Trifilin O Vs. Ratchet Cheeto

I never thought in my lifetime or the next ten I would see a United States president involved in a rap style beef with a reality television star. Yet, here we are with the current president beefing with his former protege. Then again who would've ever thought a reality tv star masquerading as a businessman who has actually filed bankruptcy six times including running three casinos into the ground would be elected president. I mean isn't it virtually impossible to bankrupt a casino? I digress.


As I am sure most know former White House administration official and reality tv villain, Omarosa Manigault-Newnan, has recently published a tell-all book, Unhinged, about President Trump and what she describes as a chaotic White House full of liars and sycophants. The book has caused quite a stir as Omarosa has levied some pretty serious but not surprising allegations regarding the President. She also taped (what she says) numerous conversations with multiple people during her time in the White House. And, she has already released three tapes, which I will address, as evidence supporting her many allegations.


She says she has seen the light and now realizes Trump is a liar, racist and misogynist. She, also, now realizes Santa isn't real and Stephen Miller is indeed a vampire.


In addition, Omarosa claims Trump is on tape saying the n-word. This tape is allegedly apart of outtakes from The Apprentice. Omarosa also claims she has heard the aforementioned tape.


Now, Omarosa is not the first person who has claimed tapes exist of Trump using the n-word as well as comments similar to those he said on the Access Hollywood tape. Penn Jillette, Tom Arnold, a couple of former contestants and two former Apprentice producers have also said the tapes exist. Republican strategist, Rick Wilson, implied such recordings exist right after the release of the Access Hollywood tape.


Omarosa also says Trump used racial slurs in her presence regarding Kellyanne Conway's husband, George Conway, who is half Philippine descent. Additionally, Omarosa says Trump literally talks shit about everyone behind their back including his kids. Well, except for Ivanka because...well...how should I say he has a fondness for her no father should have for his daughter. But, that's none of my business.




If you remember Omarosa was fired back in December of 2017. At the time the White House didn't provide a reason for her firing. However it was "leaked" that Omarosa was behaving "inappropriately". It was also leaked O was forcibly escorted from White House grounds and actually tried to get back on the premises during a White House Christmas party.


A couple of weeks later Omarosa went on Good Morning America denying the aforementioned accounts of her firing and claimed White House Chief of Staff, John Kelly, had it out for her firing her without the President's knowledge.


Sunday on Meet The Press Omarosa provided a recording of Kelly firing her in the Situation Room. The recording corroborated her account more than it did Kelly's. In addition the next day Omarosa released recording of a private phone call she had with Trump where he feigned not having any idea she had been canned and being upset about it.


Of course, Trump responded this with dignity, grace and a thoughtful statement. No, he didn't! He responded with usual bluster and petulance.


Saturday he called her a lowlife. Sarah Huckabee Sanders followed with a statement that she's a liar and opportunist. How that heffa doesn't get struck by lightning every time she speaks I'll never know.


Then, Trump really ignited the beef. Monday, he referred to her as "wacky" and "vicious but not smart". The latter was not only projection but a clear glimpse into his values and what he finds admirable. That was followed by one of Trump's best "Aunt Tomasinas", Katrina Pierson, refuting a claim from Omarosa's book she had admitted Trump used the "n-word".


That impelled O releasing a third tape that revealed Pierson indeed had admitted Trump used the "n-word".


Nonetheless, Trump continued his assault on Omarosa saying she begged for a job with "tears in her eyes". He mentioned she had been fired four times glossing over the fact he hired her three times after he fired her. What a buffoon!


Trump saved his worst for last calling O "deranged" and "that dog". This asscrumb just can't refrain from referring to women as animals can he?


Our esteemed president also tweeted that Apprentice producer, Mark Burnett, "called him assuring him no tapes existed" of him saying the "n-word". He continued that he has never used the "vile" word and "it's not in his vocabulary". Forget Smokey Eye how does lightening not strike his ass?


Let's break that last tweet down. If Trump has never used the "n-word" as he and the White House claim then why the hell does Burnett need to assure him no tapes exist? That implies, hell it certifies, he has said the "n-word" before and reveals a he believed a tape could exist. It obviously means that because why else would he need assurance?


Look, I'm going to break this shit down. Omarosa is a trifilin ass woman who possesses minimal credibility. She is the prototype of an opportunist, a hustler which exactly the reason Trump took her under his wing. O is a liar, treacherous and vindictive. Those are qualities #CheetoJesus admires.


When he says she is "vicious but not smart" he is projecting but also giving insight. He admires viciousness because he is vicious but ge certainly isn't smart and this is where the projection comes in.


The truth is Omarosa is many things but "not smart" isn't one of them. She has actually displayed she's considerably smarter than Trump and the White House. The student is playing the master.


#Cheets and those clowns in his White House thought O was bluffing about tapes. They have tried to call her out. Thus far, however, she has proven to have receipts. She claims she has infinitely more tapes and evidence to substantiate everything in her book.


Does she? This is Omarosa. She could be lying. But, she has already called three bluffs. So, is anyone in the administration willing to take the chance Omarosa doesn't literally have a treasure trove of receipts?


I don't think so. That is why they filed arbitration to prevent her from releasing any more tapes under the argument she is breaking her non-disclosure agreement from the campaign which she signed. The problem with that is the nda is likely not binding for her time in the White House and if the Trump administration thought it was then why did they offer her another nda with a $15,000 a month payoff, which she refused to sign?


Omarosa claims every single administration official who has left or been fired was offered and signed the same agreement. That begs the question where is the money coming from to fund these payoffs? You damn well know it's not coming out of Trump's personal coffers.


Another issue Omarosa has levied upon this clown show is the national security issue. How was Omarosa allowed to record people in the Situation Room, Oval Office and other highly secured areas of the White House?


When Omarosa was canned they had to know this was coming. But, they didn't because this administration is full of hacks and imbeciles starting at the very top. It is another classic example of how raw arrogance and sheer dumbassery is a horrible combination.


Trump literally created Omarosa in his image and now his creation has turned on him. She is beating him at his own game with his own tactics.


This buffoon may have met his match. Every other person Trump has started these beefs with have refused to go down into the gutter with him. If the last 15 years of Omarosa in the public eye has shown us anything it's shown she is a shameless opportunist and promoter and there is no depth too low.


Her master taught her well. And, she is unquestionably smarter than her master.


Now, as entertaining as this beef has been and most assuredly will continue to be, it is also yet another embarrassing face palming covering head in shame encumbering moment this president has saddled upon the American people. Really?! What must the neighbors think?


Lemme keep it real. I don't need a tape of Trump saying "nigger" to prove he's a racist. Neither do I need Omarosa to "confirm" he is. Thanks, Boo, but like telling me the Kardashians have done more damage to black men in America than crack; the Klan; or mixtapes I don't need you to tell me the blatantly obvious.


It really doesn't matter whether a tape comes out or Omarosa provides all the receipts and a 55 gallon drum of tea. Those of who know what Trump is will not be surprised. And, sadly, those who support him will not care whatsoever. They will moralize and excuse it like they do everything else. Quite frankly, if Trump is heard saying "nigger" it will endear a fraction of his base to him even more.


Right now.........This is America...

One Year After Charlottesville The Alt-Right Is Back To "Unite The Right"

This Sunday (August 12th) marks the one year anniversary of #Charlottesville.


It was one year ago the Alt-Right comprising of White Nationalists, Klu Klux Klansmen and Neo-Nazis marched in Charlottesville, Virginia under the guise of protesting the statue removal of Confederate general Robert E. Lee. What wound up taking place was the night before the actual march a group of white Polo shirt wearing, khaki pants sporting, fake tiki torch carrying assholes (mostly men) filled the town square chanting, "Jew will not replace us!" They also chanted a familiar Nazi slogan, "Blood and soil". And, their most trite chant was, "White lives matter."


Once the entire group of scholars filled the square they decided to descend upon a church where anti-protestors were inside peacefully PRAYING. The tiki torch bearing mob stormed into the church shouting, "Blood and soil!"


