Gridlock in Jena

ryan-Texas — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:35:58 GMT

What if the sixth youths in question were White???And the unfortunate victim was Black...

Gridlock in Jena

Jane Doe, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:38:14 GMT

Am I misunderstanding something? The Jena students beat another Jena student so badly he went to the hospital. Of course criminal charges were filed, the students put another student in the hospital! This should not be about race, as the attackers would be charged if they were white, black, asian, hispanic or of any other race. The incident is about crime - who has sympathy for the victim of the attack?

Gridlock in Jena

Evab Will Syarcuse New York — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:38:58 GMT

Dont Do the Crime If you cant do the Time, civil right movement of the 21st century??? Sharpton has lost his mind, these kids dont deserve anything more then community serivces for beating up another kid, thats what happens!

Gridlock in Jena

Ambrose Wolf — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:39:13 GMT

It's amazing that 6 black youths beat 1 white youth and people are protesting that they were arrested. If it had been my son and I had witnessed it, I can assure you that the 6 would not have had the opportunity to be arrested.

Gridlock in Jena

E. Adair, Richmond, VA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:39:41 GMT

Thank you for attempting to cover this story and it's importance to us ALL. However, this story should be on the front page, it can't be ignored. OJ Simpson's ignorance should definitely grace the front pages, there's no history in that at all.

Gridlock in Jena

coltsfan, indianapolis In — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:40:13 GMT

It's amazing how all of the attention is now focused on Jena, La. Anyone within reason can see that there were 2 punishment systems in place. All of the 'children' involved could have handled themselves differently, that is a given. However, what explanation can be given for the adults involved? The law enforcement in this case is a huge black mark on all those that have worked as waitresses, busboys, etc. to finally receive law degrees, etc. It is a total embarassment that this prosecutor would continue this case and keep a young man locked up just to keep his name in the news.
If you don't think this is a big deal, just wait until it comes to your town, family or your very own address!!!

Gridlock in Jena

sunshine moon — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:40:43 GMT

Talk about a hurricane evacuation-- It's sad that the American Africans could not get the funds or the means to get thier own kind out of the way of Katrina.. but yet can bus THOUSANDS because of what they believe is racial injustice!!

Gridlock in Jena

Kevin Oliver, Lafayette, LA. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:41:51 GMT

I am a white american and do not understand how it is okay for anyone white, black, hispain or other to severly beat someone up and not be prosecuted for the crime. I do not agree with the racial slurs by either race or hanging of signs but no one should be beat almost to death for it. And why is it that it is okay in todays culture for Blacks to use racial slurs about whites or themselves but whites cannot even comment with out having the NAACP, Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson attacking them and or protecting the people who committ crimes!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Alice Dukes, Greeleyville, SC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:43:24 GMT

Why don't the marchers just march in, cut down the tree and march out. Simple but sweet.

Gridlock in Jena

Michael Kramer, Brooklyn, New York — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:43:35 GMT

While I'm for suspension for the white kids who put the nooses on the tree, I'm not for people who beat someone within inches of his life, and think they should be able to get away with it. What about justice for the white kid? I suppose he doesn't deserve justice. As for Al Sharpton, he should crawl back under the rock he came from.

Gridlock in Jena

Steve Sioux City IA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:43:35 GMT

It's a travesty that people like Al Sharpton have to bring our society down. It's pretty obvious that Al Sharpton is angry about something and he's taking it out on the whites.(Who's really prejudice?) Another thing, it's no wonder gas prices are so high with people traveling long distances just to protest.
Save our resources for our childrens future.

Gridlock in Jena

DMAN, Chicago,Illinois — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:43:55 GMT

We are in a world of JUSTICE!!!! America represents justice and beating to death somebody because of a disagreeable belief or opinion is not justified here... Try South Africa, If they dont like you they'll GENOCIDE YOU!!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Donna — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:46:07 GMT

I lived in Jena, La in the 80's I felt as though I had entered a time warp then. Was glad when I left the town. Nothing there for Blacks and yes it was racist then and I believe it still is.

Gridlock in Jena

Ann Smythe — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:46:36 GMT

This is a horrible thing, but if you do something like hang nooses on a tree, you should be expecting some big trouble from it. Those white boys should not only be ashamed, their parents should be as well. What does this say about the white parents? They perpetuated the racial divide by failing to teach respect for other races. The black boys should be punished, however -- they did commit a crime. When will black parents and leaders teach their youth to ignore taunts like that and learn some self-control? Yes, the nooses were horrible to do and wrong. But had the black parents/leaders taught their sons to deal with racial slurs, etc. in an appropriate manner, this would not have happened.

On BOTH sides there is failure and lack of respect. We all have it in our power to stop teaching the wrong things to our children -- whether white, black, yellow or red. It's all about respect for each other's ethnicity and culture, and there was certainly none of that in this situation.

I'm saddened that we have not come as far as we had hoped as a nation, after all the civil rights fighting in my younger days. What does it say about our nation? Wow...now I feel ashamed.

Gridlock in Jena

K. Lewis, Tampa, FL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:46:53 GMT

"There is no better way to love one's country, no better way to strive for the fulfillment of its greatness than to entertain critical ideas and engage in the pursuit of social justice." Michael Parenti

This event is an opportunity for America to step a little closer to the greatness all its patriots envision. However this opportunity will be lost if we continue to waist valuable discourse debating the role of race in the Jena events. Of course race has a role, as it does in all American institutions. Let's get past that issue and focus on how to move forward. How to correct the unfair and inequitable treatment of those involved and how to ensure that awareness and safeguards are in place to prevent them from occuring again.

Gridlock in Jena

Elizabeth E, Hampton, VA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:48:29 GMT

People may think that this is a "black white" issue but it's not. It's about equal JUSTICE under the law. All they want are the white students who beat the black student to be prosecuted as harshly as the black students are. PLUS they want the students who hung the nooses on the tree to be punished as well.

Gridlock in Jena

Barbara Owens, Little Rock, AR — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:48:37 GMT

Why in 2007 do I have to tell my child in the same hour I have to tell my children that we are celebrating the Little Rock 9 yet still protesting in-equality in the Jena 6 ordeal?

Gridlock in Jena

Barbara Owens, Little Rock, AR — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:48:38 GMT

Why in 2007 do I have to tell my child in the same hour I have to tell my children that we are celebrating the Little Rock 9 yet still protesting in-equality in the Jena 6 ordeal?

Gridlock in Jena

Anonymous, Pittsburgh, Pa — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:50:10 GMT

I don't understand this. These people beat another and they don't feel they shold be responsible. What the white kids did was wrong but not violent. They should have been suspended or maybe even expelled but not tried in court or beaten. Violence should never be tolerated or allowed even in retaliation for a stupid act. Those that started this should not be allowed back on school grounds. Those that resorted to violence should do time.

