BLOOMINGTON, IL. (ECWd) –
During the Mayor’s open house last week, Bloomington, Illinois Mayor Tari Renner stated that [U.S. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas] “sure does not behave like someone who is African American.”
That comment caught me by surprise, and made me wonder how Mayor Renner thinks African Americans should “behave.”
So I sent an email to Renner and all of the Bloomington Councilmen, asking two questions:
- Mayor Renner, In light of your comment caught on video during a recent Open House: “[Clarence Thomas] sure does not behave like someone who is African American.” I invite you to please explain, in your own words, exactly how African Americans should behave.
- City Council Members, I invite you to comment whether or not you agree with your Mayor, and if you believe there is a certain way that African Americans should behave, and how you think they should behave.
Only one person answered my request for comment, and it really wasn’t an answer at all:
Hi John,
We all have unique behaviors. I try to live my life by the Golden Rule.
I look at peoples’ actions, which reflect their character, rather than at their appearance and hope others do the same.
I hope these comments satisfy your request.
Donna Boelen
Alderman, Ward 2
“When people show you who they are, believe them the first time.” –Maya Angelou
We would still like Renner to answer the questions posed, but doubt he will.
.
Our work is funded entirely thru donations and we
ask that you consider donating at the below link.