The next day the golf shirt/khaki pants clad clan was joined by Klansmen, other White Nationalists and Neo-Nazis as all of them filled the streets of Charlottesville chanting all of their classic highly intelligent slogans. They were met with resistance from anti-protestors.


Needless to say, the situation became inflamed. Fairly quickly violence ensued instigated by the Alt-Right protestors.


Eventually, the police (who were woefully unprepared) was able to quell the situation and disperse the crowds. That is when a deranged racist decided to get in his car, speed into a crowd of anti-protestors hitting a young woman killing her. That young woman's name is Heather Heyer. Heather Heyer! The right wing, the president and the #Charlottesville protestor apologists seem to have difficulty saying her name. SAY HER NAME! HEATHER HEYER!


We all know what subsequently took place. The President of the United States refused to condemn the Alt-Right protestors. Initially, he laid the blame for HEATHER HEYER'S death at the feet of the anti-protestors. Then, he somewhat walked that back saying there was "blame on both sides" despite the fact the Alt-Right protestors incited the violence. (And, don't say a damn word about ANTIFA! I know they were there. They didn't become violent until they stepped in to protect a young woman who was getting beat up by a grown man...or some facsimile. I watched the entire situation play out live on television. )


A few days later the President once again was an apologist for the racists. After essentially morally equating White Nationalists and Neo-Nazis with those protesting against hate and racism our President said some of the White Nationalists and Nazis, whom I remind you were chanting "Jew will not replace us" and "Blood and soil" were "very fine people". He added there were fine people on "both sides". 😐


Well, guess who's back to commemorate such a fine moment in American history? Yes, kids, it is the Alt-Right. They are once again marching to "Unite The Right".


After the city of Charlottesville essentially told them to go fuck themselves they decided to hold this year's rally in the current residence of their hero. That is right, the rally is being held in Washington D.C. Hell, the rally's site is literally in shouting distance from the White House.


But, this year the organizers are promising a peaceful protest will take place. They are promoting a kinder gentler form of white supremacy...errrr...I mean white pride. That is what they want it called.


The organizers said they don't want a repeat of last year. Last year made them look like "dorks" and. "losers" they said. One leader said they looked like "thugs". "Thugs", you say. Noooooo, get the hell outta here.


So, in that spirit they are not allowing any Nazi flags or regalia. Swastikas are prohibited. Only the American flag and the Confederate flag are allowed. The main organizer for this meeting of intellectual minds said the image of the Alt-Right must change. He said, "We must continue to look cool, hip, sexy." 😐 This fool thinks they look "hip and sexy". *Sigh* Lawd, I know they are yo chirrhens too but.....#ISimplyCannot


The #UniteTheRight march's cause this year is "white civil rights". Lol. Excuse me for laughing. I am sorry. Wait, no I'm not.


The audacity of these jackasses is astounding. "White civil rights"? These racist clowns are asserting that white people are being disenfranchised and discriminated against worse than any minority ever has. They are seriously claiming that whites are the only people in the country, which is "their country" who don't have civil rights protection. According to them it isn't people of color who are oppressed it is they who are oppressed. This is a "white Christian country" and they can't get a fair shake....................................


*Deep breath* Okay. Yes, racists and bigots it is you are the oppressed. I mean only 80 or 85% of the Congress is white men. Of the many billionaires this country has all but three are white. That is bullshit isn't it, Hoss? Ya know the vast majority of people with power in this country are white but that means a Negro or Mexican somewhere has power and authority. Unacceptable! Although white people proportionately commit the same number of crimes as blacks it is blacks who are significantly more incarcerated with measurably longer sentences. White folks abuse as many drugs as African-Americans and Hispanics; however, whites are frequently placed in rehab while Black and Brown folks are denied bail and subsequently placed in the clink. Yes, the #StruggleIsReal


Stop it! Your civil rights aren't being violated.


It is unfathomable to me how these clowns can never see how many of them are in the exact same boat as many people of color. Like many of us, they are living paycheck to paycheck. Like us they are struggling to find ways to send their kids to college. And, like us the elites don't give a shit about them. That includes their hero, Donald Trump. They are nothing more than a vote to him.


They should ask themselves what has his policies really done for them. Sure, these asinine culture wars he ignites energizes them but to what end? I know that the right in general loves to believe most of the country is like them. It simply is not.


But they allow their hate, fear, ignorance and myopia drive them and control their thinking. They willingly allow their ignorance and fear of "the other" to cloud their intellect and erode their sense of decency.


Because of their willful close-mindedness, I have no empathy for them. Hundreds of these tools will be in attendance tomorrow chanting and spewing hate. They will gleefully exhort white supremacy. They will attempt to cloak their racism in claims of simply wanting to extol the virtues of being white. They will fallaciously say they want every race to preserve its heritage and "identity". Their biggest lie of all will be they are not racists; they just want to preserve their "heritage".


No, what they actually believe and want is quite nuanced. They want America to be a "White ethno state". They want the same for all Western civilizations. What their goal to do is extract every single person of color from this country. They say the United States of America is "their" country and people of color don't belong here.


They want to return America to a "white" country. What these intellectually remedial knobs don't or can't or refuse to understand is this country has never been a "white only" country. Never!


I am not going to explain the entire history of this country. It's not my fault if these imbeciles do not know American history. The fact is white Europeans stole this land from Native Americans and subsequently killed the men while raping and killing innocent women and children. Then they brought Africans here to be slaves whether it was by hook or by crook. Subsequently, the Chinese, Mexicans, Japanese and many others came here. And, all stayed.


What these Alt-Right folks' don't understand is America has never been a white only country; it's been a white dominant country. Now, because of the changing "demographics" and the implementation of Civil Rights these fools think they're losing "their country". They are not losing anything and it was never only their country. They just controlled everything by any means necessary.


So, I sincerely hope nothing goes sideways tomorrow. But, I wholeheartedly hope people who are for equality and against dehumanization of people show up and counter the hate. Make it clear to them, their apologists, their closet supporters and everyone else racism, hate, bigotry, xenophobia and anti-Semitism will not be tolerated or condoned or excused. Anyone supporting hate is not a fucking "very fine person" nor is there "good people on both sides". One side is for equality and inclusion. The other side is for eradication of anyone who isn't Anglo-Saxon.


No moral equivalency exists.


*Please feel free to check me out on Facebook and Twitter.


  https://m.facebook.com/Robbase2110
https://mobile.twitter.com/robbase2110?p=

Censorship Is Not The Answer To Hate Speech And Disinformation

The topic of free speech is once again front and center in the public discourse.


As many know InfoWars owner and primary host, Alex Jones, was banned this past Tuesday almost simultaneously by ITunes, Spotify, Facebook and YouTube. The reason provided was Jones had repeatedly violated the various platforms' terms of service, which he clearly had. However, despite the validity of the platforms' stated reasons it was disingenuous. The primary reason Jones was banned because a boycott was brewing over Jones' repeated insidious claims the Sandy Hook massacre was a "hoax" and "false flag".


Despite a lawsuit filed by the deceased children's families and repeated admonishments by the social media platforms to cease spewing the conspiracy theories Alex Jones continued to propagate his baseless heinous conspiracies.


Jones has led a campaign that has essentially victimized these families all over again. At one point he actually released the addresses of some of the families. Of course, this led to some of his demented flock harassing and threatening these already traumatized families. In fact, one family has had to move to seven times over the last five years or so because of the harassment. One of Jones' followers was actually sentenced to five months in prison because of her harassing and threatening behavior towards the family.


Alex Jones has been largely unrepentant regarding this behavior or his conspiracy theory. At one point he did issue a half-assed apology only to resume his defamatory rhetoric including after the aforementioned lawsuit was filed.


While this is the most grotesque of his speech it is certainly far from his only sins. He has literally built a career on vomiting inane cursory fallacious conspiracies. Pretty much every government agency and Democratic public figure has been a target. He has claimed Barack Obama is a demon. He has claimed numerous government agencies are placing chemicals in foods and toiletries to turn people and frogs gay. Yes, you read that correctly. He is obsessed with accusing people of running pedophile rings including Robert Mueller, Special Investigator of the Russian election interference investigation.


