Shuster Proves Lennon Was Right: "Woman IS The Nigger Of The World"

***Woman Is The Nigger Of The World

Yes she is... think about it
Woman Is The Nigger Of The World
Think about it... do something about it

We make her paint her face and dance
If she won't be slave, we say that she don't love us
If she's real, we say she's trying to be a man
While putting her down we pretend that she is above us

Woman Is The Nigger Of The World
Yes she is
If you don't believe me take a look at the one you're with
Woman is the slaves of the slaves
Ah yeah... better scream about it

We make her bear and raise our children
And then we leave her flat for being a fat old mother hen
We tell her home is the only place she should be
Then we complain that she's too unworldly to be our friend

Woman Is The Nigger Of The World
Yes she is
If you don't believe me take a look to the one you're with
Woman is the slaves of the slaves
Yeah think about it

We insult her every day on TV
And wonder why she has no guts or confidence
When she's young we kill her will to be free
While telling her not to be so smart
We put her down for being so dumb

Woman Is The Nigger Of The World
Yes she is
If you don't believe me take a look to the one you're with
Woman is the slaves of the slaves
Yes she is... if you believe me, you better scream about it

- John Lennon & Yoko Ono (1972)

***Those offended by John Lennon's lyric should be aware that Lennon's song - and its use of the "N" word as a device to express how shabbily women were treated in society - was a cause actively championed by a plethora of African-American civil rights activists in 1972 - including humorist Dick Gregory and Ron Dellums - Chairman and Co-Founder of The Congressional Black Caucus.

See Lennon explaining the meaning of the lyric and the use of the "N" word - on the Dick Cavett Show in 1972. Also includes performance of the song.

"If you define 'niggers' as someone whose lifestyle is defined by others, whose opportunities are defined by others, whose role in society are defined by others, then Good News! You don't have to be black to be a 'nigger' in this society. Most of the people in America are 'niggers'. - Ron Dellums - Co-Founder and Chairman of The Congressional Black Caucus. US Congressman 1971-1998. Currently Mayor of Oakland, CA.

====================================================================

I don't think David Shuster's comments about Chelsea Clinton "being pimped out" were necessarily borne of political mendacity or Hillary-hatred.

I think they come from something far worse than that.

I think they come from the systemic misogyny in our society. Every bit as pervasive as it ever was...

And in particular from the atmosphere of dripping disdain for powerful progressive women that is a hallmark of the MSNBC culture - especially Chris Matthews and Tucker Carlson.

Quite what is missing emotionally (and perhaps physically) from those men that causes them to be so angry and snide about strong women - one can only speculate about.

But it certainly fosters a culture in which David Shuster can spew his comments blissfully unaware that they might be deeply unpleasant and offensive.

Not just to all women but to all fair-minded men.

I hope that women have had enough of this and will speak - and vote - truth to power.

Part of me can't wait to see America's first African-American president. I think that Barack Obama will be a superlative president. I am deeply impressed with his integrity, acumen and aspirations.

But another part of me can't wait even more to see America's first woman president.

We've seen what men have done to this nation since 1776.

(Pretty much what Richard Nixon and George W. Bush both did to the constitution.)

So it's time to see what a woman can do.

it certainly can't be worse than what men have done over the last 232 years.

And I suspect it will be a lot better.

In order to see a woman fulfill the destiny of America's promise - I CAN wait for the first African-American president. But not for long. In fact no longer than 8 years.

Obama 2016!

Right now it's time for a woman to lead this nation.

And teach Shuster, Matthews and all the other misogynists what women and enlightened men have always known. Women are equal to men and deserve our full respect.

Have I just played the gender card? You bet. It's a card that has been played AGAINST women for over 200 years. Turnabout is fair play. I think John Lennon would approve...

Comments

[mamajoyboy]

Misogyny is more deeply ingrained in America than even racism. The late Shirley Chisholm, the first major party African American candidate for President of the United States in 1972, often commented that she bore the brunt of far more discrimination as a result of being born a woman than being born African American.
Mr. Lewis, thank you for your thoughtful post. Sadly in 2008, John Lennon is still right, "Woman Is The Nigger Of The World."

[yummymaplesyrup]

I like you to know how much I appreciate your article.

You are spot on. The truth is ill-heard (just look at the posts).

Thank you, thank you, thank you............

