Brown v. Monkey

A political cartoon is misinterpreted and African American organizations and their talking heads immediately see an opportunity to make noise. Meanwhile, a famous black woman is beat down by her equally famous black boyfriend and commentary in the black community centers around, "What did she do to cause it?" Why are some African Americans so cowardly when it comes to addressing black-on-black violence? There is no end to the activists' displays of outrage when racism is perceived. Yet, the silence is deafening, drowned out only by the hypocrisy and ignorance when the perpetrator is black.

Rupert Murdoch may be public enemy number one for the progressive community, but he and his posse at the New York Post are not sanctioning the abuse and killing of black women. The beating Rihanna experienced at the hands of Chris Brown was tragic, but definitely not uncommon. The leading cause of death for African American women ages 15 to 45 is intimate partner homicide. Yes, black men are killing young black women in such high numbers it beats out accidents and every illness you can imagine. Where is the outrage? Where is the boycott? Where is the speech? I have never received a call to action email on behalf of black women affected by domestic abuse - at a rate 35% higher than our white counterparts.

When the Chris Brown incident became public where was the cry for attention to this issue by the megaphoniacs? The only commentary posted on CNN.com was written by Leslie Steiner, while one of the most prominent black CNN contributors was ranting about Valentine's Day. Michael Basden had an 'enlightening' exchange on his radio show about if they should even be discussing the incident. If? Really, Michael? Would he ask that question if a white cop beat up a black boy? Absolutely not. Some will say it is not fair to compare the monkey cartoon to the "Chrianna" event or police brutality to domestic abuse. It is about priorities, people. It is time to stop hiding our dirty laundry in the closet or making excuses for it. Black-on-black violence is decimating our communities and has been for quite some time. An apology from the New York Post is not going to save the life of any black person. Imagine if the NAACP had publicly pulled support for Chris Brown's nomination for an Image Award similar to what Wrigley's Doublemint Gum and the Got Milk campaign did by removing him as a spokesperson? Maybe, just maybe, one young black male would learn an important lesson - never hit a woman. How can gum and milk peddlers have more integrity about their images than the NAACP Image Awards?

It is time for the black community to adopt a zero tolerance policy against domestic abuse. Bottom-line, what Chris Brown did to Rihanna was a teachable moment - an opportunity for the black community to coalesce and show the world we are taking action to address a pressing issue affecting us all. Cartoon-gate is a misguided media stunt that will further create a chilling effect on free speech and ultimately have little impact on the lives of black people. To my friends at Colorofchange.org, Al Sharpton's National Action Network, and the NAACP please put the protest signs down and refocus the media spotlight on issues that actually matter. If you have to boycott something, boycott Chris Brown.

Comments

[PatA]

If domestic violence is killing more black women in that age group..I applaud the writer's intent. I didn't understand why black leaders didn't take this situation and use it as a teaching point for young black people.
This article is about the fact that black on black doesn't get very much attention from the powers that be...black groups.

[HappyMarsden]

It's not that the perpetrator is black, it's that the perpetrator is male, beating a female. What the black community defending Chris Brown (ie. Terence Howard) are saying here is, "that's ok". "T'aint nobody's business but my own". What Rihanna is saying by getting back together with the scmbg 2 weeks after she said they were no longer together, is "that's ok". "I was beaten within an inch of my life, threatened with death by my black boyfriend, and my family wants me to stay away from him but.... t'aint nobody's business but my own".

[army193]

I think I just read something that the couple is back together?

[jozinha]

Yep.

[Wordstosay]

One effort that should be made when talking about black on black crimes-African American are unique when it comes to crime; to state that African Americans are unique or superior is a form of racism and elitism; there is a need to stop thinking that color dictates to rather one is better than the other; human hurt each other; humans love each other color has not thing to do with; if we a people wish to heal we must stop thinking of ourselves as different and unique as horrible or not, any other thoughts are useless.
For the complaint the Rhianna has with Chris is something they both must work out all other interference will make the situation worse for both. He would never have another positive relationship and she would never have one either for there will always be this thought or idea that some is lying and their future success will be effective by this unfortunate situation for some serious time. Bothe need to heal and further decisions will increase this nasty curse for the worse. After all is said and done both can be poster folks on how to improve themselves and show others there can be a better way...

[dct1999]

"Colorofchange.org, Al Sharpton's National Action Network, and the NAACP please put the protest signs down and refocus the media spotlight on issues that actually matter."

These organizations have addressed many injustices and have done a lot of good. I'm thankful that you don't get to decide what "actually matters".

Your inability to recognize racism when you see it is problematic. You speak for very few people; I'm thankful for that too.