The list goes on and on and on. Jones is basically a whackjob and a hack. But, he has a fairly large following...because a huge segment of this country has apparently abandoned their senses, common sense and critical thinking. But, I digress.


Yet, with everything I listed I am taking the somewhat unpopular position he shouldn't have been removed off Facebook, YouTube, ITunes or Spotify.


While I fully acknowledge this is not a legal case of First Amendment rights infringement I do believe the spirit of the First Amendment is being violated. Look, social media platforms aren't public utilities. So, they are not legally beholden to free speech rights. However, because they are platforms whose specific purpose is to provide a forum for public discourse and opinions I believe they, as a matter of principle, should adhere to free speech guidelines.


Let me be PERFECTLY clear, I am not defending Alex Jones. He is a repugnant piece of shit. That is the kindest thing I can say.


He is a cancerous growth on society's ass. He is a vapid, shallow loathsome excuse for a human being. Anyone who spews the vile defamatory refuse that he does simply is not deserving of sympathy.


However, despite his insipidity and derangement, in my opinion he has a right to be heard. I hear the people who say, "To hell with him. He's an asscrumb." I do.


Believe me, I battled with this. My first inclination was to cheer his banishment. But, then I realized it is not right. It is not right because it sets a bad precedent. It is not right because I cannot stand up for the NFL players right to free speech, irregardless of the fact it's not a legal First Amendment issue, yet cheer this jackass being silenced. The situations are very similar.


Also, quite frankly, it just goes against my core beliefs. For example, I have always believed the Klan, Neo-Nazis and White Nationalists should be able to march and rally. It's their right. And, before some dipshit starts conflating my feelings about #Charlottesville. I never railed against those khaki wearing assholes' right to protest and assemble. My beef was with alleged Christian and "good" people either staying silent about it or being apologists for them. My anger was at the abject refusal by many to denounce that crap. It is a clear distinction.


Censorship leads us down a road to regret. It always has unintended consequences.


Those on the left who have cheered Alex Jones' banishment would be wise to keep in mind it's Alex Jones today but will certainly be one of you tomorrow or next week or next month. I already hear you saying there is no equivalent of Alex Jones on the left. I am inclined to agree, but it will not matter. Look at the NFL players. They exercised silent peaceful protests. Yet, because of some fan pressure and "you know who" sticking his nose in where it didn't belong the owners have attempted to band together to quell the players voice, if not silence it. Owners, Jerry Jones (Dallas Cowboys) and Stephen Ross (Miami Dolphins), have already made it abundantly clear regardless of the final NFL anthem policy any player who does not stand for the national anthem are subject to being cut.









It is a guarantee there will be Conservative advocates and watchdog groups scouring social media and left leaning platforms waiting for a left leaning commentator to say something controversial or defamatory. As soon as it happens (and it will) they will start a campaign demanding whomever it is be banned. And, lefties, you won't have recourse because private companies are not legally required to adhere to freedom of speech.


The answer to hate speech, defamatory speech and inane conspiracy theories isn't censorship. It is the same thing that is the answer to differing opinions. Discourse. Speech. The way to combat people like Alex Jones and White Supremacists is to debunk their nonsense with facts and evidence. Silence them with civil confrontation dismantling their ignorant and idiotic rhetoric. It is usually easy to do and can be done within minutes.


The way to deter defamatory speech start suing the shit out of folks who intentionally say fallacious bullshit.


Fight back not by hiding behind censorship but standing up!


Don't make imbeciles like Alex Jones martyrs or actually strengthening their pull by allowing them to play the victim.


Expose them for the fraudulent assclowns they are!

Trump's Overtly Transparent Attacks On Black & Brown Folks Are Tedious

"Trump is not a racist" is something every Trumpster I have ever talked to says. They always follow that with, "How's he racist? What has he ever done that's racist?" As I look every single time in pure disbelief attempting to figure out if these people are hopelessly in denial or just audacious liars, they top their bullshit off with, "He can't be racist. Look at the unemployment rate of African-Americans and Hispanics [ignoring he is merely maintaining the level President Obama lowered it to]."


I usually respond to this with a blank stare and shake of the head. After I gather myself from the ignorance, gaslighting and statements of fact without context I begin naming off the numerous examples that suggest Trump is at least a bigot, if not a full blown racist.


The response you ask? "Well, Black unemployment is 3.9% and he's making America great again." Lawd, help 'em.


Well, I mention the previous anecdote because once again Trump provided another example of his animosity toward people of color.


This past Friday night CNN's Don Lemon, a frequent target of Trump's rage tweets, interviewed LeBron James about his building of I Promise high school-a school for underprivileged and at risk students. The school which is apart of the Akron, Ohio School District is being funded by James' foundation. The school will provide free backpacks for all the students along with fully funded free breakfast, lunch and snacks. The school is offering bussing for students within a two mile range. And, James has guaranteed he will pay every graduate's college tuition. It is an amazing act of charity and giving back by LeBron.


During Lemon's interview the subject of the President came up. Lemon asked him about Trump, which James answered, "I think our President has used sports to divide us."


Apparently, Trump was still awake and saw the interview or maybe Melania told him. She is a CNN viewer, you know. Regardless, Trump tweeted, "Watching Don Lemon 'the dumbest man on television' interview LeBron James. Lemon is making LeBron look smart which is not easy to do."


James did not respond to Trump's tweet instead tweeting something about I Promise. Lemon, on the other hand, tweeted this piece of shade gold, "You have one guy who builds a school for kids and another guy who puts kids in cages. Who's the real dummy."


May I take a moment and simply say, "Yasssssssssssss!"


Okay, I must really say I'm sick and tired of this old reprobate constantly demeaning and questioning Black folks' IQ! It is a damn pastime for him.


What infuriates me the most is it's a common trope racists use. Trump often goes to the asshole bigot playbook of: Black/Brown people are beggars, are lazy and indolent, are inherently criminal, are immoral and are unintelligent.


In my opinion it's the last trope that is the most infuriating, insulting and reprehensible. Saying a group of people is inherently or largely stupid is a blatant attempt to erode self-esteem. It is designed to render a group of people irrelevant or intellectually unproductive to society. Point blank it is an effective way to dehumanize an entire race.


This shit has been used in this country since its inception. It was one of the slaveholders primary devices in controlling the slaves. Tell them they are stupid while simultaneously withholding from them the ability to be properly educated.


Even after slavery this same nefarious tactic has been employed. Black and Brown people have been and to some degree are still being told they are not capable of significant intellectual capacity.


Trump does this bullshit frequently. He has a long history of questioning Blacks intelligence. Aside from Lemon, who is one of the most decorated journalists alive by the way, he has questioned Rep. Maxine Waters' (D-CA) intelligence often calling her "Low IQ Maxine". Regardless of what one may think of Rep. Waters she is far from "low IQ". She has been a member of Congress for over 25 years. Some of her Republican colleagues even came to her defense saying she is a very bright capable woman.


Trump took veiled shots at some of the NFL players who have been most outspoken about him. I really don't care what you think of those guys but it is unquestionable that players like Malcolm Jenkins, Chris Long, Doug Baldwin and Colin Kaepernick (that's right, I said his name) are some of the most thoughtful intelligent athletes around.


The Orange Clown's most despicable example of questioning people of color's intelligent is President Barack Obama. Trump did not start that racist vacuous birther horseshit but he certainly cultivated it and propagated it on a national level. The claim never had any merit.




This was one of Trump's clearest examples of racism. Not only did he question the citizenship of America's first African-American president because he is a petty trifilin person who could not stand a Black man became president his vapid soul questioned his intellect.


Aside from demanding President Obama "show him his papers" he insisted Obama release his college transcripts because "how did a guy like that get into Harvard?" Let me just say Obama is a better man than me because I would've told that orange douchebag he could "go fuck himself and kiss my whole Black ass"! But, the 44th President is a better man than me.