Gridlock in Jena

Robby, Cullman, AL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:50:15 GMT

Regardless of race, I think all people should be responsible for their own actions. What if the tide was turned and 6 white boys beat up a black? I believe they would still march and protest but the cry would be victim of a racist beating. I think Mr. Sharpton and Jackson need to grow up and stop using events like this to stroke their own ego and their own agenda. By the way "Can't we all just get along?" All they're doing by there protest is telling other teens that regardless if you commit a crime, right or wrong, we are going to march for your rights because you are a victim. Where I'm from, if you commit a crime and are found guilty, your have to pay for your actions. I don't think these boys are any different and should not have special treatment or rights. When people know they have to answer for their own actions, they will think twice before commiting any crime.

Gridlock in Jena

Jim C., Woodridge, IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:51:12 GMT

The "Rev." Al Sharpton is always looking for something race-related to beef about. He has been discredited so many times, no white person pays much attention to what he has to say. Instead of telling us all about the demonstration, MSNBC should inform us again about the facts of this dispute. I know very little about this thing and, in my mind, I am ready to write it off. Some details please.

Gridlock in Jena

Julie, Austin, Texas — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:51:35 GMT

If this had been 6 white boys who beat up a black boy, this crowd would be calling for attempted murder charges. This is ridiculous... it's not a race issue. Anytime it's six-to-one, it's considered attmpted murder! Additionally, after the prosecuter realized the extint of the boys injuries was less than originally feared, the charges were lessened... but it was STILL 6-TO-1!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Dan Davis — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:52:25 GMT

The charges have been downgraded to assault. Those white kids were ignorant bigots and should have been punished, but two wrongs never make a right. Do those protesters really believe that these thugs should be set free? It reminds me of the OJ situation, where the only thing important to the majority of African-Americans was the color of his skin, not his guilt or innocence.

Gridlock in Jena

John Doe,NY NY — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:52:33 GMT

This is not about the school issues. Not about the nooses. All should be addressed but it doesnot excuse the charges against the other six. Give it a rest already.

Gridlock in Jena

Jim Carter — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:52:58 GMT

GOD BLESS US ALL

WE MUST NOT ONLY PRAY FOR THE JENA 6 BUT ALSO FOR
D.A. REED WALTER & THE STATE OF LOUISIANA.

LOUISIANA - ALL OVER AGAIN!!

Gridlock in Jena

izzbiff, bonne terre, mo — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:52:59 GMT

please punish the crimes and leave the racist hype out of it. any number of groups or organizations do not get actual publicity for jumping soap box platforms such as this. what are they striving to achieve? reverse kkk?

Gridlock in Jena

CC in TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:53:02 GMT

does anyone know if the boy that they beat up was one of the 3 that hung the nooses on the tree?

Gridlock in Jena

Heather Williams, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:53:32 GMT

Race aside, didn't these 6 young men beat a man half to death? Who is in need of real justice here. Why are we holding rallies and praising a bunch of thugs who given the chance to do this type of thing again? I guess I just don't understand why it is okay for anyone of any race to beat another half to death and then receive accolades from Clergy, Politicians, and the public in general. Can anyone out there explain this to me?

Gridlock in Jena

marc schroeder — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:55:08 GMT

Can you imagine if the shoe was on the other foot.It would be called a hate crime and Sharpton would be there calling for life sentances.If you give them an inch they will take a mile.

Gridlock in Jena

J. Johnson — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:55:40 GMT

What happen to the justice department in Washington, DC? How come they have not said a word about this mess? With everything else happening in this world of ours, who needs this mess for the world to see. We Americans just do not get it.

Gridlock in Jena

R Lowery — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:56:05 GMT

I want to know why these 6 terrorists were not charged with a "hate Crime"...if they had been Americans insteat of african they would have had more charges thrown at them .

Gridlock in Jena

JUST ME — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:56:28 GMT

this is a joke. i am hispanic and have been exposed to racism. come on people what the hell is going on. i mean those people are making more of what is not their. especially outsiders. too many people coming in from the outside declaring something that they dont know about. these black kids committed a crime and should be dealt with. turn all this around if it were six white kids that beat a black kid. then omg this would turn into a war. nobody would question what the punishment would be. blacks would demand the death penalty. they would demand to kill them themselves. thank God it wasnt the other way around. then jesse jackson and al sharpton (the most fake black rights people i know) would have a field day. if they are about equality and peace then why are they riling up all these people. they love to create division. thats their m.o. ughhh yet another race card issue here. just forget about the race thing and lets concentrate on the crime. a boy was beat by six boys. thats all it is. they are complaining that white people are making this more and over charging these teens. can we accuse the black community for making things less of a grave situation. it goes both ways. it would be sad to let these kids go just because they are black. hmmmm isnt that what happened with o.j simpson? where is the justice in that? why didnt the white community cry out about the travesty in that. are we allowed to? wait lets ask the black community if we can practice equal rights for another race in this world? it seems like whenever black people get together they let loose monsters that need to be in jail. sure the white people did wrong by hanging nooses but did they beat a black person up. nooooo the black teens did that. so tell me what is the right thing about that. i think they should be locked up and put away. you commit the crime you do the time...not if the glove does not fit you must acquit. geeez if i commit a crime can i use the excuse that im hispanic and everyones being racist against me to get out of jail....lets call the RACE CARD THE GET OUT OF FREE JAIL CARD. lets call it what it is. people should get together to put law breakers in jail and free our neighborhoods from crime and vicious criminals. not oh hes black lets rally against the whites and get him out. while ten years later these teen kill someone and there is a victim. PEOPLE LISTEN....ITS NOT ABOUT RACE ITS ABOUT THE CRIME THEY COMMITTED. get over the race issue. you didnt go through what black people went through in the past. you dont even remotely know what that is. that was torture. you go through what i go through at a daily basis and thats diff views of how people view a diff race. get over it!!!!! i have. martin luther king jr did not fight for this...he fought for the rites of every human being. he was a leader and a true person with love and peace and harmony....not al sharpton and jesse jackson. theyre both phonies, JOKES and fakes. they want to be another mlk jr but all they do is create conflicts and confrontation. THEY bring in the whole world just to get noticed. you are pawns to them. they make the money for this while you all stay poor. look at their m.o. they let o.j. simpson go a MURDER!!!!!!! AND MICHEAL JACKSON A CHILD RAPIST AND MOLESTER. how can anyone use these as role models. they love controversy they love hatred and thats what they are spreading around. these are my views...from a hispanic who has fair share of racism.
say no to...if the glove doesnt fit you must acquit, and the race card (get out of jail free card) and say yes to martin luther king jr's views of equality and freedom. his rules and views applied not only to white people but to black people AND EVERY RACE as well. black people are more racist that any other race in america. GET OVER IT!!!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Al in SoCal — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:57:39 GMT

Sickening example of how racism is alive and doing quite well in the United States. LA residents should do something about this, especially after what the rest of us saw in New Orleans - THOUSANDS of people living in abject poverty with most of the New Orleans community not caring at all....

