From the tone of some of these posts and the quick-to-take-offense responses, a verbal apology wouldn't have been good enough either. His actions showed his change of heart and true remorse.

Um, listen, I have plenty to say about Malcolm X. And you know what? It's GOOD stuff. Sure he espoused some very racist views and actions early in his "career" but gradually moved away from those and from the Nation of Islam (if you want to talk racism, they could write the book). He went on to promote intelligent dialogue between the races and so sadly was cut off in his prime by his own people who wanted to keep the "old ways". So tragic. Yet another example among so many that originally erred in judgement and went on to make amends. Sure Strom was racist. Personally, I wasn't a fan. But he did do a lot for a state that for so long was impoverished. But I feel that any man, no matter how "crazy" he might be, who served his country for as long as Sen. Thurmond did should at least be spared the ugly comments. Or at least for the sake of his family, if nothing else. I don't "expect" anyone to mourn, or even to think he was a decent human. But common courtesy expects that people know how to speak well or keep silent. Show that you're the better man (or woman) and refrain from rudeness. I'm not just saying this to you, but to everyone. Sure there are fans, there are "non-fans" and then those who don't care. But I think that we all need to loosen up and just let it go. He's dead. He messed up. We all do. End of story. End of rant. Thank you.

To Remind everyone this thread is about someone's DEATH, I am posting these remarks about the Senator's passing from some prominent Congressmen:

"Senator Thurmond was symbolic of the Old South, but his willingness to change over time set an example for many South Carolinians." — U.S. Rep. James Clyburn, D-S.C.

"Even though we ended up on other sides of the aisle, there was never any doubt about the interest of South Carolina." — U.S. Sen. Fritz Hollings (search), D-S.C

"Constituent service became his middle name — whatever you wanted, whatever you needed, Senator Thurmond made it happen." — U.S. Rep. Gresham Barrett, R-S.C.

"We have just lost our greatest statesman." — South Carolina Republican Party Chairman Katon Dawson.

"In South Carolina, there are leaders and then there was Strom, there are public servants and then there was Senator Thurmond." — South Carolina Gov. Mark Sanford.


I am urging everyone: At this time of the mourning of his passing, forget about his views might make your blood boil. Remember what he was able to accomplish for his Country and for his State and how dedicated he was to both.

Was it really a sincere change of heart or just cloaking his true self?

I still stand by the fact that regardless, Bamboozled's post shouldn't have been deleted simply because the moderator didn't like her "unflattering" comments about ol' Stromy.

Simply put, that's silly :mad: :rolleyes:

Not every liked/cared/give a d#^m/or respected the man! In life and even in death.

*sigh* It really bothers me that some people think 50 years ago was so long ago. Hell, my parents were alive and would most likely disagree with you. Some GC members were alive. It certainly wasn't that long ago and the ramifications are still being felt today.

Yes, it's been mentioned that he appointed A black person to his staff. Kudos. 1982??? Voting Rights Act??? Laughable.

Please tell me you can find a better quote than this one to convince me. Let's break it down. He prefaces it with saying "In most instances", LOL. What are the other instances in which we don't have more in common? And the second part? Of course "equality of opportunity" is a goal of all people: black, white, Asian, Indian, etc...

Again, I ask, what did he do? What actions showed his change of heart and true remorse? I really am curious.

Dayum, Bamboozled! HE SAID IT, so that's all that is important! :rolleyes: :D

I understand your point of view. However, how can you expect African Americans to mourn a man who did everything to hold us back? Yes he did serve his country, a country during Thurmond's days in politics rated us (African Americans) as second class citizens. Don't get me wrong you and whoever else that feel like honoring Thurmond is the right thing to do, should do so. Just don't assume that the entire country is feeling the same way.

LMAO, I'm really starting to think you're right. Everyone is saying how he made amends and was remorseful, but I am genuinely curious as to when all of this took place. Well, I guess I'll head back on over to AKA Ave. where I know my posts won't be deleted for having a dissenting opinion:o.

we're not asking you to mourn him, no one is asking that. everyone has the right to detest his actions or respect his legacy, whichever they may feel is more appropriate. we're just asking that everyone show respect for someone who is no longer with us. there are respectful ways of disagreeing with people and then there are disrespectful ways of disagreeing with people and i think we've seen both today. you, i am glad to say are at least being respectful of everyones' veiwpoints. thank you for that, because i'm tired of attacks on each other simply because we GCers as a whole have differt opinions on the same subject.

Were minorities not citizens of this country or his "great state"? How can you serve some, but not ALL? Some people just fail to realize the truth and reality....

*shaking my head*

I couldn't agree with you more

Sadly enough,I have to question this as well.Good PR is a must in politics nowadays.I do question the sincerity of his change.Was his change of heart genuine or just good public relations?
Now I am sure that he may have done good things for the people of South Carolina in one way or another but to say that he really was representative of his constituents is not a compliment in my book.I hope all the people of South Carolina don't think like he did.

May I direct you to the following...

Originally posted by docetboy
J. Strom Thurmond was a great American and every American should be mourning over this great loss. Please hold his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Get it?