Oprah discusses the aftermath of the Imus controversy

A few bloggers (myself included) were a bit perplexed last week during the peak of the Imus controversy. Oprah, one of the most (if not THE MOST) powerful black women in the world, didn't really speak out about Imus' comments, but instead featuring a segment where audience members learned to "Lean with it, rock with it" and do that stupid motorcycle dance.

She allotted a few minutes to speak with the Reutgers (hope I spelled that right) women's basketball team and praised them for their grace, but that was about it.

But I knew she wouldn't just let it go. Today and tomorrow, Oprah is dedicating her show to talk about the double standard that exists in America. How is it that a white man disses us and we get all up in arms, but if a black man does the same thing, we accept it?

I'm going to watch today, but I'm really looking forward to tomorrow, when Russell Simmons and Common come on the show to give their opinions. I'm really curious to hear Russell's viewpoint and Common too. I like Common (although I haven't listened to his whole CD and have no idea if his lyrics are really as positive as people claim), but I wonder if Oprah will ask him how he feels about collaborating with artists whose message really isn't that positive. Stay tuned...

And on a different note, why is it that every time there's a controversy concerning black folks, Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson come running into the spotlight? Maybe their day-to-day work isn't highlighted, but it seems like I always see them being "reactive" instead of proactive.

I really hope this is a continued discussion, not just a hot topic of the moment.

And, in totally unrelated news, please send a prayer to the families of the victims at Virginia Tech and the students, faculty and staff. May God be with them.