Shaq apologizes

[Chi]

Shaq says sorry (http://espn.go.com/nba/news/2003/0110/1490645.html)


Friday, January 10

Shaq says mock accent was used jokingly

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Associated Press


LOS ANGELES -- The Lakers' Shaquille O'Neal said he was joking, not being a racist, when he used a mock Chinese accent while talking about Houston center Yao Ming.


O'Neal




A columnist for AsianWeek complained in his newspaper that O'Neal made several derogatory comments recently about Yao, with the Lakers' center saying, "Tell Yao Ming, 'ching-chong-yang-wah-ah-soh.'''


"I said it jokingly, so this guy was just trying to stir something up that's not there. He's just somebody who doesn't have a sense of humor, like I do. I don't have to have a response to that (the charges of racism) because the people who know me know I'm not,'' O'Neal said Friday before Los Angeles' game against Cleveland.


"I mean, if I was the first one to do it, and the only one to do it, I could see what they're talking about. But if I offended anybody, I apologize.''


Yao, asked about the comments prior to Houston's game at Atlanta, said he believed O'Neal was joking.


"There are a lot of difficulties in two different cultures understanding each other. Especially two very large countries. The world is getting smaller and I think it's important to have a greater understanding of other cultures. I believe Shaquille O'Neal was joking but I think that a lot of Asian people don't understand that kind of joke,'' Yao said.


"Chinese is hard to learn. I had trouble with it when I was little,'' Yao joked.


O'Neal recently received an NAACP Young Leaders Award.


He acknowledged that his attempts at humor don't always work.


"Over my 11 years in the NBA, I know for a fact that most of you guys are going to write what you want to write, and it's our job to either defend it or just let it go. At times I try to be a comedian,'' he said. "Sometimes I make a good joke and sometimes it's a bad joke.


"That's just the ups and downs of trying to be a comedian.''


Lakers coach Phil Jackson was certain O'Neal was just kidding.


"It's an unfortunate situation. I'm sure that Shaq had no meaning like that behind it. I'm sure he was just doing something that was fun-loving or something he thought was humorous,'' Jackson said.


"The meeting between Shaq and Yao Ming next Friday (in Houston ) is going to be an interesting one, anyway, so it should bring a lot of interest to the game.''


Yao is leading O'Neal for the starting Western Conference center spot in fan balloting for the NBA All-Star game.

[achtungbaby]

Kudos to Asianweek for getting Shaq to respond to this.

[Arb Nam]

About time someone beats that stupid sense of humor outta him.

[lethal]

Wow, I'm impressed that there was an apology. I'm not all that impressed with the apology itself, but it was more than I was hoping for.

Shaq's still a fool in my book though.

[AliBabaIncorporated]

Trent Lott gave a half-assed apology, but denying he was being racist, for making a vague statement praising some old geezer at his 100th birthday party, and he got drummed outta polite society by his own political party, and forced into giving a real apology which admitted his racism. Shaq, to whom a lot more people pay attention, makes a half-assed apology, while also denying his racism, for yelling out "ching chong" bullshit while trash-talking, and it's all good. :angry:

[Jenny]

That apology was weak. :pissed:

[achtungbaby]

Originally posted by AliBabaIncorporated@Jan 11 2003, 01:45 AM
Trent Lott gave a half-assed apology, but denying he was being racist, for making a vague statement praising some old geezer at his 100th birthday party, and he got drummed outta polite society by his own political party, and forced into giving a real apology which admitted his racism.
Personally, I didn't think it was necessary for Lott to resign (they're just replacing him with another Republican anyway), but he really did back himself into a corner on that one. Then again, there probably wasn't anywhere he could go, given his record on race. And you're right -- he was cannibalized by his own, particulary Dubya, who Lott's been a strong supporter of.

Anyone have a clip of Shaq's initial "joke"?

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by lethalweapon@Jan 11 2003, 04:39 AM
Wow, I'm impressed that there was an apology. I'm not all that impressed with the apology itself, but it was more than I was hoping for.

Shaq's still a fool in my book though.
Yah, I'm with you.

[iris]

Originally posted by Chi@Jan 11 2003, 04:09 PM
Shaq says sorry (http://espn.go.com/nba/news/2003/0110/1490645.html)


Friday, January 10

Shaq says mock accent was used jokingly

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"I said it jokingly, so this guy was just trying to stir something up that's not there. He's just somebody who doesn't have a sense of humor, like I do. I don't have to have a response to that (the charges of racism) because the people who know me know I'm not,'' O'Neal said Friday before Los Angeles' game against Cleveland.


"I mean, if I was the first one to do it, and the only one to do it, I could see what they're talking about. But if I offended anybody, I apologize.''
What the hell is that? That goes in line with what my mom always told me, "if everyone jumped off a cliff, would you jump off one also?" Just because several people in this world may be ignorant, doesn't give Shaq the permission to be so. Majority agreement is not always morally right, much less socially correct or acceptable. Props to Yao Ming for handling the situation with grace.

[rakovlam]

better learn from Yao Ming on how to handle situations like this. Don't sue, don't call the ACLU or the NAACP, just prove them wrong. January 17, Rockets vs Lakers, one of them is getting owned.

[Rogmok]

yeah.. the apology was a litte half-assed..

[SunWuKong]

I don't have to have a response to that (the charges of racism) because the people who know me know I'm not

that really makes me wonder what is considered "acceptable" in his social circles.


anyway, i think what he gave was better than nothing.

[Hanuman]

So he's not racist? Just stupid? That's his defense? It's a weak apology, and if some star or athlete were to make fun of gays in a 'joking manner' it would be ok? Or how about that Fuzzy Zoeller, Tiger Woods fiasco. Wasn't that a 'joke'? Shaq is getting off way too easy on this one.

[pfc beansprout]

Originally posted by Tawee@Jan 11 2003, 01:52 PM
So he's not racist? Just stupid? That's his defense? It's a weak apology, and if some star or athlete were to make fun of gays in a 'joking manner' it would be ok? Or how about that Fuzzy Zoeller, Tiger Woods fiasco. Wasn't that a 'joke'? Shaq is getting off way too easy on this one.
-agree w/u here...fuzzy got drilled for his "comic act." nba brass is weak for not coming foward....and yao...i hate to say it, but i honestly think it was the other way around; "I believe Shaquille O'Neal was joking but I think that a lot of Asian people don't understand that kind of joke..." i honestly believe him, coming from china, where he was the majority, does not yet know how much poor taste that COMMENT, not joke, was....

