March 21, 2008
Posted: 11:19 AM ET
 The Rev. Jeremiah Wright.
The Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

From CNN Contributor Roland Martin

As this whole sordid episode regarding the sermons of the Rev. Jeremiah Wright has played out over the last week, I wanted to understand what he ACTUALLY said in this speech. I’ve been saying all week on CNN that context is important, and I just wanted to know what the heck is going on.

I have now actually listened to the sermon Rev. Wright gave after September 11 titled, “The Day of Jerusalem’s Fall.” It was delivered on Sept. 16, 2001.

Read full post on AC360 Blog

Filed under: Roland Martin


Some people just don't get it   March 21st, 2008 1:48 pm ET

Two things: 1)Um, Martin does have a day job… just about every time I turn on CNN I see his face… he's a respected journalist. Who th f are you? and 2) Jason, are you serious?

Jacob   March 21st, 2008 1:44 pm ET

You have made the damage already . ( with uneducated voters ),
Thanks for bringing up the truth .

Jamaal Kansas City Kansas   March 21st, 2008 1:43 pm ET

cnn please post my comments: This thing with wright is over Barack has denounced the comments of his pastor it is time to focus on issues. Barack Obama is still going to win the nomination and the general election.

J. Forbes, Texas Independent   March 21st, 2008 1:41 pm ET

O false Obama. Thou hast deceived America. Thou art no change. Thou doth not bring hope.

Alex k   March 21st, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Keep up the spin - what a ridiculous excuse for a journalist.

I'm a true Independent and if Obama wins I will not vote for him, and that's non-negotiable - I will 100% vote McCain over Obama. I don't trust him is the bottom line, I think he's hiding something and I don't like the way he injected race into the run for the presidency. So if the Democrats want even a chance at my vote in November (and that of my husband's) the Democrats need Clinton as the nominee. And guess what Obama people? My Independent counterparts feel the same way.

Sherry   March 21st, 2008 1:32 pm ET

Who's making excuses. Tell me honestly, have you ever made disparaging comments amongst your family or friends? Be honest!

terris   March 21st, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I think it is very sad what some news media are doing. Over & Over again they keep rehearsing this issue with Obama & his pastor. People are losing their homes & people are losing their jobs. Our dollar has decreased it value and so on. Our sons, daughters, husbands, fathers & family members are dying in a war that seems to have no resolution or near end. Yes I am a NEW generation of my ancestors who suffered slavery. I have friends of every race, color & creed & we all say things that can be taken out of context. But most important is that we respect each other for where we are NOW! … All of us have sensitive experiences or issues in our lives that can be very challenging to overcome. Who am I to judge that individual or group of persons for saying what their experiences are or has been? What we should be focusing on is making a difference by rising above our past & starting new. WE are ALL AMERICANS & IF SOMEONE HURTS ONE OF US THEY HURT US ALL THAT IS THE BIGGER PICTURE (NOT RACE)! To Obama you have made your statement you have answered our questions in its entirety. Stop trying to explain what you have already explained. Finally to those in the news media that continues to distort this issue & every word that comes out of Obama's mouth……I say "SHAME ON U"… & I challenged all of us to get back to the real issue… one of which is making America safe Now & for our FUTURE generations to come. May God Bless America.

JOHNNY   March 21st, 2008 1:30 pm ET

Freedom of Speech means FREEDOM OF SPEECH !!!!!
Stop trying to justify your TRUE reason(s) for not (ever) wanting
to vote for Obama for President of the U.S. Those who are now using the Jeremiah Wright sermons as "justification" that he should not be elected President - REALLY had no plans of voting for him in the first place. GET OVER IT !!!! Its your right to vote for anyone you want.
But STOP trying to hide your OWN deep-rooted feelings against Obama. Feelings of distrust that were REALLY there LONG before the Jeremiah Wright sermons. GO OBAMA !!!!!

Enrique   March 21st, 2008 1:30 pm ET

To "Go get a day job"

You are the target audience for this story. They want you to get fired up. They want you to react. Please, do yourself a favor and read the article again. Count to 10 and then let's see what you think. Be objective.

The media is spoon feeding you this stuff so that you get upset. Make your own decisions. Stand your ground.

Jim   March 21st, 2008 1:30 pm ET

After viewing your panel of experts report following Obama's pastor spin speech, one is led to believe Obama's speech was the greatest speech on race since MLK's "I have a Dream" speech.

My question for CNN is

When can we expect the official announcement of CNN's endorsement of Barack Obama for President of the United States?

