Today on CNN Newsroom
The Tale of Shirley Sherrod
From CNN intern Emily Landrieu:
Shirley Sherrod’s story is not as straight forward as it originally appeared. After a video clip of Mrs. Sherrod giving a speech to an NAACP group surfaced, she was fired from her job at United States Department of Agriculture on the basis of racism. However, that clip did not show the full story. After watching the entire video, it is clear that Mrs. Sherrod is anything but a racist. Her comments were taken out of context. Although Mrs. Sherrod has been through her share of racism, she has turned those experiences into positives by only aiming to promote race relations.
Now Mrs. Sherrod is speaking out. Although coming out of a bad situation, Mrs. Sherrod is taking the opportunity to tell the world about her experiences with racism. She is devoting her life to change – and now, she’s even hoping to write a book.
This morning, we are asking if you have a job offer for Shirley Sherrod, especially if you are a book publisher.
Post your information below.
On Twitter
This is a very special lady to bury the past against whites after her father being murderd by the klan only a strong beleaver in God could have the will power to forgive such an act and look foward .
When will the media call out Fox News and Andrew Breitbart for having edited the footage to make it look as though Ms. Sherrod was a racist? I think that's where the media is going wrong. This admirable lady would not have lost her job if the rest of the media, and yes, even the administration had not jumped to conclusions over the edited footage instead of waiting and investigating further. This is just like the ACORN videos that didn't really tell the whole truth of what happened and now we know that what was presented on them was not the actual truth, either.
I Find This Shocking And Sickening That The Obama Administration And The NAACP Would Fire Ms Sherrod Before Hearing The Full Story! I Don't Believe Shirley Sherrod Is A Racist Whatsoever, Her Words Were Taken Out Of Context, She Should Be Reinstated And Also Should Receive A Public Apology From The Obama Adminstration And Tom Vilsack! Shame On You Mr President And Tom Vilscak!
'
Scott Stodden (Freeport,Illinois)
Give me a break... this woman stated originally that she did not give him the full force of what she could do that she basically "gave him enough". So yes, she may have helped him but because he was white, she held back. Lets think of a doctor doing this... because the patient was white (or black/latino/chinese- chose your race) I kept him alive but I didnt give him all I could which means I could have likely saved those legs but... hey... he is alive. And yes, that patient would be grateful to still be alive no? Just like this "white farmer"... he is grateful she took steps to help him keep his farm but...what extra steps did he have to go through to do it? AND, if she thinks she is the only person who was ever spoken down to by a "client", then she is really out of the loop. It is the unfortunate nature of the beast when you serve the public. I think she is a racist but has just tempered her comments when she thinks someone is watching. Good move Vilsack- stick with your initial action!
Her father paid the ultimate price of racism. Now, because of some vengeance against the NAACP, FOX News and the GOP party have succeeded in getting Mrs. Sherrod fired from her job, due to lies they made up, by altering tapes to make it look as if she had done something wrong. Now they are trying to push this off on the White House. It is VERY evident that FOX News and the GOP party are doing everything and anything they can to throw dirt at the Democrats and President Obama, even if it is at the cost of average everyday people. Mrs. Sherrod should get her job back, her supervisor should be fired for not checking the facts, and FOX News and the GOP party should be fined for what they did to this poor lady. Mrs. Sherrod take your job back and hold yo
Mrs. Sherrod take your job back and hold your head up high. You did nothing to deserve this. God will punish them for there lies.
Regrettably, in the battle of racism and politics there will always be collateral damage. Presumptuous decisions only reveals ignorance. Martin Luther King was never “snookered.” Thank you CNN team for keeping the world honest.
I think that we can all agree that Ms Sherrod' firing was uncalled for after recieivng the full context of her speech. I do find Kyra's comments a little hypocritical given her attitude and comments about the story yesterday. She was just as hard and critical about Ms Sherrod's comments before the full story came out but this morning, no mention or rescinding of these comments.
I guess I shouldn't be shocked at the fact that I've been watching the coverage of this Sherrod story all morning long on all of the mainstream networks and all I've heard is every single journalist lay blame at the feet of the White House and the NAACP and not a single one yet lay into the conservative blogger and the dozens of conservative talk-show host and journalists that were all screaming and yelling for her resigation. You all fail to take responsibility for your own actions and those of your conservative colleagues on a consistant basis and hope that America will just simply keep falling for your failure to practice real journalistic ethics. Of course you, your bosses, your advertisers are all multinationals or work for multinationals and would prefer that the conservatives would be in power but lets at least try to be a little neutral when broadcasting the news please.
Effective listening. I listened and listened to this story through CNN to get a clear understanding of this sad story. It is shocking what occurred to this lady, a dedicated worker. Did the employer/superior not take into consideration her years of service before releasing her of her duties? Basted on what they heard and assumed to be correct, I view them as not utilizing their basic common sense for people of their stature, those who supposedly possess higher education and experience. Shame on them!
This is another typical example, jumping to conclusion and firing a dedicated employee without, first, investigating the matter and causing someone as herself to lose her job and experience such distress.
She deserves to be reinstated and also deserves a public apology and and a certain amount of monetary compensation for all this distress, in addition to the loss of salary. If she is not reinstated, she reserves the right to sue.
I do hope, if she is offered reinstatement that she will accept it. She could assist so many more people in the future.
To be fair and just, I am disappointed to hear that President Obama honored her resignation without first knowing this situation and listening to her full speech.
Can anyone really believe Fox News and Glen Beck? How credible are these in their reporting? These, too, should be held responsible for what they have caused to be done to this dear lady and they should pay the price for it – wrongful reporting.
Sometime ago I changed my TV Provider. I had no problem finding out what the number of CNN Channel is on. I do not know what channel Fox News is on and would like to leave it this way.
Shirley Sherrod, we, the fair and just people worldwide who want justice for all, whatever their nationality, race, color or creed, support you all the lady. You are also a pleasant lady. Keep in mind that "all things work for good to those who love God." What happened to you is not without reason. It is an expose of the general system as mentioned above.
Thank you CNN for being fair and balanced in your reporting. This type of story will bring light to the fact that you can't judge someone by a sound bite.
The Sharrod interview was awesome. Thank you for giving her the opportunity to share her story. I was honored to post the full interview on my blog as the NAACP slipped it to me late last night. I fell in love with her views after hearing the whole story and angry how they presented the edited version. ccityblogger.blogspot.com
Well done, Kyra!
I think Mrs. Sherrod story is a lesson to all of us and it should serve as a lesson to remind us to allways seek the full truth before jumping to conclusions. I work with a group a early care providers and would love to have her speek to them about family and values and especially supporting those members in our community that are vulnarble and in need please have her contact me.
Thanks Kyra, thanks Tony Harris, Thanks CNN. You guys took the lead in being responsible journalists and researching this story and getting the truth out. I am ashamed that I was one of those who rushed to judgement on Mrs. Shirley Sherrod. As I write this I am near tears for the initial two iReports I did on this subject. Because of your excellent reporting, you guys prove why you must be considered the most reliable news source out there.
Please tell Mrs. Shirley Sherrod to self publish her book. She do not need a publisher. Hell, I will build her website for free. That is the least I can do after maligning her in my first two iReports on the subject. I have since issued and iReport of apology.
Great work Kyra.
This interview literally made my eyes well up in tears not out of sorrow but it made me think of my parents and the struggles they endured and to hear Ms. Sherrod tell her story and see how she has advanced as a woman, a black american and as a human being through it all! I am a indie producer (YLP PRODUCTIONS) and would definitely appreciate speaking to Mrs. Sherrod and bringing her story to life in some form. CNN this is why I turn to you for my news, I always get all the facts when listening to your network!
Can't wait for the Book.
Kyra, great interview. I got the shivers just watching. Ms sherrod is an inspiration. I live in Jamaica and would to meet this outstanding lady. What her brief thrust in the media spot light has taught me is sometimes u have to lose to win. Now you have an even bigger platform. Go forth and continue to make a positive impact
I hope Mrs. Sherrod gets her job back – if she wants it.
But what is it with Kyra Phillips? Give her a minority person to interview and her whole body language screams, "I feel your pain, I feel so guilty for being white, I'll even try to talk like you. You go girl!"
She is so ingratiating and desirous of acceptance by her subject, it ruins any interview.
This is a huge Shame but the Obama administration should not be blamed for this. Maybe Obama should have out aside his concerns of the oil spill, the economy, and simply being the President of the United States and watched the whole video or called Ms. Sherrod up OR maybe her boss, Tom Vilsack should have done that!
The Conservative party nor FOX news or whatever should be blamed either. This is what they do. "Our" side should have double checked their accusations or asked Ms. Sherrod for an explanation that would have taken one minute but, no. She was fired over the phone for goodness sake and they didn't let her explain. This is the shame of USDA and Tom Vilsack.
I truly wish I was a publisher but since I am not all I can hope for her is the best and to let her know I was standing behind her from day one when all of this garbage came out.
Thank you for setting the record straight and profiling Mrs. Sherrod. Way to go Kyra!
Kyra, I'm not a publisher...I'm just an average American who has never been prejudiced against any person regardless of their color. I am prejudiced against people who won't, let me repeat, WON'T work and expect all Americans to support them.
I think what they did to Shirley was so terrible, but I applaud her dignity in how she handled this situation. She is such a blessing to all who get sick and tired of hearing only what this so called government wants us to hear. I would definitely be interested in reading all about her when she gets her book written. I know that God will definitely bless her for the true spirit she exhibits. What a classy lady she truely is. She is an inspiration to ALL women regardless of our race.
BTW..I'm a white country girl...if that even matters.
Shirley is as beautiful (inside & out) as Breitbart is disgusting. I'd love to read her story to learn how she grew and progressed. Must be that soul that exemplifies so many blacks. I'm envious.
Hey Kyra,
You are the "real deal". Thanks for your work on the Shirley Sherrod storey. Just watched your interview with her. Both of you are heros in my book.
Jos Davidson
I agree with Pamela. I do know that the truth is the light. Walk in the light of the truth and you will prevail.
Thanks Kyra for taking the time to bring the truth to the forefront..