Gridlock in Jena

Kailene (24), Sacramento, CA. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:57:45 GMT

I would like more information on whether or not the white student had a shotgun in his car on the day of the incident. I briefly heard something about it, but nothing since. That detail would certainly change the circumstances!! Supposedly, Jena 6 wrestled the gun away and took it to police, then were arrested for theft?? Not sure, anyone with info please help. Thanx.

Gridlock in Jena

Chuck Collins, Jacksonville, FL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:58:00 GMT

You have got to be kidding me. Six kids beat up one kid and they want to let the 6 go because they're black. If six white kids beat a black kid, they'd all want to crucify the white kids. Yeah, it's racism.... it's just not who you think.

Gridlock in Jena

RICK, ALEXANDRIA LOUISIANA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:06 GMT

I LIVE 45 MIN FROM JENA, AND ALL THIS HYPE IS CRAZY. IF IT WERE 6 WHITES BEATING 1 BLACK, THEN IT WOULD THOUSANDS OF BLACKS IN JENA WANTING THE SIX WHITES PUT AWAY FOR A HATE CRIME.

Gridlock in Jena

Thelma Harris Arling, TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:19 GMT

You know I'm all about justice but let it be fair. don't do for one that you wouldn't do for another. I grew up in Laousiana not far from Jena. I know first hand how it is there. Puitting those young men I jail will not help them. I guess you will need to charge the white stundent with the same crime for beating the young black student. That is the reason this is going on today. We just want fair justice for all

Gridlock in Jena

Jack Stanfield, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:23 GMT

In all the press reports of protests and of protesters invading Jena, I've heard nothing about the victim, a white student severely beaten by SIX black students. Where is the outrage against this violence. Was it provoked? Does that somehow justify the beating? Let's all be honest. If the situation were reversed and six white students had beaten one black student, we would still be facing the same protesters in Jena today. Only they would be calling for the harshest possible sentence to be invoked against those white aggressors. When are we going to say, enough!

Gridlock in Jena

JW, Phoenix, AZ — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:48 GMT

Great! Another opportunity for Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson to back the wrong cause!! Does racism exist? You bet it does...on all sides. However, when you continually cry wolf, you totally lose your credibility. That is what has happened to black America. Just shut up and start cleaning up your own act. How about if Jesse and Al start picketing black neighborhoods with signs that read, "Stay in school! Stay out of jail! Stay with your family!!"

Gridlock in Jena

JEANETTE — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:51 GMT

IT'S A SHAME THAT IN THIS DAY AND AGE THAT SOCIETY CAN BREAK AWAY FROM THE PAST. THE NOOSES, THE FOR WHITE/OR BLACK ONLY. WE HAVE OUR CHILDREN BLACK, WHITE YELLOW,AND RED IN COUNTRIES FIGHTING SO THAT WE CAN HAVE WHAT WE HAVE ALREADY EARNED AND YET WE CONTINUE TO ACT LIKE NOTHING HAS CHANGED. WHY IS THAT?

Gridlock in Jena

Tony Vidrine New Orleans, La. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 15:59:56 GMT

Why did Al Sharpton and others feel the need to intercede. It appeared that the townspeople had already taken steps to handle the situation. If 6 white boys had beat a black kid Al Sharpton wouldn't be there.

Gridlock in Jena

Noelle, Portland, OR — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:00:06 GMT

I've seen many fights in schools but I've never seen any in the news. People should be held accountable for their actions regardless of their race, sex, religion, etc. There have been many fights between "whites" in schools, but those are usually dealt with quietly. I support the protestors in LA. There is still alot of subtle and outright racism in the States. Race should not be an issue when it comes to justice, but we have an unfortunate track record that says we do.

Gridlock in Jena

john doe Normal IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:00:57 GMT

I wonder what the response of Al Sharptoin would be if it were several white youths beat a black student...whould he be demanding the same level of justice?

Gridlock in Jena

John Morgan, Baton Rouge, LA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:02:16 GMT

I am not sure why the rally would be to free individuals that nearly beat someone to death instead of rallying to charge the white participants as well?

Why should any individual, regardless of color, walk free if they nearly beat another person to death just because another guilty person didn't get charged as well?

Why not rally to "ARREST" the other guilty people?

Gridlock in Jena

jim Sarber — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:02:38 GMT

You cannot make heros out of teenagers who resort to violence whether they be white or black. The problem
here is the school adminisration they should have acted with more resolve when this first started.Any student white or black should have been kicked out of school for fighting on the spot. Now the politicians have taken over. Good luck?

Gridlock in Jena

Lynn Williams, Houston, TEXAS — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:02:59 GMT

GOOD FOR THEM! EVERYONE SHOULD BE APALLED AT THIS OVERLY DRAMATIC SITUATION....would it be FAIR if it were your child....REALLY STOP AND THINK ABOUT ONE OF YOUR FAMILY MEMBERS BEING TREATED THIS WAY....SERIOUSLY THINK ABOUT IT. Punishment is one thing, ruining a person forever is another!

Gridlock in Jena

Marilyn Whitney, Gastonia, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:03:29 GMT

FREE THE JENA 6. I AM IN ABSOLUTE AGREEMENT TO SET THEM FREE. THE WHITE KIDS ARE WRONG AND GUILTY OF A HATE CRIME !

Gridlock in Jena

Laura N, Oklahoma — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:05:02 GMT

Attempted murder is too harsh, but I think all the boys, white and black, need to be appropriately punished for what they did.

Gridlock in Jena

Jim Grace, Delray Beach FL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:05:59 GMT

This is strange to me....a white kid gets beaten up by a bunch of black kids and now there is a demonstration because the black kids should have been let go?...who is their adivsor?...OJ Simpson?..difinitely not a way to racial harmony...

Gridlock in Jena

pj, dallas, tx — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:06:18 GMT

what is the security threat everyone is worried about? thousands of african-americans marching in protest to a serious miscarriage of justice? Newsflash - I'm not interested in trashing your schools, damaging your businesses or even talking to the judge, d.a. or governor. I am interested in righting a wrong- fighting in school in wrong make no mistake- but attempted murder??!!! get real

Gridlock in Jena

Sicntired — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:06:31 GMT

Black people should never be held to account for crimes they have committed. They are the eternal victims and never the perps. Therefore they are incapable of committing crimes. Release all black people from jails and never arrest another one for anything.

Gridlock in Jena

Carol K — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:06:51 GMT

I would have never dreamed that anyone would say these charges would have been racially motivated. The DA searched for anything on the books in order to charge the white boys who hung the noose in a tree, which was a stupid prank ONLY and they should be reprimanded for it, but it is not illegal. On the other hand, the "Jena 6" as they are called, physically assaulted a young man and THAT is illegal, no matter what color you are. If the white boys had assaulted a black boy, the SAME charges would/should apply.
Get real folks, the Al Sharpton's and Jesse Jackson's are acting out of a 1960's mentality (and that is how they earn their living!). We are beyond race nowdays. It is about crime and punishment.