Trump constantly attacked Obama's intelligence. He implied (not so subtly) that Obama cheated his way into Harvard. "He had to because I heard he was not a good student." Of course, this fool never said who told him that. *Whisper* Because he's a lying sack of shit.


He also doubted how Obama was the head of the Harvard Law Review. Again indicating he must have cheated or it was affirmative action. No, Harvard doesn't just give anyone that honor. It is earned.


Now, Trump questioning Obama's intelligence is rich considering he sounds and tweets like a remedial sixth grader. #CheetoJesus loves to brag about going to Penn University. What he always fails to mention is he only got in because of daddy. He wasn't smart enough to get accepted on his own. I know shocking for a guy who cannot spell and thought up until two years ago Frederick Douglass was still alive.


The attack on LeBron was so unnecessary and petulant. A mature person would've put aside James' comment and commended him for doing something that will truly make America great. But, again, that is what a mature man would do. Our current President is a small petty man-child who is so thin-skinned he has to respond to every little slight. Well, if it is from a Black person. Interestingly, San Antonio Spurs head coach, Gregg Popovich and Golden St. Warriors head coach, Steve Kerr, have said far worse things about #Cheets than any athlete (including LeBron) has ever said. In fact, both of them essentially called him a buffoon and a dumbass. Ironically, Mr. Twitter Keyboard Muscles has not said one word about neither of them. It should be noted both coaches over the last TWO years have expressed harsh criticism regarding Trump. Trump has been *crickets*


Look, I could cite so many more instances if bigotry and racism talking about them at depth. The Central Park Five. Puerto Rico. Calling African countries "shithole countries". Claiming all Haitians have AIDS and are infecting Americans. Calling Mexicans "rapists and murders". Referring to Central American migrants and refugees as "animals" and "an infestation".


But, so much racism; so little time.


I am sure Trump supporters are upset with me. *Shrugs shoulders* Truth and facts are pesky little things sometimes aren't they.


Before I go let me drop this little nugget from a 1991 book written by Trump Plaza COO, John McDonnell. It is his first hand account of a conversation with Mr. I Love The Blacks regarding a Black accountant at Trump Plaza:


"Yeah, I never liked the guy. I don't think he knows what the fuck he's doing. My accountants up in New York are always complaining about him. He's not responsive. And, isn't it funny. I've got Black accountants at Trump Castle and Trump Plaza. Black guys counting my money! I hate it. The only guys I want counting my money are short guys wearing yarmulkes every day. Those are the kind of people I want counting my money. Nobody else. Besides that, I've got to tell you something else. I think that the guy is lazy. And, it's probably not his fault because laziness is a trait in Blacks. It really is. I believe that. It is not anything they can control. Don't you agree?"


*Mic drop*


https://m.facebook.com/Robbase2110


https://mobile.twitter.com/robbase2110?p=s

Why Is The Burden Always Mine Only

A few days ago I saw the following tweet from Adam Best (a White guy) in my timeline:
"Where's the NYT [New York Times] op-ed challenging racists to drop preconceived notions and reach out to minorities to find common ground? Why is the onus on minorities and advocates to drag racists into the 21st Century? Why does the media set the bar high for Liberals, low for Conservatives?"


This tweet really hit me. These are questions that myself and I presume most people of color have asked themselves their entire lives. It really got me thinking and inspired me to address this.


Now, I am not going to address the third question directly because it is a blog unto itself. However, that question plays a role into this discussion.


So, I'm going to write a letter or a grievance to all White Supremacists, White Nationalists, racists, bigots and their apologists. This is also for those who harbor racial resentment, as well as those who low key hold bigoted beliefs but are too cowardly to just admit it.


Here we go:


One of the things that literally makes me laugh out loud is when any of you or Conservatives harp about how "liberal" the New York Times and Washington Post are. It is literally one of the silliest statements uttered. This is especially true for the Times who has spent the last 18 months running "special" articles and op-ed pieces attempting to humanize avowed racists and pretentious "I'm not a bigot or racist" bigots and racists.


Nary a week goes by without the New York Times having dispatched a reporter into "red state" America or to the compound of some Neo-Nazi group gathering information about how they feel and their perspective. Now, that is perfectly fine. The problem arises when the features and op-eds then start lecturing me, POC and those who aren't racists how we need to "understand", "learn to compromise" and "reach out the olive branch" even if they have a rabid pitbull ready to snatch the branch and our hand.


On the flip side there are fewer features about how POC, LGBTQ and Muslims have been harassed, insulted and in some cases terrorized by the very people we are expected to embrace. And, don't get triggered saying "fake news". It is not fake news. See, you don't read the Times because your leaders say "it's bad", so you don't know. I implore you to take 30 minutes out of your time and you'll realize I'm not pulling this shit out of my ass.


Here is what I really want to address and that is why is the onus only on minorities to "get along" with you. In order to find common ground both sides have to give some. Right?






But, it is always us who has to capitulate. I have noticed this from an early age. When I was younger I did exactly that. I can remember feeling I have to be beyond obedient or beyond nice. I also had to be really smart but not too smart, if you know what I mean. And, you do!


My parents drilled into me I had to be above and beyond. My mom would say, "You have to be two steps better because they will always see you as two steps behind."


As I went into my late teens/early 20s, I had an epiphany. Why do I have to be extra nice to the point I'm almost servile? Why do I have to almost feel embarrassed for being intelligent? I literally said, "Eff that!" I'm a good person who is always respectful and kind to people. If me being me isn't good enough, screw you. I am intelligent and more intelligent than some of you. If that intimidates you, that is your shortcoming not mine. Not to mention I could be near perfect and people still hated because I am Black.




Where this is really the most frustrating is in certain people's attitude. While they're saying, "We are all equal", they're literally simultaneously implying that we have to come to them because we're the ones "offended". What POC has experienced that before? Probably within the last week.


For race relations to improve there must be understanding, conciliation and compromise. But, those things have to come from both sides.


I have heard all my life and still hear some White folks say, "Well, I'd like Blacks more if they acted normal and talked normal and assimilated. Oh, and they didn't listen to that music [rap and r&b]."


What does "act normal" and "talk normal" mean? Do you mean be less "Black"? Are you implying Black people do not speak well? Are you implying Black people act "bad"?


I know exactly what you mean. See, it's bullshit like this that angers Black folk and other POC. Instead of judging us as individuals you continue to propagate stereotypes and stigmas. Rather than seeing us for the human beings we are you'd prefer to dehumanize us to keep your narrative alive. Because if you stopped stigmatizing entire groups of people you would certainly find out your beliefs are vapid, putrid, false piles of stupidity!


Let me address the music briefly. Music is an universal language. Most Whites who demonize rap have never actually listened to it. And, if they have, they have never listened enough to make a fair critique of it. Now, I'm not saying if you listen to it you'll like it or should like it. What I am saying is that the inherent implication is that rap music is bad because Blacks perform it and others tell me it's immoral. Also, I love it when people make that statement to me. Because, I always reply it's pretty presumptive of you to believe I listen to rap. Actually I do along with just about every other genre of music because I am not a close minded bigot.


The larger point here is why is it I have to conform everything I am for you. I accept you for who you are; am I not deserving of the same? Why do POC have to be something different than what and who we are? Assimilation is not conforming. Read a dictionary for God's sake!


People who harbor racism or racist beliefs must take personal accountability. Racism is learned. That, I concede. However, continuing to facilitate racism and bigotry when you know better is a choice.


People of color don't make you racist. People who say that are using a cop out. Actually, they are just chicken shit cowards, who are willfully ignorant and hateful. Period.


I always love when idiots say, "Obama being elected was supposed to end racism.".......WHAT?!


The election of the first African-American signified that a majority of Americans had finally been enlightened and came into the 21st Century. Unfortunately, the election also highlighted that racism is still alive and well. Quite frankly, it has been emboldened over the last three years.


Obama's election wasn't some miracle elixir that made racists and bigots suddenly not racist and bigoted. To think it would is idiotic. And, that is being kind.


Racism is learned but it becomes a feeling of the heart. Racists will never stop being racist until they start believing racism is wrong. As long as you see me as inferior, you're not going to change.