I am so delighted that Mrs. Sherrod was able to speak from the heart and tell the American people what really happenned. It's tragic that an organization such as the N.A.A.C.P rushed to judgement without evaluating the tape or talking with Mrs. Sherrod before recommending that she be fired; what a shame. I am the Drector of Operations for the G.L.A.R.E Club; (Girls Loving and Respecting Everyone) located in Chicago, IL. a not for profit organization that caters to teen girls. It would be an honor if she could come to one of our monthly meeting and talk with our girls. Mrs. Sherrod I am so proud of you and hope that you can use this time to help bridge the gap between the different races.
Go Kyra,
Love your interview with Shirley Sherrod. I believe in Civil rights for all also.
Sharon
South Carolina
I admire the lady. She has the milk of human kindness flowing in her. She believed that we are all equal. All I see in the news is about racism. I wonder why the media is not saying anything about those that edited the video?
Is everyone listening and learning from this Mrs Sherrod its time for everyone especially the rich ,the media ,government neds to wake up even the blacks are guilty ,Like she said it more about poverty than it is about colour .God works in mysterious way if you can beat them join them ,Mrs Sherrod realise if she was a part of the solution she was a part of the problem .Even as the country and the world goes through some of the hardest times in history yet we continue to traet poor people as the underdog .This is a seed that is planted for a reason she is what is needed it goes with what is destroying this country .
From the president to the media to all the rich black millionoaires you are all guilty of deartoying this country ,you are the reason poor people steal sell drugs rob and kill people .I know you only listen and help your own. I have been trying for 6 years to get anyone to help me ou including the naacp no one responds i was trying to point out excatly what she is saying its not race as much as it is poverty that is the problem .I am really ashamed of humanity including the president i sent about five letters to the whitehouse no response ,my son wrote a song for the president called fix the place .Its just sitting he is not rich neither am i so we do not matter .It he was rich and famous that song would be all over the air waves .To every one who is in a position to pay it foward and help the poor stand up its time for change .If we do not change the way bussines is done this country and the world is headed for the next great depression .I dont expect antone to listen at least i tried
There is a God. When she heard that the Farmer was still alive and his wife said that she went out of her way to save their farm. It show that she was telling the truth. Hire her back she did nothing wrong
I know that my age 20 year old daughter is A student in Movie production in Hollywood California and would love to made this into a learning moment for our young generation.
Thank you so much, Kyra, for running the story of Shirley Sherrod live and "unedited"! it was so refreshing to witness real news being delivered, unadulterated. Please keep up the good work, and I hope your example will be a model for other journalists and news executives to follow. We have far too much manipulated news these days to the extent that many people cannot tell what is true and what is fabricated or manipulated to fit a fixed message. Of course, confusing their "followers" is the goal of those who manipulate the news.
I was touched and moved listening to this story this morning. Racism and discrimination is very much alive and continuing in the U.S. In the work place I see it, I feel it. In the street, in the neighborhoods, it's ugly and disgusting face is still alive. Both in what is said and very much in not what is said or acted. You have to ask yourselves: "Why have people who live in this fine country not grown up to a place where they can elevate themselves to know that this country's fabric is made up of all races and walks of life?" I can only hope and pray that this lady's story goes to further the awareness of the need to: Walk the walk and talk the talk" of "Change – Yes we can"
Shirley, Thank you for your honesty and showing the way to change your attitude toward people.
Kyra, Thank you for letting us here from her directly,
Mr. VIlsack, Get it together, quickly and get this back on the right track. Her job and an apology is due!
Breitbart,,,,,Shaddup!
evidently she was very proud of the stance she took with the farmer since she is relating the story to a NCAAP convention 25years later and admitting that she referred him to "one of his kind", a white lawyer to get further help since she has decided that she was not going to do everything she could to be of help. I think she may be wiser now than she was but I still feel in listening to her entire comments, she has some racism problems, still to this day.
This another example of putting the cart before the horse. I do not understand why the journalist, the head of USDA and the President did not ask to view the whole tape before making a decision. Jumping to conclusions to quickly has the United States in the mess we are in. We need more Common Sense in Washington and less political sense. The politicians are leading us down to a road of destruction.
I've been wanting to write to Kyra for a long time to thank her for her great humanity. After watching the interview with Shirley Sherrod I felt compelled to say that her presence on TV is a light that uplifts the whole. With every blessing, Nancy Seifer
Shirley, if only there were more of us like you. You like many others have been placed, by God, in positions to get his word out about forgiveness. Your family has made sacrifices and paid the ultimate price and you still keep the faith. You no longer need to worry about that job and probably no longer need one. You are highly favored. May God continue to bless you!
Tina has fallen for what Breitbart put out there. Is she on the same planet that I am from? Tina, take time and view the entire video!
Larry
Bolingbrook, IL
Shame on you Fox News!!! Every show on Fox was quick to showcase the edited version. Now all they can do is blame the Obama administration and NAACP for firing her prematurely. Thank you CNN for being the true Fair and Balanced news organiation!
God Bless you Shirley!
An inspiring story! Hopeully we will not overlook the racist attitude of the people at that NAACP gathering who seemed to delight when she shared about not doing all she could have for the white applicant. That is the real story here. Sharing her story there was certainly needed as the attitudes expressed while she told her story need to be changed.
Congratulations, you are the only one who let Shirley Sherrod talk with no interruptions, and what you did to try to promote her coming book was great, Yhe media in my opinion was part of this mess Fox, ABC, NBC, and yes CNN too, yesterday everyone keep interrupting Shirley when she try to explain what all this was about, was not until hrs later when someone took the time to listen read and pay attention to the hold think, Who start this well the Media I hear days ago Cooper saying " we are not the enemy" well he maybe right but the media try sensationalism V/S Facts
and this case is an example of that, now The Withe House denied asking Shirley for her resignation or had nothing to do with that, find the lady who ask her for her resignation and ask her after all was she the one told Shirley about the Withe House, in the mid time give the Withe House the Benefit of the Drought.
But you did the right thing Congratulations again to you!.
Ms. Sherrod, I'm so glad for you that more of your story has been told. I hope that you will seize this opportunity to do even more in helping people see that we all are more alike than different. CNN, thank you for telling more of the story than just a soundbyte; It's a refreshing change.
Thanks kyra. This may be one of the most important learning lessons of our time. How wonderful and what a wonderful person! Please investigate further into the "coincidence" of Shirley being fired by the USDA. A very convenient opportunity to fire Shirley? Maybe it was all planned? Think about the preponderance of evidence... It's all too convenient. Mysterious that this info just surfaced as the Tea Party and Naacp and our nation have been engaged in serious race debates. Please continue investigating!
I am not a publisher, but am inspired by your life, Ms. Sherrod... I would like to volunteer to be your proofreader (when you begin writing your book) - and would like to check your availabilityas a speaker at the annual African Arts Festival in Saint Louis during Memorial Day weekend of 2011!!! Your story should go viral!! nationally and internationally!! You WERE created for this time!!
Kyra, you are a class act in the way you have handled this story.
First I would like to say Kyra you were amazing when you were talking about how fast the NAACP and the people in the White House were so quick to judge Shirley Sherrod without reviewing the whole speech she was making. You felt so strong about it I had to go and see the speech myself. I just hope the White H ouse and other members of our government is not always this quick to judge someone without knowing all the facts,because that looks very unprofessional and too swift to judge someone. Thanks Kyra you did a wonderful job of showing people not to believe everything you hear or see on the internet until you know the whole story.
I'm sorry for the suffering Ms. Sherrod had to experience the last few days but there is nothing like "recieving double for your trouble". Many good things will come. This story makes me so happy, I could cry! It really points out how people are willing to jump on board with their "baggage" without knowing the final destination! This incident will only further enrich Ms. Sherrod's life and help others. It is also an example of how something meant to destroy, turns for the good. Wishing Ms. Sherrod the very best life has to offer!
Dear Kyra,
The situation with Mrs. Sherrod should serve as a cautionary tale
for all of our media outlets to fully investigate a "story" prior to making it
public. Kudos to CNN and your reporters for allowing her full story to be told.
Without a background history and understanding of racism,none of us can move forward and evolve as human beings.
Paula F
I'm a relatively young black man and my parents were raised in the south and they too had to put up with these types of unfortunate experiences, but they also overcame these adversities. I think this lady is one of many African Americans that have been through so much in life but persevered through diligence and compassion and more young black people should pay more attention to this and other stories and become informed about what our elders had to go through. The paths they have paved for us makes it possible for us to have the opportunities we have today. God bless Shirley and we should all thank her for her courage to not lay back and let this go! Come on President Obama make this right.
Hello, Kyra!
I just finished listening to your interview with Mrs. Sherrod. As a person conducting this interview, I wish you did not have to bend over so much and laugh so artificially before Mrs. Sherrod had a chance to answer your questions. You did not ask any direct questions about her views, about what she had done for 'white' people, except hating them. You had justified her hate but accepting her ugly comments about her experience with white people. Do you actually believe that Mrs. Sherrod had changed? I don't. I think she will continue to treat black community differently, just like she did in the past. And I don't accept her explanation that her hate is justified and therefore should be understood and accepted by all of us.
As a Jew who lost many relatives in Holocaust, do you think I must hate all German people? Because I don't.
I wish your interview were more dignified and you had a wisdom and courage to ask more direct questions and not praise somebody who deliberately did so little for white people and so much for black ones.
Shame on you, Mrs. Phillips!
Jewish Immigrant from Russia, mother of two, daughter of Holocaust survivers, hard working employee of big Corporation, College Graduate and very proud American,
Alla Sverdlov
I think that this lady has shown dignity and grace under fire, which is hard to do when one is personnally attacked. I think she should take her job back; if she needs the income. If she does not need the income, then she should take the time to write the book about her father that means so much to her. She seems to be a spiritual person.
so, I know that she knows that God works in mysterious was, and that He often take the things that were meant to hurt us, and uses them to bring about good things in our lives. Ms. Sherrod should step out in complete faith that God is totally on her side.
Kyra Phillips did a wonderful job of bringing this to the forfront. I would like Kyra Phillips to go further with this despicable outing of Shirley Sherrod by the conservative blog that posted the “highly edited” video of her. I would like to see Kyra uncover WHO did this and expose them to the world for the bigoted racists they are.
