CNN

it really makes me happy 2 know that whites feel the sting of prejudice. yall been doin everything u can 2 kill us and we still here. i know its gotta make u a little upset. despite slavery, and da 2 hundred year head start on education (wouldnt even allow us to read) we still gaining on yall. yes we r racist and very sensitive and we should b! we dont expect yall 2 feel sorry we know yall hate us, even da ones that claim innocent. but yall plan is bout 2 back fire u know, ur reign is over, and thats not how u thout it would b. the mixed pres. represents wat yall fear da most, and that is ur race no longer existing. see thats y they teach thier kids to stay away from us they dont want us mixing. lol we mixin at a incredible pace! wont have 2 worry bout racism in a few years it ll only b us. as far as us complaining, DEAL WIT IT should have left us in our country. Yall gotta b impressed at how far we have made it wit ur foot on our back. "original man" baby its our time again! yall say we whine 4 nonthing but if u white u dont have a clue wat we endure on a daily so shut it. wat yall need 2 do is prepare cause it bout 2 b a "new world order" lol

Holder's words on racism is a sugar-coated lie. The White guilt trip has been repeatedly used to shut up any real discussion on race. Students are not taught in lower and higher level education about all the people who fought and died to end slavery in this great county – just the underground railroad and gloss over the rest. Remember the past and fix the present for the future.

From what I gathered the blacks brought thier own people to be sold as slaves in America over 100 yrs ago. I dont agree with the treatment alot of blacks recieved years ago it was so unhumane. But Im not responcible for things that happened so many years ago, I keep thinking why do whites owe blacks anything I personally would be thankful my ancestors suffered for me to be able to live in the land of the free. And Africa now (I have never been there) but watch TV is war, starvation, drought and aids ridden. I dont care what race you are as long as your a good person. I did find in my ancestry our family owned a Black slave named Rose I read when the family died they left Rose some silverware. I told my Mom oh yeay look they left Rose some silverware my mom said well they must have really loved her because that was alot in those days. My Mom told me the Irish were also slaves. I'm Irish I guess I'm owed too. And It really Irks me that Obama is called Black When he is Half White raised by White Grand Parents and only met his Dad once when he was about 10. His skin is dark he married a Black Woman I guess thats what makes him a Black man. I am one who voted for him I believe in him, and his change policy. He took over a mess and I'm praying he can get us out.
I wrote this for all to see and i'm sure I will be called a racist but i'm not a COWARD. By the way I flunked History so if i'm wrong I dont mind being corrected.

I disagree with Holder's comment,the black on black violence.People do not want ,have a comment on this issue.This is being a coward,A major org.,Naacp,represent certain people[favortism]A alot of ignorance.I worked all black enviroment,ignorance is terriable.I'm black.People can be cowards,[ignorant] It does not matter on race.My own race ,always trying, to get over.I respect people,who respect me.

i feel AG Holder's comments were right on time. thats the problem we don't even want to say the words "racial conversation" we as a society would rather stick our heads in the sand than confront how we feel about each other. President Obama is correct in his feeling of sitting down and talking with world leaders friends and foe. if we did we probably could settle some of our differences instead we just shut people out and pray it will go away. i believe if we as a nation would come to the table blacks,hispanics,jewsand whites and shared our likes and dislikes we could find common ground where our kids could live together without having to go to our schools and see ropes tied over trees, and black history taught as it should be as part of schools curriculums and not for 28 days out of the year.

Seek and ye shall find...

Seek racism and you'll find it. Seek cowards and you'll find them. Seek a dream and you will find that. Personally, I choose to seek MLK's dream...

Holder is right. If Americans were not cowards, everyone would have accused the Republicans of making a token black guy (Steele) their chairmen.

Obama and Holder are NOT token blacks, they are leaders who deserve their positions; I have to say this, otherwise people will think I am racist because they don't know me, or my voting record, and because it is socially inappropriate to point out token black people (which is a result of an overload of political correctness).

This whole obsession people have with their ancesters is rediculous. My grandmother did a lot of digging and you know what? I have a Scottish queen in my family tree. That doesn't make me a leader. I also have a bootlegger in my family tree. That doesn't make me a criminal. My grandfather was illiterate until the day he died. That doesn't make me illiterate.

I am not a product of my ancesters. I am what I am today because I've worked my butt off since the age of 16. My ancesters didn't do squat for me when I took algebra, I did the work and made the grades.

My parents could not afford college and I didn't want to start life in debt, so I didn't go until I was in my late 20's. I went to school at night while working fulltime during the day with 2 kids at home under the age of 4. I graduated with a 4.0. My ancesters didn't stay up until midnight studying or working on projects, I did the work and made the grades.

Every person in this country has access to an education that will get them out of poverty, but it only works if they take advantage of it. A person's attitude is a far better predictor of success or failure than their skin color. Just ask any black person that has succeeded how they did it and they will tell you the same thing a white person will – they worked for it.

Do African-Americans really and truly in their hearts want to discuss the issue of race with their white brethren OR would they rather keep all of white America in an ever-apologizing mode, off-balance and moving backwards on its heels?

Exactly WHAT is keeping the African-American population from initiating an honest, candid and intellectual dialogue about racism?

Could it be that the reluctance of whites to openly discuss race has become a very useful tool for African-Americans to ultimately get far more leeway?

When I didn't vote for Barack Obama because I could not align myself with his policies, I was summarily labeled a "racist". Now, that he is President, his Attorney General openly calls white people – as in "me" – a "coward".

Have any African-Americans come forward to publicly denounce these tactics? Where is THEIR outrage when the flames of racism are deliberately being fanned? Mr. Holder apparently has the balls of a burglar only because his boss is an African-American. Does he not see himself as being an Attorney General for ALL Americans?

No, the collective silence of African-Americans everywhere is deafening.

I am an American. My ancestors have been in this great country since the 1600's. I am sure some of them owned slaves. But what people need to realize is that slaves were possesions back when it was legal. It was no different than someone today owning any possession. It was a way of life back then It is not an accepted way of life now...just like it is not acceptable for a 30 yearold to marry a 14 or 15 year old. All that was legal when slavery was legal. Times change. I could understand it if we still had someone alive today that was a slave...he/she would have a right to be bitter. Not a single descendant of a slave living today has a reason to be bitter. Their ancestors have already moved on to a better place. What needs to happen is for people to all get along and put the past behind us....or we are doomed to repeat it. More people need to read history books, like John Adams & 1776 by David McCollough. It puts alot of things from the slave times in perspective. The past was horrible.....but the future can be awesome....we have alot of great people in this country.

I do not frequently talk about race because I do not care or think that much about it. How does that make me a coward? And I do not believe our AG knows how prevelant my attitude is in America.

You could not give those peoples what they want unless you are willing to give up what you have and take a back seat in the bus.
And if they don't get what they want they will burn you town down.\
Thomas

I agree that most people are reluctant to talk about race – but I wonder if the AG realizes why? It's because if you make a remark or gesture that can be twisted to be seen as racist in even the smallest way, you'll have Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton calling for your head. So, everyone just keeps quiet and keeps believing what they believe, without interacting with other points of view in an honest discussion.

I has been my experience any time race is or needs to be discussed is when there are accusations of racism. I lived and worked with a lot of racists in the Baltimore/Washington area, incuding those who demanded a Black Revolution (no Whites in Power) and supported people demanding the murder of all Whites.

Yes we are a nation of cowards because we are so afraid of listening to someone else's opinion if it is not what we like. What happened in Illinois when a Democratic governor appointed a Democrat to fill the seat of President Obama right before he was impeached? Instead of people being allowed to agree or not Congressman Bobby Rush makes the appointment about race. What do all the political hacks say? Mr. Burris is a wonderful man, but we don't think he should be appointed by a man who tried to sell the seat. All we heard was praise about Mr. Burris's sterling character, but what do we know now. He lied under oath. He has given 3 different answers. Now anyone who talks against him is a racist. Well, in a state that has elected 2 Black senators, ahould this have even come up? I no longer will vote for a Black candidate as long as the likes of Bobby Rush and his group are in Illinois because they feel that once a Black is elected no other race has the right to hold that seat.

I agree with Holder. The day Obama was elected prez and Holder became ag we became a nation of cowards because we're being lead by cowards. This from a minority that the feds consider too successful to get affirmative action.

I was told when Barack brought in his candidacy for President that he was not black enough and blacks did not want to vote fo him. Is he black enough?

I truly believe that most people voted for Obama because he was an intelligent human being who had the answers we wanted to hear! I didn't care whether he was Black, White, or Green! I still do not care. He is intelligent, articulate, and he is fighting for the little man... NOT the top 5% of the rich! And I think the Republicans HATE that! So they are ready to jump on anything that he or anyone else says! What's new? Seriously.....

I've had it!!!! I'm sick to my stomach everytime I hear blacks bring up slavery. For God's sake (He must be tired of it too), get a life. The blacks of this country, I bet 80% +, have been born HERE! So WHY do they call themselves Afro-Americans. They are in fact AMERICANS. And nothing else. You don't hear europeans, asians
or austrialians, etc. say their born or ancestorial country-American.
So the bottom line for me is: BE AMERICAN ONLY, BE PROUD OF THIS COUNTRY, QUIT WHINING, BE PRODUCTIVE, AND QUIT CHALLENGING EVERYTHING WHITE!!!!

Eric Holder had it right and president Obama is doing him a sincere injustice by basically apologizing for tough words that needed to be stated. No I'm not black, I'm American indian and I don't need to say a thing about racial injustice because as soon as you read the words American Indian it gave you pause and so it should. While I'm not out to beat on the long dead skeleton of that horse, I will say that racial injustice in all it's forms is not something that should be swept under the rug and then everyone wipes their hands clean and then have the audacity to get upset when any person that is representing an oppressed race gets offended by something. Prejudice has gone from the 'in your face' form to the 'subtle behind the back' form and I don't know which is worse really. It's high time we as people faced our fears and come to terms with the fact that we are all of this earth and unless one of you starts walking on water and turning water to wine then it's time to get off the pedestal and start showing everyone the same respect that you yourselves want to recieve. And for the love of whatever religion you follow, quit perceiving the truth and have the courage to find out what the 'actual' truth is. Perception is the cowards way of guessing at what the truth is rather than really taking the time to discover it. So yeah, we're a nation of cowards who would rather point the finger and whisper then come out and engage others in conversation to find out what the truth really is.

death to america, you are ignorant! and stupid! Learn how to spell before you try and call someone else stupid. You coward!

If Holder was white Jesse and the Rev Al show would already be demanding Holder be fired. they would still be burning and looting businesses in DC.

Considering that African American represent only 13% of our total population in United States, I think that African Americans are getting equal to ,and percentage wise,more of their voice heard and representation than ANY other race in the United States.