[redsonya09]

Well oppressing women is way worse than some cartoon. When a woman was brutally rapes in FL. Sharpton and NAACP didn't speak up. These groups are about making life better for people of color.

If that doesn't include dealing with sociological problems WITHIN the Black community, all they are really doing is making noise.

[huntunseasun]

School Daze. Spike Lee.

[sbrooks0178]

What part of "not NAACP's platform" don't you get? The idea that an organization for race relations should address issues that are the platforms of other groups (which none of you pro-Greene people have bothered to criticize for their absence) makes about as much sense as calling the hospital and demanding that they deal with a burglary. I am a strong supporter of more efforts to prevent domestic violence and to hold abusers accountable, but I also have some common sense...something that is lacking with Ms. Greene and your logic.

[Noland]

Who ordained you judge and jury? There has been no official statement or charges presented in the Brown case. Are all the markers pointing to guilty? Yes, however, that still is not a basis to condemn this kid in a country that prides itself on INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY! Your argument assumes to nullify our constitutional rights simply because the assumed victim is a black female. It’s very weak.

Women constantly profess a man should never hit a woman regardless of the situation. In essence, a woman can abuse a man anyway she wishes and there should be no recourse from the man even if the woman becomes physically abusive. The man should simply walk away. What if he can’t? Then what, just 'man-up' and continue to be abused?

Women incessantly profess their need and want (and rightfully so) for equality with men but still want to play the victim. Make up your minds as to what you want. Men are extremely tired of trying to figure it out for you.

I am not arguing the issue of the attack on that girl; I am arguing the attack by women who without any evidence of proof are using their sex as a weapon to assault a young man who hasn’t been given an opportunity to explain the situation from his perspective. Right or wrong, wait until the evidence has been presented before jumping to conclusions. Very un-American and sooooooo typically female.

[huntunseasun]

Another side is this: if that man wasn't well known, he'd be in jail. If it were a common man, like me, all a woman has to do in NC is call the police with NO PROOF of any assault and the man is in jail for three days, minimum.

It is a class issue, in many cases, regardless of cultural background.

[swkidder]

I hear the frustration and you raise some legitimate "relationship" issues. I think it's past time for a "men's liberation" movement to follow the "women's liberation" movement and provide more space for men to be whole human beings - and not just robotic wage earning "real men."
That said, there ABSOLUTELY NO EXCUSE for whatever Chris Brown did that left Rhianna's face in the condition I saw in that photograph. NONE. I don't care how badly he might have been provoked. I don't care what the racial, cultural, etc. issues and experiences might have been that fed his "anger management issues" - I don't care.
I agree that he not yet been convicted, but he did issue the kind of statement/apology that suggests that he will be pleading guilty as charged when he does come to trial. And there is NO EXCUSE for what he did.
I applaud Jehmu Greene for this piece. May it prevent just one potential act of abuse in the future.

[kalapa]

"without any evidence of proof "..huh?

I would say those pics of Rihanna's face spoke loud and clear. Unless you think - like the Rodney King video - Rodney was the aggressor [roll eyes]

[prtypoison]

I like what you said.......
We need to teach our sons how to recognized when they are being abused also and how to get out of a relationship before something like Chris and Rihanna situation happens. Rihanna has admitted to hitting him first on a few occassions. If Chris would have known that even if a woman hits you it was still abuse he would have gotten out of the relationship before it esculated into what it is. Noone should put their hands on another man and woman.

[SARGE1]

For All Those Who Want To Be Informed About Facts And Not Conjecture Please All Read

Domestic Violence or Spouse Abuse
http://encarta.msn.com/encyclopedia_762529482/Domestic_Violence.html


Most experts agree that economic and cultural factors play an especially powerful role in contributing to and perpetuating repeated abuse of women
contributing to and perpetuating repeated abuse of women. Because women, as a group, tend to have less power in society, they are more likely to be victims and are less able to end abuse once it begins. Traditional beliefs, customs, and laws restrict the roles women may play and limit their economic opportunities, contributing to their dependence on men. Some scholars assert that the process of socialization teaches boys and girls a belief system that devalues women—especially unmarried women—and creates a sense of female responsibility for the maintenance of the family. Women who believe that the end of a relationship or of a marriage represents a personal failure are less likely to leave abusive relationships.

So Where Does It State Only Black Men Abuse Women?

-Sarge

[Nanaama]

Perhaps you will be surprised to hear that men who are seen as the average, tender, loving and caring husbands are just as likely to kill their partners as the abusers.This was confirmed by experts around the OJ trial at the time. The conclusion was that there is no way of identifying the man who will be capable of killing his wife or partner. The popular belief that abusers are the more likely to kill, was not supported by statistics, according to interview with the experts.