[ThomasDoubting]

John Lennon, one of the most influential figures of the 20th century, said it well. He also proudly claimed to be a feminist, thereby, awakening me to the fact that I too, could be a feminist, in spite of the fact that I am a straight male. I have considered myself a feminist every since. I have looked forward to voting for a woman as president, and all things equal I would probably do so. This is not her time, all things are not equal, in this election the people are demanding change, we won't get the kind of changes we need, from Hillary Clinton. She does not yet, seem to realize that our invasion and occupation of Iraq was wrong. It insults my intelligence, to tell me, that she didn't think that Bush would invade Iraq. I knew, before the war, that we were being lied to. The Bush/Cheney administration lies about almost everything. . . .OBAMA 08 . Yes We Can!

[tom928]

Who's applying the double-standard here? As if a commentator wouldn't make the same remark about any male candidate if they happened to think the candidate was using their children the same way (not that I necessarily agree that Chelsea was being used inappropriately in this case). Further, there is a generational difference in sensitivity to the term used so casually: last year's big Oscar-winning movie theme song was "It's Hard Out There for a Pimp", and there is a hit television show called "Pimp My Ride". This is not to excuse the fact that an apology was still owed from Shuster for the comment, but that this term has taken on a more casual sense within the culture cannot be denied.

[milo9]

Effing Please, Shuster is a straight arrow who used a colloquialism during the political rutting season and is going to pay for it.

But "Woman is the nigger of year" Come on!

[Bobzmcishl]

I have no problem with Hillary becoming president, although I would prefer Obama. Either is better than the disastrous alternative of a Republican for another four years. I was watching MSNBC when the exchange between Schuster and Press occured. Not only was the comment insulting to the Clinton's and to Chelsea, it was stupid. Where did Schuster get the idea that candidates children should not camapaign for them and that includes making phone calls if necessary. I don't think children should be forced to do campaigning if they don't so choose, but Chelsea obviously loves her mom and has great pride in her. I am a big fan of MSNBC but that epsisode make me check to make sure I hadn't accidently switched to Fox News.

[starboymikey]

Shuster's comment way over the line and out of place for a lot of reasons.

Sadly, there is also an element of truth in it. All politicians are pimps in the end, whether they start out that way or not. Yet what they sell is not their daughters but rather their principles, which may be even worse.

The real problem with Shuster's remarks is their sexist slant. If the Clinton offspring was Charles rather than Chelsea, it would never have occured to Shuster to say what he did.

So it becomes one of those horrible "foot-in-mouth-disease" comments that rings just true enough for some people to want to defend it.

Hillary Clinton pimped out her principles and sold out progressives long ago. By comparison her use of Chelsea as a campaign tool is really small potatos.

[nich]

I think you are mostly right except that I'm not entirely convinced that Shuster wouldn't use the same term when referring to a son possibly being "used" by his parents.

It will be interesting to see how long Hillary will be able to keep this controversy alive. After all, a sympathy vote counts the same as any other vote.

As "the bard" might have written, "I think she/he/they/us doth protest too much."

[snownobile]

Ahh the boys club.

[AnninCA]

There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that you are correct. The hated of Hillary is irrational and absolutely speaks to the core gender issues in this race.

His words were clearly "casual sexism" that is approved of by entirely too many viewers.

His apology was ridiculous and disenguous. The apology offended me as much as the original words did.

I am not at all worried about Chealsea. She chooses not to speak to the press, and that is her right. It is NOT the obligation of anyone to speak to the press. They have completely abused the notion that words won't be spun to start a debate or controversy. Hence, the "fairy tale" remark that has now become complete fiction and is repeated over and over as though it was factual. I heard Wilder misstate it yesterday. Bill called Obama a fairy tale? Good grief, that's such a lie, and it's horrible to see these guys stir up racial hatred to win.

So Chealsea is one smart young lady. She's not going to fall into the press's hands.

Good for her.

Shuster's so-called frustration with her and then his "punishment" by being deliberately derisive is made clear by the e-mails. How dare he use his position as journalist to punish anyone.

How dare NBC hire people who think that's an appropriate use of their position?

Incredible expose of the problems in the media.

They should be deeply ashamed of even calling themselves journalists.

They are making a complete mockery of the profession.

[wilhelmR]

Nepotism for Chelsea who gets jobs and nobody critcizes her. Bush's daugher had her pictures changing her underwear at a swimming pool circulating all over the net. Also, nobody cares aboy Briteney Spears and sexism and this is because of the class and POWER the Clinton status convey. Please read "The Second Sex" all over again because I believe all the falic-repressed-puritain women in the US are full of it with double standards: Claiming foul for one thing and then having fifteen extra-marital affairs for another.

[Shantee]

Women can be just as tyrannical as men.....and all Hillary Clinton wants to do is fight....she's too polarizing to beat McCain. As for Chelsea, Shuster's remark was unkind, but....Chelsea is no school girl, she is a woman, and if she's going to campaign for her mother she's going to have to take the knocks that come with it....she should be defending herself.....but as usuall HRC wants it both ways, always.