Regardless of what the rest of the video shows, if she was white and said the same things about a black farmer, none of you here would be so quick to defend her. You are fooling yourselves if you convince yourself otherwise.
Only if someone had looked at both sides. Where so quick to jump to conclusions Black and White. My family and I applaud Mrs. Sherrod and her ability to overcome and forgive. Maybe next time someoe will ask is this that all the video you have.
mrs. sherrod,God bless this dear lady ,i think God have something bigger in store for her to do. God works in mysterious ways his wonders to perform.Another thing All things work together for good to them that love the Lord.My heart was sore the way this lady was treated these people in offices need to do there Home work instead of taking sides.Big thanks to you Kyra.Bless yoy.
Krya, Thanks for taking a leadership role and for playing an active responsible role with your involvement in the community by giving Mrs. Sherrod a platform to put out the legit story concerning her saga while serving the community!The president of the NAACP ought to be ashameed of his self for jumping to such quick conclusions.
Thank you Kyra!!!!
You did the one thing I've wanted to do since this whole episode started: give Ms. Sherrod a big hug. What an amazing lady. Fantastic interview!
What a phonomenal journalistic ethics CNN showed to the world! Hey Anderson Cooper please keep up the good work, you are such an honorable amazing model for those who are calling themselves a journalists if they are lucky enough to take this as a lesson.
Great respect for YOU Anderson.
There is a lot of blame to go around here. First fox news and NAACP blamed Shirley for being a racist, then when the truth became apparent, we blamed the NAACP for reacting too quickly and not investigating, we blamed Fox News for not getting the story straight before reporting and . The list goes on and on. There is a lot of judgment going around. But the real culprit is Andrew Bretbart for this retaliative move against the NAACP for their less then positive remarks against the Tea Party. He behaved inappropriately and was very irresponsible, he knew what he was doing. All the others just exercised very bad judgment.
I find it fascinating that the NAACP states they were "snookered". If they had looked at Glenn Beck yesterday whose name was used to make Miss Shirley resigned, you would have seen that Glenn Beck showed that context did matter and supported Ms. Sherrod totally. But of course, since CNN has consistently played the race card, it would never give conservatives the benefit of the doubt. Who apologizes to Glenn Beck for the White House scaring the living daylights out of Ms. Sherrod when Glenn Beck hadn't even seen the original clip and had no intention of airing the story, but was falsely accused? This whole story is about hypocrisy, double standards and falsely accusing people of racism.
This story resonate so many memories of my growing up around White Racist So-Called Christians. It took me a long time to trust and respect White Folks. You see, I to face a lot of racism from the local sheriff dept, employers, school teachers and others. However, I learn to hate the evil deeds of that person willful error and not the person because they are white.
Today, I’m a different person. I even have a few good white friends who respect me, don’t try to strike a superior projection about themselves and not jealous and envy of my accomplishments.
I praise Shirley Sherrod for her story and her new mindset. I am so looking forward to reading her book, because I understand from which she came.
God bless you Mrs. Sherrod and your family.
R.J. Moss
Thank you so much for telling the FULL story of Shirley Sherrod. That is what should always be done by news services and so often is not. This is a most important story. I'm so impressed by Shirley Sherrod and the way that she lives her life. She is a role model for me and everyone. She is a true American.
I'm not the publisher your looking for, but I'll certainly buy Mrs. Sherrod's book! That woman is the new Rosa Parks. I hope she can become the person who leads the way for people to look into each others hearts and not to look at how people look whether it be race, nationality, social status, disease or any other outward appearance. Everyone has an interesting story and we can all learn so much about each other and grow from that. Mrs. Sherrod, I hope you will show those people who look at a person and judges them to stop and first get to know that person. Can you imagine how it would be if we could get rid of the hate which developes in some people's heart for no good reason. We've made great strides since Rosa Parks, but we still have a journey. You're a beautiful woman–God Bless You and Guide You. KT–Los Alalmos, NM.
What an inspirational story to wake up to this morning. I had to say a little prayer this morning and ask for forgiveness. I too had turned my back on Shirley based on the edited portion of the tape aired last evening.
As an African American, I felt angry by the tape and wanted Mrs. Sherrod fired from her position. It's amazing how quickly we judge one another when the bible teaches us to “Judge not, that you be not judged.
I believe the tape of Ms. Sherrod's speech at an NAACP banquet was deliberately edited to create a false impression of racial bias,
I am sorry for my own prejudice against Mrs. Sherrod.
Kyra
while you are correct on NAACP, judging Ms. Sherrod before,viewing the video and getting the true story. But what is happenning to the person that put that lie on the TV why did FOX or CNN check the story out for airing the story,
Wonderful interview with Shirley Sherrod. It gave her the opportunity to tell her story and for others to see what an outstanding individual she is in so many ways. I personally felt a lot of the things she talked about regarding her experiences growing up. I did not have to live with the pain of my father being killed but other parts of her story were common and real.
For me the larger story in this entire soga is the fact of how quick many in our society come to often the incorrect conclusions with having only partial facts. In these days of information overload, many of those putting data out seem to not care about facts or in some instances, publish incorrect data as a way of supporting bias views. As a society we need to refocus our efforts with emphasis on quality and not quanity. That is a need for individuals as well as all media sources. We need more analysis and less instant reporting. Shirley, I wish you nothing but the best in the future. Things happen for a reason and this is a teachable moment of all of us.
Shirley Sherrod is an amazing women whose life story really does show that truth overcomes lies and love is stronger than hate. I don’t what is will do after all this, but whatever it is the world will be a better place because of her and her work.
Thank you Kyra for allowing her to tell her story, her truth, yesterday morning and this morning. Your phone interview with her yesterday change the entire nature and discussion regarding this story.
Thank you to you and Shirley for being two strong, passionate, caring people who every day work to make the world a better place.
Thank you Kyra for your comment's about personal commitment towards Diversity for all. I thought your interview with Mrs Sherrod was awesome this a.m. As a human being who happens to be black, I am further inspired with Mrs Sherrod 's story . My company in the early stages of creating one of the largest multiculturally owned Organic and Natural Foods Company and Farm. Our goal is to also educate people about healthy eating , reducing obesity rates in all young people ..but especially in cultural populations where obesity occurs at alarming rates. We aim to become not only a place known as a place to eat and grow healthy but where we teach young people, single mom's and familes that are less fortunate about healthy eating and then provide a lower cost but no less quality whole foods . Mrs Serrod would be a tremendous ambassador for our efforts. I hope to hear from her camp . She can reach us privately at the email provided to CNN.
Kyra,
I am a first time viewer and just had the awesome pleasure of watching your interview with Mrs. Sherrod. I am still basking in the wonder of how you allowed her to convey how the beauty of past and current truths can turn decades of injustice into positive redemption effecting the masses today. Thank you for using the platform you've been blessed with to effect the masses as well, including me.
Just want to add my comment for Shirley Sherrod, who has been so wronged. Goodness, makes our Government look so bad that they don't check the facts first. Another down turn for the Obama admiinistration. So many comments here so beautifully written in favor of Shirley Sherrod. She should be reinstated and compensated.
I am a 70 year old Black retired RN who have watches a lot of news shows however I have never seen an interview done so well. This is a sad day in America's history when we are so quick to jump to judgement about a person like Shirley Sherrod. I truly want to thank Shirley for being the kind of Women that I am truly proud of. I would like very much to thank Kyra Phillips for an interview like none other. You are a great interviewer and CNN should be proud of your work.
I have just watched and listened to Mrs. Sherrod's unedited interview on CNN. I applaud her ability to put first the needs of the people she was hired to serve/assist. Her story is one that is all too familiar to so many African-Americans in the rural South. I wish there were some way by which to let the the world know how many of us work every day to make things better for those who have oppressed us and who have believed they were right (or at least justified) because they represent the status quo. The story that Mrs. Sherrod shared was a reminder of some of my youthful experiences; and, like her, many of us were reared by parents who taught us not to hate in spite of what we were going through. Need I remind you of what happened to those nine Black children who only wanted an equal education at the school closest to their homes? The Little Rock Nine entered LR Central High School under the guard of the 101st Fightng Infantry with white ADULTS and children hurling objects, clenched fists, and racial slurs at them and a Governor who closed the high schools in Little Rock that year to keep blacks and whites from sittiing in classes together. Because of what they endured, I was able to graduate from LRCH in 1976 with no incident. By virtue of the fact that we are Black in America gives us a opportunity to have skewed opinions of many of our white counterparts, but are we right to judge them OR take actions against them that could cause harm simply because they are white? Absolutely NOT! Mrs. Sherrod has a story to tell, and Mr. Breitbart has just given her a listening and reading audience. In 2 days time, a woman who was virtually unknown has become a household name; and a man whose mission it seems to be to seek and destroy has again revealed his stripes. Why does anyone give him or his press the time of day?
First I would like to thank you Kierra & John King for asking the questions that other should of been asking, I was disappointed when Rowland Martin attitude was, of well be careful because people are out to get you. So make sure you use no words that could be taken out of context. Roland should know that anyone can have words dice to make a negative, but we should expect reporters to investigate and then report. That govt offical be fair isn't that what the election was about change from the old ways of doing things. Guilty first then prove your innocence. If she does not get an apology I will not vote in the 2010 election and nor the 2012 what's the point nothing ever change.
There are so many elements that are shocking about this story, particularly in this day, decades after the worst of the civil rights abuses. What I find the most shocking is the behavior of the NAACP and USDA for immediately condemning Ms. Sherrod without further investigation. What is also shocking is that the White House went along with the decision to ask for her resignation also without further investigation. We can recognize that the Big Govt. website was malicious and irresponsible. But this does not excuse the so-called defenders of civil rights to do exactly what happened in the early years of racism: hang a person out to dry because of stereotyping and emotional shortsighting. As we learned, or should have learned from the Holocaust, the crimes of complicity and silence are often as corrosive as the murderous acts themselves.
~ What a horrid Injustice for this wonderful family
to bear the rest of their lives.
To which if they will, be honored in carring a burden for all racism.
And certainly not alone I would add.
My dear woman, when you write your book?
I would encourage you to consider this about racism:
Real Racism In The Face Of Injustice Is Reveiled:
– When one race sins against another?
They may then blame, in hate, an entire race.
