Greetings Sisters and Brothers,
As you are all aware, racist republican leader Trent Lott has found a forum on BET. Mr. Robert Johnson, although he is canceling the few programs of value left on his network, was able to find a time slot for Trent Lott. Interesting.
This morning, radio jock and activist Tom Joyner appeared on the Today Show and clearly stated that he was not interested in seeing Trent Lott showcased on BET. To paraphrase, "How many times can he say he's sorry?" The deal is, you can't apologize for being a racist. He apologized for saying what he did, but his actions over the years clearly paint the picture of a man who supports segregation and everything that goes along with it.
But more important, at this junction, it is imperative that we, the ones who are affected by the likes of the Trent Lotts of the world do not provide him with the platform to espouse his lies. By tuning into BET tonight, you inadvertently support the agenda of both Mr. Johnson (seeking ratings) and Mr. Lott (seeking your sympathy and forgiveness). We must not provide either.
As responsible Black Americans we cannot let that happen. We cannot be "gotten over on" again. No other REPUTATABLE network has rolled out the carpet for this man. Therefore, you MUST ask yourself: then WHY Bob Johnson? The answer is clear-ratings equal dollars. And no matter what Lott says on BET, or how outraged we are sitting in our living rooms watching it, the bottom line result will be the numbers of viewers tuning in.
I must reiterate what Mr. Joyner said this morning: what is this man going to say that he hasn't said already? "I'm not a racist. Bob Johnson is one of my dearest friends."
Skip BET Tonight and catch the highlights on your evening news!!!
Let us tell Mr. Lott and Mr. Johnson exactly how we feel by BY-PASSING BET this evening. This issue cannot be supported by us for even an instant. Let Mr. Lott know we have heard enough from him.
Visit the BET website at
www.bet.com and cast your opinion about Lott's visit on BET.
Call their switchboard and voice your outrage (202)608-2000
Write a letter and explain your disgust:
1900 W. Place, NE, 1 BET Plaza, Wash. DC 20018.