[SunWuKong]

shit what else is new. make fun of asian people, you're "joking". make fun of blacks, you're racist.

[Green_Circle]

How about if shaq pays or contributes $100,000 toward Chinese community groups as a show of good faith. This would also show that he is the bigger man and had stepped forward to put his money where his mouth is and is truly sorry for his indiscretions. It would also show the world that he can take his lumps just like anyone else who has ever had to pay a fine or reparation. It would also show his many young fans and followers, in the ghetto and wherever they are how not to disrespect other people. The key is to step forward himself without being prodded or coerced. This way he can still save face and walk tall. As it looks now, he seems like a cornered rat.



:cry:

[Hito]

He needs to be made to do community work for asian causes and fork over some of his money as well.

THe sad truth tho is that shaq makes white folks too much money for them to fire him.

[Craig]

http://www.csulb.edu/~gnarvas/images/shaqad2.gif

[iris]

Where in the world did you get that Craig?

I am convinced Craig is not human, but an incredible search engine with unforeseen powers.

[lethal]

Not unforseen powers, but unlimited powers.

Shaq and Yao play soon. We'll see what happens on the court.

[contra_diction]

i really like the way that Yao Ming handled his. that was incredibly mature. as for Shaq, man, i don't about him. stick to basketball, guys.
*muttering* trying to be a comedian *shaking head in disappointment*

[Dean]

I don't think Shaq is a racist because of one sad comment but his words are offensive. Besides, he's a dumb jock anyway.

It's a shame the media hasn't shed light on this as much as the Trent Lott issue. Considering that Rupert Mudoch, head of FOX TV, hasn't loosened his stable Asian-American women reporters on this issue, is strange.

:dance:

[thaite]

"I don't have to have a response to that (the charges of racism) because the people who know me know I'm not,'' O'Neal said..."

Well, that outright is just a refusal to address the situation. Yup, he's a fool.

Arb Nam, are you Thai?

[oobermieoo]

if any of you are interested there is a petition online concerning this issue. Shaq Petition (http://www.petitiononline.com/Shaq/petition.html)

[loserbutt]

I say that we force shaq to tour the LA chinatown, put on some asian garb, and kiss asian babies :)

[GraceShieh]

Why don't we do something to show Shaq what we think? His most prominent current endorsements are as follows:


BURGER KING: Customer Relations, 5505 Blue Lagoon Drive, Miami, Florida 33126, (305) 378-3535

NESTLE: (800) 225-2270, e-Mail: http://www.nestleusa.com/costumerService/c.../contact_us.asp (http://www.nestleusa.com/costumerService/contact_us.asp)

PEPSI (Pepsi, Sierra Mist, Mountain Dew, Aquafina, Lipton Brisk): Trisha Linch, 700 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY 10577, (914) 253-2000

RADIO SHACK: Jim McDonald, (817) 415-3700, e-Mail: media.relations@radioshack.com

SWATCH: The Swatch Group, Inc., P.O. Box 3610, Lancaster, PA 17604, e-Mail: http://www.swatch.com/fs_index.php?haupt=i...&unter=contacts (http://www.swatch.com/fs_index.php?haupt=information&unter=contacts)

[AliBabaIncorporated]

Originally posted by tazadar@Jan 14 2003, 12:49 PM
Here's another article on Shaq's apology.
damn, this may be the first Emil Guillermo article I've seen that I actually agree with ... dammit and I had the same thought before he published his article ...

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by SunWuKung@Jan 11 2003, 04:09 PM

that really makes me wonder what is considered "acceptable" in his social circles.


anyway, i think what he gave was better than nothing.
I don't really think he's racist.

[Craig]

http://www.asianguy.com/shaq/shaqboard.jpg

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 14 2003, 06:11 PM

Well, that outright is just a refusal to address the situation. Yup, he's a fool.

Arb Nam, are you Thai?
There really isn't much of a situation if he's not making it one. I mean, you can't force him to un-say it.

[pfc beansprout]

well...this cat IS a role model, believe it or not...he really downplayed his appology big time, almost shifting the blame on the reporter....i dunno, he can "eat a dick" in my book.... <_<

[deez nuts]

Shaq should change that "S" Superman tatoo to a "T" for Teflon Man!

[thegoof]

so i'm saying... why is the asian community settling for such a half azzed apology... do you think other communities would settle for something so weak? imagine yao ming made a joke with the word "n!gga", would the NAACP just stand around and do nothing... would the NBA let that just slide... would the news only make it to some obscure newsletter, or would it make it to the front page of a major periodical? To say that it was just a joke doesn't do anything, becuz he's such a high profile person, it just makes those types of joke acceptable if you follow it up with "hey, i was just joking and everyone else is doing it"...

[thaite]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 14 2003, 05:17 PM
There really isn't much of a situation if he's not making it one. I mean, you can't force him to un-say it.
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.

[pfc beansprout]

oh..sorry if repost...bill walton had somethin to say.......
http://espn.go.com/nba/columns/walton_bill...ll/1493849.html (http://espn.go.com/nba/columns/walton_bill/1493849.html)




Thursday, January 16

Shaq should've thought before he spoke

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Bill Walton
Special to ESPN.com


How many ears must one man have before he can hear people cry?

Although the comments have been reported before, the recent release of recordings of Shaquille O'Neal mocking, criticizing and generally disrespecting Yao Ming are startling.


Being bigger than the other kids while growing up, Shaq knows what it's like to be different.
How disappointing for Shaq -- he should know better. He's the leader of the NBA and you expect more from him. Can you imagine Bill Russell, Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic, Hakeem or David Robinson saying anything like this?

We constantly hear from people like Shaq that they want to be respected. Well, to get respect, you must give respect. We live in a world and society where diversity needs to be encouraged not discouraged. If Shaq were your 10-year-old child, what would you do or say to him after making such comments?

What if Yao Ming had said something about Shaq's ethnicity? You can imagine the outcry and it would be justified. But it has to cut both ways. Where is Jessie Jackson? Where is Al Sharpton? Where is Johnnie Cochran?

Yao Ming has far too much class to get involved in this nonsense but you know it has to hurt. With the way he has been mistreated, manhandled and butchered by so many for simply coming here to play basketball -- something he was asked to do -- he must be asking himself, "What is going on here?"

There is no place in our world for Shaq's intolerance and insensitivity. And this from a man who has as much experience and knowledge in dealing with the media as anyone alive today. Shaq is a man who has obviously been teased and made fun of a lot in his life because he is visually different from what some consider the "norm." He can't like it when it happens to him -- so why this?

