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Denver woman stirs controversy by singing Black national anthem at city ceremony

Staff Reporter | Posted July 2, 2008 12:17 PM

A singer in Denver stirred up controversy this week when she sang the words to the Black national anthem instead of singing the U.S. national anthem at the mayor's annual State of the City speech.

Singer René Marie was introduced by City Council President Michael Hancock to sing "The Star Spangled Banner" on Tuesday at Mayor John Hickenlooper's annual State of the City address. But instead of singing "Oh say can you see," Marie sang "Lift ev'ry voice and sing," the first verse and the title of the song known as the black national anthem or the negro national anthem.

When it was over, she had melded the melody of "The Star Spangled Banner" with the lyrics to "Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing."

Marie told a local TV news station in Denver that she kept her idea to switch songs a secret until the very last moment, only revealing her plan to her husband and a friend. "When I decided to sing my version, what was going on in my head was: 'I want to express how I feel about living in the United States, as a black woman, as a black person,'" Marie told 9NEWS.

City Council member Charlie Brown took issue with Marie's performance and publicly criticized the absence of the national anthem at the event, 9NEWS reported. "There is no substitute for the national anthem, period," Brown said.

"This is the State of the City address. It's not an NAACP convention," Brown was quoted in the Rocky Mountain News.

In a statement released Tuesday evening, Hickenlooper said: "I'm disappointed that this matter has been a distraction from the great work and significant accomplishments of our city employees over the past year and the many important initiatives on tap for the coming year."

In an interview with the Rocky Mountain News, the mayor said that he spoke to Marie after the ceremony and she apologized, although the paper quoted her as saying she had no regrets and would do it again.

The lyrics to the Black National Anthem are as follows...

LIFT EV'RY VOICE AND SING
also known as "The Black National Anthem"
by James Weldon Johnson

Lift ev'ry voice and sing,
Till earth and heaven ring.
Ring with the harmonies of Liberty;
Let our rejoicing rise,
High as the list'ning skies,
Let it resound loud as the rolling sea.
Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us,
Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us;
Facing the rising sun of our new day begun,
Let us march on till victory is won.

Stony the road we trod,
Bitter the chast'ning rod,
Felt in the days when hope unborn had died;
Yet with a steady beat,
Have not our weary feet,
Come to the place for which our fathers sighed?
We have come over a way that with tears has been watered,
We have come, treading our path through the blood of the slaughtered,
Out from the gloomy past,
Till now we stand at last
Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast.

God of our weary years,
God of our silent tears,
Thou who has brought us thus far on the way;
Thou who has by Thy might,
Led us into the light,
Keep us forever in the path, we pray.
Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee,
Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee,
Shadowed beneath thy hand,
May we forever stand,
True to our God,
True to our native land.

Articles written by a Staff Reporter are unsigned reports from a member of the staff.

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Comments 57

Ramses
2008-07-02 12:28:26

There is a time and a place for everything, an invitation implies compliance. If you cannot comply do not accept the invitation.

Purl Gurl
2008-07-02 12:42:17

Stupid racist woman. She has inflicted great harm upon Black America and has metaphorically stabbed America in her back.

Ren� Marie has previously stated she feels like a "foreigner" in America and has previously stated she will never sing our National Anthem.

Well good for her. I will personally buy her an aeroplane ticket to Iran, a one-way ticket.

Ren� Marie serves as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

Purl Gurl
2008-07-02 13:30:00

Any readers remember legendary Eartha Kitt?

Eartha spoke out against the Vietnam war during a luncheon hosted by Lady Bird Johnson. This is appropriate, this was and is an issue which concerns all Americans. Kitt was invited to speak about problems in education during the time period. Kitt related a tie between anger over Vietnam and loss of a chance at education because being drafted into war, predominately a problem for poor people, especially black youth.

A result is Eartha Kitt was politically hunted down, blackballed, investigated by our FBI and our CIA, then eventually self-exiled to Europe.

My husband was drafted, he could not afford to attend college to avoid Vietnam. He served with honor, was twice wounded, almost died. His serving in Vietnam did set back our ability to move forward in life. Nonetheless, our family is proud of his service to our country. Eartha Kitt was right; the Vietnam War did cause harm to young people here at home, especially poor young.

Kitt went on to great fame and respect for her efforts to improve education for all children and is today, highly honored for her many talents, in acting, dancing, singing and especially for her humanitarian efforts.

No doubt Eartha Kitt, if invited to sing our National Anthem, would do so with clarity and beauty and, most likely, with tears in her eyes. Earth Kitt enjoys class and dignity.

Readers are encouraged to learn about Eartha Kitt and her life; she knows racism better than almost all, and she is a true American, a proud American.

Readers are invited to compare Kitt and Marie. Chances are you will discover Ren� Marie is nothing more than another loud mouth media whore Al Sharpton.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

1914inches
2008-07-02 13:32:31

This is one of the reason why Obama is having to defend his patriotism. I am a proud Black Man, but i am a American first. I have no issue with the Black National Anthem, however it should be sung AFTER the National Anthem, and only when the event calls for it. When Obama is President i hope they dont sing it there either.