[SARGE1]

Sorry That Dog Don't Hunt ! Every Person Of Color Was "Fully Offended" By The Chimp Cartoon, This Is The Old Bait And Switch Period. The Issue Is Racism. Trying To Deflect On That Subject To Domestic Violence Is So Very Disingenuous You Are Only Attempt To Move That Subject To A Straw Dog Issue. An Issue That Transcend All Races. Blacks Do Not Have A Monopoly On Domestic Violence. I'm Sure News Corp Pays You Well For Your "Blame The Victim" Scheme.

-Sarge

[redsonya09]

I'm a person of color. Didn't see the racism. Didn't agree with the outrage. Too many REAL problems out there.....

[SARGE1]

A Person Of What Color ? My People Have Shed Too Much Blood To Be Demeaned In The Manner Of That Cartoon. That Day Of The Steppn' Fetchin' Alabama Porch Monkey Is Over, So It Is About Being Respected Period ! When Was The Last Time You Have Seen A Cartoon Demeaning A Person Of Another Color?

-Sarge

[Wise Guy]

Let’s be cognizant and sensible Ms. Green about the racist cartoon delivered by idle fools. This is clearly disrespect continually for not only some African Americans but you as well. They are harassing African American (your won people in the same fashion as Imus and Rush Limbaugh, the line are getting longer. If you can’t stand to interpret mockery please stand for nothing.

Domestic violence does not have color, neither African American, Hispanics, Jewish, Asian Oriental or Caucasian. Domestic violence is to be dealt with by everyone; violence is violence not to be dichotomized. I believe it is uncouth to call another human being ignorant.

[zepfan81]

What she's saying is that blacks have a problem being critical of other blacks.

[papapj]

What she should be saying is that many Whites have problems facing up to their racism, and project their difficulties onto Black people by condescendingly dismissing their objections as 'misinterp­retations'­...instead she speaks up for them.

Domestic violence is not a 'race' issue. Ms. Brown does a disservice to all those who are subjected to it by making it one singling out the Black community whilst not providing a clear picture of WHY it prevails in our community.

For the life of me I can't see any kind of link between the two issues and poatiently await a cogent explanation from said author.

[kalapa]

She's not "singling out" the Black Community, but highlighting an issue that - given the statistics - clearly has not been energetically tackled by the African American Community. She is not saying that domestic violence is not a problem in all communities, and global even.

Are you saying that the statistic of intimate partner homicide being the leading course of death for African American women between 15 - 25 is not a cause for concern? And that public statements of various celebreties from that community excusing Brown's behaviour does not express the complacency of at least a significant section of that community?

[MichaelAPearl]

The answer is simple. Psychological programming and neural linguistic programming.
We have reached the point in our time that the masses have accepted everything that the plutocracy and the aristocracy have programmed in to our collective consciousness. When a people or nation/state have been conquered or ruled they begin to feed on themselves because that is a function sanctioned by the ruling or controlling party. This is also a bi-product of war and domination perpetuated by the more powerful aggressor/­adversary. Polarization is also a bi-product which is often described as divide and conquer. Think about this. When a dominate aggressive state attacks a lesser state usually civil war breaks out if the conflict is prolonged (Iraq, Vietnam etc etc) this all planned. If you are a people who have been kidnapped in mass quantities and abused for generations the aggressor will then move to polarize your ethnic group for the sake of control, undermining your culture and to justify the crimes against your people. Hence community breakdown is only seen to come from within when the perpetrator looks like you. I could take you into many examples over history but that is time consuming. Consider this. African Americans have spent more time in captivity and being abused in this country than they have been as free citizens with equal rights. We must start with owning our own thoughts. Are you predisposed to react or think a certain way? We have all been programmed.

[Nommo]

Absolutely. There is no question that a great healing needs to be undertaken by Black people. The proverbial high colonic type. In fact, Michael, we are not yet of the equal rights status. We do not experience "equal protection under the law". If any cartoonist had depicted Bush as a chimp laying in the street with 3 bullet holes and blood streaming everywhere, that cartoonist would be dealing with some serious Caribbean sunshine.

Having said that, the idea of owning one's thought has to begin on an individual level. There has to be some kind of accounting as to the degree and amount of kool aid one has consumed. The most unfortunate aspect of this whole matter is it even takes a celebrity happening to bring such discussion to the fore. This society endorses all manner of abuse. How often is it the lead in most local newscasts or print? But the abuse we pay the least attention to is the abuse of power. It is all around, in every aspect of life but most notably in the corridors of power. The day we decide to stop modeling ourselves after those that abuse power and influence will be the day the cleansing can begin.

