Defending Islam and the Strong Black Woman, not Barack and Michelle

Just when I was feeling confident that I would not entertain the thought of writing another commentary about Barack Hussein Obama until he became our next president, The New Yorker, a well respected and high volume magazine, goes and does something STUPID-but attention grabbing to bring me out my political literary seclusion. I have been writing, of course – but I have tried with success to cut Barack some slack. Like so many are doing. Guess I have morphed into a true follower. Yeah, Right!

I have questioned his opinions and positions enough. I am tired now, and have concluded that he is best for the country at this very moment in history. Nonetheless, I am pretty much no longer in his corner: An Obama Congregate. I stopped blindly supporting him a few months ago. I just could not live with my conscience any longer. That inner self told me, ‘Muata, you are not wholeheartedly with Hussein. Although, he is black, he ain’t what you stand for, Black Nationalism/Black Panther-ism – therefore, you should withdraw your full support. Give him your vote because John McCain is definitely not your cup of tea. At least Barack speaks of that played rhetoric that we need: Change.’ I have a bright red BarackToVote t-shirt that I am selling!!

So here I was, at my desk, in defense mode. Ready to attack The New Yorker magazine staff. Knowing that some ‘important black people’ have criticized them already I still wanted to have my say. So in the comforts of my sacred space, and sitting below a beautiful portrait displaying the crucifixion of Jesus, it became my turn to set a blaze. But, my comments will not resemble the typical ones I have read. The ones defending Barack Hussein Obama and questioning if the caricature is grotesquely offensive or not. No, I have a beef of substance to share. One that affects millions, and not just the potential First Man and Lady of the United States of America.

Islam is the second largest world religion (a close third is us Non-religious/Agnostic folk), and it was on a pace to be the fast growing at one time. It is a revered and righteous way of life in the Middle East and throughout other parts of the world; unlike America’s Sunday morning hour of shouting, muteness, and mis-information. The core of its faith is to accept, surrender, or submit. Definitely an honorable religious practice. The tenets are respectable and its adherence comes from all walks of life.

With that brief sermon of support for Islam, I have silently wondered why in the world the Western media continues to distort and rip a part Muhammad’s vehicle. Well, I know why – but I am sick of it! Could it be that Islam is a threat to Jesus’ Mercedes, Christianity? I would not doubt it considering Mercedes drivers need a lot of insurance (protection) since their car is so ‘delicate’. Much like the religion: touch-and-go and fragile. Ouch!

Characterizing Hussein in a robe and turban indicates to me that it is Islam that they are attacking. Not, Barack. How? Well, since the right-winged media, several overly zealous politicians, and desperately panicky talk show hosts (Sean Racist Hannity) have position Islam as a radically violent religion an unnecessary phenomenon has occurred throughout the world: Islam is Evil and the American Public Enemy #1.

Islamic garb, when intended to negatively characterize someone, is used subliminally to send the message of fear. FEAR anyone who boldly wears symbols of where they stand in their faith, spirituality, and/or political disposition. Much like us knowledgeable brothas and sistas who wear Che Guevara t-shirts. Fear those Marxist! Are the looks we get. Unfortunately, the long flowing gown and head piece speaks volumes to that irrational and foolishly acquired fear.

Fear is the tool used to coral people. Mislead them, and purport negative images and beliefs. Sometimes those mismanaged beliefs blossom into actions that are used to kill people. Just ask any living survivor of the original Black Panther Party. That older version of Hannity, J. Edgar Hoover, mastered the art of smear with deception. The BPP I know was NOT a “communist organization with evil intentions” – one would have never known that if Mr. Hoover was the lone voice of criticism. And, this is where I would like to end: Criticism.

I am not sure what your thoughts were when you first eyeballed the “satire”. When you used your critical power to criticize. Several ideas went through my mind. A pressing one was the idea of the cartoon creator to depict Michelle Obama as the black female rebel. The Assta Shakur-type: The afro, machine gun toting, and the black power fist bumper. Everything about the characterization of Michelle reads: ‘This black woman is too much for us (the white system of control) to handle. She is the loose cannon. Contain, that Black B*tch.’ Sorry, but that’s what they, the Richard Bruce Cheney’s of the United States, are saying about a woman who is just strong-willed and confident. Why can’t these special gifts (strong black women) of our race be viewed as positive enhancements instead of a threat?

Black women are strong. They are the backbone of the black community. And, no black woman or girl should be ashamed of standing on the right side of justice with strength. That’s what the Angela Davis’s of this world are/were: Creatures with Backbone. Courage. Not afraid to say what needs to be said! Michelle Obama does just that which is the reason she, in too many white circles, is referred to as that Black B*tch.

I say, ‘keep on being what they call you, Michelle. You are the strength we need all over this weak nation!’ Not just in that hypocritical and deceit-filled White House.

http://news.aol.com/elections/story/_a/satirical-obama-cover-stirs-controversy/20080714093009990001?icid=100214839x1205802684x1200267757

Written by Muata. Inspired by the blaze in the fireplace. Let it burn!!