something that could have easily come out of a black performer's mouth, all of the black commentators are invited on to discuss how this country needs to talk about racism. Hypocrisy, although a daily event, is a beautiful thing to witness, especially when people are so passionate in their hypocritical stances.

Sent by Luther Barnett | 3:17 PM ET | 04-10-2007

You know I realy don't get how anybody would refer to a woman with that phrase. It has never been acceptable to refer to any woman that way. I'm only 45, but just what gutter has this guy been living in. Everyone knows what Ho translates too.
In the eighteenth century, and in much of the world today the concequences for impuning a woman's honor by refering to her in such a manor would be dire. So exactly what is going on in our country that such base behaviour is now considered an accepted part of pop culture, and even an accepted part of free speach.

Sent by Christopher Shaw | 3:18 PM ET | 04-10-2007

The tipping point has been reached on this mentality. Putting this guy back on the air will be insulting for the entire nation.
Enough of the Mall herd culture with a dumb down leadership

Sent by Wilt Barnum | 3:23 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Civilized society has no place for commentators like Imus. Firing is too good for him.

Sent by David Green | 3:28 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Unquestionably Imus' verbal onslaught is horrible, and socially irresponsible. However, he gets paid for this, so this should not surprise us. Yet, he did cross the line, and our national community should let him know, which it has; he is suspended. Now, hopefully he won't cross the line again, and we need to move on. He should not be fired. Side Bar: Sharpton, he needs to move on and get a job.

Sent by Bill Hottel | 3:28 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Build a bridge and get over it. I grew up being teased and called names and no one got upset over my plight.
Doesn't any one have anything real to do?

Sent by Nina P. Buck | 3:39 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Imus' on-air comments about the Rutger's team members were ill-considered, mean-spirited, and in extremely poor taste. In my personal opinion they were made all the worse by being about a group of youngsters who are by and large unable to defend themselves from his speech. However, this country we maintain the right to be as stupid and as much of a jerk as we care to be, and the law is there to protect the jerk just as much as the political firebrand. Sharpton and Jackson and all the rest may make hay protected by the same umbrella of rights as allows Imus to be stupid, for this is the nature of our society. A rebuke by his employer may well be justified in this case, his comments run the risk of costing them money -- but any more than that runs contrary to our basic freedoms of speech, no matter how asinine.

Sent by Kevin Pettway | 3:41 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I sent a comment earlier and apparently my questioning of Mr Jackson's and Mr Sharpton's morals were deemed too offensive to be posted.

Sent by J Miller | 3:46 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I tried to get on the air...you guys need more phone lines...LOL. Imus is crass and crude and I have absolutely no use for him or his ilk. I do not follow professional or collegiate athletics as I have no use for them either. I have seen NBA and NCAA male BB players from time to time on TV and ever-increasing numbers of them do not at all look like gentlemanly scholar-athletes. This is a perfectly legitimate observation to make. While I find Imus crude and offensive, I absolutely reject the idea that making the observation, in an appropriately civilized and intellectually defensible way, is wrong. Face it folks, how we dress, how we wear our hair, our "body art," or lack of it, says things about ourselves, reflecting what goes on in our heads, affecting our personal and intellectual credibility with other human beings. While the Rutgers women may indeed be fine BB players, for me to accord them any intellectual respect or credibility, the burden of proof rests with them. When will people realize that the way one looks and carries themselves in public affects how others perceive them.
Everyone is berating Imus for making some stereotypically ignorant, racist comments about some female college athletes, who from all appearances, were willingly conforming to some stereotypes (which are not entirely devoid of negative connotations) of their own, and Imus is the only one who catches flack? The best way to get rid of stereotyping in our society is not to appear to fit into one!

Sent by K. Mark Northrup | 3:50 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This is about the American Idol singer. I've almost never watched the show. I was listening to TofN this morning and heard the young indian phenom AND WAS CHARMED. What do you mean he has no talent. his voice is beautiful, just beautiful.

Sent by Jane Spangler | 3:50 PM ET | 04-10-2007

WHY? Today, TOTN has covered Don Imus, email and American Idol...is there nothing of importance to talk about
other than this cultural ephemera?

Sent by Peter Pasterz | 3:51 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I hope NPR was paid good for this, what a waist of my public radio stations air-time.