This Is A Practice Of Racism.
– But when the same sins against their own race?
They don't blame the entire race, to hate them.
This Is Not A Practicing Racism.
Let us practice unto other races, as we would by our own.
This Is How To Do Away With Racism. –
Kyra,
What a fantastic interview with Ms. Sherrod. Thank you to you and CNN
for great journalism on this story. Thank you for not taking a "news" report at face value. It is refreshing to see investigative journalism is not dead.
Keep up the good work!
Michelle
To Kyra Phillips,
Was watching your program and interview with Shirley Sharrod just noiw. Also watched this story unfold yesterday afternoon and last evening. Shirley Sharrod is, as they say, "a beautiful person" and wonderful human being. Hearing and seeing her live commentary and expression confirms that she is genuine. The Spooners' were also an outstanding refutation for what happened to Shirley Sharrod. Mr. Spooner's comment about 5 years in the Navy was a wonderful counterpoint to the accusations flying around. If anyone was paying attention, his ball cap noted the USS Yorktown CV5. CV5 was sunk at the battle of Midway. Was Mr Spooner on that ship at Midway? If so he survived to make a very important witness about how ridiculous we have all become in 2010 – with our continual knee jerk reactions to everything. A sad state of affairs indeed. My personal politics has become more centrist with age. I was 4-1/2 years old at the time of Midway and remember much about those years as WWII went on – not specifically of course – but the atmosphere was there. In grade school we dedicated a tree to our school principal's son who lost his life in the war. It was a beautiful sunny day and the entire school (k-8) was on the lawn for the dedication. Some images just stay with you, as Shirley Sharrod knows full well and probably Mr. Spooner also.
Regards – great interview.
The NAACP was quick to call millions who share Tea Party beliefs racists. This is where the whole controversy began. An organization like the NAACP should think twice in the future about calling an entire group of Americans racists with no evidence to back such harsh charges up. Think before you speak in the future.
Thank you CNN, thank you Tony, thank you Rick, thank you Kyra for bring to light the real story of Shirley and what this woman has been through and how powerfull her life has changed to work for poor without looking at the color of skin. Fox news should look themselves in the mirror and apologize to Shirley. I always believe in forgiveness, but some people still cannot stand to have Barrack Obama as president. They want to play their racist view by accusing others. Let work together and get over this. The WH rushed into it, that was a mistake. They got caught in other people racism trap. Shirley S. deserves an apology from the WH too.
CNN, the #1 place for news, the fair NEWS.
Shirley Sherrod's life is another story of how so many of our fellow citizens have overcome tremendous adversity. Her father and mother must have been amazing people. Shirley Sherrod is another example of the millions of beautiful people that collectively make this country great.
Great job in presenting the story Kyra.
Kyra
Kudos to you for assisting a wonderful human being, Shirley Sherrod, in seeking either employment, a publisher or publishing company that would allow her to tell her father's story. She is intelligent, graceful and filled with humility. I 've followed the story, since it broke yesterday. She never waivered and stayed passionate about her beliefs and feelings regarding her work at the USDA. It is absolutely shameful that the video was not reviewed in it's entirety, before decisions or judgements were made.
Why is there so much uncertainty about the three phone calls that were made by the Deputy Under-Secretary, Cheryl Cook to Shirley Sharrod. CNN, Please do not allow the conversation to go unheard. Technology is used everyday, and at great lengths, to unveil the facts. Is there an official investigation to reveal this?
Even the edited version of the tape ended with a "but"; and she said she helped the white farmer even with his superior attitude. Why was everyone so quick to rush to judgement? After hearing the story of what her family endured at the hands of the Klan AND the law, I can only find admiration for Mrs. Shirley Sherrod. She deserves her job back AND a promotion to the position of the man who demanded that she pull off the road and submit a resignation on her Blackberry as he lied to include the White House in his decision.
two questions, 1): in Moses' early years as an Egyptian prince he denounced the God of the Jews and made a mockery of all things Jewish. the question is, God knew that so why did He not fire Moses? 2): regarding the lady that lied on the white house and told Shirley to pull over and submit her resignation, when is SHE going to submit HER resignation? the obvious lesson from all of this is that people CAN change and that forgiveness, not race, is the thing to hold on to. i am a black man and i believe that the only race we should be concerned with is the HUMANrace. as long as there is racial division there will be racial division. let us all grow up, forgive each other and solve the real source of our chaos, conflict, and confusion: our Godless selfishness.
I do believe that Ms. Sherrod should take her job back. I feel that in her heart she has a need to help those in need. In her interview it was not all about her. She is a true Rosa Parks and should not allow others to decide what she knows in her heart is the right thing to do. May God bless her always. Keep up the good work.
I would really like to hear more about the characters who created this fiction, why are we not reporting more on those that apparently deliberately lied to create a controversy, and FOX who then picked this up.
I would like to see a white politician tell us a story about when he first broke from the racism of his or her ancestors and helped someone black for the first time. It was probably much harder for them while black people just have to forgive they have to go against there family. I challenge CNN to find a white person willing to tell that story.
I am happy that the truth is out and Shirleys reputation has been not only restored but also strongly enhanced by this whole situation.
Those who are wronged must stand up for justice.
I know that fact very well for myself as I am a metal poisoning survivor from my ADA approved dentalwork. Dentalwork warned about and banned in over 30 nations- see toxicteeth.org. it is a life saver
I believe the issue of racially based allegations between the Tea Party and the NAACP is not about Mrs. Sherrod's recent speech, but more so the NAACP President's "inaction" and subsequent failure to condemn the NAACP Members who sat in the mostly Black audience cheering with delightful glee when they heard Mrs. Sherrod state an instance of racial (reverse) discrimination against Caucasians by an Afro-American holding a position of power.
It is absolutely amazing that this poor woman had to endure such embarrassment and humiliation. And to add insult to injury, the top black organization (NAACP) in the nation didn't review the tape in full and support her. She definitely should NOT go back to that job at USDA. If they were willing to make her resign without getting the full story, then they don't deserve a woman of her character! Regards, Michael Green – Dumfries, VA.
I think we should promote MS Sherrod to Secretary of Argriculture and fire the current Secretary of Agriculture for taking action to fire her before knowing all the facts.
I think that she has done nothing wrong.I am a hard working Democrat in Arkansas and I can only imagine the pain and suffering her father had to go through. And now its happening to her? This is just another one of Fox News hateful tactics against minorities particularly African Americans! All Black people are aware Fox News hate us... I mean we get it.... I also question the NAACP in their full investigation of this matter. I'm just waiting for my president Barack Obama to step in and acknowledge this matter. I love my country and I'm proud to be an African America. God Bless Shirley Sherrod and God Bless the United States of America.
Thank you for giving Shirley Sherrod the chance and platform to tell all of the story. Her story is important,too. Hearing of her background , her father and his work, of her transformation to work for the group that discriminated so hatefully against her and others for so many years until they slowly evolved is a testament to the transformative power of truth, love and tenacity. Kudos, Kyra on how you handled the interview to bring out hurt filled memories and yet hit the political stuff , too. I woke up and sat up to this interview at 6:30 AZ time. Job well, done. You got the voice of a true pioneer out so the world could hear for themselves her life and how she has been treated.
Ms. Sherrod, I wouldn't take the job back if offered. I would DEMAND an apology from someone high up though on nation wide tv.
If I were you, I would go around our country on a speaking tour to all our colleges teaching your beliefs to all young people in our nation.
I have lot's of respect for you and wish you all the best in what ever you do.
Everyone is too fast to past judgement on things before the real stoy is out!!!!
God bless you!!!!
Mrs. Sherrod, I think you have done an awesome job with the USDA. I think God has something better for you now to move on. Your postive story we can passed this on to the next generation.
Ms. Sherrod,
There's a reason why things happen unexpectedly...Maybe you were meant to shed light on this whole "race-baiting" issue by those who want to manipulate the disenfranchised. But like you said, it's no longer about race issue but about socioeconomic class differentiation AND the current path of redistribution IS NOT THE ANSWER. Rather "teach a man to fish rather than giving him the fish..."
I can't tell you what to do. Only you can make that decision. But if you were offered the job back, I wouldn't take it. Because if you were to return after ALL that happened, you would feel uncomfortable and your co-workers would feel uncomfortable and there would be those who would use your comments to their advantage. Rather, I would ask for compensation for the time that you would have served our country.
With that, you can open your own center or non-profit agency to better serve those who need your expertise and knowledge but can't afford it. I am one of those believers that you should never go back but move forward REMEMBERING what you have been through...
Good luck to you and thank you for shedding light on this issue at the right time!
To Pamela Mathias: You say the GOP fired her.
If my memory serves me correctly, she was fired by the secretary of Agriculture, who, by the way, was appointed by a Democratic President.
sherrod knew what she said, she was trying to be tough in front of her own kind people since only her own kind of people were in the audience, and what happend to that tea party guy, why can he get his job back...
Hi, Kyra
Wouldnt it be nice if Vilsack apologize to Sherrod on national TV right before the President signs that new bill, and get her job back.
Shirley Sherrod deserves a public apology from the President . Tom Vilsack deserves to be demoted or fired. This administration needs to stop allowing idiots ( Fox News and the tea party pundits) to run my government!
Shirley Sherrod has been through the "refiner's fire" in her lifetime. At first I thought, what a shame this happened to such a nice story of personal transition and triumph. But now more people will hear her story. I am already awaiting her book. And please choose another word for "hatred:" when discussing Ms. Sherrod's past feelings. While she felt something, I can't see Ms. Sherrod as capable of truly hating anyone.
The real story here is how a news network and a blogger can edit a clip and put the story out all over the world and get away with it. If Shirley had not fought back with her side of the story, they would have gotten away with it. When will Americans wake up and realize they are being manipulated by these people? Thank you CNN for getting the real truth out. Fox news would never have put the real story out had it not been for CNN's coverage.
Kyra, thank you so much for staying with Ms. Sherrod's story. She was done wrong and I think Vilsack should be the one who is resigning. He absolutely jumped to conclusions and acted too quickly probably because he was pressured by the White House. Thank God for people like Ms. Sherrod who stands up for what is right. Ms. Sherrod, please take your job back if offered, with an apology, because I personally think you can do a lot more good in that job because of the big heart you have for people. Thank You!