So why is everyone getting upset over the comment. He did say WE are a nation of cowards correct. That is an inclusive statement but its seems as though whites are the only on getting upset as if blacks aren't part of this nation. We only talk about race when something stirs it up like this comment. No one is a racist until they get behind their computer and can speak freely (how they really feel). Its 2009 lets have an open and honest discussion so WE can move on as a NATION!
----------------------

200 years and blacks haven't moved on. What makes you think any level or volume of discussion will change a thing. Face it, it is a crutch that blacks will never lose.

Hmm, oddly enough Obama never speaks about his own problems in the black race, like abandoning their children, just like his father did to him.

Sorry, but America is racist. Mexicans hate, blacks hate, asians hate, whitey hates, natives hate, puerto ricans hate, italians hate, polish hate, germans hate, jews hate, catholics hate, protestants hate, french hate, english hate, arabs hate, africans hate, hippies hate, republicans hate, democrats hate, warmongers hate, pacificists hate.
RACE HATE IS A DISEASE OF THE POOR! THE PIGS IN POWER WANT US TO HATE! BURN THE CASTLES! PARTY IN THE VILLAGES!

What Holder and most Black Americans forget is that slavery ended over a century or two ago. We need to focus on more important things, like the economy. My black friends need to get over it, plain and simple. If not, last time I checked they are free to leave.

Blacks and whites alike are tired of the lack of knowledge and understanding on this issue. As Americans, cowardly or not, we will not move beyond this "race" thing as a whole. Some will, some won't–that's just fact. Some– understand the history of our country's atrocities therefore have an understanding of the cause and effects, giving them the ability to forgive and move on; both black and white alike. To the rest of you, who point fingers and are still blaming one another, both black and white...YOU have been left behind. We've completed our Doctorates on this issue and you all are still in the 3rd Grade. The rest of us have a country to fix and we've decided to move forward. Join us when you've figured it out. LOL!

I like our new AG, but I have to disagree with his view that people should want to talk about race with each other. Mr. Holder should realize that for some Americans, like myself, the race/ethnicity issue is extremely uncomfortable, painful, and beyond explosive. For me there is no issue in the world that generates as much anger and mistrust as this one. It forces two people to see each other as enemies, instead of as friends and fellow Americans.

This is why, if someone brings it up with me, I make it very clear that I do NOT care to discuss it or get asked any questions about it, and I definitely don't "joke around" about it, in either direction. It's 100% off limits, at least with me.

Slavery originated in Africa and Asia and was brought to the New World. There were buyers and sellers – can you guess who the sellers were and where they hailed from?

Willy Brown,

It's telling that you are here blogging, where no one knows who you really are, yet you still can't come to terms with your racism. That's true of ck and a few others. If you have a problem say so. But don't continue to call Blacks or any other (so-called) minority group racist whenever they talk about injustices. Holder was correct, and no apology is necessary. Peace.

Why can't I be offended? What he said was racist, and I demand an apology. I demand he step down. I demand that the president issue a public statement. That will go a short distance toward healing the wounds that this thoughtless attorney general has inflicted on my spirit. I am hurt and offended. I don't care if he didn't mean it like it came out. He has offended a group and that's verbal genocide. I demand retribution and reparations.

(I wouldn't have known how to respond to what this man said if Al Sharpton had not taught me).

Tom from Wheaton, IL,

I hate to respond to others comments, and if moderators will allow me, I have to say; you are just a bloomin' idiot.

My ancestors nor I did anything to anyone, let alone my fellow Americans of African descent. If someone harbors resentment for the treatment of their ancestors, well, they are wrong. I understand it may be difficult for those filled with anger over their historical past, but, we need to work to get beyond this. It was horrible, it should have never happened, but it did, and thank god, many of the wrongs have been stopped, and we enlightened folks are working every day to end the wrongs that may continue, against all, blacks, whites, gays, etc.

It sounds like you are either a racist, or stoking the fire. Either way, your ignorance is shining through.

Read a few books, get some therapy, walk a mile in "their" shoes, and see if you like what you see. Then we can talk.

I hear comments like "get over it", "we have not had Slavery for over one hundred years" "Racist works both ways" What if We had a White History Month like Blacks do" What are you really trying to say? I know that you really do not know what you are saying yourself! The dialogue has no substance it all rings hollow to the meaning of exercising common sense and truthfulness.

I agree with him. I also think that when he said it he was painting the country with a rather wide brush. As a white woman, I don't think that he meant "whites in this country are cowards", I think he meant what he said: "as a nation WE are cowards" when it comes to discussing racial issues.
And I have to admit, Yes I Have Been, Yes I Still Am , and Yes I Can Try To Not Be So Afraid Of Being Accused Of "You're Only Saying That Because I'm Black".....(if They are) LOL at self.

Michelle Mal kins you sound like and idiot. You are no making any sense. Communist! How does this comment make you into a communist. DUMB BLOND

Holder did not say the United States is a nation of cowards. He said that when it comes to talking about race, we have been a nation of cowards. I agree with Obama that this still isn't the best way to frame it, but let's be clear about what we're talking about.

I think his comments may have been poorly chosen, but I think he didn't mean it as all the over-reacting left/right wingnuts have made it out to be.

The media of course, couldn't help themselves by making this so much more than it is or ever should have been.

In a recent study at an all black Harlem elementary school the children were presented with white and black dolls. The kids were asked who the good dolls and who the bad dolls were. In every case these black children picked the white dolls as the good dolls and the black dolls as the bad dolls! Now why is that??

If I am correct, Mr. Holder is the first African-American Attorney General..., so how could this be a "nation of cowards" – when it comes to race relations – when he occupies one of the most powerful positions in government?

As an African-American, I reject his notion that this is a nation of cowards and would recommend that he have someone review his remarks before speaking publicly about race.

The advances this country has made with respect to race relations bespeak that of a level of notable evolution and adjustment, not cowardice.

This nation of cowards has, as its President, an African- American, in case Mr. Holder forgot.

I guess since my ancestors fought to free the slaves, I would like a Thank you from these same black Americans that think we whites are racists. I am sick to death of hearing about their problems and blaming them on us. They really need to remember who fought and died for them all those years ago. They are no longer victims, but as long as they choose to be, they will not be respected. As long as their "heroes" are Sharpton, Jackson and people like them, that respect will be a long time coming, too. Can we talk about it? No. And why? Bacause of these "heroes". Someone needs to tell them that there was only one Martin Luther King and neither Sharpton nor Jackson will ever fill his shoes. And everyone else needs to grow up and get into the 21st century and quit living in the past. As long as you choose to live in the past, there will never be any meaningful conversations. I'm quite sure that all those soldiers that died fighting for your freedon are turning over in their graves and wondering what the heck they died for, a bunch of ungrateful people who keep wanting more and more and want to remain vitctims.

So ron, what did you get picked up for?

I'm calling for the resignation of Holder and I want it on my desk on Monday morning!

I'll admit it, I have a prejudice against stupid people. I could care less about what color people are or their religious disposition or sexual orientation, my biggest pet peeve is people who dont have the good sense god gave a pig. There are a lot of people who don't have any common sense.

Holder is right and you know it, so put a sock in it.

Then again , the nation is coming to terms with the past step by step . So Holder, even if you are right, put a sock in it too.

Now I would like to talk about something else .

The weather was nice today wasn't it ?

Spring is near and a new year filled with challenges lays await for us.

Challenge's high and low , slowly moving the grey away from extreme's ,re-accepting the alienated , building new path's , creating more opportunity's.

By the time a surplus has been reached , among the conservatives a new breed wil rise , harboured by hatred and hate spewers.
He/she will alienate everyone again with the traditional "them or Us ".
After neglecting the economy and spending the surplus, maybe you will be able to elect a " Woman " for presidency.

And so the revolving story goes ...

Just for the record, way more european "indentured servants" were bought at public auction and worked in an inhumane fashion, many times to death. Not to mention that any "offense" to the master of the house and your sentance of servtitude could be and very often was extended. The reason that african slavery was developed by the BRITISH, SPANISH, and DUTCH mainly was that they could literaly stand the heat. NOONE in my family EVER owned or lynched anyone. Ninty nine percent of the people who lived during that period of time when slavery was legal in this country never owned or lynched anyone. The net result of slavery in this country has been a legacy of blanket white guilt and incredible opportunity for the decendants of african slavery. When will you people white and black just let go of the past and try to find a way forward

One church official informed my daughter over the phone that she would not want to attend their church because it was a black church. Racism over the phone and in a place of worship. I guess she did not sound "black enough" over the phone.

@Larry March 7th, 2009 9:22 pm ET
Why does the President and African American keep talking about slavery ?We have not had slavery for well over a hundred years,yet the blacks talk about it like it is going on today...... It is going on today it is called if you are White You are Right ..and the KKK are now called Skin Heads same tactics same hate cuz of the color of Skin ....now Shut the H_LL UP
@Willy Brown March 7th, 2009 9:35 pm ET
Only race baiters I've seen come from the democrat party **and the only RACE Baiters I know are YOU and the REPUBS
@Independant Thinker March 7th, 2009 9:14 pm ET
Holder is a DISCRACE to this country and should REMOVE himself from office.Holder is a very Inteligent Man.....and you should be sent to the bottomless pit of H_LLL

The person that told the most truth on here is ELLEN who wrote as follows:

"I am a white middle-aged woman, and Mr. Holder is absolutely correct. We imitate the military – don't ask, don't tell – and pretend that because we don't act overtly racist that we no longer carry the residue of bigotry in our hearts…"

Thank you Ellen for speaking those words of truth. I am a 60+ black woman and don't think for one second that black people are not AWARE of those feelings in your hearts. We SENSE it.

That residue oozes out often and it leaves something green and slimy to the touch...even tho it is invisible.

This bigotry does not apply to ALL whites but certainly to many. And that my dear, is the problem.

He is right! There are many black cowards that will not face the truth! They feel entitled to be lazy. He called this one right!!

Is Obama so out of touch with reality it takes him over 2 weeks to come up with a response to something as controversial as this? Or does this just not rank in terms of his priorities on his relationship with the American public?

A young man opens the door of an establishment he has never entered before. Talk dwindles to silence as everyone in the single room turns to stare. They wait for him to speak. No smiles, no welcome. His face isn't the color of all the other faces. He turns and leaves without ever saying a word or having a word said to him.

Moments later another young man walks through the same door. Like the man before him he has never been here before. But this time he is greated with smiles and an invitation to have a seat while he waits and asked if he watched the game last night. His face is the right color for immediate acceptance.

1950's Little Rock diner? No. It's 2009 and a barbershop on the south side of Chicago.

Michelle Malkin of TownHall.com is always gearing for a fight. She's another Ann Coulter.

Thus far, still better than the bush administration.....

When a black man gets elected to office why do people still go on witch hunts after people. Could it be that they're racist? But white people in my neighborhood cant say that with out being called a racist cracker openly. How times change.

I has been my experience any time race is or needs to be discussed is when there's accusations of racism. It is career suicide. Black racism is accepted in the workplace, but Whites cannot get a single statement even possibly taken out of context. People listen, watch, and learn to avoid negative consequences.
To all those who would call this racist, I lived and worked with a lot of Black racists in the Baltimore/Washington area, incuding those who demanded a Black Revolution and supported people voicing the murder of all Whites.

