My RESPONSE to Off the Wall: Race and Michael Jackson

http://www.billoreilly.com/newslettercolumn;jsessionid=1F6A5524FA72396C62B4212307DC61B0?pid=26847

First of all, I have heard TV pundits espouse the general theme that Mr. O’Reilly discusses. I would like to say that the late Michael Jackson was MORE than an entertainer. He was indeed a pioneer for African Americans in the entertainment industry in many aspects and an extremely charitable celebrity. He supported, donated to, and raised awareness about many issues from poverty to HIV/AIDS. He was a humanitarian in every sense of the word. So, he was more than an entertainer! Through his many deep feeling songs he did teach us how to love (ex. Black or White, Heal the World, How Much More Can I Give, Man in the Mirror, We Are the World, etc.)

Mr. O’Reilly points to a poll that shows that Blacks “are far more interested in the Jackson story than white Americans.” Mr. Jackson was a world-renowned entertainer/celebrity/icon. You simply need to take one look at his supporters and fans that span every continent, race, religion, color, etc. Of course the Jackson family story is unique to African Americans after all they are Black.

Surely, we can claim Mr. Jackson is a black icon regardless of some characteristics of his personal life. No famous individual/person in American history we have elevated to historical significance is without controversy in their personal life but we overlook that to admire their worldly contributions. In short, the men and women we place on a historical pedestal are often wrought with some sort of personal controversy but we as flawed people overlook that to focus on the positive.

As far as an example of “minority group sticking together”, it is understandable to gravitate toward that based on the historical repression of a group. Sometimes beating on one individual can feel like a group attack.

I don’t believe that media is deifying MJ. I watch both CNN and FOX News and from all the coverage I have seen they equally discuss his contributions to society and his personal failings. I do however argue that we should focus on his success and contributions at least until the man has been buried. After that, we can go back to debating his personal choices, lifestyle, controversies, etc. I do not believe that the media is labeling Jackson as a hero. That should be left up to individuals to decide for themselves.

While there are aspects of Jackson’s personal life and decision such as letting little children sleep in his bed/plastic surgery that we don’t agree with, that in no way should undermine his rightful place in history as a musical, entertainment and humanitarian icon.

Let me Address Rep. King’s comments: Michael Jackson was ACQUITTED (FOUND NOT GUILT) of child molestation charges! The constitution says INNOCENT until PROVEN GUILT in a court of law!

Let me address Speaker Pelosi’s comments on not honoring Jackson with a resolution: The hell (You know I want to use a different word!) with Pelosi. Debating someone’s personal failings by no means should negate Congress from RECOGNIZING this American’s contributions.

I close with "Do you remember the time, when you looked at the man in the mirror, questioned whether he was black or white, thought he was so dangerous, a smooth criminal, and finally decided he rocked your world. Catch a thriller because his memory will never beat it."

REST IN PEACE MJ!!!

~David J. Ruiz