[asaint]

Sorry, but this thing about "nigger", Lennon, Obama and Hillary makes me mad. Schuster probably just wanted to come over with a "hip" sound-bite taken from our MTV styled youth. yes, sure he could have been more selective with his remarks but then again he hit the sense of it (it being the actions of Clinton's daughter) spot on. They - the Clintons - should never have it both ways, period!
Secondly: you cannot wait for the first black president? me neither. But what is this other thing with Hillary doing things better because she is a woman. That is total Bu...!! how insane. Any emancipated women with all her screws tightly wound should be insulted on the notion of voting for Hillary just because she is a woman. Of all the things women have fought for - just as the blacks did - it was not for a continuation of this steriotypical woman role Hillary portrayed through and through during her husbands "escapdaes". If she would have devorced him and then run for presidancy for heavens sake we would all be on her side. Hillary is neither authentic nor honest she just wants power and is not in the business of listening to the zeitgeist. The good people want things to be BETTER!

[Doofus]

John Lennon reached a point in his life when being offensive became part of his art.

The Clintons have reached the point when they have their daughter lobby Super Delegates.

Apparently some are disturbed by this behavior also.

[tbone99]

If Schuster had used the word lobby he would have made the point much better.

[momorune]

It is really pathetic to see a national level journalist who can't think of a more intelligent way to get what he wants than to call names.

Yes, this is misogyny. He didn't call her a jackass, now, did he? That's degrading.

Yes, Hillary should vigorously protest. The man should get what he deserves.

It still won't change my vote. You don't fix a problem with a name-caller by electing the victim president.

[SShaw490]

You know, I'm happy that Hillary's fans love her. But if they think women are getting the short end of the stick, and that's the reason they're voting for her, then they need a reality check. Our country is in an intractable war (that she voted to start), we're threating another war with Iran (which she voted to escalate), we're losing jobs to overseas sweatshops (a trend that her husband authorized in various ways), our country is bankrupt in both budget and trade deficits, corporations are running the government, America has gone from being an admired partner in the world to being a despised tyrant, our country is imprisoning and even torturing prisoners without any applied rule of law, there is strong evidence that Americans are being wiretapped illegally - and among all that, someone is deciding how to vote based on the gender of the candidate?

It makes one wonder who decided democracy is such a great idea.

[SwingStateVeteran]

Obama is just another man, different color, interesting upbringing -- but just another in a long line of males. I think real, historic change will come only from a woman. My opinion. You get yours, I get mine.

[Vanska]

Those of you who love Obama (I'd vote for him if he becomes our candidate) should be asking why this man of change isnt more offended by these comments as well. I, for one, would love to hear him speak out against this type of rhetoric. He has daughters, right? I think he'd come off much better if he spoke up for Hillary. Instead I hear nothing but crickets from his camp on this. By not speaking out he condones this behavior. Im a little disappointed. I dont feel he really cares about womens rights so much as he cares about being the first black man in office. Like I said, I'll vote my party but I hope in the future we see a little more substance from this candidate.

[Ides]

Considering he stood on the sidelines when she took a shot at Martin Luther King, Jr, maybe he just doesn't want to get involved in someone else's politically convenient slapfight?

[TxWonderWoman]

GET OVER IT! OBAMA voted for the WAR too. Everytime he voted for funding. Enough already.

[Ides]

He also sent forward 7 timetable amendments for Iraq Withdrawal. He voted no on the last funding bill.

How's your girl doing, by the way? Oh, right, clusterbombing babies.

[reedmaker]

She is incredily smart and tough--her policies are solid, often excellent.

[tbone99]

John Lennon had 20- 20 vision in a world when everyone else was blind.Its about time we have a blogger stand up for the both insidious and all pervading expectations women must meet or be attacked sexually. .I was absolutely aghast at what Huffinton posters were willing to say about Hilary and Chelsea ( and thus THEIR mothers and dgtrs) in the Schuster blog yesterday ,as well as the one in which the mother of was raped by Halibuton employees.Is this the "new" man created by constant exposure to porn and sexualized violence in the media?

Although woman may be stoned for rape in other countries, the ugly attitudes some displayed are EXACTLY the kind of mindset that initiates such barbarity.

If you have to stoop so low to promote your candidate
it brings into question what their good qualities are.

[dinger]

Maybe this is a generational thing, but I am completely and totally shocked by the reaction this is getting. I am 33-years-old and if I had a nickel for every time I've heard the phrase "pimped out" I would be a very rich man. Let's be honest. It has nothing to do with prostitution, sexuality or anything close to it. So why such a strong reaction?