To Larry you say what you want but to some african americans it's still slavery.You still have blacks cleaning your homes and preparing your meals and may I also say raising your kids and now you have just as many immigrants doing the same thing being hired as cheap labor and need I say some immigrants are illegal .That's why there is a nergro college fund and hard working AFRICAN AMERICANS saving to send their children to college to help generations now to make something out of their lives that their parents and grandprarents had the misfortune of not having it.Yes we continue to talk about slavery and why shouldn't we? ...because we are telling you ENOUGH!!!!! ....OMG I'd like to see your face right now when I ask you this question and that is..In you wildest dreams you never thought you'd see a black man as president of the United States did you? Huh?That's what I thought

This reminds me of the Jay Leno show,when he does the "Jay walking skit".Many of the people on here are probably still watching "Heehaw' reruns though and believe it was reality.We need a better educational system and fast.

@Ron – the reason why there are more minorities in prison is because more minorities commit crimes. Black defendents don't get a fair trial? Give me a break! Does the name O J Simpson mean anything to you? There was way more physical evidence against him than against Scott Peterson and which one got off? Both were guilty, but the white guy ended up on death row.
And, DNA testing is clearing white guys, too. Prior to the advancements in DNA testing the evidence in most rape trials was based on victim identification and, just to be fair, the victims may have gotten the face of their perp wrong but they didn't get the race wrong...so drop that line of argument cause it don't fly.
If you don't like it that so many black men are in prison then tell your black sons to stop committing crimes, stay in school, and get a job.

As a white guy growing up in a black neighborhood there is a problem. I had to run from the black guys until I got to my black friends that would protect me. I didn't do anything to them but I was white.
Now I'm older and all I see at company get togethers or even just a lunch gathering is the blacks CHOOSE to sit amongst themselves. They do not have to but choose to.
Another subject,
I hate the name African American. There are white people that come from Africa. Can they call themselves African American??

Holder was right on target. It is true that many people of all races in America feel uncomfortable talking about race. It is a pity that Obama wants Holder not to bring up the issue anymore because it would be great if some of the people leaving comments were honest with themselves about how they feel uneasy talking about the issue.
I don't have any problem talking about the subject. The main issue in this country is that we need to be more open and talk about each other. I think some people don't realize that if your skin color is different, that doesn't mean you don't have feelings like every other human being. It is sad that we are still struggling with race and racism. I'm tired of hearing the same old platitudes about race. I judge people not by the color of their skin, but by the content of the character. We should discuss more about race, but we should try to remember what we have in common, too. We live on this planet together. We all should have a responsibility to uplift each other, not just our own ethnic communities, unless we want America to go down the drain.

FIRST THING OBAMA APPROVED EVERYTHING HE STATED.

JUST MORE FLIP FOPING.

WHAT IS THE MATTTER WITH THESE PEOPLE. WELL WE ARE FINDING OUT , YOU HEAR AND HEARD WHAT IS ON THERE MINDS .

JUST SHOWS THEY ARE NOT RIGHT FOR HOLDING A HIGH OFFICE. JUST MORE LIKE CHICAGO POLITICS.

I love reading these comments!!! Isn't the anonymous feature of online discussion great?! Without it we would all be to afraid to say what we're really thinking. Does that make us cowards? HA!

Holder is a jerk. He is also black, but that does not change the fact that he is a jerk.

As for looking back on the legacy of slavery, I have no particular interest or reason to do that, and that does not make me a racist. It just means I have no interest. I do have interest in looking back on the legacy of the american Indian, as we did steal their country form them in the most horrific fashion

Mercedes, the argument that Sunday at 11am is the most segregated hour is an outdated argument. Sure, decades ago when blacks or others weren't allowed or welcomed in white churches it was valid. However, people now choose where they want to attend ... many people choose churches according to what they were raised with or what seems relevant to them. People need to feel part of a group they identify with, whether according to culture, perceived needs, generation, etc. When speaking about church or religion, people choose churches they perceive as refuges from the tough realities of life. If you were to really study demographics according to urban megachurch attendances, which are now the majority, the "segregated" theory no longer holds water.

I hate to say it, and I do only because I am in cyberspace (otherwise, I would fear accusations), but we don't talk about racial issues, because if someone white says something a black disagrees with, the white is accused of being a racist, regardless of the thought. Being accused of being a racist in todays society is a scarlet letter. Nobody wants that, and therefore people shy away from those conversations. If african americans weren't so quick to call racism, it would be a more hospitable environment.

Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican, and a great man at that.

And by the way,for those people talking about how white people are descended from slaveowners and black people are descnded from slaves.
Studies have shown that the average "black" american is about 20% white.(mwaning that theres a good chance they;re descended from slaveowners)
Also millions of whites only came to this country AFTER slavery was abolished,why should people descended from eastern European Jews,or people descended from starving Irish and Italian immigrants who came through Ellis sialnd feel bad about what happened in America before their ancestors even arrived??

I am always amazed at the content and diversity of the comments rendered on questions like race.As "a man in the street" who has had the experience-and joy- of black friends,white ones,christian ones and muslim ones I soon learned that we are all HUMANS with specific human traits. That experience eliminates any notion of wanting or needing to belong to a certain ethnicity.Rather than thinking "American" or Israeli,or whatever,focus on being a cosmopolitan! I agree,it requires a certain level of maturity,something that is becoming increasingly difficult to achieve in this century.
gerry,edmonton,can.

Personally, I love his comments. It's using extreme language that catches our attention prompting us into discussions on race. It is precisely what he was trying to accomplish. In my opinion, when it comes down to it; the word "racist" has become a tired cliche. We have all had preconceived notions based on someones race whether we would like to admit it or not. That makes us all racists. I believe that the real enemy we should combat is political correctness. It is this idiotic concept that keeps people from airing their concerns for fear of perception and brutal judgment. How can we ever make any progress when people have to be careful with every single word that comes out of their mouth? In an attempt to lessen racism, we have only disguised it.

And.....Mr Holder is correct. This country was built with hard work – on the backs of slaves, yet they were treated worse than dogs.

Its not realistic to believe that racism will end, but at least we can have the guts to discuss it openly (without fear of retaliation or being labeled a racist) and treat each other with dignity and respect.

Mr. Holder's words were obviously not the best choice. However, no one should be offended by them. If so, he has hit a nerve, there must be some truth in which he speaks. In my opinion it was pretty clear what he meant, as President Obama stated. Those who are offended by this talk are most likely those who don't see us all as Americans. Having seen many decent people make detrimental remarks about my religion, I have been a "coward" to call them to task. They are in the majority and do not know the damage they do to others. If I did speak up, I would not change their undeniably prejudiced opinions. Perhaps a dialogue by those in authority would change a few opinions regarding this and the same thing could be said of race. As times get worse economically, as the comments in this and other CNN articles indicate, the prejudices are really increasing, or people feel safe showing their hatred anomously on the Internet.

I agree with Eric Holder. It is a delicate subject that no one wants to discuss. However, I am not such a PC person – I want to open up these conversations to... I don't know... just get past this whole race issue. I honestly believe we're all members of humanity, not members of a race.

A time ago, I had asked an African American friend of mine a point blank question (keep in mind, I prefaced it by saying I didn't want to be inflammatory, but was very curious). I first told him that I thought the n-word was an insult. But then I asked him why it was okay for he and his black friends to call each other that. He explained that it was a friendly name when it was used in the brotherhood, but not by Caucasians because coming from them it was an insult. He also told me that I (a Caucasian woman) could call him a n--r anytime I wanted and that he would not be offended because I was a friend.

In an odd way, I thought that was a sweet statement, but explained that I could never use that term because I was conditioned that it was a bad word.

Those are just my two cents.

The election was about race. 95% of Democrats voted for Obama based on race. They wanted to make "history" by voting in the first black president. It was either that or they felt "guilty" if they voted against him. They did not vote based on experience. Even Obama brought up the race card several times during the campaign to make it an issue. African Americans are more racist today towards white people, than the other way around. Of course Eric Holder won't mention that now will he?

Anyone offended by Holders remark are only guilty because they are fearful of anyone who does not look like them and suddenly they feel they are losing control–my God we have a non-white President for Heavens sake! However wouldn't be a problem for these same offended souls to claim to compare a black person to a chimp or picture watermellons on the whitehouse lawn–aww we was only funning! The jerks! Holder is correct in his remarks and you just might as well swallow that bitter pill!

What is really funny is that blacks think obama is black. If he were not bi-racial he would not have gotten elected. Holder is bi-racial also, just look at the man, does he look really fully black to you? Ron you are a racist pig.

Ps – just because nobama won the election, it was not any where near a landslide victory, or a mandate from the public. It was 52% to 48% so that means that millions upon millions of Americans did not vote for this socialist.

Yes it is trie we do not have a white history month, and LORD HELP US whie people if we had one, it would be the end of it. black people get away with everything in this country, becsuse if they dont we all would get sue, and pay the a bunch of million just like the moron rodney in california, and then he got homself into more trrouble, I am so tires and this . This attorney general does bot know how to choose other words instead of calling us white cowards. We are people that came from Europe (number one) and other countries and we build this country. WHO IS HE CALLING COWARDS? Does he has any respect for the American white people? I am really piss off at his commen//HE SHOULD APOLOGIZE and resign his position, we dont need anyone like him to express such a nasty opinion

Garry, I'm sorry, I should have also pointed out that the surgeon and the traffic light was just a couple of things that people don't know but has become an intricate part of everyone's life. So for some that hear derogatory terms to describe them as a person, this information is important to them.

I think that President Obama has a different look at the issues of Black and White. He was raised by White Grandparents and his White Mother. I am sure he understands the issues that make Blacks feel the way they do. And much is justified. But thankfully, Obama is a man of the People for the People. He understands both sides of the coin. I respect him. But I think he will have to be apologizing for a lot of his Black friends and workers in his administration.

Holder's comments were indeed peculiar. Particularly in light of the fact that he is a lawyer ,"the mouthpiece". The one who ought to know the weight of his comments is the attorney general. Perhaps he isn't the person for the job.

I'm white and I knew EXACTLY what Holder meant when he said it. And I agree with him. When my black friends talk about being black, it makes me nervous....I start to wonder "are they doing this because I said or did something that makes them think I'm racist?". It's just silly – I should ask them but what if they say "yes"? We avoid the conversation as if to bring it up would be insensitive or rude, like pointing out the zit on the end of someone's nose. Well YEAH you're black...I'm not...and where do we go from here? I would like to be able to say to my black friends "you know, slavery sucks and it's something that no American can be proud of, but on the other hand if not for that you wouldn't be here, and we wouldn't be friends".

I think the Attorney General ought to direct these remarks to African Americans :

Don't get too sensitive , testy , violent or argumentative so people won't be afraid to talk about race.

We shouldn't play the victim card forever because its not right.

RobK,

Amen!

Don't call someone who was President of the Harvard Law Review a moron. You're the moron.