Sherrod should NOT receive her job back. Regardless of the racism issue, Sherrod did not perform the job she was hired to do by the USDA. What does her past have to do with her not performing her job to the best of her abilities?
Until people quit reffering to black people as african american, their seems that some people want there to be division between the races.Take the naacp they told shirley to take the job back which I agree she should never have resigned to start with but their reason is that it will put her in a position to help her people. Seems like a racist statement she would be there to help all americans.All AMERICANS black, white, mixed, hispanic, asian, it should not matter.Refering to black people as african american will continue to drive a wedge between the races,we need to come together as AMERICANS period.You don't hear people saying i'm polish american. german american, european american I think you get the idea.It's your heritage yes but now were all Americans. LOVE IT OR LEAVE IT no one is forced to stay.
This is one of our greatest challenges, why do we rush to conclusions, when a simple suggestion to look at the whole scenario would've suffice. We keep saying that we are the greatest country on earth which I know is true due to our innate freedoms. But why do we crumble when we deal with race? Why do we keep holding on to the past when we should've already learned from those great stories and successess that divided us before? Obviously, we need to learn to be present, to have compassion, to not let Politics & pundits rule our lives and most of all to have forgiveness to continue building this great country of ours.
I am the proud niece of Shirley Sherrod. Those of us who know her best , know that her life has been nothing but sacrifices. She has sacrificed having a father to grow old with, she has sacrificed, with love, for those who cared nothing about her, and she has sacrificed numerous times for our family. I remember a time in college when I did not know how I would be able to take my finals, and in my mail box, that very day, was a check from my aunt. I remember a year ago, going through the darkest time of my life, having a very serious surgery to remove blood clots from my lungs. Who was there, during the busiest time of her life, to encourage me? Shirley Sherrod. She has held our family together and displayed more strength and courage than anyone I know. She is our heroine.
As for the intentions of the NAACP and Breitbart, who maliciously tried to expose and humiliate her for their selfish gain, may God help you. Now, with God's help, my auntie will do as she always has....she will RISE. Above every back-lash, slander, or wrong-doing....she WILL RISE. I am so proud to be a part of this family. Auntie Ann, (Shirley) you make us proud! I love you!
For someone who's father called her such an ordinary name as Bill, Shirley Sherrod is anything but ordinary. She is the essence of anti-racial equality. Her father would be so proud of his daughter "Bill".
Thank you Kyra for setting the record straight on Shirley Sherrod. You two brought tears to my eyes as I watched you help her get her story out. Shirley Sherrod is one of America's everyday heroes and I will be first in line to ask for her autograph when her book comes out. There are many more stories just like hers that we all need to know about. It is exactly this kind of courage, forgiveness and redemption that keeps America great despite any of its shortcomings.
I'm disheartened by the quick judgments made in this situation. The original clip from Ms. Sherrod's speech seemed so obviously to be an anecdote taken out of context. I was not at all surprised to hear the whole story. Ms. Sherrod appeared self-deprecating and sarcastic as she said "I did enough." However, even if she did not "sound" that way to others, how could anyone make a decision without hearing the entire story. I am so proud of her honesty and candor, and I sincerely hope that we can use this as a learning moment about social justice, journalistic integrity, and personal responsibility.
Dear Kyra:
Please permit me to ask that you please pronounce Mrs. Sherrod's name as it has always been pronounced here in the South, at least in my lifetime. I was born and reared in the South and will be 77 years old in November. During my entire lifetime I have known and served persons by the name of Sherrod. Every one of those families pronounced their name in this way: Cher (as in Sonny and Cher) and Rud (as in mud): Therefore Mrs. Sherrod name should properly be pronounced Cher-Rud. Now, perhaps Mrs. Sherrod prefers the way you and other members of the news media have been pronouncing it, but she does not appear to be such a pretentious person that she would pronounce her name in such a way. I am really surprised that Mrs. Sherrod did not correct your pronunciation of her name, but perhaps she felt that would be rude. At any rate, here in the South I am confident that most persons pronounce the name Sherrod as "Cher-Rud" as I have described above. Just thought you may wish to know this as most persons in the South are not so pretentious as to pronounce Sherrod as the news media is now doing. CNN is my favorite news channel and I have been a regular and faithful fan of CNN since the very first day it went on the air. Keep up your good work, Kyra.
Kindest regards and best wishes,
Charles F. "Fred" Colson, R.Ph.
Thomasville, GA
let,s not miss why this incident was created and let's not fall into the tea party hands .do not let them make this about the whitehouse or the President! let's not let them divide us! remember regardless of what happens to us ,we must be together or we will lose ! the lone job of fox and the tea party is to divide and conquer,do-not let this happen! keep focus! GOD WILL TAKE CARE OF MRS. SHERRON!
Would it be possible for someone to contact Cheryl Cook and see if she was acting on Tom Vilsacks authority -(since he said he made the decision) or was she acting on her own? Could she be ask if she told Mrs. Sherrod that the White House was the one asking her to resign? It seems that all of this started after the (part) tape was played and the call was then made by Ms Cook. Could someone get her side of this story? Thank You
Is anyone researching the person(s) who went back more than 20 years to find this clip and edited it to distort the true words? Who are they, what were their intentions, and what else are they about? Shouldn't more of the spotlight be on the perpetrators and who they are working for?? It's a wonderful opportunity for news personnel to educate the public and how groups manipulate news cycles to mislead them and distort the news.
I'm a writer and business consultant and would enjoy speaking with Ms. Sherrod to help her craft her story and bring it to market.
What's most prolific in these type stories is how people are able to look inward and embrace change. Ms. Sherrod in her reflection admitted her internal change when she realized that people of all colors suffer injustice–in particular when faced with economic challenges. The farmer story reveals when Ms. Sherrod took her fight against injustice to a higher level.
My parents were farmers and they could sum things up a lot easier in simple anecdotes. In this case, "don't judge a book by its cover." And for those continuing to place blame, "when you point a finger there's 3 pointing back at you."
Yes, they may have been simple sayings but, "wow" full of wisdom - just like Ms. Sherrod. Looking forward to hearing more.
Namaste!
Ms. Kyra Phillips,
I want to commend you for the remarkable and outstanding job that you did with Ms Shirley Sherrod. I know that you do not want to hear this but you should be nominated for an Emmy regarding the magnificent interview that you conducted. It was POWERFUL and full of depth, insightful, compassionate and intellectually stimulating. I cried like a little baby when I first heard about this story and was vehemently upset how the hierarchal just threw her underneath the bus like day-old trash, just for the insatiable and voracious appetite for sensationalizing their side of the story, sad, sad.
Furthermore, there was no overwhelming substantiation or confirmation to look carefully at Ms. Shirley Sherrod’s story but only to annihilate her with a rush to judgment with no trial. Ms Shirley Sherrod is a heroine, after all the terrifying things she endured and persevered, she discusses her transformation and alteration of growth and how she was able to reach out and help others different than she is. And yet, others tooked snippets of her story and brutally and disrespectfully used it for their own political purpose. Keep in mind, there were many that worked for USDA and treated black farmers horribly and with profound disgust and they were able to keep their jobs and some were even able to happily retire, but there was no outrage there. I forgive FOX, NAACP, Mr. Roland Martin and others.
In addition, I vividly relate to her story because I served in the military and was almost choked to death by a card-carrying Klan member serving on my ship, while 8-15 service members watched in aghast as the life slowly seeped from my body in this horrifying act of attempted murder. This act of cowardice was never addressed just business as usual. My FAMILY advised me to go to the VA and get some immediate help for what I had horribly endured. The nurse told me to file a claim, if I thought the military was at fault regarding these horrifying acts. Indeed, I told her and she directed me to go and file the proper paperwork. I filed in 1976, unfortunately, this horrifying ordeal has been deeply troubling and the VA continues to play games with my benefits/claims and continues to delay and deeply execute an affront to my humanity.
Sincerely,
Dr. Knox
I think Ms Sherrod should be highly compensated, victims should be compensated. The people at that other news network should be held accountable for condoning and destroying someone’s career. They should be sued. Fox is a News manufacturing network. Just because you claim to be America’s News, does not mean you love this country.
I thought this was a great interview with Kyra. I hope CNN will post it to the video page.
I am happy for you Ms Sherrod. I am glad the truth came out. I am sorry you had to go through this but I pray God has good plans in store for you.
I am grateful to CNN for doing the correct thing, and digging for the REAL story, and presenting us the characters in person.
To Ms Sherrod...I would love to see you come to my city, Tampa; and speak at churches. My idea is that you get invited by two churches, one white, one black and that the two services interchange half of the members and you give you talk twice, once in each building. Follow this up with a church social and roundtable discussions. You have been given a gift that needs to be heard, and God only knows that both sides need to hear it together and act. I've often wished that black and white families in every community could have social evenings together in each others homes. I believe that it becomes more and more difficult to pass on racism, when you get to know each other on a personal level.
Mr. President, do the right thing here, and do it quickly.
Thanks again CNN for the TRUTH!
I love Mrs. Sherrod's story. To me she is a heroine who put her energies to good use helping people instead of hurting them. I am a writer from Brockton, MA. I'm not a famous one, but writing is my passion. I would love to write her story, as I'm sure many writers do. Her story opens up the much needed dialogue on race, an issue that is near to my heart. I cannot give her a job, but I can give her a voice. I especially love the story of her family. Their strength as a unit is inspiring.
Shirley Sherrod is obviously an innocent victim. Why isn't CNN investigating and focusing on the real cause of this tragedy and that is the drastically altered tape. Who edited and made this tape (Tea Party or Republicans) to obviously serve a specific purpose with no concern for its victim? Who distributed it?
Thanks Kyra!!! I watched your interview with Mrs. Sherrod and I am so glad that you tood the time to get the whole story straight from the person face to face!!! I, myself, being from SE Georgia, can understand Mrs. Sherrod's ordeal as far as dealing with discrimination in the south!! Her history from Baker County was a tough one and knowing that her father was murdered over discrimination had to make it even worse. My message to Mrs. Sherrod.....Please stay in your job!!!...You are such a role model for young women, white and black and latino, who deal with similar situations reguarding discrimination. Again, thanks Kyra for setting it straight!!!