Let's also remember one thing in this. Despite anyone's feelings for MSNBC, for Chris Matthews, or anyone else at the network, David Shuster is an EXCEPTIONAL reporter. His work on the Scooter Libby trial was Pulitzer worthy in my opinion. For anyone who was genuinely offended by his comment, accept his apology and let this man move on with his life. For those seizing upon an opening for political reason, lay off.

This overreaction to Shuster's quote is disgusting. Should he have used a different word? Sure. B

[song]

ya well if u told me i was pimping out my daughter i'd sock you without a second tought.

[gulopartisan]

Second.

[SShaw490]

I'll tell you exactly why such a strong reaction - because Hillary plays the poor, attacked woman role. It's not outrage, it's politics. Like everything else in her life, it's a chance to make one political point.

That's exactly the kind of politics that Obama speaks out against every day. Instead of finding a way to drive another wedge between people, he wants to find common ground between people. Instead of finding a war cry, he finds a way to make some kind of mutually beneficial progress.

But people are so used to wedge politics that they just jump in there and try to drive the wedge deeper. They just destroy a little more because that's what they've always done. It's Lord of the Flies in the political realm.

[Eduardodelazul411]

Gender has nothing to do with my preference of Obama over Hillary. It has more to do with the DLC-tilt of the latter's policies. I'd much rather someone more like Arianna Huffington be in the running instead, and I'm not saying this just because this is her site. She's what Hillary isn't: progressive, charismatic, and genuine.

[midadstore]

Great post. You hit the nail right on the head. Let's hear it for enlightenment and the veils being lifted. We will be so much better for it. John, we miss you so much.

[Lindy222]

I think it was Clinton-hatred more than misogyny. After all, the Gore daughters, Bush daughters, Kerry daughters, Cheney daughters and Edwards daughter weren't criticized for this particular reason, and they all helped out in their fathers' campaigns. Or, if there's misogyny, it seems more likely directed at Hillary Clinton than Chelsea Clinton.

There is also, as has been remarked on elsewhere, the fact that Chelsea has been protected from access by the press and other members of the public -- remember the kid reporter whose question she wouldn't answer (although she did so quite graciously)? So, it does surprise, at least initially, to discover she's been calling superdelegates while being kept off limits in public.

But, who cares? I don't. She seems a lovely young woman, Shuster shouldn't have said what he did, could we move on now?

[reedmaker]

Maybe the reason she has been kept away from the press is the utter visciousness of the hatred against the Clintons. Schuster's comment is only a single, tiny example.

Your observation that the misogyny is more likely directed towards Hillary than Chelsea strikes me as exactly right--if I were Chelsea, the last place I would want to be is caught in the crossfire--and if I were her parents, I would do whatever I could to protect her.

[texanna]

You are completely correct -- sexism is more prevalent and more entrenched even than racism. Rep. Maxine Waters summed it up best when she said she has had more problems getting ahead because she's a woman than because she's black. The focus of anger at Imus' comments were primarily for the racial slurs while the sexist slurs were barely mentioned. While Hillary isn't the female candidate that I had hoped for, I do agree that it's time to let a woman have a go at managing the country. Obama will be an even better candidate in 8 years.

[audri]

Well- i was watching Bill Mohr the other night and the crew there was happily chuckling away about Hillary, a comment was even made about her backside. The hatred of Hillary seems so irrational and unfounded that I am wondering if any feisty woman who steps out of the box in this country would meet with some of the same. Is the misogyny in this country so great that any woman who dared to run for president would be called divisive? Would any woman who ran be divisive simply because she was a woman? The name Hillary seems to harken back to the time when women were first fighting for their rights. When will women wake up and realize how they are still being marginalized and worse.

[gulopartisan]

I'm sure that any woman would face a bit of the misogyny we see in the race. But it's a lot easier to resort to epithets and insults when you have a good reason not to like the candidate. Margaret Thatcher should be the end of any claim that a woman is somehow inherently a better candidate. By that reasoning, Ann Coulter is a better writer than we give her credit for. Please note that Coulter gets her share of "bitch" insults, and they all come for loathing for the person, not for women.

[BeeOplentee]

You're right, audri. Hillary is viewed as Carrie Nation was viewed by men and women: a presumptuous grating interloper.

[SilerMarriott]

Woman don't have to vote for a women this is true, but they also don't have to bash a woman to prove their objectivity and enlightenment. This in my opinion is reverse discrimination and prevalent in the media...Borger, Huffington, Dowd, Brzenski et al. Let's night deny the sexism of the progressive, high income yuppy male particularly the media types: Matthews, Stephanopolis, Russert, Maher, Kerry et Al.