Garry in Texas.....Black history wasn't taught in schools until recently with colleges offering courses in African American studies. The history books didn't mention that the first heart surgeon in America was an African American, or the African American that invented the traffic light. I didn't either, until these courses and other means of education like Black History Month. Black colleges were created to educate Black Americans, because for so long they weren't allowed to go to school with whites. They were even supposed to drink from the same water fountain. And it's just is that those colleges has remained with history and pride, solvent and relevant. It was so long ago that the National Guard had to escort little black children to school in Arkansas, because the governor and the school system didn't want black children in "their" schools. Black Americans are Americans, and a way was found to educate them.

People can't blame black people for being racist towards white people. Slavery then segregation then racism made African-Americans bitter, and indoctrinated them into a cycle of poverty and despair that keeps many of them from moving ahead and instead makes them more likely to get into drugs and jails. You can't just say, ok we aren't racist towards you anymore and expect them to skip merrily off on their happy and successful way. Their whole culture and mindset has been shaped by what happened in the past and you can't just expect them to get over the terrible things that happened to them for generations just because we elected some mixed guy for President. White people spent so long talking bad about black people that of course they are going to talk bad right back!

In my rush to express my opinion, I made a mistake. I'm sure, even as I type, I am making more.
Obama understands that Holder's statement offended some and was, frankly, not politically the smartest thing to say in an interview as AG. I'm not saying Holder is wrong, I happen to believe what he said is true, but Obama is, whether all Americans like it or not, head of this country. He understands the opinions and views of its inhabitants are both varied and complex. He also understands that how an individual states something is, in this culture, almost as important as what is actually said. Use the wrong phrase and the entire world may come crashing down on your head.

Mr. Holden, U a Black Leader not child. As a Leader/Lawyer "U job is the view of Pres "O"" I'm Black, 50 yr's, and Ret!

As a white male who grew up in the South I saw some terrible disc rimination . I was fortunate to be raised in an area of Mississippi where whites were more tolerant but it saw still a bad climate for black people. I was blessed to have a Father who taught me to respect everyone and that all people are equal and deserve the same t4reatment and respect as others. I had no problen using courtesy titles when addressing blacks. I said Yes Sir, No Sir, Yes Maam, No Maam, Mr. Mrs Or Miss. There were more whites who believed this way than people will believe. Wh visited socially with blacks. We encouraged and helped black people to register and voth, and this was in the 40's and 50,s before the civil rights movements got into full swing. I have never discriminated against a black person, but I certainly have never had a problen discusssing race. There are millions of us who take great exception to being called a coward by the Attorney General of the USA, who should be representing my interest as well as the interests of race baiters. One big problem is black people are so sensitive a sane conversation cannot be held without someone's feelings being hurt. If you want a conversation, you must have two parties. The two parties may have differing views without either side being wrong. The Attorney Genreal has proven he is slanted in his views and has some axes to grind.

All races in the US tiptoe around race issues. Pretending they don't exists. Holder is right. We are cowards for pretending instead of taking the issue of race head on.

The AG spoke the truth. I wish he had chosen some others terms to use but the one chosen fits in reality. Be it as it may, we are a nation of cowards when it comes to discussing things that divide us so deal with it. We need to move on and put race behind us and just consider all as Americans.

Nobody likes to discuss uncomfortable things, and this is in large part why people never discuss race. People are afraid of being called racist simply for bringing it up. Good for you Eric Holder – bring it out into the open! If not now, when? There is no reason to hate others, let alone hate based on race.

Preach on Brother Holder and preach on Brother Obama!!!

Eric Holder should be fired. Mr. Holder is serving the very people he holds contempt for in a powerful position as US Attorney General and this is unacceptable. Barack Obama does not need to clarify what was said. Mr. Holder made his views of all Americans crystal clear. Obama should force Holder to resign, then apologize on his behalf to the American people.

As far as Mr. Holder's "nation of cowards" remark goes, Mr. Holder does not need to call me a coward. I am perfectly willing to tell him what I think of him right to his face.

Well, something I have learned working closely with many African Americans is that they are just as prejudiced as they declare others to be. Quite frankly, one on one, they treat me just fine. But if we are anywhere with the whole group, I am the odd man out. They will leave me sitting alone rather than admit that I am one of them. In fact, frequently they will not even look at me. I was shocked in the beginning. I would say to myself that I am here for the children not the faculty. But in the last months... well, it has gotten hard to deal with.

I never thought that I would be saying this, but it is true.

Blacks are a lot more racist than we white folks. They are not African-Americans, they are Americans. I am not an English-American, I am an American. Why do they have to put that in front of American? Plus EH & BO are NOT black, they are biracial, why won't they say it? Does it grieve them that much to talk about their white parent??? That's a coward, being ashamed of who you are. I'm sick and tired of blacks whining about slavery, etc. A lot of them have been getting revenge on the white man for years by not working and pulling their weight by contributing to society and taxes. My people didn't have slaves. My grandfather owned sawmills, and a lot of blacks worked for him – along with the whites – and nobody respected anybody more than they did each other. They all came to my grandfather's funeral and cried like a baby. NOW, that's the way it ought to be. They try to put the fear factor on us. If you use the "n" word, a white man can go to jail, yet hip-hoppers and rappers can use the word in the most vile way, and nothing is sad. Hey, talk about racist and double standards! They make me sick! This is why a lot of white folks don't even want to even be around them.

President Obama was asked about Mr. Holder's comment, Three weeks later. Reading some of these comments tells me that some people just don't get it. I can understand why. You have not been educated on American History....and until you do, then please don't comment. THE WORST IGNORANCE A MAN CAN HAVE IS TO REJECT SOMETHING HE KNOWS NOTHING ABOUT! Informed Americans, and the ones that's not in denial of this country's history doesn't have to talk about race...They already understand what the effects were, and "just be" knowing we are human beings, and color is secondary. Ignorance breds racism, where color is primary, and this goes to the point I mention in the beginning of my comment. So if you are Afraid to discuss race or fail to educate yourself about it and it's history, then I would think it's "cowardance". Now if you don't care, you should, you are an American too. Blacks don't have to "play the race card". We see it, feel it, smell it, know it, senses it, hear it and faces racism on a daily basis, no matter covert or overt. We know who is and who is not. because we know it so well. This is the Dirty "little" secret in America...sounds like incest.....don't admit it, don't tell it, and act as if it didn't happen or tht it exist. THAT THINKING EATS AWAY THE SOUL OF A PERSON AND AN ENTIRE NATION.

You know, I'll tell you who's a coward...Tecumseh! That bastard thinks he can curse our presidents, we'll see who has the last laugh...well, to come and think about, I guess we're even, LOL!!

You know, I wasn't disappointed but mostly disturbed. Is kind of like having someone say something behind your back or in this case, right in front of your face. Personally, I only can speak for my race and religion, I can't speak for African-Americans. I only can observe and judge because if I criticize, it takes away to what I believe and that's race and religion has to be respected among everybody. And that's where I slow it down when it comes to other people's beliefs, or values, we are all different.

Good luck talking about race if you're white. First time you say something negative you're labled a racist.

Lori
You prove my point that Democrats are racist and ignorant.

You can try to point that finger at Republicans, but the truth is the one pointing the finger is the one doing just what they accuse the other of.

When people accuse Obama for being a socialist look at his policy and what he has said. If you don’t get it then you are blind and deaf!

Did he not say he has no problem taking away money from earners and spreading their wealth around?

Is he also out there right now speaking about a socialist health care program! You don’t see the truth because your in love with the man. This has nothing to do with race but everything to do with his policy.

Stop drinking the cool aid and get a working brain cell Lori and maybe you will stop voting blind for every Democrat that runs for office and only cares about bigger Government and how to take away more rights and freedoms from working Americans!!

Accept responsibilities Americans. Talk about race and learn from your mistakes.

Why is Obama willing to make agreements with the Taliban?

What's Up with this news on the web that Obama is going to make agreements with the Taliban?

You can't honestly talk about race in this country without being called a racist if you are white.

Only race baiters I've seen come from the democrat party

WE ARE NOT COWARDS!! We dont want to be SUED for being called RACIST!! We would never hear the end of it if there were a White History month or a White College fund program!
Give me a BREAK!!

So why is everyone getting upset over the comment. He did say WE are a nation of cowards correct. That is an inclusive statement but its seems as though whites are the only on getting upset as if blacks aren't part of this nation. We only talk about race when something stirs it up like this comment. No one is a racist until they get behind their computer and can speak freely (how they really feel). Its 2009 lets have an open and honest discussion so WE can move on as a NATION!

Ron,

You are a racist. It works both ways.

Obama is all knowing....NOT!.... The democrats and republicans put two morons on the top of their tickets again ....

Americans love giving all their money to a bunch of no nothing business men, lawyers and Jesus freaks.....

I wish people would stop judging on a person's skin color or what religion they choose to practice.

Some of these blogs on here are the 'cowards' that the African American Attorney General is speaking of. These types of people.

I don't care for Rush Limbaugh, but I would not call him a name involving his race or religion!

Perhaps if they would just drop the African and just say American then everyone can move forward. By using African they are not one of the TEAM but a INDIVDUAL.

Ignorance breeds prejudice, no matter at whom it's directed. EVERY race, nationality, gender, or religion has, and always will have, people who prefer to hate (or at least, to disdain) anyone unlike themselves. It's part of human nature's dark side. It will never be eradicated. (And the more 'crowded' the populations become, the more it will surface). People just have to remember that THEY, as individuals, are responsible for their own behavior, and must act according to their own beliefs and personal integrity, not allowing themselves to be influenced or angered by others' beliefs. It's simple really - it's called The Golden Rule. That stance, unfortunately, includes a willingness to tolerate the prejudiced person and recognize them as limited. And THAT is the most difficult challenge of all. (Just ask Ghandi, MLK, Jr., Mother Theresa, et. al.).

@ Edward You are the IDIOT and MORON here! Attorney General Holder was telling the truth. On weekends, this is just like 50 years ago. Sunday Morning at 11:00 a.m. is the most segrated hour in this country. All churches are not multi-cultural. If you went to church you would know that!!! That is what the Attorney General meant.
We're making progress in that area, but we still have a very long way to go. I find African-Americans to be no more sensitive than the so-called White Americans or Hispanic-Americans or Americans of any other race. It's your kind ( the wanna be know it alls) that make the rest of us purely SICK!!

Uh Oh !!! Our Black President seems to be dissing our Black AG. Obama must be turning into a Racist Coward !!!
Hopefully, our news media will become less and less intimidated, as time goes on, about criticising Obama when he deserves it without fear of being labeled Racist Cowards by the blog heads in the blogosphere. Or, without fear of having their contracts terminated by Oprah !!!

Wake up people,they use race fear to keep us apart so we cant find the true oppressors of us all.The very small number of super rich that control all the money in the world.If they keep us at each others throats they wont be caught.