And as far as Shaq's 'apology' is concerned, well, I don't get it when someone says, 'IF I offended anyone, I'm sorry.' That tactic really worked well for Trent Lott.


If that is what he is saying publicly ... then what can he be thinking privately?

And as far as Shaq's "apology" is concerned, well, I don't get it when someone says, "IF I offended anyone, I'm sorry." That tactic really worked well for Trent Lott.

But is this any worse than what the Miami Heat did when Yao Ming came to play in South Florida and the Heat -- as a promotion -- handed out fortune cookies? You can never ignore or rank levels of intolerance of any nature.

Just remember the quote on the wall at the Holocaust Museum in our Washington, D.C. that tells the story of the people who didn't complain or object to the mistreatment of others. Their final lament was "That when they finally came for me, there was nobody left to complain."


How many times can a man turn his head, pretending he just doesn't see?

Bill Walton, who is an NBA analyst for ESPN, is a regular contributor to ESPN.com.

[deez nuts]

Wow PFC. I've always hated how Walton announced the NBA games. I found him annoying as hell.

Now I know that he's still an annoying announcer with a smart head on his shoulders.

[SunWuKong]

coverage by ESPN.com
nice

[threemileisle]

It turns out the 'official' national chinese organization isn't letting it slide afterall. It seems kind of sad to me that it takes all this publicity, the huge public outcry for them to finally condemn it.. instead of taking the initiative as should be expected from their positions of leadership. But better late than never.

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news/20030116/...yaoremarks.html (http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news/20030116/shaqyaoremarks.html)

January 16, 2003

HOUSTON (Ticker) - The Organization of Chinese Americans will hold a news conference Friday to condemn the derogatory remarks Los Angeles Lakers center Shaquille O'Neal made about Houston Rockets center Yao Ming in June.

The news conference will be in front of the Compaq Center at 4 p.m. EST, hours before O'Neal and Yao are scheduled to meet on the court for the first time.

Despite the protest's location, the Rockets were unaware of any gathering late Thursday afternoon. The Lakers were unavailable for comment.

On Thursday, the Organization of Chinese Americans (OCA) released a statement and called on the NBA to take a pro-active approach toward such racism.

According to the OCA, O'Neal's "derogatory and racial taunt 'ching-chong-yang-wah-ah-soh' aimed at Yao" on June 28 "was racially offensive and particularly hurtful to the millions of Asian Americans" in the United States.

O'Neal subsequently claimed his statement was just a joke. The OCA's statement said that was a "misguided attempt to diffuse the public's outrage over his remarks and a hollow excuse to justify his prior racist statement."

"Rather than sincerely apologize for being insensitive and unaware of the hurtful impact of what he claims was a joke, Mr. O'Neal issued a statement blaming those who accuse him of making inappropriate remarks of misunderstanding his humor," the statement added.

Charlene Tsang-Kao, the president of Houston's OCA chapter, added that O'Neal "also attempted to excuse his behavior by claiming he is not the first and only one to use these words."

Because of O'Neal's actions, the OCA and other Asian American advocacy groups have called on the leadership of the NBA to:

-- encourage Mr. O'Neal to re-examine his statements and issue a sincere, unqualified apology to Mr. Yao and all Americans for his rhetoric.

-- issue a statement denouncing race-based "taunts" by all NBA personnel.

-- require diversity awareness seminars for all NBA personnel, including its players and coaching staff.

-- prepare a public service announcement to educate all Americans, in particular, our youth, by denouncing race-based taunting.

Raymond Wong, the national president of OCA, said the situation goes beyond Yao or even Asian Americans.

"We hope the positive outcome of what has happened, the lesson we can learn, is for all of us to re-affirm our respect and consideration for one another, not matter what color, what nationality or what sport," he added.

[pfc beansprout]

Originally posted by Chasiubao_Boy@Jan 16 2003, 05:22 PM
Wow PFC. I've always hated how Walton announced the NBA games. I found him annoying as hell.

Now I know that he's still an annoying announcer with a smart head on his shoulders.
heeeelll yeah...but here he's not speakin :lol: just writing....he is one of the most annoying commentators out there....

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 16 2003, 07:47 PM
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.
I don't get why the ENTIRE Asian-American community is in such an uproar about this.

Who cares? When I want to talk shit to somebody, I find something about that person to pick on and use it. That doesn't mean that I'm talking shit to EVERYBODY who has those qualities. Shaq chose Yao Ming's ethnicity. Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it. I really couldn't give a rats ass what Shaq's got against Asians. Or against Yao.

But I totally hear ya'll with the whole... double standard thing. But what I want to see happen is the exact opposite of what most of ya'll want to see happen. I couldn't care less if Shaq makes an apology to the Asian community. I don't think the Asian community really NEEDS or DESERVES an apology. He didn't do anything to me. I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.

But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. He didn't exactly get away with this.

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 16 2003, 06:59 PM
I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.


Yah, that's my main gripe from the start. And that Shaq's comments would open a floodgate. It's talkig trash and just that. But, if the shoe was on the other foot and Yao said it, he would've gotten more shit than Shaq.

[Dean]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 16 2003, 03:59 PM



But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. &nbsp;He didn't exactly get away with this.
Well, thats the double standard, Shaq's comments are NOT getting airplay. As I stated before, I don't feel he's racist but his comments are disgusting. As a celebrity, he shouldn't be allowed to get away with comments like this and should apologize to his mama and Yao Ming, IF NOT US at least.

Props to Yao Ming for showing grace under fire.

[iris]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 07:59 AM
Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 16 2003, 07:47 PM
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.
I don't get why the ENTIRE Asian-American community is in such an uproar about this.

Who cares? When I want to talk shit to somebody, I find something about that person to pick on and use it. That doesn't mean that I'm talking shit to EVERYBODY who has those qualities. Shaq chose Yao Ming's ethnicity. Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it. I really couldn't give a rats ass what Shaq's got against Asians. Or against Yao.

But I totally hear ya'll with the whole... double standard thing. But what I want to see happen is the exact opposite of what most of ya'll want to see happen. I couldn't care less if Shaq makes an apology to the Asian community. I don't think the Asian community really NEEDS or DESERVES an apology. He didn't do anything to me. I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.

But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. He didn't exactly get away with this.
When you find something to "pick" on about others, it's usually a negative quality they have. No one can choose their ethnicity or race and therefore it should not be seen as a detrimental trait or attribute.