That is what infuriates me about the racist apologists. Y'all love to play this game where you say we're equal but in the same breath you say things that imply you think that equal is more 55/45 than 50/50.


You want things to improve (if you really do) then you have to embrace us the way you want us to embrace you. Instead of demanding we capitulate accept us assimilating which we do. Common ground exists but you have to confront some demons and truths just as we do. Understanding and compromise is not an one way street.


Last thing. Everything I said applies to sane people who want to listen. When it comes to you dyed in the wool Neo-Nazis, White Supremacists and White Nationalists I'm not going to agree to disagree.


After #Charlottesville I actually had people tell me in person and on Facebook that I need to back off and "agree to disagree". Look, and this goes for the apologists who told me that, I am NOT going to agree to disagree with people who dogmatically believe because of the color of my skin I am inherently inferior to Whites, I am inherently less intelligent than Whites, people who want to deport me because this is a "White" country and people who want to eradicate me from the earth.


I am not going to concede one inch to those jackasses. You are all the way outside your mind if you think I should. No common ground can be obtained with folks like that. The fact anyone would even utter such nonsense says they need to check their privilege. The same people who say that mess are the same people who won't even hear out someone who is pro-choice on why they're pro-choice. So, they should understand where I am coming from.


It is simple. As the tweet says, it's not my burden to drag people into the 21st Century let alone make so-called self professed Christians actually adhere to Christ's principles.


If you're racist or a bigot or harbor some ill feelings toward minorities, that is not on me or anyone else. That is on you! Only you can prevent you from starting forrest fires and only you can prevent you from being an ignorant hateful bigot!


I can also be found on Facebook and Twitter. Checkout my pages. Links below:


https://m.facebook.com/home.php?stype=gvddsp&sk=live&gfid=AQAaMQEw6mZrFCRp&_rdr#!/Robbase2110


https://mobile.twitter.com/robbase2110

Negative People Are Tiring

Negative people are tiring.


No, seriously, they are draining.


We all know someone (or likely many someone[s]) to whom this applies.


I am sure someone reading this may go, "Hold up. Aren't you negative?" Well, no, I'm not. I might be negative toward a certain situation or person. But, I would argue that is more critique which admittedly contains negativity.


What is being addressed here is negative people. Folks who are perpetually and consistently negative regarding everything.


We all know the type. No matter what the topic or situation is they find fault or a blemish.


They are the kind of people in a group setting whom, if anything is proposed, will find a flaw regardless how insignificant. They are the folks who will always have a negative reaction to the idea even if everyone else praises the idea.


Negative people will always piss on the party, so to speak. They are the people who will always be aloof when everyone else is having a good time. They are the buzz kill.


It is extremely taxing having these sorts around. You seem to find yourself feeling anxious. Negative people precipitate an atmosphere of apprehension and tension.


Perhaps, the worst effect of negative people is they foster negativity into those around them. The saying, "Misery loves company", carries enormous weight and truth.


Negative folks can poison an entire group. They excrete a toxicity that has an addictive effect on all those it encompasses. A swath of positive people can be transformed into cynical contrarians. The negativity can literally wear down the most upbeat people.


And, what seems to be the most frustrating aspect of negative folks is often they are difficult and dissident just to be difficult and dissident. It is almost as if being contrarian is reflexive. Whatever suggestion is presented or plan is implemented or direction is being taken they find some blemish. They must pushback. It is wearisome and infuriating.


I have seen people who will bitch about something they literally had expressed favor toward in the very recent past. They are captious merely for the sake of being captious. Maddening is not a significant enough word to describe the emotion people like that evoke.


I just had to get this off my chest. I'm aware this post is a bit rambling but sometimes occurrences take place that inspire emotions within you and a need to express them. I pride myself in relaying myself thoughtfully and explicitly. But, sometimes shit like this has you so distraught that your thoughts come through as a rambling maybe even slightly incoherent mess.


Negative folks just frustrate me. I see being contrarian or contemptuous about a certain topic or situation you're passionate about. If your feelings regarding it are negative you're going to appear negative. I get that. I'm guilty as charged regarding that practice.


However, I am speaking more nuance concerning negative people. The type of person whom if you say, "I just got a new job in Seattle!", respond not with congratulations but, "Oh. Well, you know it's rainy and gloomy there. I hear a bunch of hippies fill the streets. I wouldn't like it there, so you'll hate it. But, if you wanna live there, I guess..."


It is people who are never happy with anything. Ever! They are the folks who literally can and will suck every ounce of joy out of everything. They are the people who invoke moments of awkward silence in a room. They initiate feelings of anxiety, apprehension and temperance of happiness. These people foment fear, divisiveness and pessimism. Their cynicism, surliness and pervasive toxicity is draining and deflating.


Negative people are just........tiresome. So...so...so...TIRESOME.

When Will Folks Learn (Ghosts Of Twitter Past Are Always Lurking)

Hey! HEY! Are all of you paying attention?! Read very carefully: Once you hit "send"on a tweet it is likely out in these internet streets FOREVER!


The internet has been apart of our daily lives for...What? Twenty-five years? And, it appears folks still don't understand how this whole world wide web thing works. Lawd Jesus. Poor chirrhens, they just never learn.


How many Twitter feeds from long ago must be exposed before people start realizing if they have tweeted racist, homophobic, offensive or just all around stupid shit somebody will unearth it.


In recent weeks professional athletes and known figures have seen their past tweets come back to haunt them.


Let's start with Roseanne Barr. Now, ABC canned her directly because of a current tweet. Everyone knows the story. I'm not going to retell it. But, Roseanne MIGHT have been given a pass except for the fact her past Twitter feed suggested the tweet that precipitated her firing was part of a pattern. Despite her bullshit excuses the truth is she had an extensive history of offensive and cra cra tweets.


A couple of weeks ago Milwaukee Brewers pitcher, Josh Hader, had his Twitter past thrown back in his face because of some tweets of his from seven years ago. Hader, 24, tweeted some racist, homophobic and misogynistic comments. A couple of the tweets were rap lyrics by Drake. Why are these youngsters always quoting Drake? That alone makes me side-eye yo ass. I digress. Anyway, I don't get to worked up about White folks quoting rap lyrics featuring the "N" word. Of course, they shouldn't say it but I am not quick to jump on the "they're a racist" train.


However, Mr. Hader tweeted some other racist comments that were not rap lyrics. Instead, the tweets were just straight up indefensible racism. He also tweeted some very homophobic and misogynistic comments.


Hader apologized to his team in private and issued a public apology. He said he was "17 and just a dumb kid". Part of me says yeah he was a kid. But, more of me says that excuse is weak, somewhat insincere and attempting to shed responsibility. At 17 years old one is old enough to know right from wrong. The excuse doesn't hold water. I know myself and many others weren't saying racist and homophobic slurs at 17 and demeaning women. So, he needs to be a little more accountable.


Last week Guardians of the Galaxy director, James Gunn, was fired by ABC for tweets he had posted joking about pedophilia. Right wing activist and dbag in his own right, Mike Cernovich, discovered the tweets and exposed them. Gunn tweeted disgusting pedophile jokes along with disdainful jokes about rape.


Gunn apologized, of course. Like the others he said the tweets were from a long time ago, as if it mattered.


They were horrific tweets. He deserved to be fired in my opinion. He has actually received a lot of support asking him to be reinstated. The fact he is receiving support is unfathomable to me.


Then, just yesterday Washington Nationals shortstop, Trae Turner, and Atlanta Braves pitcher, Sean Newcomb, became the latest public figures to have their past Twitter feeds exposed. Both had posted racist and homophobic tweets around seven years ago when they were 18.


Now, Newcomb's racist tweets are a little in question for me. A couple of the tweets were Drake lyrics. Why are people quot...Lemme stop and stay on task. A couple of the other tweets weren't blatantly racist but displayed a racist tendency or at least racially insensitive. His other tweets were unquestionably homophobic. He used the slur, fag, quite a bit.