Yes, African-American's tend to be sensitive regarding race. After over 200 years of slavery, Jim Crow and the need for constitutional amendments, boycotts, stereotyping, lynching, sub-human images (that still exist),and protests for basic rights, they should be. Perhaps if you were open to honest self-reflection and honest discussions as well as some reading of history you would have a better understanding of their sensitivities. I have had the opportunity to have honest discussions and relationships with African-American's and we both have benefited from the exchange.

Michelle Malkin is a complete loser in the true spirit of Rush. Mindless attacking at the first sign of controversial comments from a Democrat. Idiots like her don't understand that's the reason they keep getting wiped out in elections. Here's hoping they attack themselves right into marginal party status.

Why does the President and African American keep talking about slavery ?We have not had slavery for well over a hundred years,yet the blacks talk about it like it is going on today,there is not one person alive today that was a slave.African American's play there "I'M GOING TO TRY AND MAKE EVERYBODY FEEL GUILTY" trump card,and when their whining doesn't work ,it' s because" YOU ARE PREJUDICE" card.

After the last election,it is pretty obvious by who won,who is prejudice.
African Americans need to GET OVER IT,come up with something new.

Republican? That's cute. And we are called the racists? The reason I don't trust the President has nothing to do with race. I could care less what race he is. My issues with him revolve around policy and the fact that his are taking down the slow road to socialism, except he wants to make it the express lane.

Now let's sort this out. First of all, AG Holder was absolutely correct. The truth does not hurt unless it ought to. This is what he meant. He was actually saying that the Caucasian political elite wants to gloss over that part of history, when in fact it should be discussed. After all, it's like working in a steel factory all day and going home and just putting on a nice suit without taking a bath. You still stink. This is what he is saying. The Jews are always allowed to say, "never forget" about the holocaust, and there were 6+ million of them unjustly destroyed. The Africans were brought across the transatlantic for 113 years and only 11+ million of them made it to the US while 99+ million of them perished at sea. (I know, you won't read this in the history books in school, but it is true.) I don't have the time or space on this site to really break it down for you, but that is some truth to chew on for a bit.

Seriously some of us don't practice racism, and don't view race as a big deal. Why is it always the "black man" bringing it up?

Holder is absolutely right. The question, however, how Holder's remarks serve the president. And the answer is that they probably do not.

The biggest conversation piece that is off limits concerning race is "Why are most black babies born into fatherless homes?" Until that question is no longer relevant then the black community will not move ahead.

Some months ago during the presidential campaign, one of McCain's main advisers was caught on tape calling Americans a nation of "whiners". He got the boot. Now Holder is calling Americans a nation of "cowards." Will he get the boot? Not likely...Obama won the election and McCain didn't.

As intelligent, gifted and workaholics as the Obama's are, people have the nerve to insist that they were accepted to ivy league schools because of Affirmative Action. That would be hysterical if it were not so blatantly racist. Barack Obama did not even indicate his race when completing his college applications. Now the Obama's are both clearly brilliant – so explain why you don't think Bush and McCain both not the brightest to be honest. What special privileges did they receive to get into and graduate from ivy league colleges? Why aren't you questioning how and why they went to ivy league schools. Or do you just think that you should be rich and white to graduate from ivy league universities – intelligent people of color are not qualified? Why?

Holder is a DISCRACE to this country and should REMOVE himself from office.

That why these liberals are pushing their socialist agendas.A remark like this should be take easily because if we do, our believes will be in danger and this country will be push into communist.........but we are already heading that way.

Mr Holder should visit military installations in the war zone and talk with the troops, there are no cowards there. When you are under fire, there is no discrimination, you depend on each other. The military (USAF) was the first to officially desegregate in 1947. Of course there will always be discrimination by some people, but to label all Americans as 'cowards' goes way beyond the extreme.

I work with a few African-Americans and have come to know them as friends. It took awhile to feel comfortable around them to openly talk about racial subjects. They were interested about my views and I wanted to be honest with them. I'm older and wiser now and I try to make my opinions on everyone based on first impressions and character now. But growing up in Philadelphia,which like most American cities is very segragated. They asked me why it was so segragated from a "white man's"perspective. I told them that the reason the majority of the white race didn't want the black race to move into their neighborhood was because they saw how the African-American kept their own neighborhoods, and they didn't want the same thing to happen to the areas they grew up in. Nobody wanted home values to come down and rampant crime to go up. If they didn't allow the violence and open drugdealing and take care of their property, I believe we would all get along much better. Just being HONEST!!!

America is a nation of racist people. It simply cannot just look the other way as though nothing happened. From lynching of innocent people that white America not only condoned but enjoyed with froth in their mouth, to dragging African Americans behind cars, convicting minorities without evidence of crimes simply because he or she is a black or a minority.
There are way too many minorities in prison because of all white racist juries. Simply put all white juries cannot be trusted period. Most white judges make horrible referees in a court room. They never protect the rights of minorities during the trials and call themselves judges.
So yes, America is a racist country and white people simply don't give a hoot about the rights of minorities. A court room or a jury is a place white people can discriminate at will and no will or can question it unless it was made obvious. No one knows what is in the mind of jurors especially white jurors where the defendant is a minority. A racist juror has enormous power to discriminate and no one can see what is going on in his or her head. DNA test is now proving convictions of many minorities were nothing more than racism.
Also white people have more weight when it comes to circumstantial evidence versus a minority. Whenever there is a legal dispute between a white person and a minority the word of a minority has no weight and the word of a white person has all of the weight on their side. So you can see circumstantial evidence against a minority defendant is simply a convenient tool white people have to hate and discriminate against minorities. Circumstantial evidence in any case involving a white person and a minority in America usually means the minority is going to jail no matter what. At the same time most prosecutors love to use circumstantial evidence as a trump card against a minority to win at any cost. Please remember that while most of you white folks don't remember that Mexicans could not buy land or property, the Chinese could not buy land or property, and neither could the Indians. As a minority you were denied all rights white people enjoyed.
Yes America is a very racist country.
It is time congress removes all statute of limitations on crimes committed against minorities violating their civil rights knowing and recognizing that most inquiries and legal procedures are dragged out until the statute of limitations run out on crimes committed by racist people which denies the victims of racial discrimination their equal protection of the laws, and their rights to bring charges against the racist.
Yes it is true White America loves to hate and discriminate and they love to tell minorities they are pulling the race card.
The truth of the matter is that white Americans love to discriminate and hate and love to tell the minorities they don't have a racist bone in their body.
They love to deny their evil racist ways. You saw it in the Rodney King Cop trials in Simi Valley.
America says you have civil rights yet they know most of the victims of racial discrimination can't afford to hire lawyers to fight for their civil rights. Its another con game against the minorities.

I live and work in a small rural area in N. Arizona. I am amazed at the racism and bigotry that exists here. And so many of the folks consider themselves God fearing, righteous church going good human beings. They have no problem making all sorts of racist jokes about Obama and his wife and kids. I ask them where racism is condoned in the bible and they call me names. Hypocrites all.

I am a white middle-aged woman, and Mr. Holder is absolutely correct. We imitate the military – don't ask, don't tell – and pretend that because we don't act overtly racist that we no longer carry the carry the residue of bigotry in our hearts...

Barack Obama, Eric Holder are cheats. They are socialists. Imagine Hugo Chavez is asking Barack to join his bandwagon. Forget about racism here. It is all socialism and American peopl voted for a wrong choice. This is the biggest mistake of our lives. How can we elect such a guy to the highest office in this nation. Look at him. He is not fit to govern. He has a blank resume and now we are suffering. Hugo Chavez has oil money to support his socialism. Barack has trillion of dollars of borrowed money. He does not believe in the private sector and thus capitalism. What a disaster for our country. Damage done to this nation will be difficult to repair. Wake up America. Barack says he was elected last November to do this. What a joke. I hope Americans will get up and demonstrate on this cowardly behavior before it is too too late..

The only people in the United States who are cowards are those like the thoroughly unqualified, terrorist fraternizing, socialist community organizer and his attorney general who attempt to hide their support for racial discrimination, racial quotas and racial preferences behind the leftist euphemism "affirmative action".

Holder is right. I live in a mixed neighborhood, all the African Americans gather with themselves, all the white folks gather with themselves. Country music blared on one porch, R & B on the other. Probably the only thing they ever do at the same time is watch the Steelers. And sadly, they still watch it separate. And me? Hell, I play x-box, and dont hang out with any of my neighbors, so I geuss Im not helping either. We are all in our little boxes.

Look... blacks harbor resentment against whites because we enslaved them, impregnated their women, killed their children and made them pick our cotton. For about two hundred years. Whites harbor resentment against blacks because.... They are better athletes, they seem angry for all the above reasons, they are "bigger" than whites and they keep their hair.

What's the problem? Well...

Hmmm.

There are definitely some good points made from all sides here. Im a white male and I can openly discuss race with some of my black friends, but only with some of them. Some feel uncomfortable if I try to bring it up. There are deinitely balck people out there that will call white people racists if they say even the slightest thing they feel is wrong towards blacks. And I completely agree...ALL races segregate themselves because they want to be around others similar to themselves. There's always going to be hatred and fear in this country unless people toughen up and are willing to talk about things, even if they dont agree with the other person or group. At least get it out there in the open and them maybe we can logically start to work on improving things.

Susan-kudos!
Nathan, you're an IDIOT. Yourself and EDWARD. You two idiots are EXACTLY what Holder is refferring to.
First of all, NATHAN-every sentence in your comment was racist. Yes, racism DOES go BOTH ways, what do you think he was talking about? Did you see the word "White" in ANY part of his comment? NO. Because he was reffering to EVERYONE. Black, White, Brown, Red, Yellow...As far as Affirmative Action, you IDIOT-it exists BECAUSE of RACISM. Who do you think started it? Jim Crowe? The KKK? And your last condescending comment about the Obamas getting into Ivy League schools-obvously, that is an education you know nothing about. Look up "Brown vs. The Board of Education". And you act like the Ivy Leagues deserve an award for "allowing" the Obamas admission. Next, you'll be posting that Jim Crowe wrote MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech. Ugh, people like you disgust me.

HOWEVER, just when I thought the comments couldn't get any DUMBER, I saw Edward's. What a biggot. You are the MAIN thing holding this nation up from progress. For you be so STUPID as to generalize an entire RACE based on a few black idiots you encountered is a fallicy. You clearly need to be EDUCATED. Obviously, you missed the entire presidential race. Did you hear Obama blame his problems on ANYONE? NO. In fact, he talked about improving health care and creating jobs for EVERYONE, because poverty sees no color. And as far as the Black people you have run into, I see why you encountered them. You guys BELONG together. There should be an island for ignorant blacks AND whites and leave the rest of us over here. I hate it when ANYONE plays the race card, black OR white. And for you to claim African Americans are too [sensitive], on some issues, they have the RIGHT to be. What, are they supposed to be happy when reminded how Martin L. King Jr. had his head blown off by a some insecure redneck afraid of change? Are they supposed to ignore CRAP like that cartoon posted in the NY Post? I could go on, but people like you don't learn so I won't waste anymore of my time. Bottom line is, thank ALL people don't think like you. I have ran into stupid, racist White people just as I have Asians who belittle themselves for the desire to be White, Latinos who fight among themselves, and racist Blacks that give the rest of the Black or 'ethnic race' a bad rep. But unlike YOU, I have been exposed to cultural enrichment and have lived in places you will never see and spoken languages you know nothing about. And through all that, I STILL know and believe that most Whites are nothing like you. That right there is proof that there IS a GOD. And you need to pray as hard as you can. Heaven help anyone that generalize your entire race based on behaviour such as yours.