When you use a person's race in a derogatory fashion, you see it as a negative characteristic and that is racism because you consciously or unconsciously see the whole ethnicity is that light. Why else would you use something that is otherwise harmless and twist it into something offensive to have.

The Asian community is concerned with his comment because Shaq, while not the best "leader" we may have, is influential towards kids and adults alike. To ignore his comment is to perpetuate biogtry. I would prefer that even the least recognized person be educated when his comments are discriminatory, but at least that person doesn't reach millions like Shaq does. To excuse him of it because he is famous or incredibly stupid is ridiculous. Because he is ignorant is the reason why he should be educated. The Asian community deserves an apology less than Shaq needs to recognize what he did was racist. An apology is an acknowledgement of wrong-doing as there was in this case.

The slap on his hands was barely worth the effort (or lack of effort) Shaq used in his apology whereas it is highly possible that if Yao Ming made bigoted comments toward Shaq, Jackson would be all over his back. This is due to the strong political movement African-Americans have built, unlike Asian-Americans. If we want something done as a minority race, we need to be the ones to do something about it because no one will do it for us.

[pfc beansprout]

i don't know...what's said was said...he "apologized"...i don't think we should give him more flak for it...yeah, it's fucked up, but how i see it..."at least we know" what kinda dude he is...that's how i see it...he can be a shitbird...he lost fans...o wells...we shouldn't dwell on this-we should 'keep an eye' on this; see if anything else comes outta his grill...but i think we should honestly move on............

[thegoof]

personally, i think racial jokes are funny... but its all about how it's delivered, and who its delivered by, sorta like a black person can call another black person "nigga" but other races really shouldn't do that... no doubt that shaq was joking, and that it wasn't malicious in nature, but he is a highly visible person... for him not to accept that it was wrong is to teach little kids to do the same thing... and do you really want some lil black or white kid coming up to you and saying ignorant sht like that?!?

[SunWuKong]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 16 2003, 06:59 PM
Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it.
that's cool. unfortunately not everybody would have that experience. and if a stranger came up to me and did that, i'd think he/she was racist.

[AliBabaIncorporated]

Originally posted by iris@Jan 16 2003, 10:11 PM
If we want something done as a minority race, we need to be the ones to do something about it because no one will do it for us.
Actually, for example to refer to the Trent Lott case again, Jackson, Sharpton, and the usual suspects barely uttered a peep. They didn't have to, they have the political class well trained. It was largely white Republican commentators calling for Lott's head. In short, white politicians bitch each other out for being racist to blacks, but not to Asians.

[iris]

I know. I was talking about Asians having to do things ourselves to get results because blacks already have a strong political force that can enforce and sit on politicians shoulders as a watchdog.

[contra_diction]

O'Neal's shit don't stink I guess.

[Jenny]

Now that I think about it, I think Asian-Americans are getting a little too carried away with this whole thing. What Shaq said was inappropriate but I don't think he himself is really racist. We've already confirmed the fact that he's just really bad with jokes [I recall he said something about a b-ball player from Africa..?]. I think Shaq's learned his lesson.

[iris]

I don't think anyone cares about Shaq. Everyone accepts that he's an ignorant fool. What the Asian community is concerned about is that actions like these are accepted as the social norm because of institutionalized racism such as glass ceilings for Asians, or a lack of Asians in politics.

The reason why the African-American movement is sucessful is because they forced the general population to realize that actions have consequences. Just because it's not segregation or lynchings doesn't mean it's not wrong. We don't measure morality by the intensity of an event. An incident is either racist or not. It cannot be a "little" racist.

The Asian community sees this unfortunate event as something that could contribute to the societal acceptance of racism when it is utilized in the form of comedy or humour and there is nothing funny about racism. Children learn from role models and though he shouldn't be one, he is one to them. What they learn from this event is that: it's okay to make fun of Asians and if you get caught, a lame apology blaming others will make everything okay. From his apology, it also makes it seem that racism is acceptable when used as a funny funny joke and Asian people can't take jokes.

It's not Shaq that lingers in the mind. I don't give a shit about how he leads his life, but when his statement have future and current impact on my ethnic group and children and adults alike, then he better own up to his "mistakes" a lot better than he did here.

I highly doubt he's learned his lesson. I see no proof of it. Did he issue a sincere apology to replace his first flippant one? No. Did he even acknowledge what he did was wrong? No. He excused himself by ascribing to sheep mentality. What he probably thinks is, no one is pressuring me anymore. Hey, next time this happens, I can just blame it on others again and get away with it.

[contra_diction]

my thoughts exactly.

[pfc beansprout]

-another article...BUT...i thought wang zhizhi sp? has gotta be before yao (as first chinese bballer)..
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------






Crossing The Line
By Dan Patrick


It's not Wilt Chamberlain-Bill Russell, but with a shortage of talented centers in the NBA, Shaquille O'Neal-Yao Ming is the closest we'll get to a big-time big man matchup. And with the additional intrigue derived from Shaq's highly publicized comments to Yao in "mock Chinese," the Lakers-Rockets showdown is suddenly center stage Friday night.


It didn't take long for Yao to dominate on the court.


Shaq made similar comments on my radio program several months ago. Yet the uproar is suspiciously in sync with one of the better matchups of the season. The controversy has no doubt become a contrived storyline heading into the game. But there is still a larger issue to consider and explore.

When Shaq was a guest on the program in early September, the interview was largely consumed by deprecating humor, targeted both at himself and others. Shaq was preparing to host a roast for Dallas Cowboys running back Emmitt Smith, and his humor was at full throttle. During the interview, he called Smith a "watermelon head" and harassed Mark Madsen's dancing ability -- or, rather, his lack thereof.

We laughed and joked and poked fun at ourselves as well as others whom he and/or I know on a personal level. Yao was no exception. And at the conclusion of the interview, when Shaq lightheartedly mocked the Chinese dialect, we all laughed.

In retrospect, it's clear that both Shaq's comments and our encouragement were insensitive -- an attempt at humor with a hint of ignorance, crossing the line between humor and disrespect. But I don't believe that makes Shaq a racist.

In retrospect, it's clear that both Shaq's comments and our encouragement were insensitive.

Had the exchange occurred in the presence of Yao, knowing his keen sense of humor, the imitation most likely would not have garnered any ill will. I would guess that Yao might respond with his best gangsta-rap impression and everyone would laugh. No harm, no foul. Inner circles of friends often poke fun at stereotypes and other sensitive issues -- ironically, it's often a sign of closeness and respect.

