The New COINTELPRO:
Operation Make Jasmyne Shut Up
There are very few times when I will use my voice as a journalist and my column to respond to my critics directly. The Shirley Q. Liquor campaign being an exception since his supporters took it upon theselves to threaten my life. Often times when I address organizational issues, in particular the Black leadership, I try to address them as a community member who also happens to be a journalist and not make personal attacks. But this isn’t one of those times. Today it is personal.
Last week I penned a column on the increasing irrelevancy of the NAACP and its failure in addressing the Tim “I Hate Gays” Hardaway fiasco. In the same article, I also suggested that the NAACP might benefit from bringing in new blood, so to speak, to help the organization reach younger generations of Blacks.
Well apparently my column ruffled a few feathers at the top because no sooner had my column been released then my boss starts receiving calls from the NAACP leadership complaining about my article.
This in itself is significant because my 9 to 5 job has absolutely nothing to do with my freelance journalism or my first amendment right to free speech and to blog.
It is also significant because this isn’t the first time this has happened to me. Last year, after Tavis Smiley’s State of the Black Union “get together,” I wrote a column criticizing Smiley for ignoring several key issues that had polarized Black voters in recent elections, among them lesbian and gay civil rights. An irate Smiley took the time to find my place of employment and to call me at work to chew me out about how I was “misleading my readers.” He threatened to tell my boss on me who I gladly offered to turn the phone over to, only to have Smiley tell me he’d deal with it later. Also last year the powers that be tried to threaten my position on the board of NBJC after I coined an op-ed on my dissatisfaction with the so called gay leadership of America. They too were unsuccessful in their attempts to try and infiltrate my board.
For the record, I have the right to write about whatever I choose to and it is not a reflection of my boss who happens to be an elected official. I was writing columns before I went to work for him. What strikes me as odd, is that the old guard thinks that they can keep me and my thoughts (which are mine and mine alone) in check by calling my boss and for the sake of a better phrase, “telling on me.” As if he doesn’t read the papers.
But anyway.
This is the reason why there aren’t more voices out in the public arena from young Blacks, because in a round about way, they are silenced. Somehow, those that I obviously offended with my editorial felt that they could get me to shut up by complaining to my boss. Question. When my boss is no longer in office and I am no longer an employee of his, but still writing my opinion columns, who are these same people going to call and complain to then?
To me, the more intelligent approach would have been to just call me up on the phone and to have a discussion about it. Why take it to my boss who has absolutely no influence over what I write about?
I’ll tell you why.
Intimidation pure and simple. And so I have to figure that I’m on the right track if people would go through the trouble of going around me to my “paycheck” to get me to shut up.
I realize that by working for an elected official that I am always going to be a reflection of him. I get that and carry myself in a way that is as much respectful of him as it is me. But at the same, I will always be my own person and in being my own person, I am entitled to my own thoughts and views on Black America and its leadership without intimidation from those who disagree with me.
It’s always been funny to me that we have no problem doing these things to one another but when the mainstream press is racist in their misrepresentation of Blacks and the facts, these same people who are trying to intimidate me have nothing to say. No, they’d rather spend their time trying to figure out how to get little ole’ insignificant me to shut up.
Go figure.
And just to show how much of a lady and a journalist I really am, I made my point again without ever even having to mention the names of my would be oppressors. They know who they are and so do I.
Loading ...
Great Job Jasmyne! I’m glad to have found so much to read this morning.
Much love.
As a black lesbian women, you have the right to express dissatisfaction with the NAACP. If they continue to keep the nonsense going, I will tell everyone I know to cease being a member of the organization. I respect Julian Bond and the NAACP. However, I don’t appreciate anyone going after you; especially when you were only expressing the truth.
If people aren’t telling you to shut up, you aren’t doing your job.
Great job Jasmyne.
The NAACP needs to seriously wake up. I hope they read this column on a regular basis. I think we should send it to the people in charge in a regular basis.
Actually this is the only political column I’ve seen on this topic black or white, what a great idea. You rock chickie.
Teka-Lark
Teka is right, Jasmyne . . . they wanted Jesus Christ to shut up, too, and we know all about how He was subjected to harassment and intimidation. You’re not the Messiah, of course, but I do believe you’re doing the same kind of work. You are walking the narrow, thorny path to righteousness, and I admire your courage. Onward, woman warrior! BTW, be sure to pick up the March 2007 edition of Ebony magazine with Raven Symone on the cover. Dr. Johnetta Coles has written one hell of an op-ed about Hip-Hop misogyny.