Sent by Nathaniel Powning | 3:58 PM ET | 04-10-2007

All this coverage is giving the man just what he craves. Attention. The girls on the team, or anyone else who is offended by his remarks only have their glory stolen if they LET HIM STEAL it. We're all responsible for our lives and feelings and by getting all in a dither about this, we let ignorant comments win over the truth. If you know you played an awesome game, focus on THAT! Not on his comments. Rise above it!

I don't hear anyone protesting highly about all the crap you find in Rap music. Black rap artists call each other and other humans MUCH WORSE in their so-called music and yet it sells like hot cakes! But if a white artist made the same album, he'd be called a racist. Is racism only for those non-Caucasians?

And besides, just because one utters stupid comments, intended as jokes, doesn't make one a racist. We're ALL racist about SOMETHING, if we're honest.

So why get all over him? Because he said it on the air? Get a talk show like everyone else and make your own comments on the air. You have that right, just like he does. He's not yelling "FIRE" in a crowded theater. He's running his mouth. So what? It happens every day and if you don't get used to it, you'll die early from a stress-induced coronary.

Sent by Heather | 4:15 PM ET | 04-10-2007

It's hard to imagine a comparable statement being made about a white male winning basketball team - "You lilly - livered honkey scumbags?" No one would dream of saying such things about the dominant race and sex when they win a basketball game.

Sent by Susan Chamberlin | 4:38 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I tried to post a message that basically said, stop this nonsense it's over. Imus apologized so put it to bed.
However,I got a message that said it didn't go thru. Because it doesn't assail Imus, it doesn't go?

Sent by R Johnson | 4:39 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This situation has turned into way too much ado over not much. Mr. Imus' comment was unfortunate and ill-advised, but in the context in which it was presented, was given way more importance than it deserved by its "victims". Mr. Imus has received his sanction; let's not pretend that we ALL don't think and say things that, taken out out of proper context, could come back to paint us in a bad light.

Sent by Tim | 4:57 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I care about as much about Don Imus' opinion as I care about Howard Stern. They are both pointless. However, I do care about the reaction to these comments. I fear that there would be much less concern if Imus and McGuirk had called these ladies "hos" and not "nappy headed." That's unfortunate. Because it's not just about racism, it's about misogyny. It's about a society where educated students who are also talented championship ball players are being denegrated with the word "ho". I don't think this issue is being taken too seriously or is getting too much attention. We need to look at our culture, which celebrates the dehumanizing of women on tv, in movies, on magazine covers and in music. These ladies were not on the cover of Stuff Magazine or Maxim or Playboy. They were playing a game and they're talents do not deserve to be demeaned with insults. Unfortunately, many men won't understand that because there is no insulting equivalent to "ho" which you can sling at a man to make him less human. Even some brainless women defend the use of or use such words like "b$%ch" and "ho". I don't know what they're excuse is.

Sent by Christine | 5:08 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I listen to Imus and enjoy his show. As a listener I know it was a joke that didn't work and that it was not a personal attack. I wish he had not said what he did. Even more, I wish no one used any of the degrading terms I hear every day on TV and radio. But, it is hypocritical to crucify Imus and think that solves anything. If it is not acceptable for Imus then it should not be acceptable for Spike Lee, rap singers, etc.

Sent by Pat | 5:36 PM ET | 04-10-2007

There is much to say about taking responsibility for your words. For what Don Imus said, he should be disciplined. A recent post at starrwriter.wordpress.com/ said it best: "Respect is shared between one and other and found in the words we use. Hateful words can pack a punch that is not only a hurtful blow to the individuals, but with the right manipulation can destroy groups, communities and even entire nations."

Sent by Alvin | 5:48 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Permit me to approach this conversation from a religious and spiritual perspective. I believe that the thoughtless and insensitive comments made by Don Imus present each and every one of us with yet another unique opportunity to examine our own thoughts, words, and deeds which have been conditioned by our own lived experiences, families of origin, and other influences in our lives. Every time someone says something that hurts someone else, we have a responsibility as part of the interdependent web of existence to take a careful and honest look inside our own souls to see what possible prejudices might be living there. I don't believe that "casting stones" is an appropriate first response, unless of course, we are infallible. Even then, lashing back is not the most attractive human trait.

It is also my opinion that the Reverends Jackson and Sharpton are once again taking the lowest possible road. As pastors, they of all people should know that "unforgiveness" breeds "unforgiveness." Haven't they ever needed to be forgiven? The religious tradition of Christianity, of which they are a part, is founded on forgiveness. Jesus was clear when asked how many times we should forgive- not seven, but seventy times seven.

