It's bigger than Don Imus

Originally posted June 18, 2007

Many have approached WSOUF asking we share our opinion on the actions and controversy surrounding Don Imus' comments. As a media outlet that promotes freedom of speech, initially we were reluctant to feed the fire surrounding the controversy and adamantly declined. As the issue becomes dormant, we've become more comfortable with sharing our thoughts on Imus, censorship, Hip Hop music, and the [true] matter at hand---responsiblity.
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It is a FACT the word WHORE, from which HO is derived, was around long before rap/hip hop music came about.

For anyone to cite a culture, genre of music, or entertainer as the reason for their use of the word 'ho/whore' [or any deragtory term] is an exhibition of a lack of responsibility.

As most mothers will or have pointed out, just because someone else [your friends] is participating in destructive behavior [jumping off a bridge] doesnt mean you should [follow].

As we have seen before (i.e. Susan Smith) pointing the finger at minorities and our culture (i.e. Rap music), is a convenient cop-out when INDIVIDUALS wish to avoid personal responsibility.
Let us not let 'them', folks of all status and colors, make Rap music the scapegoat here.

Both entertainers and 'average joes' must be held accountable for their words and not fail to recognize responsibility, especially in the presence of children. And if we must censor our thoughts and feelings, it must be a wholistic effort. Figures like Al Sharpton, Russell Simmons, Oprah Winfrey and Armstrong Williams must also protest the drug and sexual innuendos present within FILM and POP[ular] MUSIC (including rock & alternative).

Recording industry executives who invest in the entertainers who are being scrutinized must take an active role in promoting positive behavior. Organizations like the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences from which Three-6 Mafia received an award for their song Its Hard Out Here For A Pimp, and Denzel Washington for his role as a dirty, womanizing, police offer in Training Day, must also be active in promoting positive images within the arts. Failing to do so will otherwise send mixed messages to our communities, its members and our neighbors.

Let us not attack rap, but instead accept it for what it is--an artistic expression often based on experiences from within an impoverished environment. As well, let us not hide behind our individual freedoms, including freedom of speech, using them as havens from accountability and compassion.

Peace,
Bosslady
Co-Founder/CEO

*These comments are solely those of S.D. Galloway and do not reflect the thoughts or opinions of WSOUF, its affiliates or sponsors.