“How does it feel to be the first African-American coach to take a team to the Super Bowl?” asks some vacuous sportscaster during those precious, breathless moments right after the Bears beat New Orleans on Sunday.
It is without question one of the greatest moments of Lovie Smith’s life.
And the first question anyone asks him is in reference to the color of his skin.
I don’t know if it bugged him, but it sure bugged the hell outta me.
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I know, I know.
It’s a milestone for African-Americans who just 40+ years ago were sitting in the back of the bus on their way to segregated schools and lunch counters throughout the south.
I get that.
But does it have to be the Very First Thing they ask?
Whether you’re black or Hispanic or a woman or gay – does your minority status have to be the first thing that defines who you are?
Wouldn’t you rather be recognized by your accomplishments than by something over which you had absolutely no control?
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That said, I’m just thrilled about the three (so far) Democratic candidates for president. We’ve got an African American, a woman, and an Hispanic.
If nothing else, the fact that we have three minority candidates – and at least two who actually have a shot at getting somewhere with it – illustrates the progress our society has made.
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WAIT A MINUTE. You just said…
I know, I know.
I’ll prolly do this badly, but let me explain.
Lovie Smith took the Bears to the Super Bowl because he’s a great coach, not because of the color of his skin. He was able to become a coach because of the way our society has changed over the past few decades, but what he did with the opportunity has nothing to do with this ethnicity.
Whether or not those three minority candidates would be able to lead this country effectively is highly debatable at this point. However, one thing is certain: Their ability to lead will have absolutely nothing to do with the color of their skin or their gender.
But ain’t it cool that they finally, finally have the opportunity to try?
That’s why I love this country.
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I am listening to: Paolo Nutini – New Shoes
I am reading: Press release re: new MWRUG board members
And I am: Quiet
5 months ago
4 comments:
I have a question...Why are women considered a "Minority?" I seem to see them EVERYWHERE...they almost seem to be taking over! I would even think that they're close to half the population.
Hedy, Please help me understand!
Technically, we're in a class all by ourselves. Here in Chicago you have to be a "Minority or Women-Owned" firm to do business with the city. So I guess that puts chicks somewhere between all you big powerful white men and minorities. :)
I think you "prolly" did a pretty good job. I go back and forth on the value of affirmative action. The one area where it is needed, that we ignore for the most part, is education, especially at the primary level. Couple focus there, where talent, be it found residing in a girl, a gay or a black, can be fostered, with a society that is increasingly more open to black, female or gay talent, and in time -
what? Lovy, Tony, Hilary, Barack, and the random Bruce will be judged on their merits? Your mouth to God's ears.
This was definitely a really great post - and I readily agree with your logic in choosing it as representative of your blog. It is sad that all too often, regardless of the gains that have been made over the years, a person is still often looked at first based on race, sex, sexual orientation, ethnicity as opposed to the aspect that really counts -whether or not the person is basically capable.
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