Anon
2008-07-02 14:38:26

The Black National Anthem? Isn't that Soulja Boy's Crank Dat? Or the Electric Slide?

emylpmis
2008-07-02 15:00:12

1914inches: You're an American first? Sorry to tell you, but few see it that way. It's a shame that you see that way. Personally, I am a Black man firstt and foremost. On other hand, I do think the singing of the Black National Anthem was inappropiate on the same basis that Ramses stated. Marie's accepting the invitation does suggest compliance. Yet, protest is protest. I see Marie's redention of Lift Every Voice coupled with the Star Spangled Banner as an act of protest.

Randi
2008-07-02 15:17:40

I am extremely offended and pissed off. How dare she disrespect the National Anthem.... it means something to me and it should mean something to her as well. She is ignorant.

Jeremy C.
2008-07-02 15:38:24

Randi, I am appalled by your belief that something should be meaningful to others because it is meaningful to you. When Whites tell Blacks and Native Americans that they should appreciate and identify with national symbols that derive from the early decades of our country they illustrate their historical amnesia as well as an ignorance of the continued structural injustices that plague this nation. You might read Frederick Douglass's Speech, "The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro" (1852). If you cannot understand why the National Anthem or the Star Spangled Banner are met with indifference by some U.S. citizens, perhaps it is because the social and cultural traditions that have shaped your identity are different from those that have shaped other peoples. I do agree that there is little room for "artistic license" in a political ceremony. But that misses the point. This wasn't merely an artist's "individual self expression," it was a form of ceremonial protest that says, "If I am to ever identify as an 'American first' it will only be when the symbols and narrative of this nation are inclusive of the narrative of my people and our history."

Deena Rockefeller
2008-07-02 15:48:31

I agree with Ramses. There is a time and a place for everything. She was clearly in the wrong.

hfields
2008-07-02 15:51:31

Okpulot, I am so glad to read your great words about my home girl Eartha Kitt I remember well the incident at the White House. I have followed Ms. Kitt life for years and admire her and have the greatest of admiration and respect for her. A few years ago the college I graduated from Benedict College Columbia, South Carolinia gave her a copy of her Birth Certificate and honored her that day. It made me beam with Joy. I remember as a child reading her book Thursday's Child and I have a large collection of her album's think you so much for saying those refresing words about her.

hfields
2008-07-02 15:58:09

As a former school teacher how many black people knew the lyrics to that song. Not many at the schools I have taught at are black people I know. Thank god I went to a black high school and black college.

'dre
2008-07-02 17:05:42

Black national anthem???? Never heard of it.

Mr. FAMU
2008-07-02 17:08:24

I dont sing the national antehm. I dont hold my hand over my heart either? Sigh.. Im just not that patriotic but who the hell cares thats my choice. Now I do believe we should choose our battles wisely. And walking up into this mans shindig and singing the glorious negro national anthem may not have been the best idea. But hey she has to live her own truth. And if thats what she wanted to do thats what she wanted to do. As audre lorde says... When you use your power in the service of your own vision it no longer becoms IMPORTANT WHETHER YOU ARE AFRAID.

susan arroyo
2008-07-02 17:38:57

The National Anthem is not about Black America nor White America but America period. That was rude of her and I do not buy it that she decided to keep it a secret until last minute but did have a chance to tell her friend and husband about it. Why a secret? If you knew it was okay to do it then you don't do things in secretcy and sneakiness! She owes everyone an appoligy!!

Byam McGoodwin
2008-07-02 18:17:53

The Mayor was out to lunch on this one. He should have told her to sing the National Anthem or sit down. After all...he is the Mayor ...is'nt he ? ps It was a judgement call. Check out Wordsofpeace.org and Contactinfo.net. Also Peace is Possible by Andrea Cagan. It's an excellent bio. for focus and guidance. Also The Banker's Manifesto of 1892 at The Federal Observer.com. Thankyou.

Purl Gurl
2008-07-02 18:42:50

hfields adds to reader interest, "I am so glad to read your great words about my home girl Eartha Kitt."

Eartha Kitt rocks! She is a classy work of art.

Back in 1968 I was only eight years old. Oh no, now people know I am an old woman. Clearly my husband is a bit older, but at eight years of age, I already knew he is the one. My future husband was in a VA hospital recovering from catching a bullet in Vietnam, second time, when Eartha Kitt let loose her blistering words.

I do wish my memory was better from those days. I can only recall a cartoon of Eartha Kitt, newspaper, magazine, something in writing. This cartoon portrayed her as having huge fangs, drooling and scary looking. This cartoon prompted me to read about Eartha. Back then, all said Eartha is a traitor, a communist, another Jane Fonda type. I did not know what to believe with Eartha speaking out against the Vietnam War and the love of my life in a hospital near death.

Over the many years, periodically I checked up on Eartha Kitt. Today, we all know she is a true patriot, a true heroine. I rate her right up there with Martin Luther King. Eartha was not all about words, Eartha actually practiced what she preached. She has dedicated herself to the betterment of all peoples, especially children.

Seeing this horrible cartoon of Kitt when I was a child perked my interest and I glad this happened. She was portrayed as a monster and time has shown her to be a true angel. This serves to remind me to be sure what I read, see or hear, is actually true.