Gridlock in Jena

K Honaker, Brooksville, FL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:07:04 GMT

Would they be protesting if the victim was black?

Gridlock in Jena

Billy Y shelby north carolina — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:07:38 GMT

Is anyone else sick of hearing this I know i am hanging three nooses is nothing compared to a beating its a freedom of speech act where as beating a man is an assault they should get what is coming to them

Gridlock in Jena

Marge Kline, Antwerp , Ohio — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:08:54 GMT

First, who was hurt from the nooss being hung, NO ONE. A cop just can't make up charges. However, the boy's that beat him up DID commit a crime that is punishible by law. Peopole need to look at the facts not skin color when they make an opinion of things that haplpen. The boys that did the noose thing are not moraly right but they accutally commited no crime.

Gridlock in Jena

Luther Estes — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:09:54 GMT

Let Rev. Jesse Jackson decide what is to be done with the Jena 6.

Gridlock in Jena

Kimberly, Houston, Texas — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:09:56 GMT

I wish I could be there. You can't put enough attention on this. We all deserve a better hand than these 6 BOYS, yes boys, were dealt. They should indeed face punishment for their school fight, but attempted murder and aggravated assault are extreme charges. The DA, who claims this is not about race, didn't bring up attempted murder or aggravated assault charges for several white males accused of beating a black man with beer bottles. That was just simple battery. And that is reflective of the inequities in our criminal justice system. It's time for change.

Gridlock in Jena

laura detroit mi — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:11:02 GMT

tell me what would happen if it were white boys beating a black boy?
this madness has to stop. punish the kids like you would any other. and punish the ones who hung the ropes up. now that IS a hate crime isnt it? just like the black boys beating up the boy cuz he was white!! now get some heavy counsling in to that school and teach the kids at home preoperly!! Racism is learned in a social enviroment so someone has taught these kids how to hate each other. the scool should have seen this all coming and intervened. the parents of ALL the kids need to look in the mirror also!!
We are all ONE!!

Gridlock in Jena

John Jenkins, Rocky Mount, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:11:30 GMT

If it were 6 white teens beating one black teen, it would be a hate crime. And how are people calling for the release of these kids? Are they not at all responsible for beating this other kid up? Sure, attempted murder seems a bit much but they shouldn't even be charged with anything? I keep forgetting that their innocent since they're black and whites concocted this whole scheme.

Gridlock in Jena

JH Salt Lake City, Utah — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:12:32 GMT

It's time for schools and their administrations to pay attention to incidents of harassment, intimidation, and assault in schools. I am not referring to race related incidents, I'm referring to ALL of the bad behavior which is creating an environment where parents are hesitant to send their children. WAKE UP. We need classes in the schools regarding appropriate behavior, classes for parents and children whose children are behaving inappropriately, and a disciplinary presence in schools to address issues like these before they escalate. School administrators are afraid to discipline for fear of parent retaliation and no support from the judicial side. THIS MUST CHANGE, FOR EVERYONE'S SAKE.

Gridlock in Jena

April in VA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:13:51 GMT

Where were Al and Jesse when that group of black criminals carjacked, tortured and murdered two WHITE people?!... interesting that they didn't care then.

Gridlock in Jena

Rico — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:15:23 GMT

There is a big difference between some stupid white kids hanging a noose on a tree and six black teenagers almost beating a kid to death. That is why you have different punishments for each. If the six kids where white and the kid they beat to death, would Al be there for the white kids no. He only shows up when blacks commit some crime and put the race card in it.

Gridlock in Jena

FedUpWitReverseRacism — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:15:59 GMT

Where are the blacks to respond in reverse? SOMEONE...Admit it...Why is it a hate crime when A group of white kids jump a black kid. But it is JUSTICE when a group of black kids jump a White kid. The heck with this country. Who cares anymore. Go out and do you, there is no America.

Gridlock in Jena

Kemm — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:17:00 GMT

Equal justice under the law...for all of us, not some of us, not based on the color of our skin.

Gridlock in Jena

Tom S, Grand Rapids, MI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:17:17 GMT

Typical of those who are "rallying the troops" to fight a war that doesn't exist. Their battle cry being"It doesn't matter what they did, it only matters what someone else did to them". Both acts are reprehensible, and both are wrong. The only difference is you don't see busloads of white people supporting those who put the nooses on the tree.
Blacks in this country need to get a clue. Whatever happened in past generations does not give you a free pass to do whatever you like today. Racism is alive and well because you will not let it die.

Gridlock in Jena

Kim Reese, Memphis, TN — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:17:56 GMT

This is not about letting these young men off. What they did was wrong. The problem is the severity of the punishment for a juvenile fight. These boys did not "severely" beat the young man. This is evident by the fact that he was not hospitalized and was at a party later the same night. What is beaing protested is the unfairness of the justice system in Jena, that would attempt to sentence these boys to 30+ years in jail for a high school fight. What if it were your child? 30 years? That is not justice, and where there is no justice, we must not stand idly by.

Gridlock in Jena

jane doe, city, louisiana — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:18:10 GMT

What I understand is that there were three nooses hanging from a particular school yard tree. From the Black perspective, nooses symbolize racism. Okay. Was anyone physcially hurt from the nooses? No. Human feelings were hurt. Reprimanding was minimal. The second understanding I have is there was a white student physcially beaten by six black students lead by Mychal Bell. The white student survived even attending a school function later that evening. Could he have died if the injuries were severe? Possibly. Should there be punishment more severe for a physical attack versus a visual attack? Yes. Common sense reeks in the above simple statements. Keep in mind too that Mychal Bell had other minor criminal activites where apparently he was "slapped on the hand" and dismissed for his errors. The white victim should have walked away silently prior to the attack... The black students should have respected themselves by not attacking the victim. Altercations can be avoided ninety-nine percent of the time. And yes, the white students were immature and ignorant in their actions. Was the noose hanging/altercation necessary? No. If Mychal Bell continues criminal activities, what's the next problem? Killing/armed robbery/rape??? Adults make the children face their actions and stop blaming everyone else. Bottom line: No one held a gun to the noose hangers nor the Jena Six and said committ these acts.

Gridlock in Jena

Glenn Wheeler, Jacksonville, Florida — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:18:46 GMT

The Jena6 incident is one symptom of a deeper racial animus. Shouldn't ALL of us re-examine the Soul Force philosophy of Dr. King -- try to get a real handle on his message? Start today by reading his Letter from Birmingham Jail. (It's on the net.) I suggest this because, otherwise, we'll all go back and forth with our knee-jerk reactions and miss the larger picture.

Gridlock in Jena

Erica Long, all over, USA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:18:56 GMT

I won't get over it and I will continue to protest the fact that THERE is racial injustice. Charge them with something more fitting-but not to charge the hangers of the noose and to only expel one who brings a gun to school and charge another child with taking it away. Igorance is bliss to all of you who fail to see that this boy who was beaten turned around and went to a school function that night-apparently the injuries weren't that bad. And those, the JENA 6-you don't want to see them on the streets because perhaps they do have some talent and want to be educated. Where's the hate crime charge of hanging the nooses? Where's the charged of provoking a riot that those students have caused? You want to talk racism-I want to talk JUSTICE for everyone involved and that means lessening the charges for the JENA 6 from murder to assault and charging those for hanging the nooses as well as the person who brought the fire arm to school.