In closing, I???d like to express my sincere hope that the voices of reasonable people will rise high above the din of the divisive words that are currently being spoken by some. Just imagine the potential good that can come from this if we allow forgiveness and grace to lead the way.

Sent by Margaret S. Meyers | 5:54 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This is America and the comments were made on public airwaves. If we don't have free speech there then where?

(not to say I agree at all with what was said, comment here is only directed at those who are promoting censorship)

Sent by Jimbo | 6:04 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Enough already with the Imus story! Consider the context of his program...he insults everyone!(and calls his wife the "green hoe"). He apologized for crossing the line this time and that's good enough for me.

Sent by Rose Voigt | 6:33 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Glass houses... Which of us has NOT thought of someone in derogatory terms, no matter WHO they are? Most of us do it *every day* when we have to get in our cars and drive with each other. The difference is, I suppose, that we don't do it on a public program but we are all entitled to say such things, in public or not. Are we now going to have to itemize the 1st Amendment?

Oh good. Then perhaps people can stop saying offensive things about Republicans, Democrats, our Congress, our President, Muslims, Jews, Christians, Buddhists, Mormons homosexuals, the elderly, the young, the middle aged, those in debt, the rich, the poor, the immigrants, the... sigh. My hand is hurting but I could go on with the list. This guy makes fun of EVERYONE. Why is it only now offensive?

And I'm rather curious about the fact that people are bringing up that these girls are educated and talented and therefore, not "hos". Good for them for being educated and talented. I applaud that.

However, as someone who has enough years in college to know what universities are like, I sure know that "ho-like" behavior is not limited to the "non-educated" and "non-talented". One can be wealthy, have a genius IQ, be academically successful, or be as popular as ever and STILL engage in immoral behavior (need I point out the *other* pointless news item of just who fathered Anna Nicole's baby - if being a "ho" was only limited to a certain sector of people, no one would have had to even ASK that question, now would they?) JUST as one can be uneducated, untalented and STILL try their best to live a life unworthy of being called a "ho". He was stereotyping, but that's what it was. A stereotype. What a waste of time, this much coverage and stife over something we all do every day.

Sent by Heather | 7:25 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Ms. Margaret Myers, unless I'm mistaken, neither Jesse Jackson nor Al Sharpton pastor a church. That said, I ask you to please use scripture in context. Jesus forgave sinners, AND condemned sin, at the same time. IF Imus is sorry, he should be forgiven. But he shouldn't necessarily be placed in a position to do the same stupid -- and sinful -- things he did to get us talking in the first place.

Should criminals be allow to apologize when caught, and not suffer any societal consequence? If you think so, I think you should study the bible a little more thoroughly. Jesus wouldn't go for that.

Sent by Kevin Gaines | 7:58 PM ET | 04-10-2007

What Imus did was inapropriate, ignorant and unexcusable. But I personally have been offended and afraid throughout the years while the rap community has been allowed to put these types of comments into the mainstream. They have been allowed to put racist, sexist, cop killing lyrics into the mainstream without suffering the same abuse that Imus has suffered. I have yet to hear an apology from these rap groups, Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson for the ongoing verbal abuse we have had to endure throughout the year. I am disappointed that Al Sharpton hasn't gotten on his high horse and gone after the rap community with the same vigor and disgust that he now shows toward Imus. As a society we have allowed these types of comments to exist without calling for boycotts and the removal of anyone using this language. So we have ourselves to blame. In the end maybe we should take a page from the Amish. When a killer walked into there school house and committed the unspeakable the first thing they did was offer forgiveness. Maybe we would be a better society and wouldn't have to tolerate this type of behavior if we were simply more honest, respectful and forgiving toward one another and society as a whole.

Sent by Michelle | 8:19 PM ET | 04-10-2007

This does not weigh good on Barack Obama presidential candidacy. This still proves how shallow the race card still is after all these years. The good thing is Michael Richards is no longer in the site of the gun barrel. There is a new bigger target

Sent by Mij Ongam | 8:30 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I think it was wrong, but the underlying problem is the double-standard of sexuality. Men are patted on the back for sleeping around but women are made to feel guilty about their bodies. There is nothing wrong or immoral about sex.

Sent by Jeremy | 8:36 PM ET | 04-10-2007

Have we forgotten where the term "hos" came from? Have we forgotten who bandies about the term "hos" for any woman in their sites? What Imus did was wrong but I would like to see this converation expanded. Whne the coach said, These are young woman who he called "hos", I thought, who is calling all women that all the time, and I never hear the Black community complain about that useage.