My fascination with Kitt is partially because our childhoods were much the same although generations apart. She was without a mother, as I was. She does not know who is her father, nor do I other than a tribal clan last name. She is half and half, I am half and half. Eartha was born to poverty, just as our family. She worked the fields, picked cotton and such, so did I. Kitt was sent off to live with relatives, same happened to me when my grandparents died. Eartha is dedicated to children, I became a school teacher to help children. She painfully knows racism just as I know. Kitt and I have very similar childhood experiences.

My personal believe is our common childhood experiences is what led both of us to strive to escape poverty, to work hard to become successful and to work at making sure our children do not suffer what we suffered when children, while teaching our children how rough life can be.

Eartha has one daughter, we have one daughter.

All cultures have heroes and heroines. I certainly have my big share of American Indians whom I greatly admire, but there are others and Eartha Kitt is one. What a woman is she.

I know in my heart Kitt is an American before anything else. She is a legendary ambassador of goodwill for our country and for all peoples.

If asked to sing our National Anthem, Eartha Kitt will do just that and do so with style and class.

America disgraced her decades back. Today, America embraces her for the great person is she. This well exemplifies we can admit our mistakes, we can change and we can do better.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

Joan
2008-07-02 19:46:57

She was WRONG! I don't give a damn about her "felings". She was asked to perform the National Anthem. This is NOT the national anthem. This was a slap in the face. Sneaky political hack trying to get a moment of glory. They should have stopped her the moment she began and escorted her off-stage and had a taped version ready to play. Take a one-way ride to another country lady. You don't know what patriotism is much less courtesy, dignity or class. But then, you'll hide behind the race ticket - just like your bud Hussein Obama Mama.

vicklette
2008-07-03 00:33:53

Why does there have to be a "black" national anthem. We are Americans who should all be treated equal no matter what race. We have a great amount of diversity. America is made up up different races and cultures comming to one land to practice religion and their individuality however they please but i feel this was disrespecting the American song that was supposed to bring us all together. This woman is racist and had no right to disrespect our country.

Kenneth Yorke
2008-07-03 04:53:11

Im a South African who stumbled on this article,"Denver woman stirs controversy by singing Black national anthem at city ceremony" Having a "Black Anthem" is the same as having a "White Anthem". It caters for a certain group of people only. South Africa had the situation and now our National Anthem caters for all people residing in our country. Google SA's National Anthem for the words to see how it reflects all people in SA. Maybe its time for a new American Anthem that reflects and respects all its people.

chris
2008-07-03 08:36:59

Well Ms Purl I have read some things from you. But this is the most rabid statement when you said "Stupid racist woman. STUPID???? She has inflicted great harm upon Black America and has metaphorically stabbed America in her back. Ren?arie serves as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president" How dare you call her a racist woman with the some of the shit you spew on here yourself. While I agree she was totally out of place. Your statement wasn't necessary either. And as far as this statement: "serves as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president" Sweetheart they just don't want to vote for one because it's a matter of DOMINANCE and POWER. And their fear of the unknown but trust we are not trying to get even just get our rightful share and let the world see that America does transend RACE. So what about the KKK and the confederates? Is that why we're so fearful of a White President? Actually Purl we didn't have a choice but to select a WHITE president. BUT WE DO NOW! AND YES WE CAN! And some of you please stop with this "had no right to disrespect our country." BULL. This country has and is still being HORRIFIC to many people and that transends RACE, CULTURE,and ECONOMIC STATUS. So all this "My Country Tis of HELL" and "Life Every Voice and SHUT THE HELL UP" I pay taxes and THAT IS IS AN ALLEIGIANCE!

chris
2008-07-03 08:43:18

Well Ms Purl I have read some things from you. But this is the most rabid statement when you said

"Stupid racist woman. STUPID???? She has inflicted great harm upon Black America and has metaphorically stabbed America in her back. RenMarie serves as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president" How dare you call her a racist woman with the some of the shit you spew on here yourself? While I agree she was totally out of place. Your statement wasn't necessary either.

and as far as this statement: "serves as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president" Sweetheart they just don't want to vote for one because it's a matter of DOMINANCE and POWER. And their fear of the unknown but trusts we are not trying to get even just get our rightful share and let the world see that America does transcends RACE. So what about the KKK and the confederates? Is that why we're so fearful of a White President? Actually Purl we didn't have a choice but to select a WHITE president.

BUT WE DO NOW! AND YES WE CAN!

And some of you please stop with this "had no right to disrespect our country." BULL. This country has and is still being HORRIFIC to many people and that transcends RACE, CULTURE, and ECONOMIC STATUS.

So all this "My Country Tis of HELL" and "Lift Every Voice and SHUT THE HELL UP" I pay taxes and THAT IS AN ALLEIGIANCE!

MidwestGuy
2008-07-03 09:01:53

She should've sang the song that she was expected so sing. However, I don't buy the foolish notion that there is no need for a black anthem. If the argument against is that it separates "americans" from each other, we also don't have a need for women's group, senior citizens groups, native americans, latino, israeli, and gay/lesbian groups because they all "separate" themselves from the rest of america

Mrs Mavis Gibson
2008-07-03 10:03:37

This just seems disrespectful, sorry, she should have sung the standard national anthem, and, this Charlie Brown guy sounds like a bigot. There is a place for the black national anthem, but, this was not the forum.

