Imus Gets the Ax for Hurtful Words

Usually when we think about harming someone, visions of violence of some kind come to mind. However, much of the greatest damage we do to each other is through hurtful words. What makes matters worse is when the words are directed at innocent people.

In light of the recent Don Imus scandal, I feel that I have to share my opinion. Frankly, I think for years many of Mr. Imus’ thoughtless comments went unnoticed until recently when he uttered hurtful remarks about the Rutgers women’s basketball team. That’s when our nation began to take notice.

Just because you are a “popular” radio personality doesn’t give you the right to call other people names like you did back in grade school. After all, adults are supposed to know better, aren’t we?? Although I believe in the First Amendment, drastic measures have to take effect when the bread and butter begins to disappear. Wasn’t it ironic that when the advertisers started to cancel their ads that the execs at CBS Radio and MSNBC started to panic? I often wonder if Mr. Imus would have gotten just a slap on the wrist instead of being fired if the advertisers didn’t cancel their agreements.

Nevertheless, I’m hopeful that Mr. Imus and others will have learned a valuable lesson from his mindless mistake. As Cher sings in one of her songs, “Words are like weapons, they wound sometimes.” Let the healing begin!