[PeaceKeepTheFaith]

Amen & bless you Nommo - Let us not come down so hard on Jehmu otherwise we will not be any different from the snakes & dogs on radio & TV - We should have a meaningful conversation so that we can amicably agree to disagree & remain UNITED for the various challenges we all face - A culture of VIOLENCE has made us a VIOLENT nation - As a People, we stopped speaking the TRUTH, we stopped standing up for the cause of Peace & Justice and in the process we surrendred all our VALUES to Corporations, Politicians & Foreign Powers & became puppets drugged with all manners of CONSUMPTION to a point where we do not recognize ourselves or the harm we do to our children and future generations - What greater EVIL than all manner of ABUSES by those in the corridors power - VIOLENCE begets VIOLENCE - That cartoon is an invitaion to VIOLENCE & unless we stand up as a PEOPLE & forcefully fight the forces of EVIL, HATRED, RACISM & BIGOTRY, we will ALL be consumed by VIOLENCE - "All it takes for EVIL to flourish, is for good people to stand there & do NOTHING" - "It is better to stand on our feet than to live on our knees" - "True life is lived when tiny CHANGES occur" - Whenever there is an onslaught on human VALUES, you hear screams of "freedom of speech", must we DESTROY ourselves in the name of

[browngirl33]

After reading Ms. Jehmu Green’s article regarding the New York Post’s cartoon in relation to the Rihanna/Chris Brown incident, I find myself scratching my head. Ms. Green seems to be very confused in her assumption that the Black Community is fine with the allegations of physical abuse against the teen icon. It seems as if she perused a host of low budget websites and blogs to take a pulse of public opinion then selected some of the more ig’nant comments as the basis of her argument.
The majority of mature Afro-American’s are outraged over the incident but agree that this young girl has a right to a modicum of respect. Al Sharpton would have no right to use Rihanna’s situation as a platform for anything and we all need to reserve commentary until the parties involved decide to invite the public into what is now a private matter. These two kids are not on a reality T.V. show, this is there lives, and it’s going to be hard enough for both of them to recover without the advice, columns, or advice columns, stirring the pot.
Domestic Violence has been a blemish in society for centuries and this is the first time that I have heard Ms. Green scream outrage and even now, her outrage is not aimed toward the offenders, black or white, but at Al Sharpton… (interesting!)

[rubinoff]

saw Jehmu on television this morning....my question is...was she ever a victim of abuse, she looked sad.,,,btw, i am against abuse, better not raise one's voice toward me. :(
Yes, abuse is Wrong,

Jehmu, when did you decide to get on a soap box about men beating up on women?....It's been going on prolly since the beginning of time, so how do you connect this to that particular cartoon?
me thinks that You have been a victim of abuse...just sayin

[truebluebeachgal]

what does that have to do with anything. I saw her on msnbc today too and she looked perfectly fine to me. why do you think putting a statement out there - you "thinks that she has been a victim of abuse" - is even relevant to the conversation. abuse isnt connected to the cartoon....but the silence from our leaders is.

rubinoff: you are strait up ignorant

thank you mrs. greene....speak truth to power even though all these men want you and the growing chorus to shut up. we will bet them down with our activism and insight.

[jozinha]

Just sayin', rubinoff, that the word is "probably" NOT "prolly."

[Realness]

I do not agree with this has a boycott issue - this is a women's issue. Why would civil rights activists run to the aid of a domestic abuse victim?

I totally disagree that the monkey cartoon was a misinterpretation. Ms. Greene where is your head?

These are two totally different issues and the details of Chris and Rhianna 's situation have not even been out in the public yet. So why cast judgement? Why play Judge and Jury?

[redsonya09]

If Chris Brown were white...then I guess its okay to protest. Cmon people..think...its deeper than just Black and white.... Its about power and abuse of power.

And its about using one's voice to promote change. that's what the blog was about.

[ekgiyp02]

Ms Greene,
Your comparisons are completely off. First of all, the incident between Chris Brown and Rhiana is a domestic abuse issue more than it is a black on black issue. Secondly, the case is STILL OPEN! Al Sharpton and other public leaders can not pass judgment on an alleged abuse case without the possibility of being sued for slander. Don't get me wrong, if Chris Brown is found guilty of beating Rhiana beyond self defense (or whatever possible defense Chris Brown can come up with) then I will be in the front line passing judgment like he deserves. But until that day, Brown deserves his day in court.

Lastly, to say that the New York post's cartoon was misinterpreted by millions of people is absurd at best. Even if it was not their intention (and I believe it was COMPLETELY their intention) to refer to the first black president and primary figurehead for the stimulus package as a gunned down chimpanzee, then you have to wonder if they are just that dumb or non-diverse to realize that millions would be offended and outraged. This country has a violent history of racism that was reinforced by cartoons even less provocative than this one. Why is it so wrong for black leaders to have a "never again" approach to this and confront it head on.