Floridian   March 21st, 2008 1:28 pm ET

Shouldn't CNN, and other news outlets, reported that the minister was actually quoting someone else about America's chickens coming home to roost from the very start?! CNN and MSM, there is no excuse for the shoddy news coverage we've gotten up to this point. Thankfully SOMEONE bothered to take the time to uncover the truth, but now it may be too little too late, and MSM will have a lot to answer for if the dems lose the presidency in Nov. because of MSM's pathetic coverage of the Wright matter.

raj   March 21st, 2008 1:28 pm ET

There seems no way a minority - african -american or other would ever get elected as president in our country

Max   March 21st, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Qaddafi deserved it, so did Japan in 1945 and many other of Wright's purported "victims." If he hates the US so much, he (and anyone who excuses, rationalizes or secretly condones his racism and anti-Americanism should move. I hear Iran is open.

Robert Bateman   March 21st, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Finally, after a full week of solid FUD, we get some real journalism.
And, to top it all off, here comes that nice man, Bill RIchardson, to back Obama.
To send the message to John McCain's camp that we look forward to having a decent time with decent folks talking about the issues that face America instead of wallowing in the mud pits responding to cat calls and trash talking.

Nora   March 21st, 2008 1:27 pm ET

Spin it however you want to the American people are not stupid they know what they heard and what they saw. Your vain attempts to put it in context is to endoorse hatred racism and anti american rants.

You don't think people don't know your threads & posts are loaded.

Get Out of the Game

Joe Daley, Chicago   March 21st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

How come BHO does not cry Kerry saying he can "better" help US relations with Muslims because he is BLACK? This is a "change" candidate who destroyed long-time Democrat pioneers (including Ferraro and Biden) and accuses his fellow Presidential candidate flawed. What do you call this? Unflawed? What a phony hypocrit!!

austin, tx   March 21st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I am sick of people like 'go get a day job'. He has no idea what is contained in those sermons AND probably has no idea what the tone and timbre of a typical a.american church is. for people who don't pay attention, the combination of controversial statements and that kind of tone has often invoked thoughts of hatred in people who don't know. if 'rich white people' is racist, then we have WAY more problems in America that can be fixed in 40 years, not to mention with one candidate.

the irony of all this uproar is that the 9/11 sermon is speaking out against hatred. most mcnews or 'fixed' news listeners will never hear it sadly.

rajhe   March 21st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

I am not sure if we will ever see a better qualified candidate to be the president than Obama .

Linda Esen   March 21st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

So is McCain going to take get the same heat for Rev. Falwells comments on his behalf??

So Clinton and her surragates/tenticles couldn't find anything on Obama - so they use this. I am a white male and I attend a predomanantly African American church. And yes there are time when my pastor says certain things that Obabma has clarified in say are reminant of the years of segregation - its not right but its the truth -and as we all know - the truth hurts. But let me make it quite clear , as with Obama, I were in his posotion, I would repudiate the comments but now disown him. I feel at time the sharp and acidic reaction and comments poste don CNN are like a mob of some sort .

But you know my paster alwasy says; if it is your time and if it was you who ws choosen to accomplish a certain task - come what may - the rath of a Clinton or two - nothing will stop it from happening.

Democratic party for 2008   March 21st, 2008 1:26 pm ET

CNN why don't take this matter of pastor Wright off your TV rating.

enaudnella   March 21st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Thanks Martin………….Wright is right ! I can prove it……..Go to the video of the SC cops who ran over the black suspects and you will find 50 comments many who say the suspects brought it on because they are black and others who say it was actually funny. Go to Wrights sermon and there are 1000s………..Actions against whites get a bigger rise than whites against blacks

Chris, Silicon Valley, CA, USA   March 21st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Roland Martin is an Obama supporter.

Dean - Colton, CA   March 21st, 2008 1:25 pm ET

Forget it Roland. The attention span of the average American is not sufficient to get past a 30 second sound bite. I seriously doubt most people who've seen this entry actually read it, and I suspect that many of those who did didn't understand it. You still see people claiming that Rev. Wright made the 'anti-American' statements, apparently completely missing the fact that he was quoting Edward Peck and then called for an end to hatred. I am afraid for the future of this country, and the media and marketing people (including political marketeers) prefer it this way unfortunately.

Timmy   March 21st, 2008 1:24 pm ET

No more excuses Obama - admit you are a fraud.

Obama has no creditibility.

AS   March 21st, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Roland Martin is not independently minded journalist. I am not a Clinton or Obama supporter. But I feel annoyed with his obvious favor of Obama. I change to other channels whenever he open his mouth. I don't know he is a report or a person who works for Obama camp. It is also obvious that CNN takes Obama's side and try to promote him by all means. CNN gives Roland Martin more air time than any other political analysts.