Gridlock in Jena

Tika Nique, Detroit, MI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:19:07 GMT

Justice has not been carried out fairly here. White kids beat up a black kid, even hit him with a glass bottle yet no charges were filed against them. A white person pulled a gun on a black kid and he wrestled it away. The white kid wasn't charged for brandishing a firearm but the black kid was charged for "stealing" it. That's why the case is so unfair. The white kids are doing equally heinous stuff with no repercussions. I don't condone anyone beating anyone up but the justice system in Jena is turning a blind eye to the white kids' offenses.

Gridlock in Jena

Kemm — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:19:20 GMT

That kid was not beaten within an inch of his life. He went partying after he left the hospital. That is not justification for his beating, but racial provocation is hard to ignore. How long are we supposed to sit silently while "justice for all" is doled out based on the color of someone's skin?????

Gridlock in Jena

concerened about youth — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:19:24 GMT

Two wrongs don't make a right. The nuses in the tree were awful. The students should have been suspended for the school year not just ten days. The six students attacking attacking the one is just as bad. They too violated the law in a conscious action of violence. It was the wrong way to settle the conflict. Dr. King would have not chosen that path. Have we lost the lessons of success of non violent revolt form Ghandi too?
Rule of law administered on a level playing field is what is needed here. If any of the six students are found quilty under due process of law, like everyone else they should have to accept the consequences. The rallying of people supporting any of the students on either side is fostering a potential regression of race relations and civil rights in this nation. It makes the ACLU look jaded and out of touch with its statement of mission. NO DOUBBLE STANDARDS. For those protesters calling, "free the Jenna Six for justice" underminds even the concept of the system of blind justice in this nation. Both actions were wrong and should be delt with in magnitude to their violation.
For those of you that accept rascism as part of your outlook on life be careful, you just may cheat yourself out of the best friend you could have ever had.

Gridlock in Jena

Delmar Fairchild, Barron, WI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:19:51 GMT

I am considered white. Anyone should be able to sit under a tree. No one should be allowed to hang ropes from the tree as a warning. No one or group should be allowed to beat up another person.

Gridlock in Jena

cm, baton rouge, la. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:28:48 GMT

It seems like alot of you need to get your facts together before making ignorant comments. The white kids did beat up a black kid the week before they decided to retaliate. And "nothing" happened to them, thats the whole point. DUH

Gridlock in Jena

Believer, New York, NY — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:29:48 GMT

When children of any race are charged with felony crimes because of a school fight, our sense of right and wrong should be questioned, no matter where it occurs in this country. I was a part of the original civil rights movement and back then children were suspended from school for fighting. Now 50+ years later, children go to jail for months because they are outraged by a "hate crime" on their school grounds. Where is the "justice" in this? Just as parental rights have been legally negated in this country, and we have police/security on campus at every school level, our sense of what family and community means has been seriously damaged, because people are no longer able to control or discipline their children at home, we can only expect our youths to behave as they see on TV and other media. This can only get worse before it gets better.

Gridlock in Jena

Linda Washington — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:00 GMT

The point isn't that they are being punished, it's that they are being brought up on attempted murder charges for a high school fight. A lot of you keep asking what if it was the other way around, well it was. This is only one incident that happen in Jena. What you don't know and they haven't been discussing is that this has been happening for months. There were also white students that were fighting black students in the same manner. The protesters are not asking to ignore what happened, just to make the charges fair, for everyone. And just in case you didn't know the hanging of the rope in the tree, the kids should have been charge with a race crime, becuase it was meant as a act of "terror". They put it there only to scare the black kids at the school. Also the ignorant comment about the hurrican evacuation, totally different situtation, and just to remind you, "African American" were not the only one not able to evacuate. No one is saying what the 6 young men did was right, all we are saying is be fair. The protesters going down to Jena today didn't make it a race issue, the prosecutor and who ever hung the rope in the tree made it one. Lastly, the orginal problem was that there was a "whites only" tree on a public high school campus, the school should have taken a stand from the beginning. So now you tell me, who made this a race issue.

Gridlock in Jena

Pam, CT — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:07 GMT

Let's do Hussein-Iraqi justice in the U.S., you do any crime, we kill you.
That should lower the crime rate and make people think before they act, eh?

Gridlock in Jena

Nikki, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:18 GMT

Let's remember the issues people. The question is not 'should the 6 black youths be charged?' It's should they have been charged with attempted murder for a school fight? NO. Also, the victim (& he is a victim) was sent to the hospital with non critical injuries. Let's not overstate the ramifications of the fight...it was a fight and he was ABLE TO ATTEND A SCHOOL FUNCTION that same night. Main question is, were those young men charged properly and why weren't the 3 white young men charged with a hate crime for hanging the nooses on the tree?

Gridlock in Jena

John Doe Toledo, Ohio — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:24 GMT

No one is saying the black boys shouldn't be punished. The punishment just doesn't fit the crime. The crime is felonious assault, not attempted murder! Let 6 white boys beat a black one, and I assure you it won't be attempted murder! I work in a prison, and for all you white people that don't believe rascism is alive and well, take your head out of the sand! The YOUNG WHITE MALES are the worst! This isn't 1957 anymore, we aren't going for your nooses' anymore. I bet they won't hang another one! GO JENA 6! HANDLE YOUR BISNESS!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Sharron, Baltimore, MD — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:50 GMT

Those who post comments especially long ones should know the facts. There was a fight involving more than one white student jumping a black student prior to the black students jumpint the white students. Please believe the noose was not the cause of these boys acting this way. It was just one of the factors in this case. So Al and Jesse are there because they were not charged either. AND SINCE WHEN DOES A SCHOOL MATTER CAUSE FOR TIME IN JAIL? It was a regular fight no weapons.

Gridlock in Jena

MGUZMAN — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:30:54 GMT

AL SHARPTON, THE REV. JESS JACKSON, COURTLAND HAYES, THE NAACP, AND ALL THE OTHERS NEED TO GO HOME. THIS AL SHARPTON AND JESSE JACKSON ARE SIMPLY LOUD MOUTH TROUBLE-MAKERS WHO GET A FREE RIDE THROUGH LIFE SO ITS TIME TO PUT A STOP TO THEM.....THEY LIVE OFF INNOCENT PEOPLE AND KEEP THIS WHITE-BLACK NONSENSE ALIVE JUST SO THEY CAN CONTINUE TO MAINTAIN A FREE RIDE.....WAKE-UP PEOPLE!! THE VERY REV. JESSE JACKSON HAS A CHILD WITH A GIRLFRIEND SO THAT ALONE SPEAKS VOLUMES FOR HIS LACK OF CHARACTER AND WHO EXACTLY IS AL SHARPTON? STOP GIVING THESE PEOPLE YOUR MONEY. WOULD THIS AL SHARPTON AND JESSE JACKSON DEFEND WHITES? NO!! BUT THEY WILL PROTECT THAT OJ SIMPSON SO AGAIN WAKE-UP PEOPLE....