Purl Gurl
2008-07-03 11:36:44

Chris is unable to deal with reality,

(purlgurl): "Stupid racist woman.

(chris): STUPID????

Rene Marie is an exceptionally stupid woman. Simple common sense informs us this type of deceptive event is inappropriate and will cause problems. Rene Marie displays extreme stupidity through her decision to make a complete ass of herself in front of all Americans.

Rene Marie is a racist. This is a racially motivated event aimed at all Americans. She has victimized our country with her black racism. She is spreading discontent and hatred through a racist statement broadcast to our entire world.

Rene Marie is a woman. This seems rather obvious.

Rene Marie is a stupid racist woman.

You Chris, also serve as an icon of why so many are fearful to vote for a black president. You are causing harm to both Black America and to America herself. You are expressing irrational hatred based upon racial lines, hatred for all peoples who are not black. You are a racist.

People are fearful election of a black president will result in enabling and facilitating black racism. Obama simply being nominated, not by fair vote, has served to embolden black extremists who are effecting a hateful black agenda. Obama being on the political scene has already led to a worsening of racial divides because of black extremists taking advantage of current events.

Obama is not at fault for this. Americans are not at fault for this. Those at fault are black extremists. People are rightfully fearful electing a black president will lead to a significant increase of incidents of black extremism causing great harm to our country.

Black extremists are lessening Obama's chances to become our president. Highly unlikely Obama will be elected president because black extremists have caused and are causing so much silent fear in the minds of all Americans, regardless of skin color. This fear is justified.

America will not be intimidated by extremists, regardless of brand nor skin color.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

Pamela
2008-07-03 11:49:17

I don't think this woman was trying to cause a black uprising or anything. I think she is just passionate in her feelings as a black woman. I'm a white woman, and I think that the black national anthem is a beautiful song. I think her only mistake was doing it without asking first. She could probably have been given permission to sing it.

MidwestG
2008-07-03 11:51:44

Purl Gurl should not use stupid in any context relating to someone other than herself.

Purl Gurl
2008-07-03 11:57:53

To display fairness, within my American Indian culture there are two men, specifically, I consider to be stupid racist men. Both are American Indians. Those two men are Russell Means and Dennis Banks.

Decades back, Means and Banks took on a noble cause, took the right actions, fought for The Good. They are to be praised for their early efforts.

However, in time, both became egotistical monsters, both became media whores just like Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, Wright and many others.

Both Means and Banks lost their way, just like so many other cultural activists. Both became corrupted by this power given to them by people. We afforded them support early on. We also enabled and facilitated their becoming red extremists. My peoples are not at fault for this extremism of Means and Banks, but we did help to set into motion events leading to their becoming hateful racist extremists.

Some still support Means and Banks. A majority of our peoples do not and would have both men banished from our tribal lands; they are a disgrace to our Indian Nations.

Should a red man or a red woman run for president of America and red extremists start acting up like Marie, Farrahkan, Wright or even white Pfleger, I would be amongst the first to protest, to fight against race based extremism. I would treat red extremists no differently than I am currently treating black extremists.

Extremists are not welcomed by mainstream America and I am an American before I am an American Indian.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

Denver Combat Vet
2008-07-03 12:39:39

Being a Denver native, a combat veteran of Vietnam and someone who has detested our nation's constant obsession with violence and militarism, I applaud Rene for her willingness to speak out against a system that has always been racist, sexist and xenophobic. Poor, poor Charlie Brown didn't get to hear his rockets red glare, bombs bursting in air...instead he had to endure a proud black woman tell the Denver mayor and city council how it felt for her and most black women to grow up in a country professing to provide rights for all people but failing to do so. Brown is an ex-cop of the DPD, one of the worst police departments in the nation for brutality and shootings. The majority of those shootings and the brutality has been directed at people of color. Brown's response is obvious code of a racist bigot. Americans are sheep who stand up proudly to hear an anthem that promotes the violence we continue to see in this world. Do they even understand the words Francis Scott Key penned for lyrics? Americans don't want to hear about the marginalized people living right here in this country. Three years after Katrina and most Americans haven't a clue what's going down in NOLA. Ask most Americans about Darfur and the Sudan and they don't have a clue. Ask most Americans why we invaded Iraq and they try to tie it to 9-11. Ask most about the care of the troops once they return from Iraq and Afghanistan and they either don't care or don't have a clue the VA and the military healthcare systems have failed to provide adequate care. I fought and bled in the name of the US in a war being repeated in Iraq. I was 19 when I left Vietnam in 1969 after spending all of '68 there. I realized soon after my discharge from the USMC I'd been used and duped. But I didn't give up my love of country. I just realized patriotism meant challenging leaders of this nation to do the moral thing and when they failed to do so I needed to object. The attitude of "America, love it or leave it" is one attempting to stop dissent and free speech not one of patriotism. Rene Marie has a song on her latest album that blends Dixie and Strange Fruit into a powerful song of indictment toward this nation. Her singing of an anthem challenging leadership in the city government of Denver was an act of a brave woman tired of seeing them ignore gang violence, police brutality, hungry children, disparate pay for women and all the many injustices so many Americans refuse to acknowledge. She bravely challenged the consciences of those refusing to see the true state of Denver and this country.