Andrew Breitbart had a video of Shirley Sherrod edited in such a manner as to make this woman look and appear as a racist. Subsequently, he posted the edited video on the website in an effort to defame and bring harm to her as well as to the NAACP. He succeeded in his efforts. His efforts were directly related to the NAACP calling out the racist elements in the TEA PARTY to which he (Andrew) is an integral and intrinsic part of. Andrew. This morning (7-21-10) he attempted to rationalize what he had done but it served only to show his true colors. Its individuals like him along with his action that can set this country back 40-50 years in an instance. His efforts could very well incite violence. It was a cruel and crude attempt at retribution to the NAACP and to Shirley Sherrod.
Andrew Breitbart, FOX NEWS and elements of the Tea Party are no more than relics of the Jim Crow law of the south and Eugene Bull Connor's law of Birmingham, Alabama in the early 60's to include George Wallace, the late Govenor of Alabama.
This is just the beginning. These same people are after President Obama as well. We have two wars going on at the same time, unemployment, businesses closing, high crime rate, massive oil spill in the Gulf, Wall Street bail-out, banks closing, racist attitudes on the rise, North Korea and Iran looming (possible conflict) in a not too distant future and this idiot, Andrew Breitbart has nothing better to do than to munipulate and distribute a video that is injurious to an innocent person. The NAACP, the AG Tom Vilsack and others were dupe by Andrew's efforts. No one paused a moment to consider all of the facts before rushing to judgment on this woman. The damage has been done! The republicans and FOX NEWS are responsible for keeping this country divided to the extent that they refuse to accept a black president to which they would have you to believe that it is the president's policy and not the color of his skin. Trust me, it is the COLOR of his skin! Mr. President, keep your head up high and keep doing what you think is right for this country.
Mrs. Sherrod, to say the least, is due a written apology from Andrew Breitbart, Fox News, Tom Vilsack, and the NAACP. Tom Vilsack must also offer Mrs. Sherrod her job back and compensation without delay!
Special thanks to CNN the real news organization. Bigs thanks to Tony Harris and Kyra Phillips for their outstanding and unbias reporting. You make us all proud.
Good morning: Do you suppose we could get Glen Beck to say something ridiculous about organo phosphates, ecoli and salmonila and genetically modified crops putting family farms out of business ! .maybe we could get such a quick and powerfull response from the usda on something that will acyually serve the citizens they are here to protect ! Thanks, jon frasz northfield, Minnesota
A classic example of READY - FIRE - AIM. It's too bad there is so much of this going on. But it does take Lindsay and Mel Gibson off the front page
I am a 55 year old black man born and raised in the southern states. I have come to believe from my personal experience that our emphasis on racial equality and equal rights add fuel to the fires of chaos, conflict, and confusion that sums up life on planet earth today. Our little "ETHNIC" support groups keep us angry and divided against one another and our society in a state of chaos, conflict, and confusion. To paraphrase a few words of wisdom, "Look! If they are able to accomplish this at the beginning of their political unity, think of what they will be able to do later. If they stay on the same page nothing will be impossible for them." Genesis 11:6 The truth is that there is only one race we need to concern ourselves with and that is the HUMAN race and the sooner we abolish the NAACP, KKK, LATIN KINGS, and all other white and blue collar racially motivated "GANGS" the better we will all be, There is only one color that we need to promote and that is the color red because it is the color of the blood of Jesus and His message is simple: LOVE ONE ANOTHER! That means "Let he that is without a selfish bone in their body cast the first stone." We need to grow up and get over our selfish agendas of pleasure, gain, and recognition and realize that we are here to get on the same page and HELP one another and that cannot be accomplished through division.
Deny, Deny Deny! No-one involved in this entire shameful episode has the guts to admit they were flat out wrong. Not the nasty blogger who doctored and posted this tape, Not Vilsack, Not the President, Not the media that ran with it, Not pundit Rowland. He and the NAACP have changed their tune, but even they like all the rest are spending way more time justifying their unjustifiable rush to judgement, as if they were victims, than apologizing to Ms. Sherrod and correcting this injustice.
Its the same attitude of denial displayed by America regarding WMD's in Iraq or the shooting down of an Iranian Civilian airliner. Its shameful and a deep defect in America's character.
It would appear that the White House, Secretary of Agriculture and the NAACP (who all responded so quickly in asking for Ms. Sherrod's resignation) had little or no difficulty believing in reverse racism!
Sad commentary that none of the entities felt the need to further verify the facts of this situation before firing this woman!
Doesn't anyone see what is happening here? If the Democrats can't legitimately debate ideology, they push the race button...And the Conservatives have just pushed back. To continue down this road is to invite a deep divide among Americans, and that is not what this country is about.
Time for Dems to stop targeting the Tea Party for unfounded racism and Conservatives to learn not to respond to this nonsense. Let the Left learn their lessons through their loss in November Elections...Americans voters see this for what it is....Politics at its worst.
The Tea-baggers , Fox NEWS ,and the NAACP should all be sued for slander. The Government should be sued for terminatiing this employee on biased incomplete information.
I think Roland Martin should be saying "yes mam" to Mrs. Sherrod. Where's your manners son.
Many thanks Kyra for your love of true unbias journalism that you display each and every day with a touch of humor to boot. Thanks again for staying with the Sherrod story. America is at its best when the press seeks truth, so as not to be lead over the cliff of ignorance
In America we are privileged to have free press. However, it was not meant to be used to print or publish un-truths or distorted truths. In earlier years of the press, facts were verified before they were reported. In a rush to be first or to gain some advantage for the purpose of ratings, we find more and more news agencies being manipulated. Shirley Sherrod is one of many examples of this type of news reporting. Many others have not received this recourse by the media. I am very pleased to a see CNN follow up to determine the true facts of this reported story and it was very courageous of Mrs. Sherrod to share her history and what help shaped her present desires, goals and decision making capabilities. She is the type of person that is needed at the USDA and should definitely be reinstated. What kind of Supervisor or Executive hires a person and not know something about them. If he or she knew Mrs. Sherrod’s background, reputation and history, an explanation should have been required and an investigation of the facts at the very least before termination.
Being a Life Member of the NAACP, I am surprised the National would jump to such a decision without all the facts, given Mrs. Sherrod’s reputation, record and family history. She deserves an apology.
Also, given Fox News reputation, why would you not verify anything of this magnitude before reporting it? Many of us as Americans make decisions everyday based on what is reported in newspapers, on TV and other media. News should be reported truthfully and without bias.
Mrs. Sherrod's experience with racism does not give her an excuse to practice it in reverse. If anything, she should be using her position to heal the wounds between blacks and whites. CNN's condoning viewpoint does a disservice to those who have worked for years to combat racism in their communities.
Isabelle Golsan
Thanks to CNN and specially today to Kyra Phillips for her outstanding interview to Ms Shirley Sherrod. I felt grateful to be part of this great democracy that is America.
The Obama administration acted too fast to reprimend Ms Sherrod, and is now too slow to apologize for a huge mistake. I believe Shirley Sherrod's transformation is exactly the type of transformation we want for all of us. It is time for the President to act in this matter. An apology to her is overdue. This will be very important for all of us that keep believing in Mr. President's "yes we can".
Lets face it, Fox did it again. The Right Wing will print anything it can edit for it's own purposes. There is no respect or integrity left at Fox News. Yes we all rushed to Judgement and that was wrong, but, when a News Organization is supposed to Check and Recheck before ruining someones life instead of editing for the most out of context damage, what are we supposed to do; WAIT for the facts!.
Had this been an Administration Official, or as usual a Republican in the Senate or Congress, it would have taken days before a response. Fox and the Republican Right Wing is publishing wrong information once again. Fox should issue an apology before anyone!!
Does somebody want to explain why nobody is going after Andrew Breitbart?
This guy continues to throw falsehoods out into the public discourse and instead of him being called out on it he gets to do the "rounds" on all of the news shows.
He already told his "side" of the story-and he LIED-again.
It's partly the media's fault for not fact-checking and letting these type of people become a part of the media.
I guess news isn't news anymore,
it's become "entertainment", "reality TV" whatever you want to call it. Just don't call it news.
14 million people are out of work so why is shirley sherrod so important. Why is the news media so obsessed with this woman. Thanks to you she will write a book and become another celebrity like palin. Good job.
After a huge response throughout our Nation, the discovery of "doctored" video, the testimony of the alleged "victims" and the apology from the NAACP, I awakened today to the news that the Shirley Sherrod incident has still not been corrected. I have been a loyal Obama supporter, but I have to agree with some critics of this Administration that in too many cases it takes too long for decisions to be made by the Senior Administrators. This Sherrod injustice should have been corrected no later than this morning. It was a no-brainer! Secretary Vilsack made a horrible error in rushing to judgement without investigating the charge, or reviewing the facts and is almost certainly guilty of overreacting and playing Politics with this lady's career. The situation has added to the President's loss of confidence ratings and list of embarrassments. This incident is so serious that it should result in Sec. Vilsack offering his resignation.
Despite the personal agony & humiliation of being forced to quit her job, there is this unintended blessing: Rather than sharing her beautiful transformation story with just the group in Georgia, now we ALL get to know this wise, heroic woman, to know her & her family's struggles, and to share in their triumphs!!
I am baffaled that even CNN has turned this story from one focused on how Fox News and Andrew Breitbart totally misrepresented the facts about this story to one more focused on the Obama administration's response. While I agree thet the adminstration deserves some blame for reacting before exploring all the facts, and should now just apologize to Ms. Sherrod, please don't move past the cause of all the missteps;especially because this has been a pattern – that keeps working.
ISABELLE GOLSON: You have missed the entire point. Please go back and thoroughly READ about this incident as to its elements and how it evolved. Frankly, your comment saddens me for you.
I know Mrs Sherrod should be offered her job back w/ an apology from the head of that agency and everyone invovled including the president of this nation. This kind of stuff got to stop. step up to the plate Mr President. Be a man with some balls.
CNN is the true Fair and Balanced News Network. You make me PROUD!!!