The media is misleading the pubic the way they want. We should do something to ensure the media report objectively.

Maurice, NC   March 21st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

You can take anything out of context and turn it into whatever you want. As someone who's parents spent 20 plus year each in the military, and who joined the Army, and who still works for the military, I don't think Wright's comments were out of line. Everyman is right in his own eyes and that is exactly how American's think. We can dictate what the rest of the world can do, but they can't say anything to us. We can't control the world. The rest of the world views us as Goliath. They are just waiting fo David to knock us off. We have so many problem in the US, but can't address them because so many of our resources are invested in other countries. We need to look ourselves in the mirror. Rev. Wright maybe extreme in the way he expresses views, but that doesn't them wrong.

Cathy Pennsylvania   March 21st, 2008 1:21 pm ET

There is no excuse for Rev. Wrights disgusting anti-American and racist sermons. There is no excuse for Obama's actions for the last 20 years. Obama's speech explaining his relationship with Wright, in my opinion,only cemented that relationship and with the church. Obama will never get my vote and I will vote for McCain if necessary.

Chandler McGrew   March 21st, 2008 1:20 pm ET

Everyone who has been wanting to find some tarnish on Obama is NEVER going to believe anything but what they want to believe in this case. Obama could execute Wright in public and they'd say, "See! That's the kind of activity you learn in that church!" In the end Obama will be president because the country is sick of what Dubya has tried to turn us into. McSame won't change anything, and Hillary's 'vision' for the future is McCain Lite.

Jason   March 21st, 2008 1:19 pm ET

Yeah right…stop trying to make excuses for Obama's choices. CNN attempts to minimize everything Obama does that can be perceived as negative. He made the decisions - now he'll deal with the consequences. Obama is a phony. America will not elect him. I'm willing to bet money on that.

akaDoug   March 21st, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Thank God someone has the courage to actually print everything in context. Terrorism is awful no matter who is committing it…and that was the point of Rev. Wright's sermon.

Is America outraged that thousands of innocent Iraqis died at the hands of American's? Were we outraged at killing innocent children in Vietnam? If not, why not? In God's eyes a life is a life no matter the race, age or religion. It's that simple! And I'm ashamed that Americans have continued to turn a blind eye when we commit such atrocities!

Is he filled with hate? Yes! But he is also filled with love. In other words he is human.

TimeforHealing   March 21st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

If you are going to post, at least take the few minutes and read the sermon. Especially if you judge 20 years of a person's life from a 30 second sound bite.

Jack Morris   March 21st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Martin, Everyone know that you are huge Obama supporter. No idea why CNN calls you part of the "Best Political Team".

David   March 21st, 2008 1:16 pm ET

Yeah…..thanks Roland for confirming just how biased you are when it comes to Obama. All one needs to do is follow your comments over the last year. Nothing new here…nothing that hasn't been noted by a dozen other journalistic outlets. I have long stopped putting any faith in your remarks. You're one-sided and hypocritical. I bet you salivate at Wright's comments.

kelly   March 21st, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Are you a reporter Roland? Simply another Obama surrogate! Ridiculous CNN.

Debby   March 21st, 2008 1:15 pm ET

Oh please Martin my husband watched you on 360 last night making excuse after excuse for Wright. The pastor is controversial plain and simple no matter if you hear a sound bite or the whole sermon. Well Obama will be the nom. it looks like anyway with turncoat Richardson salivating for the VP spot. What a sad party the Dems. have become and this is why the Repulicans will win the white house yet again. Congrats to the future President John McCain.

john   March 21st, 2008 1:15 pm ET

How about all the rest of his sermons. Cnn you need to get with it and quit protecting your golden boy. Are you going to let Fox news beat you again on the other preacher involved with Obama? I suppose it will take Hannity at fox news to shame all the othere news station to get on board. The American people have the right to hear fair and balanced news, which we do not get from cnn, or msnbc.
Folks can't wait for you all to hear the other Pastor involved with Obama, if you think Wright was full of racism and Hatred, you haven't seen nothing to you hear this bigot.

ross   March 21st, 2008 1:12 pm ET

to the "go get a day job martin" poster, you clearly have not even read the full article or viewed the full video that he's speaking about. you're only making yourself look very, very ignorant. good luck with that.
-ross, jersey shore

bernadette   March 21st, 2008 1:12 pm ET

thanks for putting it in perspective - something we have lost in the last week and a half. If you continue to look and listen only in 'sound bites' you will never know or understand the truth. I

Truth   March 21st, 2008 1:11 pm ET

If you haven't watch the full version of his sermon then you really don't want to know the truth. Support your candidate without being disrepectful to other candidates and supporters.