Robert
2008-07-03 13:51:35

"Newsflash"!!! Contrary to what Rene Marie believes I would like to tell her that it's not "all about you". She was wrong and out of place to do what she did. Period.

ThugMo
2008-07-03 16:04:56

Somebody shoulda turned the mic off

Amos Elvis
2008-07-03 16:08:33

Purl Gurl Iagree with you. I don't like Rene' thinking and doing something out of the ordinary. She was way out of line her! I have some fine black friends, native american,and white friends. Remember Our soldiers abroad, they are in harms way. I think singing something other than the Star Spangled Banner is a slap in their face. If you are reading this in English thank a soldier. If you don't like this country, move to another 3rd world country and see what rights you have. We have many freedoms here. Freedom of speach and the press. I'm An American and damn proud of it. Secondly, Im white with Indian blood. I will vote as I please, I wll vote for Mccain. He is an American Citizen. Can Mr. Obama say that? From what I have seen of his Senatorship of 143 days, I am not impressed. I call em like I see it.

TDSmoove
2008-07-03 16:16:28

I currently live in Denver and I know and have worked with Rene professionally. She's done a lot of work with the city over the years and was chosen by the mayors office to open the SOTC address. She's been a benefit to the city for years. That's how she picked to sing the Anthem in the first place. So people let's not act like she jus charged up on the stage or was picked by a lottery to sing. Having said that, I do agree that there is a time and a place for everything and this was not the time or the place for her political statements especially when the mayor's speech was focused on simple city issues like Transportation and the local economy. The DNC will be here next month so it could have waited till then. Now for those who are so quick to call her a racist you all really need to come back down to reality and look at what the word really means and see how it doesn't even come close to being applied to Rene. 1. a belief or doctrine that inherent differences among the various human races determine cultural or individual achievement, usually involving the idea that one's own race is superior and has the right to rule others. 2. a policy, system of government, etc., based upon or fostering such a doctrine; discrimination. 3. hatred or intolerance of another race or other races. Singing a different version of the Anthem doesn't signify ANY of the above. Calling someone a "nappy headed ho" on the other hand does. Also there is no need to take any and every topic posted on here and somehow twist and apply it to Barack Obama. Those of you whom this applies to, you know who you are. Finally Midwest Guy I think addressed the whole "Why do need need a Black National Anthem" question best. And I notice this exact same question always comes up whenever there's mention of a Black group, or Black college, Black style, words, what have you. It is what it is and every Black (_____) fill in the blank that we have today came from some need for it to be created. So that is why we have them. Times may change but history does not.

MidwestGuy
2008-07-03 16:25:06

A white (with indian blood) The Daily Voice poster named AMOS ELVIS is voting for McCain over Obama. Is that surprising?

American(Native Born)
2008-07-03 17:20:00

I am so offended by this woman and her beliefs. Having given blood for this country, I will still bleed on the American flag to keep the stripes red. Barack Obama should be asked about his views of the black national anthem. I personally don't think he holds these views, but he should be asked. Her career is now head fry cook (as she will never get another good singing gig). Just desserts!!!

MLB123
2008-07-03 17:24:32

Look,Ramses got it right. If you are hired to do a job, you don't do the wrong job and expect to get paid for it. If you are invited to help a friend bake cupcakes for the school bake sale, you don't show up at the bake sale with liver and onions. There is a time and place for everything. It is very depressing that in the 21st century, we still have Americans that feel the need to segregate themselves from others based on their differences. There are no Black Americans, there are Americans who happen to be black; there are no White Americans, there are Americans who happen to be white; etc etc. As long as people expect that their differences make them unique and MORE EQUAL or DESERVING because of transgressions visited upon them or their ancestors, then we will continue to create racism in this country. Remember, Equality Does Not Equate Equal Outcomes; Tolerance Does Not Equate to Acceptance; Your Differences Are Not Usually Noticed Until YOU Point These Out. Love and Peace from a Conservative Guy

hugh gentry
2008-07-03 20:01:05

I am not surprised as my Dad said many years ago that in time to come blacks would push the white man as far as they can! we are now seeing it today. Unfortunately the sorry whites sit back and are brain washed to todays news media and just take the crapp. People had better get some "guts" and stand up! I do....dont know about others! I sit just waiting! Watch and see, the time will come. This is more democrat left wing agenda....they are marxist followers!!!

E
2008-07-03 20:36:38

MLB123, I agree with you, we are Americans! There is no such thing as Afro- American or any other RACE- American. I'm from the deep South. South Carolina to be exact. Race has nothing to do with my vote. It's a Muslum running for office. Once a Muslum always a Muslum. I beleive in Christ! My beleif doesn't kill Christians because I don't worship like them. Think about it. I will vote for Senator McCain too. Mid West Guy, what do you think about a South Carolina Male voting for John? Miss Rene'was wrong singing her version of the National Anthem. Now let it go. God be with you all.

