The Roar
The media’s investigative hound dogs are into a suspicion which they believe could end a black conservative’s Presidential quest. Ironically, this mad dash to commit journalistic assassination completely ignores the fact that this entire fiasco is based on a whimsical allegation which, even those at Politico are not quite sure of just what it entails. It’s the old “see if it sticks” reporting.
Recently, syndicated journalist Kathleen Parker provided just what a clear thinking analysis could achieve when political vendettas are left outside the mix. In today’s column, Ms. Parker writes, “To Cain’s generation (age 65), a casual remark about someone’s appearance is often viewed as a gesture of friendliness. To someone younger, who has been versed in the catechism of sexual harassment, it could be viewed as hostile or at least inappropriate.”
I think Ms. Parker has summed up this entire “grabbing at straws” attempt to derail what may very well become the first successful black conservative Presidential candidate. And once again, it comes down to our old but reliable nemesis of “education.” Think about it folks. Just what has become grounds for “sexual” harassment in our own environs?
I’ll be perfectly frank in that I am a member of Mr. Cain’s generation. I now reminisce for the days when whistles resulted in a wave, even accompanied with a smile? Not in every instance but certainly in many and without any thought to being harassed. One could actually compliment a young lady as to her great looking legs (prior to this unisex pant suit fad) without fear of rebuke. Has society become so minutely sensitized that casual compliments are now taboo?
Ultimately, this entire harassment charade, and Mr. Cain is just its latest target, is a wee bit hypocritical when given the allurements of summertime bikini briefs. Instead of attempting this “high tech hanging” (Justice Clarence Thomas’ words), maybe our astute and truth seeking journalists should determine just who it doing the harassing when the office outfits are shelved for a week-end at the beach!
Jim Bowman
Author of,
This Roar of Ours