Mrs. Sherrod's experience should be held up as an example of what a low-point we have reached in today's journalism 'standards.' Walter Cronkite, Frank Reynolds, Eric Severeid, Edward R. Morrow, et al. should be spinning in their graves. When are 'we' and more specifically the media (and its '24-hour news-cycle') going to stop jumping on these un-vetted, un-researched, un-substantiated and (subject to the whims of anyone doing the) edited 'news reports?'
This should be an opportunity for all of the news services (not to mention national organizations... the NAACP included) and government agencies to re-examine their editorial standards and stop reporting these stories 'in real time.'
If I am correct, you have to have a tape (recording) in order to edit a tape. Therefore this tells me this gentleman, Mr. Breitbart, who posted and distributed this edited version (with a little help from his friends), had the full content of the tape and had every intention to create confusion and division in the Country (like we really needed something else). This is purely a case malicious intent if there ever was one. This is the highest level of deceit….. at any cost. It is sad that it caused Ms. Sherrod her job (at least for now), but this travesty actually can be used for good. Her firing brings a light, reality and facts, most of all, to a situation we all have talked about for a while but was not heard and blown off as imagination; as an excuse. The fact that Mr. Breitbart, and others, actually went to these lengths to express his hatred for a race speaks loudly enough for itself (let me guess…he’ll say “some of my closest friends are black”). While there are bad people in all organization, the Tea Party, which I believe has its place, failed to show leadership and hindsight to what could happen if their members continued to express so much hatred, and that has allowed its members to become so radical that now they are out of control. This would be the true if the parties, group, organization involved where black, white, yellow, purple, green, whatever. It is also sad that every time they have to do racial damage control they “stick” a Black face to speak as their representative. It is not these faces that are making such racial remarks, signs, statements, blogs, etc. The black Tea Party members that are choosing to be the clean up crew are actually, in my opinion, doing the Party a disservice. That said, when we think about it, we all are going to have to answer for our actions. Some now, some later, but we all will answer to our God. There is a lesson to be learned here, from the victim herself, humbleness is the true victor in the most horrible and despicable situation. Thank you Ms. Sherrod for reminding us that if we are right, stand still and remain faithful and humble, GOD will fight our battles.
Shirley Sherrod is a strong woman. I hope she realizes that she is an unfortunate victim in the war against President Obama and the NAACP. It seems those who began the tirade of lies and division have no regrets just yet. I trust God the wrong they hoped to achieve would rather turn to strong resolute on the part of President Obama, the NAACP, Shirley Sherrod and the American people as a whole to fight for justice, liberty and the pursuit of true happiness. God bless America!
When are you at CNN going to call for apologies to Ms. Sherrod by FOX and this hideous Teaparty blogger who put out such a lying video? Why is it only the Obama Administration who must apologize to her? You people in the media are the biggest hypocrites in the world. You are disgusting.
From what I've observed off and on today, Mrs. Sherrod has been at CNN in Atlanta all day long–if I know it, why doesn't the administration?. Why is the Secretary having such a hard time getting in touch with her? Or is that just a line the Press Secretary was told to feed to the media? I've never seen such a public display of lame excuses!
Why doesn't President Obama fire Secretary Vilsack and hire Mrs. Sherrod?!!
When will our political parties and the media stop jumping the gun– political organizations and the media need to take the time to investigate and verify.....any and all allegations of racism– do they not understand that what the public hears has a "huge" affect!!!!!!
It is a shame in this day and age that the oldest civil rights organization did not check out the full story before they turned there back on Mrs. Sherrod. How ever they were the first to give Mrs. Sherrod an apology what is taking Tom Vilsack so long since he made the lone decision to ask her to resign.
If our government jumped to conclusions without getting the full account before pressuring her to step down it worries me that the next time they jump to a conclusion it might cost the rest of us even more severly than it has shirley. As far as i'm concerned their apologies were just to save face and while she may have had the ideal job i'm sure a better one will present itself, one that involves people who believe in her.
I saw Donna Brazille today on CNN. I am proud of her that she didn't fall in the party trap of condemning the other party and rationalizing the wrong actions of her own party. What she did is what should be done but politics, power and a desire to win gets in the way so thank you Donna for giving politics a brain.
In The Wizard of Oz it was Toto, a little dog, that exposed the man behind the curtain. In The Emperor's Clothes it was a child that exclaimed the emperor was naked and it it took a good hearted average citizen to point out how the media and politics is just intrinsically corrupt and can be used by politicos with an agenda to just play the people for the gain of their cause.
Thanks Shirley for exposing the blogger and the media and Donna stepping up and above the politics.
I am always hopeful.
Re: Shirley Sherrod- I think this can be a 2010 Rosa Parks moment.
This terrible injustice to Mrs Sherrod may become the vehicle used to begin to heal the race relations in this country.
If the NAACP would examine her statement about the history of the haves and the have nots, show case this message not only to their organization but to the country as well. Then maybe we can take this ugly situation and turn it into a positive.
Rick Sanchez was right about late Mon Fox re the Sherrod story. But, where is his comment on Tuesday's Glen Beck program that adds a great deal of in site as to the Glen Beck involvement?
If you work for the Secretary of Agriculture, you had better be careful about how you express yourself, lest Thomas Vill Sack you.
Sounds like Ms. Sherrod's boss is incompetent. Failing to provide an employee due process is management 101. Not only has he traumatized this woman, he has wasted the president's time. Perhaps MS. Sherrod should assume his role. She certainly understands the concept of compassionate leadership.
I am very sorry about what happened to Mrs. Shirly Sherrod! Seemed liked most of the people that were responsible for the misunderstanding has apolizied for the mistake. Noone said anything about the Tea Party that's including Mrs. Shirly Sherrod. From my understanding of the situtation seemed to me they cause the whole situation to happened! Yet most of the news carriers our trying to pen point the blame on Our President . President Barrack Obama! that's what it is all about I tell you all one thing you all are going to loose a lots of watchers including myself I watch Cnn 24 hrs a day I am try of hearing things that are appointed to our President! Our President didn't have anything to do with this mess! The Tea Party started it all trying to framed something that was stated 25 yrs ago and miss interpeted the words I didn't care to listen to the whole story! But as the old saying goes God is tried of the mess you people are stiring up when he get's tried he'll stop it in do time! Just leave our President along and let him strainght out the mess Bush created for 16 yrs in a row stated he didn't know we was in a recession! Our President is loosing a lot of sleep at night trying to straight out all the problems in this beautiful world someone else created! I feel very sorry for Our President family I know he don't have time to spend with his wife and children trying to help the poor and the rich people live a comfortable life. Still you people want to condemed him. I just can't understand this ! If you were in my shoe you'll appreciated a man sent from God like our President! My husband lost his job seven yrs ago in the aircraft in Selma, Alabama and can't find one. Was drawing unemployment ond guess what they are trying to make him pay back every penny they granted him.
Because they said they made a mistake he over drawed his quarter!
maybe Our President will create jobs for the economy if the people will just stop pointing fingers and let him do his job! Like he always states
that's his job to lead the United States of America! How can people in the Foreign Country give him Respect when his own people in the United States are trying to down him on every counter I am sick to my stomach of Mess! We need JOBS JOBS JOBS so we can eat! Gladys Hollaway
Selma, Alabama
This is the new dialogue on racism I have been hoping to hear since Obama took office. I expected that dialogue to come with the direct involvement of the new President. Fascinating to see that the true and most effective dialogue happens around him rather than through him. CNN and Rick earn my high admiration for choosing to devote a great deal of valuable time to flushing out the truth and for promoting a magnanimous attitude toward all involved.
Mr Valsek showed stupidity and arrogance in the firing of this woman who went up and above the nature of her job. All the apologies in the world still does not undo the idiosy of this man. Her comment was not offensive and if people today don't see that human beings of all colors are.in need, they never will. His act of jump to conclusions and not verifiying what REALLY went on , HE should be the one to resign–reason–STUPIDITY.
Yes, her story is amazing. Well I wish all this had never happened to her, it's rare that such a powerful story that challenges our country to take a step back emerges - and I want the best for her in the future!
I am happy that justice was done to Mrs. Sherrod but this is not enough.
Kyra Philips really did a great job this morning on displaying to the world Mrs Sherrod's testimony of her life growing up in baker county and the story of her fathers death and the redemption of her great character as african american woman who experienced racism at its worst, CNN really did a great job on this story in showing the picture to the world at full view and God Bless Mrs Shirley Sherrod I am proud of her, and hope her the best at everything she do. I will buy her book as soon as she publishes what I beleive another legend of african american history and civil rights confliction in a small town in Georgia in the 1960's and how Ms. Sherrod made it through. Kudos To CNN
I have watched this story unfold all day and I would like to share my experience with Mrs. Sherrod. I am from Albany, Ga. where she lives and raised her family. I moved away to Ms. 9 years ago but when I lived in Georgia I was welcomed into her home and treated like family on more than one occasion. As a matter of fact I spent my last Thanksgiving in Georgia in her home. Did I mention that I am white? This wonderful woman has given her testimony of overcoming issues and obstacles and should be applauded for her strides in denouncing racism. Mrs. Sherrod is a gracious, intelligent, and amazingly dignified woman. You would have to know her and be around her to appreciate just how non racist she is. I am so happy that she now has an avenue to tell her amazing story but hate the way it happened. She has handled all of this debauchery with the elegance and grace of royalty. Her actions should speak volumes about her character.
I have renewed faith in CNN as well as CNBC.
what breitbart did was calculative and delibertive in retaliation of the NAACP asking the tea party to clean up their act and become a legitimate inclusive party. fox can not claim "Fair and Balance" if they dont investigate befor reporting while demanding action.. as we focus on Ms Sherrod story we should consider whether her civil rights were violated,ie, falsely indicating that this occured recently,while employed at the USDA, cuting the tape to indicate racism in order to humiliate the White House and the NAACP,resulting in an innocent American to be harm. if interest in the tea party will do this to one innocent American out of revenge.what else are they capable of doing to reclaim their America. where do "we" fit in there America.
I would think that the Presidents staff would have done more research before taking action. It looks like the Obama administration is too quick to respond to any issue related to race. Shame on the people that release doctored up tapes to stir up the political pot. We have more important issues at hand than to chase down made up stories.