Gridlock in Jena

mke, sterling, VA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:31:05 GMT

I am puzzled that,with all the distress the South has gone thru,they have YET to put some law on the books that makes it a crime for persons to hang signs or nooses or deface property-whatever their race.I understand there was no law to prosecute the white boys with,but there should have been SOME sort of punishment.BUT, I do NOT approve of the six beating so badly another human being. A schoolyard tussle is one thing-putting someone in the hosp.is another. All the kids are wrong, all should be punished.And once again,Rev Sharpton twists things to keep that chip on his shoulder

Gridlock in Jena

Jim, Birdsboro, PA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:31:34 GMT

A note to Sunshine Moon -- Hurricane Katrina and the Jena 6 goings-on are two totally separate issues. There were a large number of people, black and white, who could not leave before Katrina hit due to financial constraints.

What happened in Jena was tragic. I'm sure fellow blacks cannot understand the outrage whites are feeling about a child being beaten, however, whites apparently don't understand the significance of the nooses (as well as the dropping of the "n" word) and why it would spur that violence. I do not condone the violence but I would ask everyone to step back and try and understand what the other is feeling.

Gridlock in Jena

Michael Hunt, Chicago IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:31:56 GMT

Throw them in jail. If this was white on black I'm sure there would have been riots and looting. If you want to be treated as equal then it counts for everything. You can't pick and chose what you want.

Gridlock in Jena

L Lorentson — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:01 GMT

What about the victim? Where are the protestors for the victim?

Gridlock in Jena

wl, smyna,ga — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:02 GMT

NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE...keep it real and free the Jena
6!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

jane doe, louisiana — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:18 GMT

Al $harpton, Je$$e Jack$on, MLK III the Jena protest is the perfect opportunity to make money. Pass around the hat folks to pay for these Brothers expenses. I think these three people actually see the whole picture and are thinking pretty much the way most of us are thinking... The people that are traveling to Jena are perhaps showing their support but for the most part it is a "free" opportunity to see their "heros" and be a part of a "historical" event.

Gridlock in Jena

Larry Edwards , Eunice,La — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:34 GMT

You know if all the blacks that think they have to drive all the way to Jena to protest would take care of there own problems at home the crime would be a whole lot lower in their home town.

Gridlock in Jena

AJ — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:36 GMT

LETS KEEP IT SIMPLE! THE BOTTOM LINE IS THERE WAS A HIGH SCHOOL FIGHT THAT RESULTED IN 6 BLACK BOYS BEING JAILED.CRAZINESS. IT GOES BACK TO THE SAYING IF YOU DONT STAND FOR SOMETHING YOU WIL FALL FOR ANYTHING. I AM A FIRM BELIEVER IN THAT. IT WAS WRONG OF THEM TO HANG SUCH A DISGUSTING THING AND SOMETHING HAD TO BE DONE ABOUT. I LOVE THEM FOR WHAT THEY DID AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO. NOT BEATING UP A PERSON BUT SAYING HEY THIS IS WRONG AND WE LIVE HERE TOO.
SO TO REV. AL SHARPTON, MICHEAL BAISDEN AND THE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE THAT JOINED THE JOURNEY TO JENA. STAND UP AND BE HEARD!!!!!!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

JM, Boston, MA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:44 GMT

The white kid that was "beat within inches of his life" as someone else said, was treated at the ER as an outpatient and released 2 hours later with a few scrapes and bruises. He then went back to school directly from the hospital to attend a ring ceremony. So first of all, get your facts straight about how badly this kid was hurt. Secondly, the issue is NOT whether the black students who got in the fight should or shouldn't be punished, but whether they should be tried as juveniles, which they all are. The case that got tossed was because the judge said "Hey DA, this is a Juvi issue, refile it in the proper court" And the answer to what would have happened if 6 white boys in Jena hit a black kid and the black kid had to go get some band-aids at the ER, the white boys would have been suspended from school for 3 days with no charges filed. Deal with it.

Gridlock in Jena

KABSTON — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:32:58 GMT

JESSE JACKSON AND AL SHARPTON ARE J-O-K-E-S....ALL THEY TRULY CARE ABOUT IS FREE MONEY AND BEING ON THE NEWS STIRRING UP TROUBLE SO WHAT KIND OF CHURCH DO THEY BELONG TO??????

Gridlock in Jena

sdaddy — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:33:02 GMT

Reading all of these posts is really frustrating! it seems as though most of you don't have all the facts of the the situation. Here is some info on the case read it then decide. www.gather.com/viewArticle.jsp?articleId=281474977083488

Gridlock in Jena

Heather, Washington D.C — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:33:25 GMT

Hanging a noose is illegal, it's a hate crime, that's a federal crime.

Gridlock in Jena

Sandra Nelson, Monroe, LA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:33:29 GMT

Many people seem to misunderstanding the point of the rally. The Jena 6 are understood to be guilty of jumping a white student. The DA brought this upon the town by charging the Jena 6 with attempted murder. He also clearly supported racism by not charging those who hung the nooses, which symbolize that all black people who cause trouble should be killed. He says there is not a law against that. But of course since then lawyers in Louisiana have proven him wrong.

Gridlock in Jena

lcbraggs, atlanta, ga — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:33:41 GMT

I've read the comments before mine and find that these "Haters In Disguise" want this to be about race when it is simply about fairness. The black kids should be punished and/or suspended from school for their actions, but to be tried for attempted murder is too much a punishment. That kid went to the hospital and was out the same night. (I pray he's ok.) That doesn't sound like someone who was beaten within inches of his life and I should know because I've seen that happen to someone before. You hate-mongers are the ones who make this about race when it should be about fairness in the justice system. Tell the truth about what you believe! Your hateful undertones is to infuriate others and confuse the logical thinking. Justice for all!!!! Don't hate others, you should pray that one day someone of another culture won't have to help you.

Gridlock in Jena

matt meryk, portland, oregon — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:17 GMT

Al Sharpton, where were you when the knoxville murders took place?

Gridlock in Jena

Rosalind Douglasville, GA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:23 GMT

The majority of the comments posted are from those who have not researched the case and have only gotten part of the story. The march is NOT about the students not being punished but about racial injustice. If you researched the story you will find out a lot more.
1. Black students were harmed
2. Black students were threatened
3. The white teen was NOT beaten within inches of his life (he drove himself to a school function that night).
No one is saying that the boys should not be punished but they should be punished accordingly, like the white counterparts that beat up a black teen.