George   March 21st, 2008 1:11 pm ET

I have no doubt that CNN were aware of the context. We have seen this irresponsible journalism throughout the campaign. Your viewers deserve better than snippets of information taken out of context. SHAME ON YOU CNN!!!!

jack texas   March 21st, 2008 1:10 pm ET

too wittle too wate.

masterhurrikane   March 21st, 2008 1:10 pm ET

exactly.. people need to see the WHOLE section of the sermon to understand its content and purpose.

John in Murfreesboro   March 21st, 2008 1:10 pm ET

My enthusiasm for Obama has been extinguished by revelations of his long-term relationship with, and let's be very clear, the overtly racist and bigoted Jeremiah Wright. I will hold my nose and support John McCain.

David   March 21st, 2008 1:10 pm ET

Actually, I thought his sermon was quite good. It's a non-violence based sermon that aims to point out the cycle. I think most people fear the fashion of his sermon, not the content.

Confused   March 21st, 2008 1:09 pm ET

There were nearly 100 comments on this article just a few minutes ago…what happened to them CNN?

Eric   March 21st, 2008 1:09 pm ET

As much press as the person is getting….you would think that he running for president. He's is actually getting more press than McCain, Clinton, and obama is getting right now.

What does this say about our media

Sherry   March 21st, 2008 1:09 pm ET

I've come to the conclusion that people hear what they want to. If you are going to vote for Mr. Obama, you still are. If you are going to vote for Hillary Clinton, then you will do so. Everyone has an opinion, but who amongst us have not heard or laughed at a joke at the expense of someone else's race or religion. Give me a break — you holier than thou folk — please take a look at yourselves in a mirror and answer "honestly."

Jim, American in Paris   March 21st, 2008 1:08 pm ET

You're just as insulting and twisted as Wright if you start defending him after this.

This proves that we do not know Barak Obama and there's no doubt in my mind that more dirt will come out of him.

Hillary Clinton will save the Democrats from all of this!

Jenn   March 21st, 2008 1:07 pm ET

They closed the other forum on this subject and there where all praising Roland for bringing out the truth and not just snipets but what"s funny he doesn't give you the full text of the whole sermon either.
What wright preaches no matter what context is down right wrong

LRC   March 21st, 2008 1:07 pm ET

I can't believe they're still giving this man air time.
He's an awful evil man. HORRIBLE.

chien   March 21st, 2008 1:04 pm ET

Regardless of the context, whatever we saw and heard from the TV is not acceptable. period.

Naeem   March 21st, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Refer to the speech. We can argue over the problems forever and never think about a solution. Let's engage in this conversation with eachother.

sonia   March 21st, 2008 1:03 pm ET

ronald

i know who you are .so i am not surprised why you are explaining .
but no thanks………we know what we saw…so save the details for some 18 yr old youtube idiots with no clue of economy

Catherine Lawrence   March 21st, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Thank you Roland for your research. It is so easy for people to criticize the words and behavior of others. Imagine what would happen if we joined together to turn all the negative energy this has created into positive change and a better future for our children?

Wade Enns - Obama's Secret Agenda   March 21st, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Obama was caught in a misrepresentation when he told Ohio he would reopen Nafta and the Canadians exposed him.

I have to wonder what else Obama is misleading us about.

I wonder what his real agenda is ????

Roger   March 21st, 2008 1:00 pm ET

I honestly think this video should be circulated more to other news sites.

Eric   March 21st, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Inregards to the previous comment… Ur arguing with Mr. Martin for doin his job correctly as a reporter unlike other biased reporters. Judges make judgements according to facts not based on personal opinions. And here you go forming an opinion without knowing the whole story.

Ellie   March 21st, 2008 12:59 pm ET

vic, nashville, did it not occur to you that there is a reason why people are trying to stir up bad news about Obama?

lou   March 21st, 2008 12:59 pm ET

it IS important that the context is shown. Rolands not making an excuse. Lets the chips fall where they may.
However, i'm tired of hearing about the whole thing.

mackie   March 21st, 2008 12:58 pm ET

Great work Mr Martin. I wish some of the commentators would listen to the service in question and judge based on the entire preaching instead of the 30 sec bits that may have been created just for TV and to side track Obama. I believe in Mr Obama and what he can do to unite the nation. Blessings

Get a life comment 1   March 21st, 2008 12:56 pm ET

This is why the world hates us! People like you spread hate by only looking at things taken OUT OF context and not the whole statement!!

Ryan   March 21st, 2008 12:53 pm ET

Wow, how bout everyone read the full post before commenting. The context makes a world of difference.

