Whoopi and the Holocaust
ABC suspends the longtime star of “The View” for two weeks
It seems that Whoopi has landed herself in hot water and ABC, the broadcasting company that owns “The View,” wasted no time in laying the smackdown on the longtime co-host of the show.
A few days ago, Goldberg made comments on the show stating in short that “the Holocaust had nothing to do with race.” That drew the ire of the Anti Defamation League (ADL) and many Jewish organizations. Many other celebrities also chimed in, adding to the uproar.
Goldberg immediately issued an apology but also added more fuel to the fire by restating her earlier comments. Whoopi! You should have known better than to double down on your ignorance! DIdn’t you learn anything from all the dumb stuff that came out of Megan McCain’s mouth?
So, ABC has suspended Goldberg for two weeks. Hopefully, Whoopi will use the time to connect with Jewish leaders, Holocaust historians, and the families of the victims. Over 6 million Jews lost their lives to the Nazis' insane attempt to wipe them out of existence. In addition, 6 million more lives were lost during the many battles to stop the Nazi forces from controlling all of Europe.
Whoopi, please use this time wisely and return to the View much wiser. Your voice is needed on the show. I have a lot of respect for you, but you messed up, sis.
Granted, there is a history of tension between Blacks and Jews in America which may have been the foundation for Goldberg’s comments. Jews in America have faced persecution but not at the same level as Blacks in America. In this country, it is very easy for Jews to blend in with whiteness. No one would know if someone was a Jew unless they volunteered that information. For Black people, we cannot hide our Blackness (although some attempt to do so which is a story for another time). For that reason, the U.S. has been a lot kinder to Jews than to Black people.
Black people continue to endure micro and macro aggressions because of the color of their skin. We face discrimination in obtaining high-paying jobs, gaining entry into top-quality colleges and universities, and living in wealthier neighborhoods. For those of us that do overcome these barriers, we deal with ongoing stereotypes, aggression, and discrimination. Being Black in America is a daily act of survival.
It is my hope that Black and Jewish leaders can come together to discuss the Goldberg situation. It can be turned into a teachable moment. Our two cultures have suffered so much for centuries. We should join forces to overcome stigmas and stereotypes. And create the understanding that would prevent future faux pas like Goldberg’s.