Gridlock in Jena

Doe Ray — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:31 GMT

...as a foreigner i pity you all. I do agree with the blacks, you cant have blatant racial threats go uncheck, meanwhile punishing the other side to the fullest, it foster and encourage hatred among races... the blacks should be punish as kids and the whites should be punish as kids for racial intimidation... and all would be fine...the whites are so quick to defend other whites folly... YOU ARE ALL SO ARE SIMPLYMINDED PEOPLE... THE WORLD LAUGHS AT YOU ALL, ESPECIALLY THE WHITES... THE LAUGHING STOCK OF THE WORLD...

Gridlock in Jena

Andy, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:34:44 GMT

It appears that most people on this blog are missing the point. It's not about six black students beating one white student. It's about an unequal justice system. The protest is not about setting the black students free. It's about correct punishment for a crime. It's about over-prosecution. No one is saying let them go free.

In fact, if you read the details of the entire ordeal, a black boy was beaten by white students a few weeks before the attack on the white student and no charges were filed. So, now what about the black victim? Obviously, some of you have made comments without reading all the facts. This was not one isolated school yard fight.

Gridlock in Jena

A. Marie — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:35:22 GMT

There is a great deal of focus on the beating and little attention to the multiple, related events, including: a Black youth being physically attacked at a party of White youth, racially intoned threats towards Black youth on campus grounds, bullying, inappropriate commentary by Jena law officials. This type of information has been examined at great lengths on blogs and web site within the Black community. Yet, many of the comments presented in this discussion are around one event wherein a White youth was the victim. Perhaps this is a symptom of culturally-ingrained prejudices. This leaves opportunity to explore the possibility that race played some part in how six Black youth were treated, given the inattention to any of the White youth involved in the SERIES of situations.

Gridlock in Jena

Sam, memphis, tn — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:35:50 GMT

Come on people it is not a black thing nor is it a white thing it is an Al and Jessie thing. Got to keep dust up. no dust no attention for them.

Gridlock in Jena

Jane Doe, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:35:51 GMT

Race come into play when the nooses were hung. What about Robert Bailey who was assaulted as well by a white student. When you play games like hanging a noose you get what you decide. While the white students were hanging nooses, someone should be teaching them how to fight!!!!!!!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Black America — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:35:52 GMT

I want to reply to Jane Doe's comment about the victim. This case is not about not charging the young men involved, it is about the extent of the charges. I think everyone understands this young man, victim, could have been seriously injured. He fortunately was not, and I do not believe the prosecution can show these guys were intending to murder this young man. Look at the news reports and you see two different face of America. The white face sees a white youth who made a mistake, the white face sees the same crime by a black youth as a terrible crime committed by some one very evil. Think about the mentally challenged black man lured to a party and beaten by white youth dragged onto an ant bed and left there. This guy will never be the same yet the white male where charged with lesser crimes as the Jena six. This is what black America is upset about the injustice, no one has every said do not charge let them go.

Gridlock in Jena

chocolatecherry — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:35:55 GMT

If people had followed the story and read ALL the facts they would sound intelligent and not ignorant. The teen that was beat was released from the hospital and went to a school function that same night. That was after the white teens pulled guns, had baseball bats and everything else after these black teens. If you don't have all the facts, then you should not comment about the story at all. The Jena 6 should be charged with something however, attempted murder is a little extreme for a fight. Read the entire transcripts of the trial and you would know that this is not just a black and white issue, it is legal injustice, even the judge thought so.

Gridlock in Jena

Tera, Washington DC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:36:26 GMT

ok, it's obvious that all of the facts are not known as is evident by various comments here. First, the march is not about the nooses. It's about 6 young men being charged with attempted murder first and then 2nd degree assault as adults with the deadly weapon being a tennis shoe. No one has denied that there should be punishment given for the fighting, but to potentially send these children away for 15 years?!?!?!?! The person who was beat was not beaten up within an inch of his life. It's untrue. Yes they took him to the hospital, but he was doing alright when later that same day he went back to school and attended a dance to which he drove himself. No assault or other serious charges were brought against the young man who brought the fully loaded gun to the high school. No charges filed against the young men who assaulted the black student at a party a few days before this incident where he was knocked upside the head with a glass bottle. The noose incident was only a "prank" and so the kids get suspended for three days from school. The black students have a peaceful protest against this and are told in an assembly by the DA, who shows up at the school with police that he can take their life away with a stroke of a pen. There were a lot of missteps here and they need to be corrected. If you are going to punish some extensively, punish all the same way. That's what the march is about.

Gridlock in Jena

Hope Cooper Virginia — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:36:31 GMT

I really think this whole situation as gotten out of control. I think that the teens should have been suspended for what was done, but not jail time. I just fail to understand if the white teen was beating within inches of his life,how did he go to a school function that night. Come on now we are not dumb people. I clearly see this as racial issue.

Gridlock in Jena

DSM — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:36:42 GMT

It's amazing how only part of this is getting reported, what about what lead up to this?
No one wants to talk about the blake kids that were beat prior, and how no charges were file.

Gridlock in Jena

cal, Alaska — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:36:45 GMT

i am appalled at the amount of people who responded that "hanging nooses" was a prank? I had thought that as advanced as we are as americans we would be beyond that mentality. Putting the nooses in the tree evokes a very powerful image of "dont sit here or else", epecially for black people who have grown up in a racist world and who remember the days of the KKK. I would like to hear from a black person who lives in Jena and who would like to share their experiences with us about racism. I saw a picture of the young white man on the news and all he had was a bruise on his face, sure didnt look like attempted murder to me. Cmon people grow up and pray for some change in the way we treat people of other races. Granted the 6 young men should not have resorted to violence, but there should have been some effort by the school and the community to discuss this situation before it got out of hand. Racism is alive and well in America and unless we change the way we view each other we will be having this conversation again. Peace

Gridlock in Jena

s doe, RI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:37:06 GMT

It's obvious most people posting here haven't been following the story. People questioning "What if it was six white kids beating a black kid?" Um, that's exactly what happened prior the the "Jena Six" incident and there were no charges. And when the white kid held a gun on black kids in a convenience store, the black kid who disarmed him was charged with stealing his property! The protests are about the unequal treatment under the law that these kids are receiving.

Gridlock in Jena

T Gadbury, Fort Worth, Texas — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:37:09 GMT

A few details seem to be missing concerning this story. One, the young black man in jail, is still in jail because he can't make bail. NOT because he's not allowed to leave like anyone else who had committed such a crime. Two, he did commit a serious crime and it wasn't the first time he's committed a crime either. Yes, there was certainly bad behavior on BOTH sides of the issue, but no black students were beaten senseless by the other group. The young man was angry and made a very bad decision which has cost him a longer criminal record and his freedom. He was not arrested because he was black, but because he broke the law. No one can defend the other group for their despicable behavior, but they weren't arrested because they didn't attack anyone. Interesting that no one made mention of why the white group was not charged with enciting a riot. Now, I suppose the groups headed there will riot, once again proving an inability to take responsibility for their actions. Where were the parents of ALL these kids? Why did the school allow this type of insanity to occur, let alone boil over into a violent situation? This has very little to do with the civil rights movement and everything to do with people of all ages and races disrespecting each other and taking no responsibility for their actions. Everyone involved should ensure this type of behavior is never repeated. The white students, and those adults responsible for them, should learn to be more tolerant and respectful of others. The black students, and those adults responsible for them, should learn proper ways to deal with situations like this and to also be more tolerant and respectful of others. God must be terribly disappointed in all of you. I know I am. We should be at war with Islamic fascists that threaten our entire world and way of life, not each other.