But once the comments are made for public consumption, the matter immediately extends beyond the parties involved and becomes a larger issue, open to both debate and scrutiny. As a public figure, Shaq should have known better. He slid under the radar the first time but was ultimately called out on his repeat offense.

Shaq has since apologized to Yao. And in the everyday world, that should suffice -- subject closed. But as the first Chinese player in the NBA, Yao is in fact a pioneer. With that comes the additional responsibility of role model and spokesman for the entire Chinese population. So Yao is in a precarious position. If he shrugs off the comments, he'll now doubt be criticized for becoming Americanized.

It's amazing how a seemingly innocent joke creates such worldwide consequences.

While playing up stereotypes is understood in personal settings, there's no place for it in the public forum. But knowing Shaq, I'm sure he didn't mean to hurt anyone's feelings. The only hurtin' he hopes to cause is on the court Friday night.


Send this story to

[blue hoodie]

Like many others, I didn't feel like Shaq apologized properly. In fact, his apology was more like an insult than anything else. So here are two petitions to let Shaq know how much of a fucking dumbass he is and that he should apologize properly. Some might say that it's just Shaq and nobody should take him seriously, but he is a role model to millions of ppl, and this type of shit shouldn't be ignored or taken lightly.


http://www.petitiononline.com/Shaq/petition.html

and

http://www.petitiononline.com/OCA/petition.html

(this one is a totally different petition to the Commissioner of the NBA)

[Jenny]

Originally posted by iris@Jan 17 2003, 02:12 AM
I don't think anyone cares about Shaq. Everyone accepts that he's an ignorant fool. What the Asian community is concerned about is that actions like these are accepted as the social norm because of institutionalized racism such as glass ceilings for Asians, or a lack of Asians in politics.

The reason why the African-American movement is sucessful is because they forced the general population to realize that actions have consequences. Just because it's not segregation or lynchings doesn't mean it's not wrong. We don't measure morality by the intensity of an event. An incident is either racist or not. It cannot be a "little" racist.

The Asian community sees this unfortunate event as something that could contribute to the societal acceptance of racism when it is utilized in the form of comedy or humour and there is nothing funny about racism. Children learn from role models and though he shouldn't be one, he is one to them. What they learn from this event is that: it's okay to make fun of Asians and if you get caught, a lame apology blaming others will make everything okay. From his apology, it also makes it seem that racism is acceptable when used as a funny funny joke and Asian people can't take jokes.

It's not Shaq that lingers in the mind. I don't give a shit about how he leads his life, but when his statement have future and current impact on my ethnic group and children and adults alike, then he better own up to his "mistakes" a lot better than he did here.

I highly doubt he's learned his lesson. I see no proof of it. Did he issue a sincere apology to replace his first flippant one? No. Did he even acknowledge what he did was wrong? No. He excused himself by ascribing to sheep mentality. What he probably thinks is, no one is pressuring me anymore. Hey, next time this happens, I can just blame it on others again and get away with it.
Touche.

[DaBestSpooner]

shaq should have been penalized, like fuzzy zoeller was. Fuzzy Zoeller lost all his endorsements when he made that comment about tiger woods picking fried chicken and collard greens.

Then again shaq's career is going downhill, his endorsements have been dropping him, he's down to radioshack, swatch, pepsi and burger king, not exactly top tier products. he's the most famous player in the league and his shoe sponsor dropped him, that tells you where he's headed.

btw yao ming is not the first chinese player in the nba

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by DaBestSpooner@Jan 17 2003, 03:17 PM


btw yao ming is not the first chinese player in the nba
Yeah I think it was that point guard guy that the Spurs drafted.

Forgot his name. I think Craig mentioned it.

[Hanuman]

Wow, this thread is still going on? I guess alot of people have strong feelings about this incident. I can understand why an ignorant buffon could do something like this and honestly think it was just a bad joke (he's moron). Ignorance is still no excuse. I know that a lot of other people are thinking that we're making a big deal out of nothing. I remember a while back a hasidic jew accidentally ran over a black child and killed him. It was an accident, but local black activists tried to bill it as a racial incident. I remember being angry at these people for making an issue where there isn't one.

This in my opinion is not the same sort of incidence. This is a man who is closely watched and is very often in the limelight. I'm a little dismayed that he could make an ignorant (bordering on racist) joke and not be called out on it. Many people believe that we're reaching, by trying to slam on him, but if not us now? Then who? When? Mainstream media may not want it, but lets bring it to them anyway. This isn't that offensive? Then lets wait until a more offensive incident happens. How about if Shaq walks onto the court wearing a Kung Fool mask. Now that would be 'funny'! It's only a joke. I can't help but get the feeling that some how the jokes on us.

[thaite]

http://images.chron.com/content/news/photos/03/01/17/shaqprotest2.jpg

Yao finally battles Shaq, the `mountain' in his way (http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/sports/1740015)

[deez nuts]

Tonight's game is gonna be hot!

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by iris@Jan 17 2003, 03:11 AM
Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 07:59 AM
Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 16 2003, 07:47 PM
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.
I don't get why the ENTIRE Asian-American community is in such an uproar about this.

Who cares? When I want to talk shit to somebody, I find something about that person to pick on and use it. That doesn't mean that I'm talking shit to EVERYBODY who has those qualities. Shaq chose Yao Ming's ethnicity. Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it. I really couldn't give a rats ass what Shaq's got against Asians. Or against Yao.

But I totally hear ya'll with the whole... double standard thing. But what I want to see happen is the exact opposite of what most of ya'll want to see happen. I couldn't care less if Shaq makes an apology to the Asian community. I don't think the Asian community really NEEDS or DESERVES an apology. He didn't do anything to me. I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.

But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. He didn't exactly get away with this.
When you find something to "pick" on about others, it's usually a negative quality they have. No one can choose their ethnicity or race and therefore it should not be seen as a detrimental trait or attribute.

When you use a person's race in a derogatory fashion, you see it as a negative characteristic and that is racism because you consciously or unconsciously see the whole ethnicity is that light. Why else would you use something that is otherwise harmless and twist it into something offensive to have.

The Asian community is concerned with his comment because Shaq, while not the best "leader" we may have, is influential towards kids and adults alike. To ignore his comment is to perpetuate biogtry. I would prefer that even the least recognized person be educated when his comments are discriminatory, but at least that person doesn't reach millions like Shaq does. To excuse him of it because he is famous or incredibly stupid is ridiculous. Because he is ignorant is the reason why he should be educated. The Asian community deserves an apology less than Shaq needs to recognize what he did was racist. An apology is an acknowledgement of wrong-doing as there was in this case.