Of course, both Turner and Newcomb issued apologies. As a diehard Braves fan it disappoints (but not surprises) me that Newcomb's apology seemed weak and insincere. He said he "didn't mean to offend anybody" and he "would make sure it didn't happen again". It just appeared to me it was a step above the "if I offended anyone" line which of course isn't an actual apology.


Turner's statement on the other hand seemed more forceful and remorseful. He mentioned he was 18 but also made a point to say "that was no excuse". He said he is not that person now and his teammates and anyone who knows him would attest to that. He also specifically said the tweets were wrong and "inexcusable".


Here is what I do not understand about any of these people and the countless other folks who have their receipts revealed: How does this happen?


Aside from the obvious point that these statements should've never been tweeted, why were they still on their Twitter feeds? They knew they tweeted the shit. Even if these folks didn't remember word for word they knew they had tweeted things that were offensive, off color and in some cases heinous.


Most of these people are of the internet age. They know dadgum well once something is tweeted it's likely there forever. All it takes is one retweet or screenshot taken on a cellphone and that ish is immortalized.


Delete it! Now, because someone or several people might have retweeted the tweet, deleting it doesn't actually delete it. But, at least it wouldn't be on their Twitter feed. The vast majority of people who have offensive tweets exposed are exposed by their own Twitter feeds and not other people's retweets.


I suppose they could have forgotten about the tweets. I mean I guess it could be given some of these tweets were from seven, eight, ten years ago. But, c'mon, man! Know the world you live in. Twitter is saturated with trolls and petty people who literally will spend hours combing through folks' Twitter page hoping to find anything that will "expose" them or ruin them. Some do it for fun. Others do it because they're haters. Then, some like Mike Cernovich want to destroy Hollywood because they think it is some "holy" mission.


Regardless, it is unfathomable how so many celebrities and athletes allow this to happen.


Of course, the real lesson here is to watch what you say or be willing to suffer the potential consequences. People will scream "free speech". But, again, free speech only guarantees you the right to say whatever you want without fear of prosecution or imprisonment. It doesn't not guarantee a price will not be paid.


At the end of the day I do not feel sorry or even empathy for any of these people. Remember kids if you don't say racist, homophobic, xenophobic, pedophilic, sexist or misogynistic shit then you can't get in trouble for saying racist, homophobic, xenophobic, pedophilic, sexist or misogynistic shit. It really isn't hard to do.

Democrats, Do As GOP Does, Embrace Your Base

Poor Democrats. Always the tortured souls of the American political landscape. They always have this innate ability to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. Sanctimony and pretentious principled stands often contribute to their complex.


Also, the lack of a killer instinct to win also adds to their seemingly reoccurring problems. The desire to win is omnipresent, but they always get in their own way.


The current Democratic Party emboldens these issues and stigmas. Here we are in 2018 and Democrats are still litigating the 2016 election. They are wringing their hands and scratching their temples as to how they lost the presidential election to the most unpopular uncouth candidate to ever run for the office.


To help sleep at night they comfort themselves with valid reasons albeit not the reason that allowed the others to factor into the election. While the GOP candidate was the most unpopular nominee to ever run, the Democratic candidate, Hillary Clinton, was a close second. Yes, YES, Russian interference likely had a hand in the election because of all the misinformation they were spreading. And, of course, the tendency of a large swath of the electorate to vet nothing and never employ critical curiosity and thinking helped that misinformation campaign. Ughhhhh. Anyway...Also, besides from Clinton being unpopular, she ran a shitty ass campaign. She, Robbie Mook (campaign manager) and John Podesta were so convinced the American people would never vote for a nominee who spouted racist tropes, demeaned Gold Star families, disparaged an entire religion and called an entire group of people "rapist and murderers (except for the ones he *assumed* were good people) that they unforgivably abdicated the job of campaigning. Clinton literally not one time visited any of the three states that made up a 77,000 vote difference that cost her the electoral college.


With all of these things being said and true it is not what truly cost her the election. What cost Clinton the easy win she should have had along with partially being responsible for the Dems losing over 1000 federal and state elected seats during the Barack Obama presidency is the reluctance, if not refusal, of the party to embrace its base.


If the 2016 Democratic primaries did nothing else, it illuminated exactly where the base of the party is. Bernie Sanders tapped into the left populist movement he has purveying for years and that more and more party voters had been moving towards after Obama's first election. Honestly, the shift likely began happening after the 2000 elections.


Sanders, as a 74 year old man, energized young people. It was similar to what Obama did in 2008 and Bill Clinton in 1992. Sanders spoke to what young voters believed in. But, as it turned out, he reached older voters as well.


It became apparent that a large contingency of the party supported what Bernie was proposing even if some them weren't supporting him over Clinton. Bernie gave her a fight. It could be said he dominated in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. As we know Bernie didn't win the nomination. I'm not going to go into the particulars of that.


But, his policies did win. He forced Hillary to the left but it was obvious she didn't embrace or believe in them. Consequently, along with other reasons, a segment of Sanders supporters didn't support her. The base as a whole did not energetically campaign for Clinton. The diehard "I'm with her" Clinton supporters rallied around her but because the rest of the base was unenthusiastic they tended to shun and side-eye what was actually the majority of the base. They were so concerned with electing the first female president they neglected to acknowledge the issues that resonated with Democratic base voters.


Now, here we are two years later and the party leadership along with the neoliberal wing of the party still aren't getting it. No, that's letting them off the hook. They just don't care or are so entrenched in their own bullshit they're not seeing what is clearly in front of them.


I like Chuck Schumer but he and Nancy Pelosi are doing the party a huge disservice with their leadership. Frankly, their leadership sucks! They refuse to listen to the base instead catering to the donor class. They are stuck in this inane doctrine of appealing to centrists and "working" with the Republicans.


Lawd Jesusssssss! You all still haven't learned the lesson Obama finally painfully learned? The GOP is NEVER going to work with you! Neva, evah, evah, EVAH!


The GOP gets it. They understand where their base is. Sure, many of the elected officials find some of the rhetoric and core beliefs distasteful but they realize if they want to win elections they have to cozy up to the Republican base. And, those who cannot stomach it such as Paul Ryan, Bob Corker and Jeff Flake are leaving. But, the RNC recognizes who their base is and has conformed its platform to the base while trying to appeal to moderates, I guess. Regardless of what you might or might not think about Republican values embracing their base has worked for them.


Democrats need to take the cue and do the same. Look, the base of the party is no longer neoliberals and centrists. The base is largely comprised of left leaning classic liberals, Progressives, Justice Democrats and Democratic Socialists. The party has moved left. It's not far left like Republicans claim but the base is no longer tolerant of center left Democrats who seem more beholden to their donors and big money than they do their voters.


Now, I recently said on Facebook that the party needs to unify and support candidates of all stripes. Some districts and states require a more moderate candidate to run. Winning needs to be the priority because an agenda cannot be implemented if elections aren't being won. I stand by those comments. It is just common sense.


However, as a whole the party has to move away from corporatism if they want win and get back into power. I understand that folks like Schumer and Pelosi sorta cringe at the rise of progressiveness and Democratic Socialism. I, also, understand they love power. But, what they, the centrists and the Clinton wing of the party must come to grips with is their ideology no longer aligns with the base. They better realize that continuing to ignore and alienate the base is not a winning strategy. In fact, it will drive people out of the party. It already has.


The old guard lives in the present as if it's 1993. It simply isn't. The country has changed. It is obviously more polarized.


They shun the left wing of the party because they don't want to be called "socialists" by Republicans. First of all, grow a spine. Who gives a shit what Republicans say?! For the love of God fight back! Second, the GOP are going to call you socialists, Marxists and Communists regardless.


Let's be real here, a'right. Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton and Barack Hussein (warning: someone will be triggered) Obama were all left of center to centrist Democrats. They were. All of them have some progressive beliefs but their core approach politically is centrists. Republicans called of three of them Marxists, Socialists and Communists.


So, Dems, stop letting the ignorant erroneous propaganda of the right dictate your approach. The right likes to strawman. How about embracing what the party is and actually employing the big tent mantra you claim to possess? Stop being disingenuous and explain what progressivism is.