Thank you, to CNN for broadcasting the dilemma of Shirley Sherrod. I commend CNN for doing so, for being compassionate and for a happy ending in being instrumental in reinstating Shirley and for the apologies which she has received from those who caused her such distress of firing her from her important job which she, no doubt, enjoyed, serving others.
Shirley is a gracious, strong lady and will, no doubt, be ever grateful to CNN. As a viewer I am highly pleased with CNN's overall broadcast of her situation. May your viewers increase.
Let the truth, fairness and justice prevail. The truth must always be told, no matter what.
Have a great day!
Now that we have focused all the energy letting everyone know that Shirley Sherrod is an outstanding woman who was clearly done wrong, we should get to the real issue. And, that issue is not how the Obama administration responded in this situation.
The real issue is how folks can easily be manipulated and the growing trend in our society to spin data and not tell the truth. The deception in this situation was obvious and shameful for the individual who posted the distorted information to the media organizations who jumped on it like a puppy on a bone. The teachable lesson in this is don't make assumptions and have all the facts. Speed of reporting is important but accurate facts must be the standard in all situations and expecially those impacting others. As a society, we also need to get to the point of having the ability to "belly up to the bar" and say I was wrong, I made a mistake and I'm sorry for the harm I have caused. I think we want a country that is much better than what we often see relative to much of the current behavior.
Who took Her words out of context? Wasn't it FOX news? With the help of the TEA party! The crap that comes out of FOX news is scary. They and their lies are about the worst thing for our country in fact if I am talking to someone and they say they watch FOX news for info I get away from them asap! And now FOX has it's own political party the TEA BAGGERS! These people need to be exposed for what they are and what their doing to our country.
Tony, on the subject of race I agree with you 100%. I enjoy your show, and your point of views on most subjects.
I totally disagree with Jessie Jackson. In my opinion he is not much more then a headline seeker. Providing jobs, education, his other ideas ARE NOT the answer to racism.
I am a 67 year old white male. Growing up, in my home, I never heard any talk about race of people.
What I believe is, if we are to completely put racism behind us, it MUST begin in the home first, then carry on to schools, social clubs, and of course religious places of worship.
We must teach our young children there are all colors of people in this country, and no one should be judged on the color of their skin.
If our children grow up to have no prejudice in their minds, only then can we make our nation great again.
I viewed the original full clip, and I also saw the short clip when it was first being picked up by different news media.
There is one thing that everyone seems to avoid. In the Cut up and spliced version I detected words missing from the beginning, the middle, and the end of sentences. In the Cut up and Spliced version I also detected roaring laughter and loud clapping in areas where it did not exist in the full version.
Breitbart and Fox News Bias Network did more than just representing a cut up clip. They also aired a clip that had background sound of laughter and clapping, which was not inn the full version of the Video in the places where Breitbart and Fox News Bias Network insisted it was.
Breitbart claimed that he was trying to prove that the NAACP had racism in it. But all Breitbart proved was that he can make it appear that the NAACP is racist when their not. And all Breitbart proved was that he will continue to do this type of reporting with bogus clips until the FBI confiscates every single clip he claims to have and run them through their electronic forensics labs that will separate and break down the duped clips and then Press criminal charges against Breitbart and all those working with Breitbart and Fox News Bias Network along with all those who worked at duping those clips, locking them all in prison for ever and throwing away the key!
enough with this , lets move on. She is a wonderful person , lets talk about how to teach everyone that there is only one race on this earth
Shirley Sherrod is truly a role model whose life should be made into a movie. After all of those apologies from some of the people who had wronged her, I'm still waiting to hear an apology from Roland Martan for the way he treated her on the Rick Sanchez show
Rick: Question? Does Mrs. Sherrod have a legit case to sue Mr. Breitbart and Fox commentator & others party to her edited filmed speech
for defamation of character and/or malicious slander? My husband agrees with me that she should do something to sit these people who do this conscious lying of about a person which leads to what happened to Mrs. Sherrod and others that they have done.
As is said "Do unto others as they would do to you"
While everyone blames Breitbart and Shirley is ready to sue him, let us not forget that the NAACP had the entire tape from the very beginning. They knew the truth all along and yet, jumped the gun. The Obama Administration didn't ask for the entire tape and jumped the gun. The USDA didn't ask for the entire tape and jumped the gun. Why is it that Andrew is the only bad guy here. His point was clear – to show the racism that clearly is within the NAACP, which the public heard when there was applause to Shirley's story point of not helping the white farmer. People may not like Andrew's method or outcome...but his point was made. He was not responsible for the Obama Administration or the USDA's rush to judgement to fire Shirley, who then shared her life lesson, which was a good one. But let us not forget, originally she was displaying racism. Why is that Andrew's fault? Why would she sue Andrew for her original racism and then her change of heart? Editing is used all of the time in news. CNN does it daily in stories. Just look at the IRAQ war and our military. Do they show the humanitarian efforts of our military on a daily basis and what wonderful strides forward our men and women are making in building orphanages, etc.? No because that isn't the agenda. The media can not condemn Andrew Breitbart for something that the main stream meda does each and every day – manipulate the masses.
So Mr. Breitbart's excuse was that he was showing an example of reverse racism? To do that he showed a 25 year old clip? And CNN allowed him to get away with that? Take this man to task. Both left & right wing bloggers who pretend they are reporters are really not patriotic. They are self serving egomaniacs.
I am so sorry this happened without getting all the facts this is what has happened before in history only now it is media/ technology culture. Innocent black people were unjustly blamed and killed or incarcerated because of lies. We still have a long way to go and not much has changed only a band-aid has covered it.
Ms Sherrod has been put through hell but I admire this woman for standing up for her rights and we all can learn a lesson from this. This has opened dialogue about race and we certainly all can learn from the full video. What are we teaching the young people in this country these adults are only thinking about themselves and how they can hurt this President. The Young people we talk to say they just tune them out and listen to their music because the old people are just looking out for themselves and not the future of the young and most recent college grads in this country., just look how the GOP is voting we need younger, fresher minds and faces to help this President. Prejudice is a generational problem that is ingrained in some families, people and organizations in this country.
Everyone has apologized now lets give Ms Sherrod some space to reflect, get some rest and make decisions she needs to make and stop questioning her. The media needs to back-off and get back to the business of the country.
May God richly bless her.
I would and hope that Miss Sherrod be decisive in her judgement in dealing with this matter. This is Nothing New! I would aware the American people,especially Blacks, that this is only an portion of the Back sliders Agenda. Fox News, The Tea Party, and the Worthlesss Breibart are trying to perpetuate ... See Moresomething in hopes of gaining ground in the advantage of perventing This Persident from aquiring an second term as President. I would ask an Powerful organization such as the NAACP to not loose sight of this and to Maintain and course of Binding Togetherness The People. I would ask USDA to be more constraint in reacting to unverified Propaganda. The Tea Party will be the Author of Their Demmise!! I would say to People that the excitement of Having the First Black President is over,This President has lived up to His Word! Two Years ago America was at the Brink of loosing the most Pertainent aspect of what it Stand For"The Rights of Being The Greatest Country In The World". So I would ask and say to Miss Shirley Sherrod, to be Consious of Her Actions and Be Very Decisive! This is not only an Attack on Miss Sherrod, But as an woman "Black or Whiite or any Ethincy" I would Say to the Tea Party and People such as Breibart that We as Women will Stand firm and will Not Be Dismayed By such Hirprocracy!! I would ask Women to Join Forces and Stand Against This. Women Have Made Great Sacrifice and Strides in Their Committment to Gain Their Just and Rightful Place in the Decision Making Process of This Counrty. I would ask That People Stop Associating This President with everything that these Right wingers Throw on the Table. We Must All Be Accountable!!
thanks kyra for being a reporter why can't mrs sherrod have her old job back... she was doing good job reaching out to community and young people [ who will teach next generation ] she can not save the dept of ag ..it's institutional racisum one person can not change ..she would be in ian impossible job with so many layers of sup she would never get the opportunity to be a change agent ther are people in eo at ag now that could do job [sec should talk to current staff] up and out has been old mgt tool since i was fed in 80's...i feel the sec is being missed served and should listen to those that have institutional history in agency ..again mrs sherrod take your time befor your next job move every opportunity is not !!!!!write your book and maybe sign up with speakers service and spreed the word thank you
My experience with the USDA and Sec. Vilsak for the past three years, is not as high profile as Shirley's, but I feel has the same intentions. When you try to communicate with the higher ups in Washington, the underlings decide whether your problem is worthy of Sec. Vilsak's time. He could resolve my problem, but the underlings don't give a darn to let him know what the problem is and how it affects people. I doubt if he ever knew about Shirley and how serious it was. Just like us here in Camp Verde, Az. trying to resolve our problem. My government has let me down for three years and counting. Thank you,Kyra.
i think shirley sharrod is a hero. clara luper was a teacher in my high school and recently i had the honor of saying to her personally - "thank you for teaching us to be better human beings" - and that is what i say to shirley sharrod as i rank her right up there with clara luper.
about being slandered on the internet - people have been slandered and lives ruined by lies since the beginning of time. the internet puts everything out there in the open for all to see. it just demands a new kind of vigilance. it puts a bright light on things that would still be going on - but in the light cannot be ignored and that's a good thing.
my name was slandered and i was viciously lied about a few years back. i spent days at a time with no one speaking to me. all i could do was to just continue being the honest person that i am.
several long, painful years went by and i was finally redeemed while i was defending someone else - when suddenly the truth came out and i received a certain amount of vindication. but the people who were involved did not – were not - and could not contact everyone who had bought into these lies which ruined my reputation. these people only admitted the lie because they got caught anyway. i've had to slowly and mundanely try to put my life together in a new and different way.
the internet on the other hand is instantaneous and far reaching. thank god shirley sharrod only had to endure this injustice for a couple of days. and because of the platform which the internet has provided - she rightfully has the world at her feet - and has beautiful possibilities set before her! and that smarmy man, andrew breitbart, is openly exposed as the charlatan that he is.
thank you for your vigilance~
christi knight
Humans, of all species on the planet, are more similar than any other organism. There is more genetic variation within a so called "race" than between the "races". In fact race is no longer used in biological terms and is replaced with ethnicity, and clinal variation within populations. We are but one race-the human race. We need to start acting that way.