Quote:
Originally posted by adduncan
I have no idea whether Thurmond or any other racist changed their views on racism throughout their life. I am really not going to comment whether someone is only black/white/green/whatever "on the outside". But I have a question that popped up in my head based on this discussion.
I've got the impression from all of these discussions that if a racist of any type learns that their views are wrong, and tries to make amends and turn over a new leaf, it won't matter. They will never be "forgiven" (if that's even the right term) and they will always be branded a racist for the rest of their lives and beyond and nothing they ever say or do will change that.
The question is: is this true?
If not, what can a former racist do to show once and for all they've changed their ways?
I'm looking forward to some profound insights on this.
Adrienne (PNAM-2003)
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I think for someone who was so identified with racism as Strom Thurmond was, they're going to have to go to the other end of the spectrum to prove they've changed. It's not enough to say "my bad, just won't do it again." You've got to right those wrongs. Hiring one black staffer, voting for the King Holiday, and some of the other stuff Strom Thurmond did just wasn't enough. Those are political moves. I'll give you an example, Minister Louis Farrakhan no longer says white people are devils. In fact, just about every speech I've heard from him since he became ill he has talked about how we're all one people, and how we need to come together, ALL people. That was part of what the Million Family March was about. So yes, someone can change, but you really have to prove yourself.
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