His most "controversial" statements were things he was quoting from someone else! And really why should this idea be controversial anyway? If you don't believe that we have, through our actions, helped contribute to an atmosphere that breeds hate towards our country then you are willfully blinding yourself.

John Dunn   March 21st, 2008 12:51 pm ET

Learn how to spell "behavior".

Jay   March 21st, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Right on.

I don't like the statements he made, but I certainly understand that 2 minutes of someone's 30 year career CANNOT tell the entire story of their life. Say what you will, but context always matters. Always.

Rev. Wright is like many people I know who still harbor anger and resentment. Those people need help.

-Jay

Haris Siddiqui - IL   March 21st, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Some of the comments on this blog are ridiculous. Did you all read the the sermon? The man is not preaching racism or hatred. He specifically says “hatred begets hatred,” a statement which would be anathema to preaching such hatred. Get a clue.

Lets see how much coverage will be given to these facts and not out of context lies. I commend you Martin & Anderson (the two guys but i still feel disgusted because its too little too late now!

J.C.   March 21st, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Dance as if your life and job depended on it Roland!

Jose Card - Independent   March 21st, 2008 12:46 pm ET

Thanks to Martin and Cooper for giving us news like it is!

Our media needs to specify if their reports are news, comments or both.

chris   March 21st, 2008 12:46 pm ET

I am confused. I still haven't figured out how anything he has said is hate speech. So if you say America has done bad things in its past then you are being hateful? Sound more like someone is being self critical to me. If you are saying America can do better than you are a hate Mongol? If you believe that racism exits and you speak about it than you are a racist?

ben   March 21st, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Context is important. In context, although I disagree with Wright, his statements at least do not sound insane. By taking out snippets of his speach to use as sensational soundbites is immature, irresponsible, and downright ridiculous. Let's grow up and tackle these issues as adults.

BLACK IRIE   March 21st, 2008 12:44 pm ET

If America really wants to get over the race problem here in America they now have the perfect chance. Two words: BARACK OBAMA

Jon Cruz   March 21st, 2008 12:44 pm ET

Now let's have the full story about Ferraro's comments, which were grossly misrepresented. And the full story about the Dean Scream. Actually, I'd rather have the fully story on how CNN cherry-picks stories that benefit its chosen candidates in the long run.

AA   March 21st, 2008 12:43 pm ET

CNN, can you fire Martin??? I am so sick of him on TV with defensive behavior. Very biased journalist…..

Materry   March 21st, 2008 12:42 pm ET

That man was just speaking of event that did occur. Some people just have a hard time digisting the truth! I can't even believe the work RACISM came out of this whole thing.

kimere   March 21st, 2008 12:42 pm ET

We just need to move on to more pressing issues … Gas Price…..

about time   March 21st, 2008 12:40 pm ET

like I said bitter

Frank   March 21st, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Thank you Roland for doing that search of the truth.
Hope there more people like you in your journalist word.
We need the whole picture of Facts in other make our opinion.
Instead we are receiving made opinion and usually take them fo biblical thruths
Anyway, keep on doing your nice job.

YO   March 21st, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Really, you mean that parts of the sermons were used out of context by fox news, cbs news, etc? Hard to believe…

tina   March 21st, 2008 12:39 pm ET

sorry Roland you are most biased person on cnn. It is shameful to watch on TV. Take it easy not need to blow up on tv. I don't believe anything thing you gotta say.

SMARTEN UP!   March 21st, 2008 12:39 pm ET

I don't think the Reverand said anything wrong. He was being honest and truthful.

Pat   March 21st, 2008 12:39 pm ET

Thanks for the truth, I know God honors that. Those complaining are the real hatemongers. This is the mask they're using.

Phil of Colorado   March 21st, 2008 12:39 pm ET

ALL bigots should be condemned, whether they are black, white, or purple.

gil   March 21st, 2008 12:38 pm ET

Obama would be WRIGHT to decide to drop out from the race NOW!

Go get a day job Martin   March 21st, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Stop trying to make up excuses for BAD BEHAVIOUR. Period. If you look for context, everyone's hate speech will have some context that when viewed from their own unique perspective makes sense to them. That does not justify it. Go get a day job man. And stop trying to justify someone's bad behaviour. Two wrongs don't make one right. Or should say "WRIGHT"!

vic nashville,Tn   March 21st, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Thanks for your effort Actually we don’t want Bush-Clinton – Bush –Clinton 28 Years Past 20 Years enough for us BUT form March first week I didn’t read any good news about Obama He lost our family votes. I wish any miracle to happen bring back Edward

Seattle Sue Seattle, Wa.   March 21st, 2008 12:30 pm ET

I'm not surprised that Roland Martin would try to iron out the wrinkles of this story by putting his spin on it.