America Today
2008-07-03 21:55:07

__________________________________________ Jeremy C. 2008-07-02 15:38:24Randi, I am appalled by your belief that something should be meaningful to others because it is meaningful to you. When Whites tell Blacks and Native Americans that they should appreciate and identify with national symbols that derive from the early decades of our country they illustrate their historical amnesia as well as an ignorance of the continued structural injustices that plague this nation. You might read Frederick Douglass's Speech, "The Meaning of July Fourth for the Negro" (1852). If you cannot understand why the National Anthem or the Star Spangled Banner are met with indifference by some U.S. citizens, perhaps it is because the social and cultural traditions that have shaped your identity are different from those that have shaped other peoples. I do agree that there is little room for "artistic license" in a political ceremony. But that misses the point. This wasn't merely an artist's "individual self expression," it was a form of ceremonial protest that says, "If I am to ever identify as an 'American first' it will only be when the symbols and narrative of this nation are inclusive of the narrative of my people and our history." ______________________________________ The above post is a very good example of a big issue facing black america today. Those symbols that you feel so much anger towards are the symbols of the country that went to war with its own citizens to bring freedom to you. My ancestors from the Illinois regulars fought and died for your freedom. Do you see my wanting special treatment because of that? NO. Why? Because it didnt happen to me. I wasnt there. It would be the same thing if I demanded, because I have Irish ancestors, that we should everyone from England because of the atrocities they did to my people. You sir, like many other Americans of color, need to get the heck off your soapbox and join the rest of us in the 21st century. Sometimes I feel pity becuase you were all first done in by the Democrat party and then you were doublepunched by the likes of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. All they did was make millions of dollars by feeding large portions of hatred to the black communities. On a side note. I saw Dangerous Minds for the first time today. The scene where the old mother comes off her porch to tell Michelle Pfieffers character that her kids werent made for learning. They were made to pay bills. Sums it all up.

Your Highest Standards
2008-07-03 22:16:02

Oh I love that song! Especially the "sing a song full of the faith.." part its all so very moving.
It surprises me that some black folks have never heard it before or didn't know the name if they heard it.

America Today
2008-07-03 22:28:01

You have to watch this. You will cry its so funny. All Americans will appreciate it. Not that im endorsing Obama. He reeks of special interests. Link to The Onion website. http://www.theonion.com/content/video/bush_tours_america_to_survey?utm_source=embedded_video

Your Highest Standards
2008-07-03 23:02:59

A.T that video is hilarious..lol!

Purl Gurl
2008-07-03 23:07:25

America Today comments, "If I am to ever identify as an 'American first' it will only be when the symbols and narrative of this nation are inclusive of the narrative of my people and our history."

Yours is a policy of equal but separate. This is a faux policy invoked by dictators, tyrants and despots. You are writing, paraphrased, "Do things my way or else." This is an insult to democracy.

Seems a short discourse on the concept of "American" is needed.

Giving allegiance to America is not blind obedience to our government nor our peoples. American allegiance is to support and defend our intangible democratic ideals. We give allegiance to our founding democratic principles such as truth, justice and freedom. When we, as Americans, pledge our allegiance we are saying, "We will support, honor and defend our democratic ideals."

This is not allegiance to our government nor our peoples. This is well exemplified by Spiro Agnew and Richard Nixon. Spiro Agnew, our once vice-president violated our laws. We gave him the boot. Richard Nixon, our once president, violated our laws. We gave him the boot. This is true American patriotism. There is no allegiance to our government rather to what our country represents.

The Vietnam War was wrongful. Americans took to the streets by the millions, engaged in serious acts of civil disobedience, this is true American patriotism. This is allegiance to our democratic ideals, not our government nor our peoples.

Iraq is similar to Vietnam. However, we have learned to support our troops while protesting the Iraq war. We have learned to hold accountable our government for wrong doing, while honoring our troops for their bravery and service to our country. We hold Bush and administration accountable for the Iraq war. We critique them, we chastise them, we protest against them. This is allegiance to our American beliefs. Contrasting, we support, give aid, love and nuture our troops fighting in Iraq and elsewhere. This is allegiance to our American beliefs.

Being an American is allegiance to our beliefs not our actions. Being American is a belief system not a form of government.

When begin sorting ourselves by race, religion, culture, we are no longer Americans.

To be an American is to support what is right and to stand against what is wrong.

Black people jump up shout, "No allegiance until you do what we say." Red people jump up, "No allegiance until you do what we say." Browns, yellows, others, jump up and proclaim the same. Those people are not Americans. Those people are citizens of America who do not give allegiance to our intangible ideals, our notions and beliefs.

We are to be Americans before all else. We are to celebrate our successes and to work together to solve our problems, for the good of all.

Should I place my American Indian agenda before the needs of America, I am no longer an American. I become a member of culture group separate from our country, from our America. What I will do is make known my American Indian agenda and ask Americans to weigh the worth of my agenda and to help effect my agenda, if deemed appropriate and right.

I would be very wrongful to attempt to force my agenda upon our country. This, America Today, is precisely what you writing, "I have a right to force my agenda upon our country." You are not an American. You are a person who has forsaken your allegiance to our belief system we commonly label, "Being an American."