Fact is the majority of Americans support many of the main tenants of the Progressive platform. Over 60% of voters support single payor healthcare. Ninety percent of Americans support sensible gun control. The vast majority of Americans support an increase in minimum wage/living wage. Almost 60% believe in justice/prison reform. Nearly 65% of voters support legalizing marijuana. A majority of Americans support getting big money out of politics.


So, this really shouldn't be hard for Democrats. Endear yourselves to policies proposed by Justice Democrats and supported by the American people. This is not rocket science.


The midterm elections are 100 days away. Most people believe a blue wave is coming. I'm skeptical. Democrats have a long history of choking. Considering where the majority of the country stands on the key issues and the daily shitshow out of the White House the midterms should be an easy layup.


But, Dem leadership, that will be up to you. Will you continue to be petty and myopic or will you fully support the Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's of the party? 2020 is fast approaching. I'm not saying Elizabeth Warren, Bernie Sanders or Kamala Harris is the guaranteed answer to defeating the Great Pumpkin of Mar-A-Lago. But, I am certain Hillary Clinton or Tim Kaine or that ilk will result in a certain loss.


I supported Hillary in 2016. I won't apologize for that necessarily. But, I will admit I was wrong about why I chose her over Bernie. I supported with my intellect what Hillary was proposing, but my heart was closer with Bernie's vision. I erroneously thought Bernie had no chance of winning. I saw the polls showing him trouncing that orange dude, but I just didn't believe people would vote for someone the GOP was calling a socialist. I was wrong.


Democrats, don't be wrong again in 2018 and 2020. Our democracy literally hinges on you getting it right.  

No Facts, No Logic (The Frustrations Of Current Political Debate)

Generally speaking I am a shy person. I am not one who is high on confrontation. However, if the topic is a passion of mine I will debate it. Despite my shyness I actually love debate. I think discourse is healthy and educational. I am always wanting to learn. Regardless of the topic I am usually ready to have a spirited open discussion.

But, while I love debating, I hate arguing. Arguments rarely, if ever, solve anything. They are almost always fruitless, vain exercises. When people are arguing instead of discussing they inherently cease listening to the other person because they only concern themselves with getting their point across. Arguments intrinsically cause people to be more concerned with "winning" the argument than coherently having their point heard and concisely conveying their position or belief.

In this current political and social climate I find more people who want to argue rather than debate or discuss. The general discourse landscape is littered with tension, narrow-mindedness and a desire for confrontation.

This especially true regarding political discourse. So many people are in their "tribes" and "bubbles" that they sincerely believe their views are infallible. These people all but isolate themselves inside their little world where they are "good" and anyone outside of the bubble is bad. They literally surround themselves the best they can with like minded people never challenging themselves with different opinions. If they work or have to socialize with the "others" they keep their communications with them as cursory as possible because they see them as the "enemy".

Then, there is the role social media plays. It is astounding the number of people who will get on Twitter and Facebook saying things about and to people they would never have the guts to say in person. And, if they did, they would immediately be ready to play the victim.

But, a huge swath of people will post political things saying they are all about frank fair discussion. However, the second someone replies with an opposing viewpoint the claws come out. All of the talk of fair frank discussion gets tossed in favor of arguing. As I can personally attest there is rarely civil discourse; it quickly devolves into name calling, demonizing and straw manning.

What I have found maddeningly frustrating is, whether it is online or in person, people are so woefully uninformed. They will argue conflating information, if not just getting it wrong all together. They began regurgitating things they've "heard" but never vetted. They will say they "read" some erroneous information but suddenly can't cite where they read it. And, everything they say they say it as if it is fact. Then, if you debunk what they say they call it "fake news" and you a liar.

I have no problem with anyone disagreeing with something I say. We can debate it and be productive. Maybe I will see something from a new view. Perhaps, I have information wrong and they can show me where I erred.

Open, honest, frank intelligent debate is apart of the fabric of our democracy. It is essential if we desire to keep it healthy. Discourse keeps us intellectually honest.

But, in this current climate people are not concerned with civil discourse. They are even less concerned with being logical and factual. Folks only want to be right and "own" you. I do not even know what that means. I have been told that numerous times by people on Twitter after they made some half-assed fallacy filled "point" that I countered and debunked with facts. I guess because they called me a "stupid libtard" or "ignorant munkey" or "another dumb nigger" or "a faggot ass pussie" they owned me. All actual things that have been said. I always respond with something to the effect, "You didn't 'own' me. But, Darwinism certainly owns you. And, I might be another dumb nigger but at least I can spell. We're done here."

This is the type of discourse we way too often have. Our society is is filled with people who are willfully proudly ignorant. They have absolutely no intellectual curiosity. They have not a drop of desire to be well read so they can coherently express their viewpoints. Instead they insulate themselves into their own bubble where they're only receiving some information or they are not accurately absorbing the it or they are succinctly only be told what they want to hear. Then they head to Twitter, Facebook or in person looking for a fight. Inciting a political debate so they can " own" someone only to show themselves as being shallow uninformed provocateurs. What is often worse is when the person they decide to banter with is equally as shallow and uniformed.

The base of the problem is folks don't listen to one another. As I said earlier instead of exchanging ideas and viewpoints people argue. They wallow in narcissism, willful ignorance and this pervasive need for victimhood. Winning and being made to feel they are right is much more important than expressing a particular stance where someone can see where they are coming from or coming to an understanding.

I know, perhaps more than anything, what depresses me is when people aren't listening. I am not really interested in "converting" anyone. Just listen to me, understand where I am coming from and show me and my opinion the respect it deserves as I do you. Or at least try my absolute best to do.

Name calling, demonizing, demeaning and belittling is not getting us anywhere and it never will. Isolation is not either. We solve problems and fix the ills by talking rationally and intelligently. It is certainly going to become heated and raw at times, but that doesn't mean it has to devolve into juvenile pettiness. Listen to each other. Empathize. Learn. And, be informed. Having a trusted news source is fine but watch, read and listen to multiple sources including ones who align differently from you and employ critical thinking.

We have a huge divide in this country. It is mainly because of ignorance refusal to listen. It's also because of this inexplicable need to have an enemy. We are all Americans. We aren't each others' enemy.

Honestly, this is a subject deserving of a book or at least a lengthy thesis. So much can be expanded upon and explored. But, I wanted to write this to get this off my chest.

*Please feel free to comment. I don't censor. I welcome all commentary even if it is critical.

      

R. Kelly, Step...Step Into A Jail Cell

I had planned on blogging today about Milwaukee Brewers pitcher, Josh Hader, and his racist dumbassery. I was contemplating all day about what I would say and how Hader's "I was a kid" defense seems insufficient and somewhat insincere. But, then, R. Kelly had to spew out some pure unadulterated fuckery. So, now, I find myself blogging about "Mr. Pissin On You".


Today R. Kelly released a 19 minute...NINETEEN DAMB MINUTE music video titled, "I Admit". My initial reaction was, "Uh-huh! No he didn't! This fool finally came clean. Well, ain't that a..." But, then I read the story and the lyrics. He didn't admit to shit. Instead, he apparently spent 19 minutes obfuscating, self-loathing, self-victimizing, whining and attempting to elicit sympathy.


Kelly addressed his numerous sexual misconduct, sexual assault and pedophile charges. Well, he really didn't address the charges. He basically didn't deny them instead choosing to obfuscate. He said he "likes the ladies, old and young" but to call it pedophila is "crazy". He then asked, "Am I supposed to lose my career or go to jail over your opinion (that he's a pedophile)?" No, Robert, you shouldn't go to jail over someone's opinion. You should go to jail because you like to sex and pee on underage girls, you piece of shit! Lemme ask you a question. Am I supposed to feel sorry for you? I do not!


Then, he drops this little jewel. "Say I'm abusing these women? What the fuck? That's some absurd shit. Brainwashed? Really? Kidnapped? Really? Can't eat? Really? Real talk, that shit sounds silly." Well, it doesn't sound that silly. And, they're not women, fucktard! They are girls!