Jasmyne, to sabotage your livelyhood extends beyond the perimeter of the “game,” but what will they do next time? Surely their tactic has worked before and someone was terminated. Unequivocally, they targeted you because you’re considered inferior: lesbian and female.
The non-retaliation and silence philosophy is pervasive among Black folks toward Black leadership; we won’t hold them accountable or we just don’t pull their coat tails enough.
Sorry, Jasmyne, but when you “F” with my rent, groceries, and internet service provide – I declare War.
For folks wishing to write or call to the NAACP to discuss their renewal membership and future donations, can you tell us if the caller was from the Baltimore HQ or your local branch?
I was so moved that I sent an email to Tavis Smiley. By the way I always have problems trying to post using Safari. Can you fix that? And you know what…you’re not Scooter Libby NAME some NAMES. Shine some light on the cockroaches…
Here’s the email -
I just came across some info on Jasmyne Cannick’s blog that prompted me to write to Mr. Smiley. Now I had seen him hosting BET news from years ago and was happily ensconced watching his PBS show. Though I’ve found his Southern dialect rather distracting as most newscasters use a more balanced speaking voice I’ve found his topics thought-provoking and offering a voice to the under served. I watched the Covenant and was eager to do my part. So..I now find out that he tried to get a writer fired from her position with a politician because she wrote an article criticizing Mr. Smiley for not including a discussion with the Black LGBT community.
Not that it should matter – I am hetero and grew up very religious. I was taught that being homosexual is immoral – but mind you this is in a church where the women talked about the frequency and expense of their dresses, the collection plate was passed around 5 times while the neighborhood itself was left the flounder in a continual economic and social decline. One of my great high school crushes was a very lovely boy who later came out. I was one of the first people he told. Yes I was shocked and my poor little heart was crushed….for a moment..then I realized the significance of having someone trust me enough to be honest and how dangerous it was in the late 80’s for a young man of color to be true to himself. I couldn’t hate him and would not use the Bible as an excuse to do so. As I got older I grew tired of the hypocrisy. In fact, I became entirely disenfranchised from my own relationship with God because of other people’s legalistic biblical interpretations and lack of compassion. It took the murder of one of my siblings to get me to reexamine that relationship.
Now, I know better than to prop another person on a pedestal but I did hold Mr. Smiley in high regard for what I thought were sincere efforts to uplift us as Black people in the world. You can’t do that by attacking a woman. You can’t do that by excluding people who’s choices do not mirror your own in every way. God is a lot more compassionate than most people are – this I had to be told to me by my grief counselor no less – as psychotherapy and religion are usually like oil and water.
We as a people are limiting our potential to truly affect an improvement of our lives as a whole because our so-called leaders in the black political hierarchy are undermining that very growth. We need different voices because everyone should not necessarily think alike. Those opinions NEED to be heard. And if Mr. Smiley and others try to silence them or even prevent them from ever being offered then he is no better than a white supremacist.
I really hope that you share this email with him and that he humbles himself enough to re-examine his position and his priorities. Perhaps he should have more faith that his audience is a little more intelligent and compassionate than he’d give them credit for. Martin Luther King did in fact have a gay man amongst his advisors who was removed because of this very hateful attitude. I think even Jesus himself would object to it if he was out preaching today.
Faith Dow
Oh my GOD Jasmyne I can’t believe Tavis Smiley treated you that way! I must say I am very shocked at his sexist behaviour. I think Smiley thought because you are a young black woman he could boss you around. You showed him! WOW! I had no idea the crap you go through. You are truly a very strong sister!
Jasmyne, keep doing your thang. I am very proud of you and very thankful that you are willing to live at times, in the eye of the storm. The go along to get along strategy does not work. It is so important to bring a voice to our existance, our struggles, our success, our lives. Thank you. The truth hurts. God forbid the NAACP be called on their lack of representation for an entire segment of the Black community. Who do you think you are missy? I am surprised they didn’t call ya mama and tell her too. You need a spankin. Tell’em kiss ya ass while they’re at it.
Jasmyne…honestly, I kind of wonder why you even are spending time on this. I can tell you’re bothered by the whole thing, and I know you think we should know about this. But don’t let these people rattle you. You’re not wrong about the NAACP. And I’m sure you know black people seem to have a problem with us criticizing other blacks, whether we’re dead-on in our critiques or not, just because they consider us traitors for “airing dirty laundry” and making us “look bad” in front of white people. Black people don’t want to hear that they have a role in oppressing other blacks, either. But I’m sorry, the NAACP lets us down not only as gays but as blacks–all blacks, not just gay blacks. Without people pointing out what’s wrong and demanding better for themselves, nothing changes. The NAACP, of all groups of people, should know that…but, of course, this is kind of a different NAACP than the one that was instrumental in the Civil Rights Movement, which is precisely the problem. People like you are needed now, and you are obviously not alone or without support.