T.   March 21st, 2008 12:30 pm ET

Thank you for doing what a journalist is suppose to do "report the full story". It is important for everyone understand the context of the sermon. Barack was right. We do need to have a honest conversation about racism in America. The truth shall set us free!!!!!

NC   March 21st, 2008 12:28 pm ET

He was repeating what someone on Foxnews said and was crucified by the media. Let's see if they have enough honor to admit and explain, over and over and over again just how wrong they were.

Independent   March 21st, 2008 12:28 pm ET

I appreciate that you are trying to give the story context…but the very people who need the context to understand the breath of the issues of which Wright was speaking are the same people who lack the attention span to get beyond the overplayed snippets of the sermon. I think it's time for the story to be put to bed.

Right wing conservatives will continue to exploit the few comments that fit their agenda of scoring political points while neglecting the depth of many of Wright's CONSERVATIVE ideals.

Liberals will continue to lose the interest of the people whose minds they are trying to set at ease about Obama's views on these extreme issues and forget that the chatter only allows their political opponents to circle the wagons.

What is really left for Obama to say? Do reporters have questions left for him on these issues? If so - they should ask his campaign and accept the responses. What's really left here?

petesb   March 21st, 2008 12:26 pm ET

good man Roland, when will news media learn that truth without context is meaningless. Go Barack!!

Alan   March 21st, 2008 12:24 pm ET

To a lot of the people still leaving negative comments and those who are railing about Sen. Obama being racist and unpatriotic. This won't matter. All a lot of these people needed was an excuse to let treir true feelings known. They had been looking for any issue to jump on Sen. Obama. These are the attitudes that stay under the surface like a wound under a band-aid. Like any wound, you eventually have to rip off the band-aid to see what is festering underneath. Hopefully this this issue and Sen. Obama's speech have started that process. Looks ugly right now.

Jonathan Swift   March 21st, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Why is it that this is the first I have seen of this level of analysis of Rev. Wright's statements? Neither CNN or any other major news organization, including the New York Times which generally gives more detail than you necessarily want, has gone beyond the small sound bites. I raise this not in the context of fairness to Barack Obama, but rather fairness to the American people who expect news sources to do some investigative reporting beyond putting up clips found on You Tube or blogs. I wonder how the people of this country put up with news at the level of American Gladiator, but then again George W Bush has been allowed to serve two terms as President. Sad, sad, sad.

heidi   March 21st, 2008 12:20 pm ET

as citizens we have the right to know everything we need about the candidates why make such a fuss over this why hide it obama does not want to reveal his past hiilary either we need a president that is honest like mccain no democrats get democrats out of office this will be a landslide for mccain he deserves it

The Perpetual Student   March 21st, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Would all the hate-spewing pro-Clinton and pro-McCain supporters actually LISTEN to the entire speech?

Former Obama supporter   March 21st, 2008 12:19 pm ET

There goes Roland Martin coming to Obama’s rescue. I really hate that he is supposed to be a CNN contributor and all he ever does is defend his precious Barack.

jesse   March 21st, 2008 12:19 pm ET

Thank you Mr. Martin for giving this the attention it deserves.
When I listened to the extended sermon and the context it provided, I could not believe how far it had been distorted by earlier reports. I have never before felt such a fundamental breach of trust with respect to the media. Please: urge your colleagues at CNN to air a "correction" piece, or at least some kind of contextualization. I am truly amazed how wrong this was initially handled by the press.

CAM   March 21st, 2008 12:15 pm ET

He didn't listen to what he ACTUALLY said because according to the blog post, it wasn't even the SAME sermon. Besides if he is truly saying that what this pastor has been saying is okay in context, then how does he defend Obama for putting him off the campaign & denouncing his remarks.

I love how people are so caught up in supporting someone that they will try to rationalize even the worst things.

Obama does not belong in the White House until he grows up & becomes a little more wise to the ways of the world.

JJ   March 21st, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Well it wont make a difference now!!! The damage has been done. Reporters and news organization have had the full tape from day 1! But chose to do lazy reporting and not only have ruined Rev Write's Reputation but possibly derailed a great potiential President. I have seen the WHOLE sermon and its nothing like YOU GUYS (the media) has made it out to be, context definatly makes a BIG difference.

s.b.   March 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

And was Obama present for this sermon??? Or numerous others just like it.

Tim, Atlanta GA   March 21st, 2008 12:11 pm ET

This….. doesn't surprise me. Who would have thought that the news media, without doing any research of their own, would have run with something taken out of context. This whole fiasco has done a lot of damage to Obama's campaign….. and all because news organizations are lazy!