The slap on his hands was barely worth the effort (or lack of effort) Shaq used in his apology whereas it is highly possible that if Yao Ming made bigoted comments toward Shaq, Jackson would be all over his back. This is due to the strong political movement African-Americans have built, unlike Asian-Americans. If we want something done as a minority race, we need to be the ones to do something about it because no one will do it for us.
I don't think that's necessarily true. Some people just wanna say something derogatory about somebody else, it doesn't matter WHAT they choose to say. Often times things like ethnicity or physical characteristics ARE the things that are picked on. And not necessarily because they are a detrimental trait. Just because the person doing the bullying wants to find SOMETHING to say... and often those things are the easiest things to pick on.

It's not *ASIANS* he's talking shit on... It's Yao Ming. Sometimes when I'm pissed and I want to be a dick to somebody, I'll talk shit and call them something mean that could have to do with looks or race or something, but it's not because I systematically hate that race or people with those physical attributes. I'm sure you've heard somebody call somebody else a "fat dumbass" or something along those lines... but that doesn't mean that the person who says that hates all fat people. It's just that particular one they're calling the name that they think is a dumbass. That doesn't make you see ALL fat people in that night, does it?

I just think this is Yao Ming's fight. And I never said he should be excused because he's famous. If he wasn't famous, nobody would be giving him this shit. And that's the truth. I think the negative publicity surrounding his name (everybody calls him a racist now) is more than just a slap on his wrist.

I don't really get the big deal. To me, this isn't a race issue. It's an issue about Shaq not being able to keep his dumbass mouth shut... and it'll all be resolved tonight.

[angel nympho]

Shaq's gonna put an elbow in Yao Ming's face, I bet. It's gonna be messy.

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 08:37 PM
Shaq's gonna put an elbow in Yao Ming's face, I bet. It's gonna be messy.
Won't be the first time a black man beats up on an Asian man. Hahaha j/k!

Yao use some of that N.B.G. Kung fu or whip out the N.B.G. Bo stick!

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by Chasiubao_Boy@Jan 18 2003, 01:50 AM
Won't be the first time a black man beats up on an Asian man. Hahaha j/k!

Yao use some of that N.B.G. Kung fu or whip out the N.B.G. Bo stick!
Dood, no way, I wanna see Shaq throw an elbow at Yao Ming and watch the crowd go agro on him.

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 08:51 PM
Originally posted by Chasiubao_Boy@Jan 18 2003, 01:50 AM
Won't be the first time a black man beats up on an Asian man. &nbsp;Hahaha j/k!

Yao use some of that N.B.G. &nbsp;Kung fu or whip out the N.B.G. &nbsp;Bo stick!
Dood, no way, I wanna see Shaq throw an elbow at Yao Ming and watch the crowd go agro on him.
Hahahah ur good...all that brains with a bod!

[moxie]

"I mean, if I was the first one to do it, and the only one to do it, I could see what they're talking about. But if I offended anybody, I apologize.''

Does this logic make sense to anyone? I know he's not the brightest crayon in the box, but how does this make any sense at all? Does it justify a person being in the KKK just because he's not the only one to put on the white hat? I think someone should put it in those terms so that tall, dumb fuck can see the repercussions of his words. And it's so disappointing because he is a public figure and a person that a lot of young people look up to. Once he starts in on the "ching chong" shit soon you've got kids all over starting that shit up thinking it's ok because that dumb fuck said so. It's irresponsible. But obviously the ass doesn't think there's anything wrong with it which is why I definitely give kudos to Asian Week for calling him on it. Granted, the apology is far from adequate and further from sincere, but it's a step. I just wish he got more heat for it than he did.

[SunWuKong]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 08:35 PM
Originally posted by iris@Jan 17 2003, 03:11 AM
Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 07:59 AM
Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 16 2003, 07:47 PM
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.
I don't get why the ENTIRE Asian-American community is in such an uproar about this.

Who cares? When I want to talk shit to somebody, I find something about that person to pick on and use it. That doesn't mean that I'm talking shit to EVERYBODY who has those qualities. Shaq chose Yao Ming's ethnicity. Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it. I really couldn't give a rats ass what Shaq's got against Asians. Or against Yao.

But I totally hear ya'll with the whole... double standard thing. But what I want to see happen is the exact opposite of what most of ya'll want to see happen. I couldn't care less if Shaq makes an apology to the Asian community. I don't think the Asian community really NEEDS or DESERVES an apology. He didn't do anything to me. I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.

But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. He didn't exactly get away with this.
When you find something to "pick" on about others, it's usually a negative quality they have. No one can choose their ethnicity or race and therefore it should not be seen as a detrimental trait or attribute.

When you use a person's race in a derogatory fashion, you see it as a negative characteristic and that is racism because you consciously or unconsciously see the whole ethnicity is that light. Why else would you use something that is otherwise harmless and twist it into something offensive to have.

The Asian community is concerned with his comment because Shaq, while not the best "leader" we may have, is influential towards kids and adults alike. To ignore his comment is to perpetuate biogtry. I would prefer that even the least recognized person be educated when his comments are discriminatory, but at least that person doesn't reach millions like Shaq does. To excuse him of it because he is famous or incredibly stupid is ridiculous. Because he is ignorant is the reason why he should be educated. The Asian community deserves an apology less than Shaq needs to recognize what he did was racist. An apology is an acknowledgement of wrong-doing as there was in this case.

The slap on his hands was barely worth the effort (or lack of effort) Shaq used in his apology whereas it is highly possible that if Yao Ming made bigoted comments toward Shaq, Jackson would be all over his back. This is due to the strong political movement African-Americans have built, unlike Asian-Americans. If we want something done as a minority race, we need to be the ones to do something about it because no one will do it for us.
I don't think that's necessarily true. Some people just wanna say something derogatory about somebody else, it doesn't matter WHAT they choose to say. Often times things like ethnicity or physical characteristics ARE the things that are picked on. And not necessarily because they are a detrimental trait. Just because the person doing the bullying wants to find SOMETHING to say... and often those things are the easiest things to pick on.

It's not *ASIANS* he's talking shit on... It's Yao Ming. Sometimes when I'm pissed and I want to be a dick to somebody, I'll talk shit and call them something mean that could have to do with looks or race or something, but it's not because I systematically hate that race or people with those physical attributes. I'm sure you've heard somebody call somebody else a "fat dumbass" or something along those lines... but that doesn't mean that the person who says that hates all fat people. It's just that particular one they're calling the name that they think is a dumbass. That doesn't make you see ALL fat people in that night, does it?

