I hate the way they portray us in the media. You see a black family, it says, 'They're looting.' You see a white family, it says, 'They're looking for food.' And, you know, it's been five days [waiting for federal help] because most of the people are black. And even for me to complain about it, I would be a hypocrite because I've tried to turn away from the TV because it's too hard to watch. I've even been shopping before even giving a donation, so now I'm calling my business manager right now to see what is the biggest amount I can give, and just to imagine if I was down there, and those are my people down there. So anybody out there that wants to do anything that we can help -- with the way America is set up to help the poor, the black people, the less well-off, as slow as possible. I mean, the Red Cross is doing everything they can. We already realize a lot of people that could help are at war right now, fighting another way -- and they've given them permission to go down and shoot us! [...] George Bush doesn't care about black people.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The speaker criticizes media bias in covering black and white families during a crisis and pledges a donation.
- In plain terms
- The media treats black people worse than white people during disasters. I am donating money to help.
- What can you take from it?
- Recognize media bias and take action to support those affected by systemic inequality.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- How does media shape your view of crises?
- What responsibility do you have to help others?
Another view
Personal donations may not solve systemic issues addressed in the quote.
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