Heidi   March 21st, 2008 12:10 pm ET

I wonder how many of us heard that same sermon in the aftermath of 911. I know I did. Different words but same message.

about time   March 21st, 2008 12:09 pm ET

About time someone looked at the whole speech and not just the sound bites. Is it just me or do the Hillary people seem really bitter today.

Luanne   March 21st, 2008 12:06 pm ET

The coverage of Rev. Wright and Obama's church has been some of the most dishonest reporting I have ever witnessed. Worthy of the Enquirer, if you ask me.

Lucas, Nashville TN   March 21st, 2008 12:05 pm ET

The truth comes out. And it's hard truth that I totally agree with.

norb   March 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

Roland Martin need to wear a big hat that says, I love Barack Obama.
He needs to go work for the Holywood Insider intead of CNN. Maybe Marvel comics?

carolfowery   March 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

maybe you need to read the bulletin's this man put out from his church to his members, he doesnt sound like a preacher to me, he sounds like a politician and it aint pro american, you need to do more than look at a video friend

Waiting for our turn in Indy   March 21st, 2008 12:03 pm ET

You know…all of this is stupid political "spin". Hell, Even Ex-President Clinton wrote a letter to Wright Praising Wrights insight and spiritual center after a prayer meeting/dinner with other dignitarying including Wright.

…once this hits the surface…….I am willing to bet….that this drops.

Mia   March 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

Thank you for doing your job. If only CNN would have done there job and investigated before spewing garbage from FOX. Also ABC needs to be held accountable.

This is what happens in an ADD nation where we need to know things in 30 seconds or less. Pathetic!

David C. In Indianapolis   March 21st, 2008 12:02 pm ET

I am losing the mortgage on my home and my job. Rev Wright is relevant how??

Obama '08

tina   March 21st, 2008 11:59 am ET

Thank you for having the honesty and decency to give the whole story. We would not have had to endure the media circus of the past two weeks had other journalists been as responsible in their reporting.

Phil in KC   March 21st, 2008 11:58 am ET

Listening to the full speech and taking all comments in context? From a news agency? What a novel idea!

Bill   March 21st, 2008 11:57 am ET

Thank you Roland, for more info on Rev. Jeremiah Wright. The self appointed judges have spewed out their ( who should have done what , and when) tirades. The judgement came from the democrats as well as the right wing hate mongers. The Reverend's opinions are his, and formed from his life's experiences. I was reading of Rev. Wrights time spent as a US Navy , USMC, Corpsman. The Hannity, Limbaugh, Gingrich, Lanny Davis crowd don't mention that part of Rev. Wright's life in their judgements, because someone might ask them what they did for their country, after all they love America more than us. Many of them love war as long as someone else is doing the fighting.

Independant   March 21st, 2008 11:53 am ET

Shame on Wright for his comments and shame on the Media for not fully reporting this story. I expect the main strem media to report every story in it's fill context. Stop feeding the public sound bites and distorting stories for the goog of your company.

Veterans for Obama   March 21st, 2008 11:52 am ET

Unfortunately this won't get the play it should.

Exodus   March 21st, 2008 11:52 am ET

Roland Martin your the biggest Bigot of all. Save your rhetoric you sound just like Obama always making excuses.

Ellen   March 21st, 2008 11:50 am ET

It might be helpful, Roland, if you reminded readers that you are an Obama supporter. Again, you can not be an objective reporter when you clearly favor one candidate over the other. I honestly can not read anything that CNN posts objectively.

Bill Richardson   March 21st, 2008 11:49 am ET

I did not know much about Bill Richardson prior to this election, but I certainly don't think much of him now.

How did Richardson's district vote? Didn't Bill Clinton appoint him to 2 positions? Who needs enemies when you have friends like him. I'm ashamed for him.

Bill Richardson's endoresement is not worth much given the circumstances. He and his endorsement will be forgotten in days.

Go Hillary!

Matthew   March 21st, 2008 11:46 am ET

Thank you. I've been saying all week -

maybe we should not be worried about the things that were said, maybe we should examine what's wrong with this nation that someone living in it would say that.

VIRAL INFECTION   March 21st, 2008 11:45 am ET

I commend Martin for watching the entire sermon of Rev. Wright, however, this disease will not go away-kind of like herpes, it will disappear for awhile but it'll creep up again and spread like wildfires.

As long as IGNORANTS remain on this world, this disease will haunt Obama for the rest of his political life.

LB, Virginia   March 21st, 2008 11:45 am ET

Thank you Mr. Martin, for exposing this whole thing–let's hope the rest of the media will step up and do the right thing with this story!