Couldn't Obama or the rest of the Democratic Party start talking about jobs, the stock market, bank loans and other pressing issues? This is misdirection and you fools are buying it.

Where's the BEEF promised in the campaigning?

um, I am not sure why everyone is up in arms. The A.G said we (meaning all) are still a nation of cowards. I might go shockingly far enough to say including african americans, whites, asians and all. The people who are offended by this comment s are the ones who should be. It would not hurt if it were not true.

When you have friends of different races, it is easier to have a frank discussion. But most people do self-segregate.

And to Jeff Sprangler in VA "Yes, it is irrational." I am sure you have met many more white people that you did not care about or agree with their lifestyle." Everyone has negative experiences, but it is the person not the color of the person that causes the experience. Maybe you need to go West and get out of the South, you might get a different experience. (And Jeff I am white.)

Unfortunately, we always SEE color before we SEE the real person.

It only took him two weeks to respond to this. What a POS!

Blacks can be sensitive when discussing race issues often times because their concerns are constantly discounted. Blacks are often told to get over it, move on. Whites will bring up Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton as a way to discredit a concern or an issue. They feel everyone has the same opportunities, slavery was a long time ago. Some whites want to completely discount racism that has existed in our lifetime, the discrimination, the inequality, the injustice. They don't seem to understand or care what the impact this has had and continues to have on the lives of black people. It is really evident by reading some of the comments here and on other message boards

me

i not afraid to call a spade a shovel!

If you are a minority it is always the same. "Oh, I didn't mean THAT!"
When will liberals "get over" something that they, nor ANY family member they can remember, had anything to do with?
Sorry, but blacks continue to use this to make "liberals" feel guilty.
Sadly, IT STILL WORKS!!!

The GOP is laughable.

And the fact people are upset proves Holder's point. Only a coward would get mad at that.

It is mostly liberals who look at race. Most (>95%) conservatives consider political beliefs more important. All else being equal, I would prefer a black conservative president over a white liberal president any time.

How about the Choccolate city??? is the Mayor Nagin (New Orleans) excused as well? Blacks are more racist than anybody else. You people alway think it is about race and you alway play victim of the past without looking at the future because it is more conveniant. Pittiful and shame on you PEOPLE

I understand what Holder meant.

People who profess to not know or understand are not very bright or racist or Republicans.

He was right... Cowards... and Obama thinks the same but is just doing damage control. Honesty is the best policy.

If you are white and live in this country then it is a very dangerous thing to discuss race. Anything you say could be used against you at any time. Anyone could take anything you say out of context and your life is negatively altered forever. Am I a coward? I wouldn't call it that. I am just very cautious. However, any one of any race can say whatever they want about white people and it is considered their right to do so. There is such a double standard.

This is an American preoccupation. Two hundred years from now we will be fighting about race relations. Why fix something that had become an entire industry employing thousands. Of course the the way our economy is going this is a moot point. We will all be working for the Chinese by then.

I believe that some Americans are 'cowards' when it comes to the issue of race. We don't address the fact that some Republicans are so angry at our President not because of his policies but the underlying reason of his race and they are upset at how excited America was to elect BO and his landslide victory. They mask it under the 'socialism' banner but it goes deeper than that. Some Palin supporters calling him a 'terrorist' and a 'monkey' during the elections shows it. That is why I will never vote Republican again and that is why the Republicans are having a hard time right now. Jindal and Steele would have never been paraded around had Pres Obama not won.

It doesn't matter how successful BO is or not (which I'm sure he'll do fine), the GOP will have a hard time because racism is so deeply entrenched in their party. Holder is right.

It does not matter what you say or do. There is no confidence in Obama. None... You can live with dreamers. But the World knows better.

My question is, why Mr.Attorney General didn't say that himself before being appointed as attorney general?. I can answer that myself, because he was a coward himself.

Bob, your comment doesn't make much sense. AG Holder is our AG, but he is also Pres. Obama's AG. He was hired by, works for, and continues to serve at the pleasure of, President Obama.

I generally find that African Americans in general are alot better at articulating/expressing their actual thoughts and feelings. I think alot of white American culture tends to sculk about cloaked in metaphors and euphemisms and dances around it's true feelings in ways they themselves don't even acknowledge to themselves. The directness of African Americans is often threatening to Whites and their more oblique communication style. And I think African Americans are often annoyed by what they may perceive as the lack of directness of whites which reads to them more as dishonesty. I think the Holder statement and the responses to it are pretty compelling proof of this. I was part of a biracial couple for 20 years, so I was pretty priveledged to see both sides.

kid minneapolis shows his racist sentiments yet again

Some white folks love and care for you no mater what color you are. I think about 15% of white people really do 85% just pretend just because of the law.

how long did it take for him to discuss this?

I remember when the media blasted a republican for calling us a nation on whiners. Where is this indignation now?

Why should we be owning up to slavery. I did not own slaves obama was not a slave. The past is the past. Lets get on with the present. I dont feel anyone owes me anything and I certainly don't feel responsible for something that happened in the yers and years before I was born, Get over it and get on with reality

"O called him "my attorney general"….., he's "OUR attorney general". Watch YOUR words."

Bob,

I could, of course be wrong, but I interpreted the use of the pronoun “my” as the President's way of taking responsibility for comments of a man who serves under the Obama name – and, most importantly, for the United States of America.

I, will, of course, be happy to use the pronoun “our” in the future if you publicly object ( though I fear its use might stir up the unwanted ire other, more conservative commentators ).

I didn't use to be racist but with all the racists in Washington now they have made my into a screaming rasist and I love it.

Were we all cowards including our elected President to bring up race during the campaign. Furthermore, there is no doubt there is racism, when 99% of the Blacks voted for him. Now those were cowards that took color over than qualifications. You talk about race, what about what Hillary went through. This campaign brought out race, sex, and age. A disgrace when this is supposedly protected by discrimination laws. Well...maybe.................

Susan March 7th, 2009 7:24 pm ET

Poor Michelle Malkin. She wouldn't find anything positive in any comment by a Democrat.
Holder is right. When is the last time anyone on this board had a conversation about race with a person of a different race?

Thought so.

Yes Susan you got us all on that one. But then again I don’t speak about race because I do not see any difference in people no matter what color their skin happens to be. Because no matter what color they are they still can be a jerk.

However, the truth is I find Democrats to be the racist people in this country.

They are the ones that want to see racism in every one that does not agree with their views.

As an example if you do not agree with Obama and you are a Republican then that makes you a racist.

Now any one with a working brain cell would understand maybe it is the policy of Obama that we do not agree with.

Not sure why any one would agree with socialism, but then again for the life of me I cannot understand why any one would be a Democrat other then they are just ignorant!!

I admit I hate nobama because he is 1/2 black! If he claimed to be bi-racial then I would tolerate him. I hate Eric Holder for his comments and he is also bi-racial. I am not a coward, nor a racist. My girlfriend is black and from South Africa. Blacks have got to stop blaming other races for all their problems!

I don't know about anyone else, but I am an American.
My thought is that if people are calling people by Black, White, Mexican or etc, they are more than likely referring to a "bad person". Bad people exist in all ethnic backgrounds and all levels of income brackets. Bottom line, when you are referring to a bad person, we are referring to the person's behavior, the dress, the attitude, how they take care of house, free loading and etc. After all, when you are told to describe a criminal this is exactly what you are doing by color and race. If you are living by the American’s Values and Standard, colors and races do not normally play a part. I am surrounded by all types of Americans and we all have the same beliefs, we go to work, involved in our kids, schools, churches, and etc, have expectation from our children, talk and help our neighbors. With this all said, I think America needs to move to the next level, we don't need Martin Luther King Day, Hispanic Month or African American Month, we need American Month, where we promote attitude, behaviors and to be an American Way. People need to know what America is about it is not about handouts it is about freedom, but that freedom still comes with expectations of the norms.
Next time they ask you your color, we are American!

Holder was right. It's too bad being blunt and honest is not acceptable to mainstream media.

BEING RACIST GOES BOTH WAYS. I DON'T DISCRIMINATE, BUT I HAVE FOUND THAT A BLACK PERSON WITH A CHIP ON HIS/HER SHOULDER WILL FIND SOMETHING TO CRITICIZE.
Example: My husband brought home his black boss for dinner. He starting walking through rooms looking at wall hanging. I had an old antique picture on the wall in one of the back rooms of a little black girl eating a watermelon. He was so upset he pulled it off the wall and asked me if I discriminated.

My answer: If I discriminate, you would Not be having dinner in my home.

Eric Holder is right. I'm glad somebody in Washington has the balls to say it. We walk around on pins and needles when it comes to race. Nobody is comfortable with the subject. If a white person talks about it thier either insensitive or racist. If a black or hispanic person talks about race, they are either seperationists or the "loud black/latino guy." Asians unfortunatly dont even get listened to that much. Its honestly sad that Obama is helping to make this country weak. I was hopeing that with him in office things would get better betweent the races. He just seems to be intensifying the issue or ignoring it completely. I'm behind Eric Holder all the way. We need a strong Attorney General who knows what he's talking about. Eric Holder is that guy.

First we get arrogance from his administration, then he sprays the air freshener so everything smells good. Stink is still stink.

FreeNLovIt wrote:

Yes, slavery is painful and I dont know how you can ever pay someone back after 200 to 300 years of it, but forgiveness and love is all I can think of.
------------

My ancestors fought and some died a hundred and fifty years ago to free the slaves. (Indiana Volunteer Infantry) I love my African-American friends, but I have no need to “pay back” anyone !

Holder's "cowards remark " is blunt force trauma to the American psyche.

I try to look at each person as an individual, regardless of race. This helps me alot.

I think many rational people know this to a true statement. However, he could have put it better. This statement applies to almost every country, many others more so than ours, including countries in Europe...I feel like when compared with the majority of countries we are about status quo. which doesn't mean that is ok, its just that coming from an administration that is supposed to be positive, I felt like this was an extremely negative way to approach the issue.

It is amazes me when non-blacks try to have a dialogue on the topic of race and how African-Americans are "too sensitive". That's rich coming from descendants of slave-owners speaking to descendants of slaves. That is almost as ridiculous as stating that a Jew is too sensitive about what happened during the holocaust.