I just think this is Yao Ming's fight. And I never said he should be excused because he's famous. If he wasn't famous, nobody would be giving him this shit. And that's the truth. I think the negative publicity surrounding his name (everybody calls him a racist now) is more than just a slap on his wrist.

I don't really get the big deal. To me, this isn't a race issue. It's an issue about Shaq not being able to keep his dumbass mouth shut... and it'll all be resolved tonight.
sorry, if someone makes fun of an asian for his/her asian trait, i'd be insulted just the same. maybe i'm just oversensitive, but i don't give two shits who the insult was for or what purpose the insult serves. i'd be insulted just the same because that person is making fun of a trait i exhibit. and yes, especially because it's an asian trait, i'd be even more insulted. maybe you should feel the same.

[SunWuKong]

i hope shaq's jackass comments to yao gets plenty of coverage in china. after all, the dolla bill rules all. if shaq is unpopular in china, you can bet your ass that the nba will care.

[deez nuts]

Me and the fellas are going to see the Lakers Feb 6th when they play the Knicks. My friend suggested we make blow up N.B.G. sticks to bring to the game. Hahahaha...that'll be funny.

[Green_Circle]

Originally posted by Chasiubao_Boy@Jan 18 2003, 04:52 PM
Me and the fellas are going to see the Lakers Feb 6th when they play the Knicks. My friend suggested we make blow up N.B.G. sticks to bring to the game. Hahahaha...that'll be funny.
Just to top it off, CB, why not bring watermelon slices and proffer it to Shaq just as a joke. Since he's a comedian of sorts, he no doubt will appreciate the humor. It's all in good clean fun.

:dance:

[deez nuts]

Originally posted by Green_Circle@Jan 18 2003, 12:07 PM
Just to top it off, CB, why not bring watermelon slices and proffer it to Shaq just as a joke. Since he's a comedian of sorts, he no doubt will appreciate the humor. It's all in good clean fun.

:dance:
Hahahahaha...nah we'll let the peeps in Miami do that since they on a roll with the stereotypical ethnic food motif.

[eos]

it really upsets me when people think it's ok to say stupid things cuz everyone else does it or that it's nothing new...so what? isn't it time to change that ideology anyway? it's not like this is the first time people have gotten mad over something like this so why can't people learn from past mistakes? stupidity? ignorance? just plain not caring? i dunno, but when someone says things like what Shaq said and then says, "Oh I didn't know. I guess I'm sorry." (how the hell can you NOT know it offends us?), you're still a jerk to me.

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by SunWuKung@Jan 18 2003, 05:15 AM
Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 08:35 PM
Originally posted by iris@Jan 17 2003, 03:11 AM
Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 17 2003, 07:59 AM
Originally posted by buoywonder@Jan 16 2003, 07:47 PM
The situation is a result of what he said.

When you throw a rock into a pond, the water ripples. Shaq threw a rock.
I don't get why the ENTIRE Asian-American community is in such an uproar about this.

Who cares? When I want to talk shit to somebody, I find something about that person to pick on and use it. That doesn't mean that I'm talking shit to EVERYBODY who has those qualities. Shaq chose Yao Ming's ethnicity. Big effin' deal, I do that kinda shit all the time. Nobody thinks I'm racist because of it. I really couldn't give a rats ass what Shaq's got against Asians. Or against Yao.

But I totally hear ya'll with the whole... double standard thing. But what I want to see happen is the exact opposite of what most of ya'll want to see happen. I couldn't care less if Shaq makes an apology to the Asian community. I don't think the Asian community really NEEDS or DESERVES an apology. He didn't do anything to me. I just think that it would be cool if we were allowed to make comments along the same lines as he does without getting shitted on.

But if you really think about it, all the slack Shaq's been getting for his comment... kinda makes ya' think that maybe there ISN'T a double standard. He didn't exactly get away with this.
When you find something to "pick" on about others, it's usually a negative quality they have. No one can choose their ethnicity or race and therefore it should not be seen as a detrimental trait or attribute.

When you use a person's race in a derogatory fashion, you see it as a negative characteristic and that is racism because you consciously or unconsciously see the whole ethnicity is that light. Why else would you use something that is otherwise harmless and twist it into something offensive to have.

The Asian community is concerned with his comment because Shaq, while not the best "leader" we may have, is influential towards kids and adults alike. To ignore his comment is to perpetuate biogtry. I would prefer that even the least recognized person be educated when his comments are discriminatory, but at least that person doesn't reach millions like Shaq does. To excuse him of it because he is famous or incredibly stupid is ridiculous. Because he is ignorant is the reason why he should be educated. The Asian community deserves an apology less than Shaq needs to recognize what he did was racist. An apology is an acknowledgement of wrong-doing as there was in this case.

The slap on his hands was barely worth the effort (or lack of effort) Shaq used in his apology whereas it is highly possible that if Yao Ming made bigoted comments toward Shaq, Jackson would be all over his back. This is due to the strong political movement African-Americans have built, unlike Asian-Americans. If we want something done as a minority race, we need to be the ones to do something about it because no one will do it for us.
I don't think that's necessarily true. Some people just wanna say something derogatory about somebody else, it doesn't matter WHAT they choose to say. Often times things like ethnicity or physical characteristics ARE the things that are picked on. And not necessarily because they are a detrimental trait. Just because the person doing the bullying wants to find SOMETHING to say... and often those things are the easiest things to pick on.

It's not *ASIANS* he's talking shit on... It's Yao Ming. Sometimes when I'm pissed and I want to be a dick to somebody, I'll talk shit and call them something mean that could have to do with looks or race or something, but it's not because I systematically hate that race or people with those physical attributes. I'm sure you've heard somebody call somebody else a "fat dumbass" or something along those lines... but that doesn't mean that the person who says that hates all fat people. It's just that particular one they're calling the name that they think is a dumbass. That doesn't make you see ALL fat people in that night, does it?

I just think this is Yao Ming's fight. And I never said he should be excused because he's famous. If he wasn't famous, nobody would be giving him this shit. And that's the truth. I think the negative publicity surrounding his name (everybody calls him a racist now) is more than just a slap on his wrist.