Sent by Mark Soderburg | 9:53 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I would be curious to hear what sort of music is on the IPods of the Rutgers team.

Sent by K. Mark Northrup | 11:39 PM ET | 04-10-2007

I'm incensed by your Imus show. My daughters (white, blonde) went to an inner-city school and suffered discrimination. They did not ask that anyone be expelled nor fired. They knew it did not reflect on themselves but on those spewing their ignorant venom.
I look forward to hearing the Rutgers' girls responses to Imus. I hope they gave as good as they got.
FYI, Al Sharpton is the ONLY presidential candidate I have EVER donated to. I regret it now-and I've never listened to Imus.

Sent by tom winberry | 12:14 AM ET | 04-11-2007

I have recently written several papers on the subject of "hate talk" and how it effects the mind of the nation. I feel I have a good insight into the issue here as it presents itself.
The opinion is that a WORD like "hoe" puts off such a negative stigma that it will only serve to increase negativity in our country. This revolves around the negative aspects of sexism.
I would humbly like to point out that much of what we hear on TV and see in commercialism serves the purpose of maintaining negativity anyway. The current feed of media focuses on realities that all serve to increase HATE. The words we hear everyday like "war" and "death" ,"bombers","terrorist" ect. are thrown around without thought of how this may affect the minds of our country and our children. The media give rise to all this information yet leaves out any messages of LOVE that people in our country might need to hear also.
The fact is the first amendment of the constitution protects free speech and the biggest aspect of speech that has been suppressed in our country is "LOVE TALK". And the only real way to stop "HATE TALK" is to promote LOVE.
When you fight against something like what a person says on TV you are only adding to the HATE. You are not giving a real alternative to the problem you are teaching people its OK to suppress free speech. Where as some people may feel uncomfortable with a word like 'HOE" others like me may feel uncomfortable with that fact that you NEVER SAY THE WORDS LIKE "LOVE" on TV and news.
People need to hear positive things and you do not promote that. you merely try and suppress the negative.

Sent by jerod gledhill | 1:34 AM ET | 04-11-2007

Just so somebody might get on track, slander is not protected by the first amendment. Never was.

Sent by Christopher Shaw | 9:01 AM ET | 04-11-2007

I love how people drag out the free speech argument anytime someone disagrees with them. No one is saying Imus should be arrested. People who say "ho" or use racist language won't be put in prison. But free speech means that the public has every right to boycott, protest, and condemn things they find intolerable. They have a right to force sponsors to pull support. If capitalism and money making is what talks in this country and is the only thing that seems to matter to anyone these days, then protesters have a right to use their buying power against entertainers and companies they deem irresponsible. You may not like it if you're an apologist for this sort of behavior, but voicing protest against it is protected by the constitution.

Sent by Christine | 9:55 AM ET | 04-11-2007

LAPTOPS or FOUNTAIN PEN & RECYCLED PAPER? You mention non-renewable resources in lauding computers over pen-and-paper, but think of how the more wear and tear your computer takes, the sooner you have to replace it. we do not have sufficient clean & green ways of disposing electronics. lots of chemicals are leeching into the environment and water supplies because of computers and even batteries that are not getting properly disposed of or recycled.

Sent by Colleen | 11:21 AM ET | 04-11-2007

Enough already with the Imus fiasco, too much wasted air time.
Funny we NEVER hear caucasian people rebelling about the abrasive comments and names used by other races about us.

Sent by Bob | 1:43 PM ET | 04-11-2007

its all bad talk, what about the rappers and some of their racist remarks?

Sent by practical1 | 2:32 PM ET | 04-11-2007

I Think this hole thing is a joke. Why is it ok for Black people to say derogatory comments about white people and we don't say a word and what about the black rappers its ok for them to talk like that about there women. So why is it ok for blacks it say what ever they want but the minute I say the same thing a black person says Im raciest.

Sent by Catherine | 3:31 PM ET | 04-11-2007

Remember "sticks and stones..." from our youth. We have the right to choose not to listen and I would suggest that everyone, including the talented women from Rutgers "consider the source". I don't think that they should take his comments to heart. It smacks of "methinks thou dost protest too much" Spend ten minutes in the hallway of your local high school during changing of classes and you'll get a real earful.

