Dear Tavis Smiley,
It's time we all demonstrate more political maturity about what it takes for all of us to advance collectively in this nation. I and many others in my circle of friends and family have long admired your work, but this hardheaded, ego-driven pissing match with the Obama campaign is exactly the kind of childish and destructive action that has undermined every significant African-American social movement of the last three centuries.
I understand the logic that the State of the Black Union is a public forum to discuss issues of importance to the African-American community. But to take offense that a man chose to announce his presidential candidacy instead of attending (as with SOBU 2007), or chose to continue campaigning in vital states in the heat of a neck in neck primary (as with 2008) instead of attending, is the kind of egotism that pitted DuBois against Washington and Garvey, Elijah against Malcolm, etc. and continues to destroy our people.
Mr. Smiley, you cannot be naive enough to overlook the “help” you are giving the Clinton campaign, which is desperately trying to win back black voters after the subtle race-baiting remarks of both Mr. Clinton and Sen. Clinton–-by turning down Michelle Obama’s request to attend in Sen. Obama’s stead as “inappropriate.” Is this really about questioning Sen. Obama’s commitment to Black America, or about your feeling miffed and snubbed in your self-appointed role as Race Spokesperson and Gatekeeper? And dont think that many of us havent noticed Wal-Mart's role in sponsoring some of your airtime, and the conflict of interest that poses in your embrace of Sen. Clinton and your rebuke or Mrs. Obama.
Furthermore, its time African-Americans show the sensibility to stop “calling each other out” i.e. airing our disagreements in very public ways, when our leaders and elders should be ironing out differences behind closed doors and presenting a united front. Our Jewish American fellow citizens, a VERY small minority of the population, have overcome significant prejudice in this nation by being mature enough economically and politically to close ranks and discuss differences–even strong ones, passionate ones–among themselves. A house divided against itself falls, and a house that announces division basically dares its opponents to exploit that division.
Smarten up Tavis, this immature and emotional tantrum you are throwing at a critical juncture in the Obama presidency is selfish, counterproductive, and damaging to your reputation, no matter what self-justifications your ego has convinced you to embrace.
I can assure you if you do not find an amicable and respectful way to resolve your differences with this man who you so generously hosted on your program not even six months ago, I will be doing a 180 and withdrawing any support I’ve given you, your program or your literature, and I will be encouraging all friends and family (which have been passionate supporters of your work and career in the past) to do the same.
It’s chess not checkers, Tavis. Grow up and stand down.
