Essay 735

Mistaken identity and more miscues in a MultiCultClassics Monologue…

• The Washington Post continues its series titled, “Being a Black Man.” The latest installment relates the tale of Elias Fishburne, a hairdresser who landed in jail after being mistaken for a fugitive. Click on the essay title above to view the story.

• California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger denied the Bush administration’s request to send an additional 1,500 National Guard troops to the Mexican border. Schwarzenegger believes the action would have depleted the California Guard too drastically. He’s probably investigating sending Terminator units instead.

• Hate-crime convict Nicholas Minucci wants to say he’s sorry to his victim’s mother and even hang out with the victim. “Maybe we can meet one day, maybe one day we’ll play ball or go to a club together,” said Minucci during a recent interview. Minucci also is open to receiving jail visits from his victim. “I’d take him as a visitor. I’d definitely talk to him.” Um, don’t hold your breath.

• Black historian John Hope Franklin went on a rant over the alleged growing acceptance of the N-word. Franklin said, “When the N-word is used, it’s not a sign of sophistication or advancement. It’s a sign from my point of view of degradation. It’s a sign that you don’t have any respect for yourself and don’t have any respect for anybody else. … Treating me right involves respect, and respect involves proper courtesy and proper tribute to me and my ancestors.” Hey, maybe Franklin should visit Nick Minucci.