Sent by Keith Bailey | 3:51 PM ET | 04-11-2007

I'm most offended by Imus' defense of his comments, to wit: "it's what blacks say when they're being degrading and abusive". So, Mr. Imus if you're against degrading and abusive behavior, why copy it?

Sent by John | 4:34 PM ET | 04-11-2007

i need to upbraid npr and Talk of the Nation specifically for pandering to the woefully low journalistic standard we have been forced to endure for some time in the US. There are enough uninteresting talk shows out there: I expect more from npr. The Imus issue should have been placed into a larger context. This conversation ought to be less about what Imus said and more about how much longer we as US society will tolerate disrespectful behavior towards one another. Over the past year there have been a handful of widely publicized rants about Jews, blacks, gays, etc. We cannot continue to talk about these outbursts in isolation - like it just occurred - because a pattern is emerging. Any number of prejudices exist within people and instead of talking about and dealing them in ways that are constructive and of benefit to society, we have instead promoted "political correctness" which is nothing more than "keeping your mouth shut until you're with a group of supposed like-minded people and then you can spew your diatribes." We are now seeing political correctness melt down and the real issues that we have never been dealt with are re-emerging.

This is what I expect from npr: The broader view...a more inciteful, intelecctual discussion.

It is sad, indeed, what Mr. Imus said (and I don't for a minute believe he is a bad person, but that's no excuse). It is sadder that we don't deal with the seemingly rock solid foundation which support these prejudicial beliefs.

Come on, npr-use your journalistic mind rather than taking the easy road and sounding like any other (especially am radio) talk show!

Sent by Greg | 12:40 AM ET | 04-12-2007

Let me say first off that I'm not a huge Imus fan. I have listened to or watched him from time to time when he had an interesting guest like Kurt Vonnegut, Douglas Brinkley, or Al Franken. Sometimes I have heard him or someone on the show say some pretty disgusting things about homosexuals, of which I am one. I was not offended, I just remembered the source and let it go. I think with Imus, like much of life, you have to take the good with the bad.

That's the problem, people want to see everything as good vs. evil, black and white no gray area. Life is not that way and when we try to make that way, we get offended by half of the world. Who wants to live like that?

The huge irony in this matter is all these talking heads on the news shows saying how this is giving us a chance for national "dialogue" on race. How is this a "dialogue"? By definition a dialogue consists of two parties stating their views. This is not a dialogue, This is Al Sharpton telling white people what they can and can't say. And white people not being able to express anything but agreement, lest we get branded as racist. That is not a dialogue.

The final irony is that we liberals have been screaming for years that the Bush administration is dismantling the Constitution, trampling on our rights. Now we are doing the same thing. I have heard a lot of people I respect say that the solution is for Imus to go to XM or Sirius, and make people pay for the privilege of listening to him. Do we want to end up with a country where those who can afford it pay for their rights, while those who can't have no choices?

Sent by Anthony DeLauro | 8:02 AM ET | 04-12-2007

Isn't it ironic that Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson are railing against inflammatory and inappropriate racial comments made by Imus the same week that the three Duke students that were judged guilty and slandered by these two, Nifong, and too many others because they were white and rich, were finally confirmed innocent, and victims of a gross miscarriage of justice after a year of hell. Just as Imus had no clue as to the personalities of the Rutgers scholar-athletes, Sharpton and many others never felt the need to meet the Duke students before branding them racist. I guess some people can live in glass houses and throw stones as they please. As with Imus, this is not Sharpton's first racist stumble (see Tawana Brawley). Is anyone asking for Al Sharpton to be banned from the airwaves, and how is he the spokesman for racial injustice?

Sent by D. Griffith | 8:32 AM ET | 04-12-2007

This is I think one of the most important freedom of speech issues to come about. Yes, Don Imus has the right to say whatever he wants. However, we as a society, have the right to express our outrage. I refuse to be silent in the face of rac Al Sharpton to speak for them,ism and sexism. That would encroach on my own rights and I would not be able to sleep at night. He used his freedom of speech to spew hateful words and now I and many others are using our voices to let him know that those attitudes are poisoning our society.

And so many white people are hailing the Duke Lacrosse players to show a double standard and imply that there is somehow no justice for white people. The Duke case deserves attention (and an apology from those who assumed provable guilt before hearing the evidnce) but we should not lose sight of the fact that many, many innocent African Americans have been convicted with little or no evidence and are more prone to the death penalty.