As they said back in the day, go on witcha baaad self.
J., in life we choose are path. Sometimes that path is not what others agree with. But that is their business. Your business is to do what you belive in. Stay strong sister.
How charming that you’re so protective of your First Amendment rights but have no problem trampling all over Charles Knipp’s …
You have an awesome blog here Jasmyne, with a great mix of LGBT politics, black leadership, race relations, entertainment etc..and there’s always that good dose of “drama” which keeps all of us coming back! so don’t change a thing cause it’s the winning formula.
I’ll add that before coming across your site during the Shirley Liquor saga, I hadn’t found anything in the black gay blogosphere that truly spoke to me, and I attribute that to the fact you have a definite *point of view*, which you’re willing to support with arguments even when the majority disagrees with you. And I respect that…ie I didn’t feel Shirley’s act was racist, but I applauded you for pressing on with arguments, which resulted in GLAAD issueing a statement. I truly believe that move by GLAAD changed things at many levels, and for many people. Discussions on the web have all confirmed it.
http://citizenchris.typepad.com/citizenchris/2007/02/glaad_bitch_sla.html
http://www.queerty.com/queer/glaad/holy-shit-we-agree-with-glaad-20070208.php
My point is this :
The NAACP should be proud and supportive of the job you’re doing here!! (and that even when their organisation is the target of your scrutiny), because ultimately your blog is giving blacks and gays the tribune to discuss issues in-depth..thus countering myths that both groups are not “sophisticated” enough to debate the issues, or form their own opinions.
Heck, like I said before, I never heard much about the NAACP until a black man gets roughed up by the police, or I accidently stumble on the Image Awards on Fox..
So thanks to your edito, we all got to discuss the org in lenghts (and hopefully beyond the image) – which is a good thing! If the NAACP didn’t agree with what said they should have issued a statement or posted in the comment sections anything to dispute our points.
The fact they did not do that, and instead chosed to use intimidation tactics to get their point across, tell me they’re not giving us enough credit to talk to us as equals..Hence why they probably failed to publicly support a great model for the black community like Joe Amaechi.
____________
Based on these facts, here’s what I intend to do to counter all those, present and future, who attempt to silence a voice like Jasmyne’s in our community :
1) Spread the word!
That’s it – I’m going to talk about this blog on even MORE sites I frequent, as well as email my friends about it..You too feel free to follow suite, and if you have a site or column, link and mention Jasmyne! more people should join in and throw in their 2 cents. So spread the word.
2) Mediatize!
It’s time to get Jasmyne on the radio and Television! Maybe as cohost on The View for a day? Or Oprah? I’m ready to participate in a writing campaign for any program, as I’m tired of seeing the same superficial and humourless contributors on all the shows these days. I need some Jasmyne fire on my screen y’all!
3) Donate money!
As Joe cleverly suggested at the NBJC reception, we should all join the “National Black Justice Coalition” (the first ever black LGBT civil rights group) and support it with our cash so it can do more and gain greater visibility in the community…And even if you can’t find the funds to join, just donate what you can, it’s always useful…and email all your contacts about http://www.nbjc.org and encourage them to support them.
Rupaul Darling puff puff pass . . .
Jazzy, I read your blog as often as i can. Your voice resonates with me and I am glad you are here.
Travis S. should be ashamed of himself! Pickin on you like that. Was it because you are woman who called him on some shit that effects a great many of us:the continual silencing of sgl, glbt, queer communities of color. Or was it because you did it in a public forum? I dont know but I hope he calls and apologizes to you for his actions.
As for the NAACP, GLAAD & other old school leaders. Jazzy keep up the good work. You continue to provide your opinion and voice on issues. And if you ever call for another protest in “liberal” West Hollywood again…What did Boy George say I’d tumble for ya! I’d tumble for ya!
Jazzy, I read your blog as often as i can. Your voice resonates with me and I am glad you are here.
Travis S. should be ashamed of himself! Pickin on you like that. Was it because you are woman who called him on some shit that effects a great many of us:the continual silencing of sgl, glbt, queer communities of color. Or was it because you did it in a public forum? I dont know but I hope he calls and apologizes to you for his actions.
As for the NAACP, GLAAD & other old school leaders. Jazzy keep up the good work. You continue to provide your opinion and voice on issues. And if you ever call for another protest in “liberal” West Hollywood again…What did Boy George say I’d tumble for ya! I’d tumble for ya!
