by Marcus Brooks

Created on: March 21, 2010

Don Imus doesn't deserve sympathy for being a misguided bigot.  He deserves sympathy for being born with mouth that has no "off" switch. 

Why do radio commentators think off-color humor is funny?  There are listeners who constantly wait to criticize what's being said over the air.  There's the annoying FCC and their willingness to implement heavy fines. 

Should Imus have left the Rutgers basketball alone?

People have condemned CBS for firing the controversial host.  However, Imus's actions have done more than just bring up America's "race issue" again.  His actions are the main focus to an otherwise entertaining NCAA title matchup.

Others have applauded the firing.  They're calling Imus names, such as "bigot", "racist" and "hateful".  The titles "bad comedian" or "below average, radio host" are more appropiate.  Slurs, aside, he has his supporters and fans.  They believe he is misunderstood and America is too obsessed with being politically correct.

Coach Pat Summitt's Tennessee Volunteers are champions of women's basketball.  Coach Vivan Stringer's Rutgers basketball team are gladiators for their heroism in the face of insurmountable odds.  Both give of themselves year after year.  They are among the pillars of collegiate athletics.  But, are we talking about them?  Or, are we talking about Imus's (non) sense of humor?

No, we're talking about some old, decrepit pseudo-comedian.  We're focusing our attention on soothing the massive ego of an on-air egomaniac.  Imus has firing is causing him "hardships".  He is able to collect on his exorbitant salary or celebrity perks.  What a pity.

Calling Coach Stringer's players "nappy-headed hoes" isn't funny or warranted.  To call a woman a h* is to have intimate knowledge of that woman's sexual activities.  The insult is detrimental, subjective and negative.  

A man doesn't call a woman a h* as a term of endearment.  To call COMPLETE STRANGERS h*s is insensitive, idiotic and senseless.  To use that word as a joke isn't thinking high on the smart meter.  Understand, a joke has little punch when the only person laughing works for you!

Vivian Stringer is a revered, head coach.  She has the respect of her peers in college basketball.  She is an icon in the states of New York and Iowa.  She represents what's right about women athletics.  Her players are a reflection of hard work, class and good sportsmanship.

Imus has no right to insult such greatness.  His humiliation is self-induced and expected. 

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