Being an American is a belief system, not a way of life.

Okpulot Taha
Choctaw Nation

Anonymity
2008-07-04 05:28:41

Truly mad woman. All in her own sacred world.

Hope she never works again
2008-07-04 22:12:14

The national anthem was written for ALL Americans not white ones, not black ones, not purple ones! This woman was wrong. She insults all Americans by making the assumption we agree with her political views and care about her whining. She doesn't deserve a head cook job. Maybe she can find a better life in Russia however the one way ticket to Iraq is more just. Does Rene Marie even know why the Star Spangled Banner was written and what it means? I doubt it. Those men died for her just like they died for me. I'm sick of hearing how mistreated blacks were. GET OVER IT! You're not the only people who were ever mistreated but the rest of us moved on.

eve
2008-07-04 23:03:40

As a first generation American I am deeply troubled that we are seeing such a divide in this great country. I have raised my children to treat everyone with respect, as long as they are respectable people. What I am witnessing is total disrepect by this woman of the country that my husband fought to protect and the rights she enjoys! I don't see her putting her life on the line like our military! WE GAVE HER the ability to have freedom of speech. She abused these freedoms. Perhaps she should live in a country where she is covered from head to toe and doesn't have the same value as men. Who does she think she is? This is the behavior that caused my children to now feel differently about certain people in our country. We treat everyone with respect, yet are not respected. My family didn't persecute people but rather were persecuted in another country. We understand what it is to be the minority, so we treat people better than that. She and others like her are perpetuating racism and if we are not careful we will end up with a Rev Wright...I mean Hussein Obama in the White House. May God help our troubled country!

Ridiculous
2008-07-05 05:32:36

I am African American and really enjoy hearing Lift Every Voice and Sing. However, this was inappropriate. She was INVITED to sing the National Anthem. If she had a problem with singing it she should have declined the invitation. We have too many issues that we really need to address and foolisness like this detracts from so many necessary battles.

Connie
2008-07-06 11:38:21

She was out of line, they did not have her there to sing this song, she has every right to sing the Black national anthem, but, only when she is requested to do so.

Tish
2008-07-06 12:44:37

She should have sung what she was contracted to sing. Period.

RJH
2008-07-06 15:50:22

Her actions can't be explained away or defended. Bottom line: She was wrong! African Americans must stop trying to defend wrong (because of emotions) and call wrong wrong. Expressing her feelings of being black in America and a black woman at that point and time was not the place. Even she knew it was the wrong thing to do for she only shared her plan with her husband and friend. Their have been many singers who have performed the American Anthem and gave it their own spin, but what Rene Marie did was WRONG and OVER THE TOP. www.andwearenotsaved.blogspot.com