DON’T QUIT, JAZZY YOUR DOING A GREAT JOB. AND JUST THINK,YOU SAT AT YOUR DESK AND DID IT. “EDWARDS IN 2008″
SQL Minstrel show lover, give it up already.
awwww..
poor old fat ass “Jasmeeen”
She loves to have other people’s shows “shut down” so she can show her “power”..
but when her obese ass is shown on tv speaking all mammy wide-eyed ebonics and mis-pronouncing her words, she is suddenly the “victim” of the NAACP.. wah wahhhh.. notice how FAST she took off the picture of her fat ass on “TV ONE” interview.”
so what exactly has she accompished? Last time I checked, Shirley Q. Liquor is going stronger than ever, Jennifer Daniels got exposed as an undergrad moron, Rod McCollum was busted as a “Jasymite” copycat and you are still being busted by the FBI for malicious harrassment.
Is that what being “a lady and a journalist” means?
You go girl. You really are the BEST the African community has to offer. Seriously. Keep speaking out. The comedy writes itself.
^^ Pathetic hater.
who was yo friend who killed itself? We was hoping it was Monica “Aids Infested” Trandgendered Roberts. Who was the bitch got run over by the car?
I love how you show your fat pregant ass picture from 10 years ago. Why is your mouth so wide?
What do “happy to be nappy” mean? That sound racist. LOL
Obama will for sure now lose that you have gave your bald head ass bulldagga endorsements.
do us a favor and get real drunk and write one of your drunk ass blog entries that you have to delete the next day when you wake up and realize you spelled everthing in Ebonics.
LOL. You are a comedy genius.
Seriously, who is that ***** trash fool above? You should have enough respect and class for yourself to never believe it is ok to disrespect Jasmyne Cannick. So do us all a favor and become more productive with your time. It is obvious your grammer is below average expectations.
Jasmyne, please do not let haters bother you. They hate on me too. It is obvious the above individual has serious issues. His grammar is very trashy. D’Escalade Venereum Gonorrhead, I am not trying to be disrespectful to you. However, why would you visit jasmynecannick.com and make disparaging comments about her? Do you have something better to do with your time, instead of typing malice comments about people? Everyone should respect each other.
when will you racist morons stop posting on jasmyne’s website? it is really unbelieavable how hateful, ignorant, and myopic you are. jasmyne is not EVER going to acknowledge your sophomoric diatribes nor deviate from her convictions concerning your beloved minstrel artist charles knipp, so with all the sincerity i can muster, i respectfully request that all of you fuck off!
The SQL peeps only continue to prove Jasmyne’s and my points by showing their hate and ignorance for the world to see.
Many peeps hate truth tellers. It’s obvious from the reactions that Jasmyne gets.
Conservatives and haters have this tendency. When they are confronted with people that they are shown to be intellectually inferior to they respond with personal attacks in their feeble attempts to divert the debate.
It ain’t working. SQL is STILL as minstrel show and y’all can continue to hate Jasmyne, me and ‘errbody’ else who continue to point out that simple truth.
It just continues to amaze me the nastiness that is posted against Jasmyne on her site. I wish these little assholes would print their real name.
This is complete utter bullshit. People feel as if they can say anything they want to a woman, you don’t see this type of crap on people who have penises sites. Of course the JC has bigger “balls” than most dude bloggers since she has left her comments section unmoderated.
Teka
“No, they’d rather spend their time trying to figure out how to get little ole’ insignificant me to shut up. ”
*****
That’s the thing, sister, you’re far from insignificant. That’s why they are trying to shut you up. Your blogs and columns bring voice to thousands of Black SGL people who ARE silenced through their own fear and other’s intimidation. Bearing the cross of being the bull’s eye is so difficult that few people do it. Yet, few significant social changes come without a martyr. I send you my blessings in this struggle.
Go here:
http://www.lucyindisguise.com/cgi-bin/cart.pl?db=maskslatex.txt
Select Items 351-397 at the bottom of the page.
Miss Jasmine: What’s the difference between anyone WHITE OR BLACK wearing either the George Washington mask, the Tupac mask, the Uncle Sam mask, the Tiger Woods mask, the Queen Elizableth mask, the Al Sharpton Mask, he Richard Nixon mask, or the Ubangi mask?
Answer: Nothing! They were all created as novelties for entertainment purposes. If you don’t like how any of the masks are done, you have the personal freedom to pick out something else.
It’s as simple as that.
Instead of being a judge on what isn’t funny, your time would be better spent doing something useful that would have a positive impact in this world like teaching kids to read no matter what race they happen to be.
m626k