A short way in 39 years...

It's true the media is protected by the First Amendment, but at whose expense? Why are personalities such as Don Imus and Howard Stern not punished for their lewd and racist comments that are broadcast to millions of people across the country, and thanks to Satellite radio, across the world? People have been using the media for hundreds of years as a personal forum to express their own thoughts and views. But whether they like it or not, there is some sort of social responsibility that coincides with the national attention.

Imus's punishment is only a two-week suspension, which many people say should be longer. However, so far, he's lost three big advertisers and many others are expected to back out.

I read in an article that April 4, the day the "nappy-headed hoes" comment was made, was the 39th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr's assassination. I don't believe Imus knew the significance of the date or said the comment in malice towards the anniversary, but the coincidence serves as a thorn in our nation's side. Thirty-nine years later after his assassination, our society is still dealing with racism and bigotry.

Way to go America.

**Update: I just read that MSNBC has cancelled their simulcast of Don Imus's show. I guess it's better late than never...

***Update #2: And now, if i read the article correctly, Imus's entire show has been cancelled.