Saddened Individual
2008-07-06 15:54:52

I am 19, I am a woman, and I am a proud Black American who is a Black before I am American. I am a citizen of America and I thank GOD that I have what I have. I would love for U.S. All to REALLY be the UNITED states of America but some of you just don't get it... But maybe I was expecting too much by readin these comments... like intelligent comments and conversations that have been thought about and honestly analyzed whether you are offended by it or agree with the situation. Some of us have succeeded in this simple task! I agree with disagreement but name calling and ignorance, no matter the "nationality" or "ethnicity" is a little unfair and actually makes US as a collective culture of Americans look even worse than we already do, especially in other countries. I am in France on vaction, and the people I have talked to basically know about America from what they see and hear on TV. I get sad and ashamed at what we Americans put out there but I look to the future and know we can be a better America no matter if "Obama Hussein" as some call him out of his name, or "John McCain't" as I have heard people call him out of his name, become president. Americans, we ALL LOVE and ENJOY our freedoms, but what is the point of freedom when WE are ALL in bondage (Black, American Indian, Hispanic, Asian, White), and most of us unknowingly in bondage, from the runnerS of this country and now we are doing it to each other? This is nothing more than a woman exercising her right of freedom of speech that many people have taken advantage of in many other ways WORSE than Rene but should be continued. I think she was patriotic in doing so. She is, in no way, harming anyone or threatening anybody's life, she wasn't spouting ANY hateful words in doing so, she had no power over anyone, so she isnt being "racist" by DEFINITON or in any other form, or offending America, if America should be offended at all since America is so accepting and loving of all...! I am glad she did it. It shows that she can THINK FOR HERSELF as a person in relation to the country she was born in and that she isn't so blinded by PHONY PATRIOTISM or getting fat off of eating lies that she can't see the REAL problems going on. Like it has been said certain things have DIFFERENT meanings to different people. Those "anthems" have different meanings to her... so what? I am PROUD to be an American, but if I dont like something, I will do something about it. I love America but I don't love the fact that I am always lied to by the people in charge, or that I, like ALL OF YOU, are being taken advantage of. We are all being taken advantage of. I think that is one thing I agreed with "Purl Gurl" on is the patriotism show in Iraq. Holding the government accountable and not falling into their "false advertising" makes me proud to be American because it shows that at times, we actually can tell the real from the fake and we still support our troops while protesting the war. Well, Purl Gurl also said when we begin to separate ourselves, we are no longer American? Purl, I don't know you but I love you and I see that you are a good person and you have many good and bad things to say like me, but look at the history of ANYBODY, I dont think that separation was by choice from the start...but now all "kinds" of people embrace their differences, like me, and LOVE the differences, but don't use it to separate ourselves. I also dont deny my heritage to conform to the phony patriotism. Its the people that dont accept diversity and the people who are ashamed that separate others or cause others to separate. If it is ever by choice, its probably people who are fed up with bull no matter the "category" of ethnicity, orientation, or...RELIGION... There is some cognitive dissonance somewhere for people not to want to seek the truth...not biased truth, but real truth. About people talking about wars, veterans fighting in wars, and their wives or family members, YOU didn't give HER or anyone freedom! How dare you think you have that type of power. Yes, you fought for this country and many died and I know we all as Americans are thankful and I know many of us cant say we would do the same, especially the people who claim to be patriotic, and WE APPRECIATE YOU ALL putting your lives on the line for America and thank GOD for you, and continue to pray for your healing but Wow Eve, and all of the disgusted veteranans, and citizens, you don't sound like racists at all... saying or even thinking that you had or continue to have the power to give her or anyone freedom...lol...but Iz show all us black fowks ah so grehful fo ya givin us ah freedumz massah... COME ON! "We gave her freedom"... I will pray for myself, then I will pray for you and your children, Eve, that you seem to love bragging on how well you've raised them to tolerate everyone! If one person effects how you and your children view all "certain people in this country" as you so greatly put it...lol...then I feel sorry for you. Rene is not the "end all" of "certain people in this country" just as you are not for yours, and Purl isn't hers. It would be stupid of me to dislike Choctaw Indians because I may disagree with Purl. That would not be an American move...IT is American to LOVE and to accept that we have different views. I am in the middle about the right place/right time thing, but whatever was going on in her life told her that it was the time. Hopefully others will continue to BE TRUE to themselves and stop being so conditioned and BRAINWASHED by the lies people have been feeding US ALL. I will pray for everyone, especially the people who cant really see what this is about. We all need healing. WE ALL just need to COME TOGETHER and fix America because it is still broken. If WE as Americans claim that we are in fact ALL Americans, then we need to help each other instead of tearing each other down and complaining about one another. What she did was nothing more than peaceful protest which could have been worse. She was not spouting hateful words, nor was anyone in danger, but her for speaking out on her beliefs and feelings. We are all human and if you are true to yourself, no matter the place or time, if something is going on in your life that you dont like, I would HOPE that YOU would speak out as well. If we all wait for the "APPROPRIATE" time, then we will never get anything done. I am an American, but I am sad to see so many puppets. If only we could all be patriotic for the betterment of all Americans and all of America. Though we do have many freedoms and I thank God for them, America is screwing us all whether we are Black, White, Hispanic, or whatever labels we want to call each other. For people saying Get over it...NO! Black people will NEVER get over ANYTHING and we don't have to! American Indians shouldn't EVER be told to get over anything and they dont have to! People move oin but NEVER forget. What AMERICANS DO need to get over is diversity and accept people for who they are and what they look like. Just because you disagree doesn't make anyone a racist. I think everyone should worry about their own lives in comparison to the damage of the world and ask how they can make life better for EVERY living thing on Earth! Say what you want about me or whoever, but whatever you do, change America for the best of us all!!! Love you all and it was nice to share my opinion with you all. Thank you!

eve
2008-07-06 16:29:28

blah, blah, blah! Are you kidding me!!!! Just wait...once November comes and goes, we shall see what our country has to deal with. You show me who your friends are and I'll tell you who you are! People in Germany never saw it coming and neither are you. Even my 18 year old son can see what these lemmings can not! You lemmings will follow OHB right over the cliff. Good luck, y'all, but I for one will not go down without a fight for our country.

america exposed
2008-07-09 00:10:49

I love Rene Marie for her courage to stand. She has exposed America for who it is...racist and oppressive...and a little forgetful. She sang a beautiful song. She didn't name call or hurt anyone. But, the hate expressed above by many of the visitors has served as an example of how we truly see each other. Where is your outrage over the selfish decisions of George Bush and his administration? Is he doing the job he is being paid to do? Did your vote bring about the outcome that you hoped for? Don't forget who really deserves your passion, your anger, and outrage my love. It is certainly not Mrs. Marie.

Malik
2008-07-09 17:15:47

I agree that she was INVITED to sing the National Anthem. If she had a problem with singing it she should have declined the invitation.As for myself there are words in America's national anthem that have always seem to have a problem with " the Land of the Free and the home of the Brave".As an Afro American I have a problem with that line,maybe she does too,be she should have declined,unless she just wanted all this attention she is getting.

Kebby
2008-07-15 13:14:36

Only when we stop touting our own personal agendas and come together as Americans 1st can we move forward as a nation. Our Nation like no other nation in the world allows so much freedom and opportunity. Our Nation is our base, the tree is not its branches but is not whole without its branches, wonderful glorious branches each growing changing different strengthening the tree as the tree grows so grows our nation and one branch infected with the disease of hate unless cut off will kill the tree.

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