ANNA   March 21st, 2008 11:45 am ET

Roland, I love you, I know you will get to the bottom of this. Keep up the good work

No Obama   March 21st, 2008 11:45 am ET

Who is this guy? He wants to fool us?

American people is not so stupid that you can fool with.

Obviously, everyone knows Obama is not a patriots and he hates White people! That's it

No Obama…..

An Agnostic Democrat   March 21st, 2008 11:44 am ET

Thank you, Roland. And now can we have an apology from the media (especially you, CNN) for running with a Fox News story that has been clearly sensationalized, caricaturized and taken completely out of context to cause harm and profit ant any cost? Sounds a lot like the Clinton campaign to me.

Ciel,   March 21st, 2008 11:44 am ET

we did not see the whole thing, please fill us in with the ful story. u just cant say .. Martin: Full story behind .. blablabla..

and then write us 2 paragraphs. ROLAND MARTIN! CNN! is 2 paragraphs a full story?

..waiting for full story..Ciel

Adam FL   March 21st, 2008 11:40 am ET

The comments he made about america, and white people are not the kinds of things I would let my child hear, they are not things I would listen too in my church. There is no good way to explain the racist comments he made.

Wow   March 21st, 2008 11:40 am ET

This is true journalism. I encourage all to read the full report on the AC360 blog!

Donna Kay   March 21st, 2008 11:40 am ET

Amen !! Thank you Roland !! Your common sense and integrity are
always appreciated. I am a 44 year old white mother in Montana and
I agree 100% that the clips were so taken out of context and pieced
together that it amounted to lying ! I see some real truth here ! Thanks for putting it all together.

Everyone: You need to read the entire article and see who helped
influence this sermon!

JENNY OHARA   March 21st, 2008 11:40 am ET

You disgust all of us, CNN and Reverend Wright. QUIT COVERING FOR YOUR BOY

TheLeftNut   March 21st, 2008 11:38 am ET

This is a well laid out article. It's worth a look at regardless of what camp you're in.

Mark   March 21st, 2008 11:38 am ET

Unbelievable. Anybody not having seen this sermon has no right to say anything whatsoever about this church and Mr. Wright. Many newsorganisations and bloggers owe him a big apology in my opinion.

LaShanda from Maryland   March 21st, 2008 11:37 am ET

Thank you Roland for getting the truth out! He wasn't saying this is what I feel. He was saying this is what one of Bush's own people are saying.

Anyway, can we really have a Democracy if people can't voice their dissent with the government? If that is what America is, then are we any different from China or the former Iraq?

I think we should be careful in what we define as anti-patriotic. Because when the Dixie Chicks spoke out against the war in 2003, they almost lost their career. They were labeled as "unpatriotic"! Now EVERYONE speaks out against the war! So are we all unpatriotic now? We are quick to say bad things about our current president. Again, are we unpatriotic? 20 years from now, someone will look back and say we bombed Iraq without even batting an eye. America needs to take a good look at itself!

Joseph Juhasz   March 21st, 2008 11:33 am ET

I'm not sure what if anything is accomplished by searching for any truths told by the pastor. Of course he often told the truth but how relevant is that ? Even people like Hitler and Charles Manson often told the truth.

Vince - Phoenix   March 21st, 2008 11:28 am ET

How about that…. someone who actually RESEARCHED the controversy… what a freaking NOVEL idea???? (no, noooo… can't do THAT, CAN WE??? research what happened for ourselves??? THAT'S un AMERICAN!!! … isn't it just easier to believe the snipets put together by some right wing hack??? just ask John Kerry…) sarcsm off!!!

Thank you Roland.

p.s. .. if holding a man accountable for something ANOTHER man said, we would 'never' have a president. and anyone who latches on to this was NEVER going to vote for Obama anyway. if 'this' is the reason… they you were already looking for a 'reason' (valid or not)… to NOT vote for him.

Adam   March 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

more spin from CNN trying to save NObama.

Curt   March 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Thank you for the full picture. Now let's get back to issues that matter, not tabloid fodder.

Adam   March 21st, 2008 11:26 am ET

Where was Roland Martin with his "Full Story" on The Speech Bill Clinton gave about Obama's record on the War when Bill Clinton called his record a "Fairy Tale"? He was all over Bill. Never did he take a look at the FULL speech and write a story about it.

Adam   March 21st, 2008 11:24 am ET

Roland is just as racist as this guy is. CNN should be ashamed for having him on with his one sided view of everything.

anony   March 21st, 2008 11:22 am ET

Slow news day CNN?

Jay MN   March 21st, 2008 11:21 am ET

RIght on, Roland.

Anyone who is weighing this against Obama should at least have the courtesy of weighing it in its entirety.

If they still feel the same way afterwards, so be it.

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