Now, just in case you were getting sucked into buying this bullshit he removes any doubt of who he is with this ish. "What's the definition of a cult? What's the definition of a sex slave? Go to the dictionary, look it up. Let me know. I'll be here waiting."


Welp, R. I went to the dictionary. The second listing for a cult is as follows: "A group that devotes itself to or venerates a person, ideal, fad, ect." I also looked up sex slave. Definition reads as follows: "A person entirely under the dominion of some influence or person obligated to provide sex to said person for free". Uh, muthafucka that sounds like what those girls were to you!


Now, Kelly also stated in the song he was molested from the age of 7 to 14, which if true, he needs to seek help for. Lawd forgive me but it sounds a bit convient. He also said he's functionally illiterate, which begs the question why someone of his wealth never took classes to become literate. Also, he claims to write his own music so...


Look, I am done with R. Kelly! D-O-N-E! He obviously has issues. It is so apparent he is guilty as sin. He is a manipulator, which is evident by this bullshit song. Worse yet, he is a predator.


I found it interesting he never flatly denied any of the accusations. What I also found quite intriguing is while he was "bearing his soul" there was one thing he left out in his self-serving bs. He didn't say a damb word about his penchant for pissin on folks.


What about that, Mr. Keep It In The Closet?! Not one word about peeing on young girls. And, how effed up is that? Look, I like to get down; get my freak on but in my near 44 years on this earth I have never once thought about peeing on a woman. That shit is crazy. I mean what balanced dude looks at woman and says, "Dayum, Girl. Your booty is poppin. Your boobs are on point. Baby, you just make me wanna piss all over you. Gurl, I wanna pee so much I dehydrate myself!" No normal human being says or thinks that. Yes, I know there are people who are into that and that's a level of freak that heavily implies you need to talk with Jesus! I'm just sayin.


The fact is I have ZERO sympathy for R. Kelly. He is a predator. I don't care why he is a predator. It is just clear he is. And, I fully understand these girls parents are culpable. Who in they right mind would allow their teenage daughter to go "stay awhile" with a grown ass man? I wouldn't have let my daughters be alone with a R. Kelly cd let alone his urinating happy ass!


And, these folks defending him and being apologists... Lawd help ya! You have two groups defending him.


The first group is the same dumbasses who constantly shill for Chris Brown. They propagate the defense, "Yes, he does wrong but he can saaaaang". What in the fuck?! He "can saaang"? Oh, so because he makes great music he should be allowed to molest young girls. That is a sound defense, if you're a bonafide mental midget. Sorry. Not sorry. Yes, R. Kelly has made some bomb ass music. That is not enough to overlook sexual predatory behavior.


The other group is what I call the "Bill Cosby" defenders. Their mantra is "Yes, he is a pedophile but he's a Black male role model. Besides, what about [insert White sexual predator's name]?" Lemme address the latter statement first. What about them? When "what about-ism" is your defense you don't have an intelligent defense. That defense screams, "I know my guy is guilty so I'm going to deflect." Yes, there are plenty of White dudes who slide by but that doesn't mean we should literally look the other way when a sexual deviant and criminal is preying on young Black girls and women. That makes no sense.


As to the first part of the defense, we (Black folks) have plenty of other Black male role models. John Legend, Kendrick Lamar, Russell Westbrook, Stephen Curry, Malcom Jenkins, Colin Kaepernick (Yes, I said his name! 😒) to name a few. But, there is a plethora of Black men we can look up to who aren't sexual assaulters. Can we please aim just a little higher? Inequality is real and every Black person with a shred of dignity knows it; but, Black folk, really is the likes of R. Kelly a hill worth dying on? REALLY?


And, hey, I've been complicit. I knew something was off about that Negro when he was damn near 30 years old and married Aayliah the day she turned 16. But, I moralized it away like the Chris Brown defenders because "I Can't Sleep" was the shitz and Aaliyah did say, "Age ain't nuthin but a number." But, that was bullshit! My Black ass wouldn't be marrying essentially 15 year olds when I was in my 20s! So, why should've I excused it from him. But, I did. I was indefensibly wrong. However, when it came out he was peeing on folks like some stray dog would a tree I was off the train. When Toure asked this fool if he thought it was wrong to sex young girls and he said, "Well, what do you mean young? How young are you talking?" I was screaming for Chris Hansen. If there was ever a moment for "To Catch A Predator" to have its cameras rolling.


R. Kelly should be in jail. This isn't for debate. Seriously! Seriously! When it comes to child molesters there can't be a parsing or moral equivalency.


 Wrong is wrong. Is there really a need for discussion?....

Yes, Lefties, You Are Guilty Of Violating Free Speech Rights Too

Let's get this clear upfront. Not wanting to hear racist, xenophobic or homophobic speech is not morally equivalent to not wanting to hear a celebrity or athlete's opinion simply because you disagree with it ideologically.


However, free speech is all encompassing. Just as it is wrong for those who are right leaning when they attempt to silent opinions they oppose it is wrong for those on the left when they do the same. Free speech is not always comfortable nor is it always moral. It can be hateful and abjectly ignorant. Regardless, all of it has a right to be heard.


The last few years have seen an increase in censorship of certain speakers on college campuses. The majority of those speakers are the ideological right. Some of those speakers are avowed racists, White Nationalists, anti-Semites and Islamophobes. Often a contingency of students have voiced concern, if not blatant objection, resulting in universities and colleges caving in not allowing certain speakers to appear despite many of them having already been booked.


The institutions of higher learning always cite a fear of violence as cause for cancellations or non-invites. While the violence concern has merit it is often a disingenuous excuse. Usually, it has more to do with students, professors and many college administrators finding such language and positions morally repugnant. That repugnancy could affect the bottom line. Profit motive is always lurking around.


But, what many of these students need to realize and what the professors and administrators should already know is that a college campus is supposed to be the ideal establishment for an exchange of ideas and a platform for varying opinions. College is the place where you expand your horizons and study different ideas. It doesn't mean those ideas will be embraced.


It is completely reasonable to see figures such as Ann Coulter, Richard Spencer and Milo Yiannopoulis as reprehensible. It is fair to see their positions on race, immigration, and equality as unsettling and disgusting. If the term "White Supremacist" was used it would be hard for an intelligent person to argue against it.


However, censoring them from campuses only emboldens their fan base and gives them fodder for make themselves "victims". More than that censoring them goes against the very idea of free speech. As long as they are not directly inciting violence they have a constitutional right to say whatever they want to say regardless of how idiotic it might be. Now, that doesn't mean they can't get fired from a job or lose endorsements. That is a potential cost of free speech.


One could argue doesn't a college have the same right as an employer to not want hate or intolerant speech or the propagators of such speech on their campus. If said propagator is an employee then, yes, of course.




But, in the case of guest speakers they should actually welcome such speakers. When anyone gives a speech on a campus they are likely subject to pushback. If someone is speaking whom others have disagreements, they should exercise their First Amendment rights and protest. Confront these people contradicting their talking points with facts and analyses. Instead of censoring them expose them for being the hateful, intolerant bigoted people they are.


Everyone's opinions are not going to be yours nor should they be. Part of what makes America great is that differing ideas and opinions can be freely expressed. A "nuisance" of that free expression is some opinions and ideologies you are going to find more than disagreeable. You are going to find them repugnant and unpalatable because they are hate filled. Unfortunately, this country has racists, xenophobes, homophobes and generally intolerant ignorant people. But, those people have the right to say what they think. It doesn't mean it should be embraced or coddled. It also doesn't mean it should be censored.


Stop being snowflakes. Quit looking for your "safe space". Stand up! Fight for what you claim to believe in! Be principled. Don't run and hide from those you oppose. Confront their language and ideologies. Call it out for what it is.


Look, the world will always...always...always have people like Coulter, Spencer, Yiannopoulous and Steve Bannon. But, censoring them to silence them is not the answer; debunking, discrediting and exposing them for the racist charlatans they are is what will silence them.


Free speech belongs to ALL of US (even the hateful and ignorant).