I don't really get the big deal. To me, this isn't a race issue. It's an issue about Shaq not being able to keep his dumbass mouth shut... and it'll all be resolved tonight.
sorry, if someone makes fun of an asian for his/her asian trait, i'd be insulted just the same. maybe i'm just oversensitive, but i don't give two shits who the insult was for or what purpose the insult serves. i'd be insulted just the same because that person is making fun of a trait i exhibit. and yes, especially because it's an asian trait, i'd be even more insulted. maybe you should feel the same.
Should I feel the same? Ehh, maybe I just don't care as much as you do about dumb stereotypes. I'd probably just call him something equally offensive and walk away.

I'd much rather walk away from something stupid and ignorant like that than make a huge fuss about it.

[achtungbaby]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 19 2003, 07:46 PM
Should I feel the same? Ehh, maybe I just don't care as much as you do about dumb stereotypes. I'd probably just call him something equally offensive and walk away.

I'd much rather walk away from something stupid and ignorant like that than make a huge fuss about it.
That'd be kinda amusing to hear Yao Ming start shouting racial slurs back to Shaq.

I'm sorry, not shout (since David Stern already said Shaq's comments were't mean spirited, but insensitive) -- Ming can just joke about low intelligence or something.

Wonder how the NAACP would respond?:)

[iris]

Originally posted by angel nympho@Jan 20 2003, 11:46 AM
Originally posted by SunWuKung@Jan 18 2003, 05:15 AM
sorry, if someone makes fun of an asian for his/her asian trait, i'd be insulted just the same. &nbsp;maybe i'm just oversensitive, but i don't give two shits who the insult was for or what purpose the insult serves. &nbsp;i'd be insulted just the same because that person is making fun of a trait i exhibit. &nbsp;and yes, especially because it's an asian trait, i'd be even more insulted. &nbsp;maybe you should feel the same.
Should I feel the same? Ehh, maybe I just don't care as much as you do about dumb stereotypes. I'd probably just call him something equally offensive and walk away.

I'd much rather walk away from something stupid and ignorant like that than make a huge fuss about it.
I'd rather teach them why they're being rude, and by teach, I mean punch them in their throats.

Seriously though, I don't think trading racial slurs accomplishes anything, but perpetuates the negative stereotypes. I know being hit with it in the face can make you so incredibly angry, but try not to let them suck you down into their level cuz you already knows they suck da ass.

[pfc beansprout]

-yeah...i don't mean to add more this b/c i think this is as far we/shaq is gonna go....but back to trading slurs...uhh, i don't think two wrongs make a right...

[angel nympho]

Originally posted by iris@Jan 20 2003, 04:36 AM
Should I feel the same? Ehh, maybe I just don't care as much as you do about dumb stereotypes. I'd probably just call him something equally offensive and walk away.

I'd much rather walk away from something stupid and ignorant like that than make a huge fuss about it.
I'd rather teach them why they're being rude, and by teach, I mean punch them in their throats.

Seriously though, I don't think trading racial slurs accomplishes anything, but perpetuates the negative stereotypes. I know being hit with it in the face can make you so incredibly angry, but try not to let them suck you down into their level cuz you already knows they suck da ass.[/quote]
I didn't say anything about trading racial slurs being the way to go. I said I'd probably have talked shit back, but I'm just like that... I probably wouldn't have shouted racial slurs at him, though.

I'd rather walk away than make a fuss. I won't admit to anybody if they say something that gets under my skin. The entire reason they said it is to hurt and offend me... I don't want to give people that satisfaction.

[VV o n g B a]

apology not accepted bitch...

[Chinkaholic]

Very lame apology...didn't even seem like one. it needs some more spunk like in KaZaaaam!...

[SunWuKong]

Originally posted by tazadar@Jan 20 2003, 02:47 PM
"I'm going to do what's good for the game. I said some things about Yao Ming, but because of what I said, 500 million people saw this game," he said. "So therefore, I think some of you writers need to learn my marketing skills."
what kind of condescending bullshit is that?

[Hanuman]

Originally posted by SunWuKung@Jan 20 2003, 03:14 PM
what kind of condescending bullshit is that?
Yeah, that got under my skin too. What a jerk.

[angel nympho]

It's condescending, but it's true. Because of the hype, that many more people watched the game. But he's an ass for brushing shit off as "marketing." What a pussy wimp. If you talk shit, you better stand behind it.

[Azn Retribution]

Originally posted by tazadar@Jan 20 2003, 01:18 PM
From the front pages of http://www.angryasianman.com/angry.html

http://www.angryasianman.com/images/angry/2-13.gif
OH HELL NO..
Omg.. too mad to type.

[Napoleon Chynamite]

Sorry I do not mean to downplay this display of ignorance or asswipish mentality in this clan member's post, but it's hard for me a lotta times these days to feel truly pissed off anymore when I see this because perhaps I've just been desensitized to these trollish retarded flames from people on the net. But then again, I used to post on Yolk, so maybe that's why..... :rolleyes:

[blue hoodie]

I swear, what the hell is wrong with the Lakers and their organizational?



Yao Set to Beat O'Neal Again

By Tim Brown, Times Staff Writer


The All-Star starters will be announced today and it is expected Kobe Bryant will be included and Shaquille O'Neal, for only the second time since 1993, will not.

The most recent balloting showed Bryant as the league's leading vote-getter. The birth of his daughter Sunday, rather than at or after the Feb. 2 due date, will allow Bryant to play. The game is Feb. 9 in Atlanta.

O'Neal, selected as a starter but unable to play because of injury twice in the last four years, by all appearances will finish second to Houston's Yao Ming among Western Conference centers.

Though hounded for more than a week by racism charges related to Yao, O'Neal was gracious regarding his apparent All-Star defeat long before his controversial remarks were publicized. On Wednesday night, O'Neal said, "It'd be nice," if conference coaches named him to play in the game behind Yao. The reserves will be announced next week.

If the honor once meant something to him, O'Neal has seemed willing to let it go, and Phil Jackson said he suspects O'Neal is sincere.

"I don't think it bothers him in the least," Jackson said. "He understands fully the NBA has put out four forms of [ballots in] Mandarin, Cantonese, Pekingese and also Hong Kong-ese to allow the Chinese voters to vote on the All-Star ballot, which probably skews it a little bit."

For clarity purposes, Mandarin and Cantonese are languages. Pekingese and Hong Kong-ese are not. In fact, Peking is now called Beijing, and most people in Hong Kong speak Mandarin or Cantonese.

Jackson continued.

"I think players know it is a popularity contest," he said. "Everybody loves a new face. Yao Ming has great presence. He looks like a sweet guy and he's made a big impression. I think it's good for the game. As long as it's a popularity contest, it doesn't reflect on who the best player is."