I love our President-I don't understand HOW biggots like Rush Limbaugh and Sarah Palin, among others, publicly wish he would fail. Thank GOD those idiots are not in the White house. It's people like THAT who the Attorney General is referring to. Could he have said it better? Sure. Is it true what he said? Absolutely! Actions speak for themselves. Case in point, all the racial comments made about our President. Even the NY Post took racial aim at Obama by [slyly] referring to him as a chimp, or monkey. There is no way they can sit there and claim that was a mistake. Being a journalist requires the knowledge of many marks in history; especially in politics. People like that figure they can get quite bold at these underhanded jokes and if the public gets upset, they can throw the election in our faces and claim racial harmony. While just two weeks ago, CNN did a story about the huge rise in hate groups. Nation of cowards? Things like that make me agree with Holder's comments even more.
And as far as his comments offending people, I SURELY was not offended. He said "WE", not a certain [group] of people. Of course it didn't offend me because it does not pertain to me. A safe bet to make would be that the the comment offended only those to whom it pertained.
Oh, and as far as idiots like Rush Limbaugh who wish our new President failure, that says a lot about him because people like himself, Palin and Jindal hate the President more than they care about our nation's citizens. Why would one wish failure on a President who's trying to create more jobs, fund stem cell research, educate our children, and most importanly, make sure EVERYONE has health care??? I'm still trying to figure out why these same 'people' didn't wish Bush failure when he spent 8 years running this nation into debt and helping the big companies get over...maybe I'M the one who's not thinking here. Who knows? What I do know is that I totally agree with Holder's comment. And for those who wish Obama failure, just know there are PLENTY of us who are gratefuk for him and support him all the way. It's a great feeling to finally have a President back in office that cares about the [little] people.

I feel the man hit the nail on the head. One of the problems as I see it there is a fear you might offend someone and lose your job. There seems to be a double standard. When Jesse Jackson reportley said on a open mike he would like to cut off the presidents family jewels and used the N word there was no out cry. He did say he was sorry. On the other hand when a cartoon was posted about an ape and the stimulus package sorry wasn't enought. Some of the black leader wanted them fired. The race card is alive and as long as it is used there is little hope of serious conversation." You don't invite someone to dinner if you think they are eating your lunch"

We're replacing the "painful legacy" of slavery and Jim Crow with new forms of discrimination and hatred. "Civil Rights" has become the billy club of people like Jackson, Sharpton and others who can attack anyone they want on the front page of the New York Times and never have to apologize. They can make horrific remarks against Jews, Hispanics, Whites or anyone else, and nobody holds them accountable. We have huge statistics of black-on-black crime, and it's blamed on whites. (?!) We're a nation of cowards because we've let the so-called "Civil Rights leaders" become bullies who tell everyone else what they are allowed to say, think, or do.

Until this country addresses it's ugly past, face-up, there will always be a general mis-trust. And it's not about blaming the current generation or other before, just admit the horror and we can move on.

It is hard to talk race with someone you don't know. That is why sports and the military work better with race. People are forced to get to know each other. I am sure most Klansmen are nice people to each other. If they took time to know Black folks I am sure they would like us also. But if not, they should go back to Europe!

Another amateurish move by an amateurish administration.

Reverse Raciscm......at it finest!

It's just those kind of comments from kid minneapolis that racil tensions are so bad. I'm a Republican, proud of it, and I have bi-racial grandchildren that I love. So now tell me I'm racist. Race relations will NEVER get better until BOTH sides admit they are wrong.

Being half Blackfoot Indian , I find myself feeling at a loss when I am suppose to feel sorry for any other nationality. My people were hunted down, raped and viciously murdered wiped out by genocide. What small numbers survived were then were herded up like animals and taken from their land and placed where there was no food to hunt, no water to drink. Our numbers, as well as all American Indians remains nill, yet we remain proud and do not play a race card EVER!!!

Ok. Bold race talk. I'm tired of the paltry number of black women who marry Asian men. This cowardly behavior has got to stop.

On several levels I think Mr. Holder got it right. We would love to avoid uncomfortable conversations and situations. What would be enormously helpful is more comprehensive education about what happened to African Americans through all 400+ years of their presense in North America.

Most Anglos (I'm one) are woefully ignorant of the many facets of injustice and sufferinig inflicted on African Americans, including lynching and "all-white" counties and towns not that long ago. If we cannot understand the depth of pain experienced by the ancestors or even current generations of our neighbors and co-workers we will never be comfortable discussing race issues. We will never be brave enough to talk about distressing topics.

Based on what Holder said, doesn't Obama's comment show him to be a coward?
No Drama Obama strikes again.

AG Holder is only partially right. Since Barack Obama's run for and election to the presidency, America has been much more open about race. It was wonderful to see as many white Americans listen to him and vote for him as African Americans did. This would not have happened decades ago for various reasons. It was amusing to see the Republican party behave in a business as usual manner in regards to race, ignoring the changing landscape and getting the shock of their lives when Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton emerged as viable candidates. I agree with AG Holder in that America is afraid to talk about race, but really, it has gotten much easier.

Its time for Mr Holder to step down for his remarks, Its time for Obama to step up to the plate and ask for his resignation, today

I'm not afraid to talk about race. I just happen to think there are more important things to discuss.

The economy is in the toilet. We are still actively fighting two wars. The government is haphazardly spending trillions of dollars that it doesn't have.

And we worry about things like color....

I believe the Attorney General and President Obama are correct. We don't discuss this issue. People are afraid of this subject for some reason. It's our history. Fixing the economy will resolve the race issue only if the wealth is evenly distributed and everyone is treated fairly. And if you do that, it will change the social-economical dynamics in this country.

Will someone please enlighten me as to why bi-racial Negro/Caucasian "Americans" have to be singled out as "African-American"?
How come we don't all name ourselves from whatever country/countries our forbears came from?

Why is there such a distinction, and why are people that are half Negro and half Caucasian, automatically "black and "African American"? There are other countries in Africa where people are not of the Negroid race.

Eric Holder has only his "own people" to blame for "cowardly behavior", if there is, from non- negro people. Heaven help anyone who might offend one of them! Even and including Bill Cosby who had the hutzpuh to tell is like it is.

I dont agree with a lot of what Obama says,but in this instance hes on the money.
Laboring the race siiue,doesnt help anyone

You got the right to vote before wemon and were not slaves as long as the Irish or a many number of people who have moved on.

It seems as if people in high government positions need to go back to school and learn some communication skills. Its not what you say, its how you say it!

It makes me wonder why so many people went on the defensive. Thank you President Obama for breaking it down for everyone to clearly understand what Holder was saying. It was simple for me to understand and therefore it was not offensive.

Blacks seem to be the biggest racists of all.

Why the explanation and why now? To bad if you say anything race related and you are republican you're considered a racist.

Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, has more of a right to be here on this wonderful world than anyone else! We are ALL God's children, no matter what color we may be. Love instead of hate or we're all doomed!

Glad Obama immediately commented on the statement....shows how strongly he feels (3 weeks later)

Nope America is not afraid to talk about race there are plenty out there that show how much they hate black people just fine

When it comes to race relations, and the conversation on race relations it is a one sided conversation.
African Americans have one side.
Whites have another side.
African Americans can say how bad they have been treated, and can stereotype whites, as racists, but if whites stereoptype african americans as lazy, uneducated and criminals they will be vilified in public.
There are millions of well educated whites and well educated African Americans but there are many more African Americans in jail than whites percentage wise. Not due to the injustice of the system but because they are more likley to become involved in gangs and drugs.

why single out one race for history, we have all had a tough history

While I didn't like some of Holder's comments, i.e. referring to cowards, I think Obama's "solutions" are inadequate. Racism is the negative extreme of the social need we all have to feel accepted and be part of a group. Unfortunately that need can create a mindset that says that if a person is different from me then he/she can't be trusted and are even inferior. We need to acknowledge that all people have these tendencies (not just one race) and then become proactive in learning about the positive aspects of other races or cultures. This is much more than a black – white issue, but we must also learn from the injustices that have been done to minorities especially the atrocities against blacks.

Hey CNN...why don't you ask HOLDER clarify his remarks vs. his boss!!?!?!? I can speculate ALL day what he meant, but that doesn't clarify it...and neither can BO!

Who gives a toss what the idiotic deniers think! Anyone who cares about race relations know fully well what Holder meant. Yes, face up to the truth and move on. As for the likes of Michelle Malkins, these are people with a blank space where their soul has gone awol.

I really feel that the New Attorney General was 'right on' with his comments, although I can understand how some are offended by his comment. However....it is the very 'cowardice' that that he speaks of that makes ' them'.... feel the way they do!. , and he only speaks the truth that is in his and many of our hearts
It is going to be a long road for sure, but ; we do have an excellent and exemplary human being in office at the moment , and he happens to be a man of color . I believe he is a highly evolved individual that has the moral and spiritual 'right stuff ' to know how to lead this multicultural nation out of chaos. Let's try to look beyond those readily available five and dime sophist pundits that would have us believe that our new President is just a ' flash in the pan' phenomena that will lead us to certain ruin. He is a rare great thinker that has managed to make it to the forefront of World Politics . We should completely trust him to select those men and women who will best serve us in these troubled times, for regardless of the personal opinions that either 'He" or they might hold, 'He' has demonstrated that he has the insight and objectivity to make such appointments with disregard to any personal prejudices that either 'He' or 'they' might harbor..... Let's give this team some ....'space'...... already...OK?

I think Obama is just trying to cover up for Holden's comments. Obama's comments and Holden's words were both totally unnecessary. It seems like Obama is having to make excuses for so many of the people he wants in his adminstration. This is not good. I do not blame Obama for this but perhaps he might look at who he appoints just a little bit closer. I think Obama's intentions are good, but too many of his choices are backfiring.

I think there are so many black people who are so easily offended by a casual remark that whites tip toe around the subject of race altogether. When blacks are on the losing end of anything, the first thing they do is blame racism. You live in the past.....get over it !! Look to the future and for heaven sake stop killing each other. You are your own worst enemies.

I understand and I am in agreement AG Holder's comments. Though, President Obama is correct, this statement could have been stated better. I am sure if the President and AG had discussed this, AG Holder could have found a more polite way of stating this rather valid statement. We have a difficulty discussing issues of race and ethnicity in our country because we are not sure what statements will offend, and cause us to be labeled with the ever negative racist label. This is why many discussed are placed on the back burner. President Obama's speech on race was wonderful, when he was back on the campaign trail. As always, we can leave it to President Obama to make a marvelous speech and give us a different perspective on any touchy issue.

While it wouldn't take much sensible commentary to get Malkin riled up enough to go over board, I know that most people who do make an honest effort to accomodate racially sensitive subjects; experience discomfort even when discussing these topics with people who are ethnically different from one's self. You feel that you almost have to ask permission to go there, even if you are certain that no offense will be taken.

I understand what Mr. Holder was trying to say, but it will take a serious effort on both sides of this coin to really reach that state of affairs that the racial context will be mutually considered to be unremarkable.

What confounds me is that Malkin is, herself at least twice a minority figure, i.e. non-white and female, but she is so blatantly ready to play the bigot that she has essentially become the squeeky wheel that must be ignored if sensible, rational people are going to make any further progress in ethnic, or minority relations.