Al Sharpton has lost a lot of credibility in this country. However, do not assume that because he is involved that there is no reason for people to be angry. A lot of people who do not wish to be lumped with him are upset.

Sent by S. Gutowski | 11:49 AM ET | 04-12-2007

I am an American Gypsy, or Roma(Black Dutch); and as such I am SO sick of people complaining about Racism. Everyone is talking about how everyone is racist. My people have been kicked out of almost every country in the world, and in some worse situations killed on sight. I am proud to be an American and believe in freedom of speech. If you don't like what someone has to say, then don't listen. This matter is still a personal issue even though it was on the air, it is not anyone else's business. I say I feel welcome here, and no matter what my heritage I would rather live in the US than anywhere else (and yes I have been 'anywhere else' thanks to the USAF).

So, in conclusion, if you don't like it here, try to fix it through the law; and if that doesn't work, then leave!

Sent by Elijah Patton | 4:10 PM ET | 04-13-2007

I am very troubled by the process of vigilante marketplace justice that has taken place here. In fact, I think people seriously concerned about the public forum ought to consider a boycott of Proctor and Gamble, Bigelow and Staples. Letting the advertisers (who drive the media) know that they face as much risk from being seen to support the suppression of unpopular speech as they do from offending a mob with a grievance (even a grievance with a legitimate basis) is the only way to slow the rush from outrage about particular speech, through judgment about the right of the speaker to future public speech, to imposition of a sentence of banishment.

First - let me be clear about what I am angry about. I hold no brief for Imus and do not want to defend his comments (or more correctly his joinder in a tasteless attempt at humor by his sidekick, McGuirk). However, for me the key issue is not "how bad is Imus and/or his comments," but instead, "should we let mob rule decide what channels we can choose from?"

What I object to here is the triumphant joinder of (1) mischaracterization in public discourse, (2) reflexive political correctness, (3) mob rule, and (4) a media dedicated to the dollar above all else, by which I am referring both to (a) the feeding frenzy surrounding Imus' downfall and (b) the response of the media outlets that have disowned him.

In the meantime, I for one am switching toothpaste and tea brands and buying my printer cartridges at Office Depot.

Sent by fan of tocqueville | 6:19 PM ET | 04-13-2007

The comments reflect something deeper. In most cases comments like this are just a manifestation of stupidity. Here is the important point, please pay attention. In America there is a white male power structure. This means women and minorities get less opportunities because they are who they are, and for no other reason. So this is why it is different when a white male member of that power structure makes these comments than when a black comedian or rapper. See the black comedian cant keep you from getting a promotion or a job. The white male listener of this program can keep you from those things, among others.

Sent by Joel | 9:51 PM ET | 04-13-2007

Racist, Sexist, Bigoted, Homophobe. Gee, aren't those "names" too? I see them all the time. Usually from some left-leaning individual that is upset about something.
As far as Don Imus is concerned. I could care less what he says about me, my race or anyone else.
By the way, I agree with everything that Anthony DeLauro, above, says; so, I will not repeat it here.

Sent by John Ewing | 12:09 AM ET | 04-14-2007

As a father of a student athlete (cheerleader) at another Big East school, I was particularly incensed by Imus' remarks.
For Imus to suggest that these girls are "hos," and then to attach some derogatory racial stereotype to them was infuriating to me to say the least. His comments applied to all female student athletes everywhere.
As a parent of a student athlete, you get to meet students who come in all kinds of shapes, sizes, colors, gender, sexual orientation, from all over the country and some foreign countries.
You appreciate the struggle and sacrifice both parents and students make to be a student athlete and to get a college education.
As I watched the Rutgers' student athletes perform at their news conference, I was so very proud of them and of how well they performed. Both on and off the court, they were outstanding.
Their demeanor, how well they answered the questions asked of them, made Imus look like a knave and a fool. These student athletes continued to show class by accepting Imus' apology.
Imus' honored the passing of a black Pentecostal pastor G.E. Patterson, the leader of the nation's largest African American Pentecostal denomination who passed away on March 20, in Memphis.
However, it sounds as if Imus was pandering to the religious element in an effort to clothe himself in a shroud of religiosity. But what came out of Imus' mouth revealed what was in him. It is written:

"Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks."

Sent by David Dunn | 2:35 AM ET | 04-14-2007

I have a question, Has anybody actually listend to the full segment to guage what context the line was said. I know the media hasn't, but has anyone else?

Sent by Matt | 11:36 AM ET | 09-02-2007