Bayoubuzz

Wednesday, 18 August 2010 11:22

Yesterday, legendary radio talk show host Dr. Laura Schlessinger announced her retirement from radio.  Her 30-year career is over because of the negative fallout she received from using the N-word during his show. Schlessinger used the N-word 11 times in an on-air discussion with an African American caller who was complaining about the racist treatment she receives from friends and relatives of her white husband. In the brief call, Schlessinger also addressed whether use of the N-word is ever appropriate, noting that it is a main ingredient in the acts of many black artists.

Initially, Schlessinger apologized for using the word, but after the criticism mounted, she decided to retire from the radio business. Schlessinger said that she is retiring because "I want to be able to say what's on my mind and in my heart and what I think is helpful and useful without somebody getting angry or some special-interest group deciding this is a time to silence a voice of dissent."

It is a sad day when talk radio is no longer a format for free speech, which is guaranteed in the 1st Amendment. Schlessinger noted that the N-word is used constantly by rap artists, comedians and other African-American celebrities. If the N-word is off-limits for white talk show hosts, it should be off limits for everyone.

In today’s politically correct society, there is a horrible double standard. What is wrong for one group of people should be wrong for everyone. I agree that the N-word is offensive, but Schlessinger was not insulting the caller with her diatribe, she was making a philosophical point by using the word so often. There was no hatred in her usage of the N-word; instead she was trying to highlight the way different groups are being treated.

The negativity over her remarks only shows how limited free speech rights are in this country.

Schlessinger will not retire, but will continue to contribute her thoughts in other formats. In today’s oppressively politically correct environment, Schlessinger’s unique voice stands out.

She has established a successful career because she bases her opinions on time tested truths such as the Ten Commandments.

She refuses to change her values based on the latest trend or fashion statement.

In the end, the PC police forced her off the radio airwaves, but, hopefully, her voice will not be silenced.

--
Jeff Crouere is a native of New Orleans, LA and he is the host of a Louisiana based program, “Ringside Politics,” which airs at 7:30 p.m. Fri. and 10:00 p.m. Sun. on WLAE-TV 32, a PBS station, and 7 till 11 a.m.weekdays on WGSO 990 AM in New Orleans and the Northshore. For more information, visit his web site at www.ringsidepolitics.com. E-mail him at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Recent columns by Jeff Crouere

1. 1. President Barack Hussein Obama’s Muslim Mindset
2. 2. Louisiana, New Orleans Political Comedy Punch This Week
3. 3. Obama’s Sad Policies Leading US Economy Into Depression?
4. 4. King, Queen Obama’s Vacation Royally As US Economy Worsens

Do you agree or disagree?  Give us your opinion below:
Talk about Gulf oil spill, politics, whatever on the BuzzForums