Eric Holder never once offered to apologize, and this was Obama's golden opportunity to apologize, yet he doesn't. Everytime I turn around Al Sharpton wants someone to apologize for something. Why does it appear this is a one way street.

I was offended by Mr. Holder's remark, but I think I'm more offended that Obama feels he need not apologize for one of his employees.

Guess these folks up there in Washington forgot the fact they are public servants and they work for us, the tax payer. You know, the ones that pay you for your service and all your perks.

P.S. If either one of them did apologize, and I missed it, please tell me where I can find it. If it's out there then I will apologize for being wrong. It's not a hard thing to do, apologize when you're wrong.

Holder is a loony tune.

WOW it only took a month for Obama to say something about this. This AG is the CHANGE will wanted. Give me a break. This is a racist AG. To those who say he is not I ask would you say the same thing if he was white and made a comment like this neg to AA's?

Years ago I went to a sensativity training thing in corporate Boston. A black man I admired asked what I would imagine about meeting blacks in a dark alley. I wanted to help cure us of stereotypes, but by coincidence half a dozen black high-schoolers had tried to mug me the night before on the Boston Common. They failed, no hurt to any of us, but I do not count that any type of win.

I've been waiting forever for a President like this one. There is no point talking. Only being.

Please, anytime you have to clarify what someone said, what they said is wrong, and probably stupid. They used race the whole campaign to trash the Clintons, I guess they weren't racists anymore when it came time to pick his SOS.

There's one thing all the conservative bolggers leave out in their criticism of Mr. Holder . . . He's RIGHT!!

Good God- HERE WE GO AGAIN.

I just got laid off from my job and lost almost all my 401K.

I DON'T CARE ABOUT THIS CRAP.

Ask yourself: how many friends do you have of other races or ethnicities? When was the last time you truly had a talk with them about their race or ethnicity? No, racial jokes don't count! Do you treat them in any way different than friends of any other ethnicity? It doesn't matter if that's in a positive or negative way.

Sometimes the US hate of the Obama team pops up. Sadly enough.

Ha...Obama always seems to be ducking, bobbing, weaving, and sidestepping comments made by loose-tongued appointees. Actually, he's quite graceful.

I am sorry if this sounds bad, but when is today's society not going to have it thrown in their face every ten minutes that blacks have it so bad because of Jim Crow and the rest of the horendous things that happened before most of us were born. I can't change the past I can only help educate the future. Most blacks alive today were not alive when the gross atrocities happened to blacks in the past. And I mean gross. But again I am not to blame. I am not even sure my relatives did anything bad to anyone back then. Concentrate on the future and stop being so divisive and this is for all races. Don't hold us hostage to the past, it is not fair.

Why is anyone asking for a "I'm Sorry" from the President? Has there been a Republican asked the samething from their Idiot leader Ruch? I think not.

Some people love their "victim" status. It's a crutch for everything.

Face up to it folks. Holder is right!

Identifying a Race, identifies a Racist ! ....
There is only "ONE RACE": "THE HUMAN RACE" ........ 22nd Century thinking, I suppose.

Holder is right. People are too afraid to talk about race, and even try to silence others by telling them that even talking about race is racist. The fact is that there is racial inequality and racial segregation in this country. We may be better than most other countries in the world in integration and leveling the field, but that does not mean that we don't have a problem.
After the Civil War and Emancipation republicans sold out the blacks they meant to save by compromising them away with the South. It took another hundred years for, ironically, democrats to take the next step through the Civil Rights movement. And still, our society continues racial segregation and discrimination. And not just of blacks, but latinos, and especially the often neglected and outcast asians. How come asians never get the benefits of affirmative action? They and their parents are immigrants too and started working at all those low paying jobs we Americans won't do.

I agree with the President. Forget what that fool said for sometimes we can be insenative about others and that is just what Holder was.We have enough problems so let's move on to the big picture and that is the big, big economy that was left for us by the Republicans. Let's begin to pray for what is going on and how our President is trying his best to fix it. Give him time for things are for sure going to turn itself around and you will see trust me all will be well. Pray, pray, pray.

I'm always in support of people being vocal and open about the numerous problems confronting us as a people; but it should be done in a very nice manner, bearing in mind that it might be sensitive. As an African, I know that the black race has been segregated in years past and it's still on-going sometimes in a very subtle way. The point I'm trying to make is that the Attorney General needed to have acknowledged the progress that has been made on the issue of race, and not just slam all "americans" in such a manner. What about those 67 million americans who voted unanimously for Obama? It's an insult to them, let's call a spade a spade.

President Obama did the right thing by trying to rephrase on behalf of the Attorney General, but I personally think the AG himself has got some explainings to do, especially to those that spoke (through Nov 4 election) that Obama is worthy to be their President, in spite of his colour.

What happens in the present matters more than in the past and both races committed crimes. The constant charges of racism against Whites but not against Blacks is a big problem. Until morew Blacks get onto racist mBlacks like CNN's Roland Martin like White people do against racist Whites then we will have a problem.

Ya say what you like Eric Holder.... and Obama clarify...
what say you when we put a monkey in a joke....oh so different...and one sided...seems to be that each and every day now!
I most of all am not a coward ...to speak the truth to anyone...most really have not much to say cus there always picking up there phone calls....We are not cowards but smart like not having a McCain bumper sticker on a car or house out of fear of people...."the cowards" busting it up!!!!! So smart is NOT cowards!!!!! Get IT!!!!!

Holder was right, is right, and always will be right. As a "European-American" (I'll soon be forced to call myself that, right? Gotta be politically correct and all), I've found it hard to discuss issues of race without someone questioning MY ethics and accusing me of being racist because something I said could have been interpreted in more than one way... BTW, as a "European-American", I was born in New York, NY, and have lived here in the USA all my life. Are "African-Americans" like that too?

Eric Holder has a right to his own opinion, also to speak his mind. It's freedom of speech at its finest.
P.S. I do agree with Holders comments.

I think Holder was on the money. Problem is small-minded people think there is only one connotation regarding the word "cowards". In fact, as Scottish comedian Billy Connolly once stated - and I agree with him 100% - the whole idea of "political correctness" is the language of cowardice, because people are afraid to face truths. In our society we are frowned upon if we talk about race, about sexual orientation, about religion, about political philosophy even. And it doesn't seem to matter if we're being positive or negative about it.

It's difficult to say anything that isn't construed negatively by someone. Besides, if he has that opinion, he's entitled to it.

It would be nice if people would give the benefit of the doubt instead of pouncing so quickly. That's politics.

I think Holder is absolutely right

Myself being an immigrant from India, I personally feel that US has changed a lot. Potential Americans are getting opportunities based on their talent not by race. Name one country other than US where a minority is elected to the top post by majority. There are some instances but none were directly elected by the people unlike here in US. Hence, everyone should appreciate the diversity of this country. I personally feel that some African American leaders use race to enhance their career. This should not be the case. This is land of opportunity and everything should be based on the individual potential not by race. Americans have proved this by electing a talented President.

Yes the president has say it all

No one is a coward! The issue is that the "race card" is ALWAYS played by the African descendant, if there is the slightest indication that it will "help their cause". White people don't play the race card, Black people do! It goes back to that feeling that they are "entitled" because of LONG PAST discrimination. YOU EARN RESPECT! It is not an entitlement! Stay in school, get an education, stay inside the law, and PULL YOUR PANTS UP! Don't attempt to draw unflattering attention to oneself!

In 2009 I believe it is time for all of us to accept that what we are and what we become is in our own hands and mind.Not in the hands of the government. All of our ancestors had to over come many adversities. Many times I feel and wish that those in the large cities would leave and come to see what life is all about in the Midwest. Our ancestors started in caves and sod houses and kept evolving and upgrading over the years.We are hardly an arcadian society.

O called him "my attorney general"....., he's "OUR attorney general". Watch YOUR words.

You could be discussing something at work with another employee and a third party overhears what you said and is offended with what you said and you may loss your job. It may have been to do with race sexual orientation, gender or etc. Do I want to take a chance of loosing my job because someone did not understand what I was saying or only heard a short part of what I said.

I would add that what helps solve racial tensions is making the effort to actually get to know someone who is different than you. Reach out to the common humanity you share, and you'll find that what truly divides people is not race, religion, gender, age, ethnic background, culture or sexual orientation – what truly divides us is character.

I've had the good fortune of knowing people from all walks of life and from all over the world – and I've learned there are good people and bad people everywhere. The only way to tell one from another is by getting to know them. And that takes time and courage.

No one discusses race because most African Americans are too sensitive. You can't criticize them so what is there to discuss? You either agree with them or you're a racist or an uncle tom, one of the two, because obviously all of their problems are the fault of someone else. Furthermore, there really is nothing to discuss. Some people need to get their act together and then there wouldn't be any problems because who can you blame when you're successful and realize that no one's holding you back? As for self segregation, people do this, it's natural. People self segregate based on personal beliefs, interest, morals etc ... it has nothing to do with race. Lastly, Eric Holder is a moron and lost any semblance of respect I may have had for him. CNN forgot to mention that he also said that on weekends America of today is no different than the America of 50 years ago. Really? Idiot.

So what if Holder's comments offended and annoyed a few conservative hatemongers. Like that group has ever been delicate in speech.

Cnn can u please stop sugar coating what holder said. If this was a white republican you would be quick to criticize. Face the fact racism goes both ways. If america is so cowardice then why do u think affirmative action exists. How do u think the obomas got into ivy league schools

Poor Michelle Malkin. She wouldn't find anything positive in any comment by a Democrat.
Holder is right. When is the last time anyone on this board had a conversation about race with a person of a different race?

Thought so.

There is a simple reason for this and that is for a white person to say anything that might be percieved as negative about any minority race they are automatically label a racist. With this stigma why bother discusing it if they are jsut going to call you names?

A great start would be for all the republi-klan posters on this site to finally and openly admit that they hate the President of the United States of America mostly because of his racial background.

it's like anything else,we have all been dumbed down to the extent, that expressing ones feelings, (as Holder ) did, somehow gives the impression that he, or anyone else for that matter, is some kind of wacko; but 40 years ago, generally, people would let you have it, and you just swallowed hard, shook yourself off, and made the best of it..today, your branded, not good..

Racism is based in fear,I use it often.

Is it racist to harbor negative feelings toward AAs when an overwhelming percentage of your experiences with them and their subculture have been negative? Prejudiced to be sure, but irrational?

Yes, slavery is painful and I dont know how you can ever pay someone back after 200 to 300 years of it, but forgiveness and love is all I can think of.

Look into Obie's eyes, and you'll see the future. Believe is the word.

Take Steele, now that is a coward! He was afraid to upset Rush and they were not even talking about race. Now a Black women is trying to get rid of him. The GOP is in po shape. Po Shape!

Look, Black Brothers, I'm not black or white, but from the bottom of my heart, I know your white brothers love you. They give you a lot of respect and prefer you before a Hispanic or Asian. I know that because I see it. So, remember, dont be paranoid!! You're white Bro LOVES you..