Gridlock in Jena

Preston Smith III, Birmingham, Alabama — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:43:21 GMT

While I read this forum and many of the post, It makes it even more clear now on why MY PEOPLE marched today. I am so proud of every black person in Amerikkka that stood up for the cause.

To try to equate to say "What if it was six white boys beating up one black kid?" Then they should get what the six black boys should've got. Suspended from school. Its a fight. I cannot tell you how many time I got kicked and stomped on in fights as a child. But for hanging nooses, a hate crime, you get suspended. For beating up a black child with a beer bottle, you get a year probation, for pulling out a shot gun on some black kids you get nothing, but the kids that defended themselves get arrester for theft?!?!? And the white boy that shot off his mouth and got knocked in it.. You know what, my mind says they shouldnt have done that. Ignore STUPID WHITE PEOPLE my parents taught me, but my heart says, "thats what you get for opening your big trap redneck." You people need to get over yourselves. You can treat us any old way anymore. Try now and see what happens..

Gridlock in Jena

sig lyles, atlanta — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:43:29 GMT

he went to the hospital yes, but his injuries weren't that bad. he went to party the same night. if he had been beaten unconscious. Rodney got beat down by 3 cops and nothing was done to them initially. When I went to high school-fights happened all the time-attempted murder is ridiculous.

Gridlock in Jena

Shea Foster - 972-445-0825 - Irving, TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:43:34 GMT

I am from Texas, White, Proud of my race, - but these boys deserve nothing of what they are getting - I understand - Race, this Race that blah blah ........ the kids are 15-18 the white kid walked away, 6 kids You don't think they could have murdered if if they wanted ? I am not sure what the LA. folks are thinking ../.

Gridlock in Jena

Keevonya Wilkerson, Dallas, TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:43:44 GMT

To the people who do not believe this is about race DO YOUR RESEARCH FIRST! Follow the timeline of what happened prior to the white boy being assaulted. Had the school administration dealt more severely with the WHITE boys who hung the nooses (rather than just a suspension for a prank) Jena could have saved itself a lot of the racial tension and embarassment. America's history of the noose and black people is not something to joke about! THE BLACK COMMUNITIES' ISSUES ARE ABOUT FAIR & EQUAL PUNISHMENT & JUSTICE..If you don't handle things properly at the onset of a problem you will definitely have more and more incidents like this. Get a clue white America or things will surely get worse...I personally am praying for ALL of us involved!

Gridlock in Jena

P King — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:16 GMT

The beating victim, Justin Barker, was knocked unconscious, his face badly swollen and bloodied, though he was able to attend a school function later that night....where is the attempted murder if he could go out that night, come on people lets keep it real....

Gridlock in Jena

Racial Divide — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:17 GMT

I wonder if would matter to anyone that the white kid pulled a gun on the black kids? Is that acceptable?

Does it matter that in the case of Bell, the only one tried thus far, the charge required a deadly weapon, and the DA determined that his deadly weapon was his tennis shoes. The all-white jury bought it. He could have served 15 years in prison for assaulting someone with TENNIS SHOES.

Meanwhile, the white kid who pulled the gun has not been charged with anything.

Gridlock in Jena

Mike Barrett Chicago IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:25 GMT

This Black blame everyone but me is destroying the soul of the African American society, and its leadership is exploiting their own people by refusing to acknowledge the real problems inherent in the black family structure. Instead they incite racial distrust for personal gain and further harm the people they are suppose to help.

Gridlock in Jena

Sonya Turner; Vinton, Louisiana — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:33 GMT

THOU SHALT NOT KILL!

Gridlock in Jena

Earlene, Maryland — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:44:44 GMT

Injustice for one is INJUSTICE for all! The punishment should fit the crime!! What happened to the person(s) that hung the nooses in the first place? What happened to the white kid who pulled a gun?? Where's his punishment? What happened within the Judicial System that allowed a CHILD to be placed in an ADULT prison? All people must RISE against the quoting your president, "EVIL DOOERS"!!!

Gridlock in Jena

RECM Irving,TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:01 GMT

I never respond to blogs such as this - but it appears this was necessary. There was '1' reader that requested additional details/facts - nearly all others are making this issue about the 'nooses' - what you are missing is the fact that what Kimberly/Houston stated initially, this DID happen to a black student, he was assaulted viciously by several WHITE kids & they received a slap on the wrist!! When the situation is reversed & several BLACK students did the EXACT same thing to a white student they get charged with attempted murder??? Now who's really being fair here - get all the facts before you condemn what the protesters are trying to say - same crime, different COLOR skin & different consequences are administered. The hanging of the nooses were just ANOTHER example of the lack of punishment administered to WHITES in this town - it's not the MAIN ISSUE. So now, does this sound "more" like racism - I think so & if you were really thinking & nonbias you would also.

Gridlock in Jena

Be Realistic, Chicago, IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:03 GMT

The point is being missed. Yes, the 6 boys should be punished for the crime. However, the punishment that has been imposed is excessive. I work in a diverse high school. Kids fight all the time. It is par for the course. But, how often do you hear about students having a fight and being charged with attempted murder, with the possibility of spending 20+ years in jail? It just doesn't happen that way. Why such a harsh punishment? Again, let the punishment fit the crime. As for the young man the was beat up, his injuries could not have been severe. He was able to attend a school function later the same night. It seems to me that if someone is almost "beat to death", they would have an extended hospital stay or be at home recovering, not out at a school function!

Gridlock in Jena

Racial Divide — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:11 GMT

Billy - It's not a freedom of speech act. It's a hate crime.

Gridlock in Jena

MONA HARRIS, ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA! — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:17 GMT

Are you kidding me? The boy hung NOOSES on a tree at a HIGH SCHOOL!! He also went to a party the SAME NIGHT he was "beaten" so his injuries could not have been but so bad! To ruin kids lives forever over a fight that anyone with feelings would have reacted on had it been them, is ridiculous. One person commented that black people are the most racist race...hmmmm well had the things that have happened to the black race over the past few hundred years and STILL happen, wouldn't it be hard to NOT be? No one is saying anything about kids hanging nooses in the year 2006 but they want to lock away kids forever for fighting behind it. Give me a break. Set them free but let them do community service or something fit for a teenager. The kid or kids that hung the nooses...THEY should be punished for civil rights violations...the whole darned school system there if you ask me!

Gridlock in Jena

Ruby Potts, Laurel MD — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:20 GMT

PLEASE FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH ALL THE FACTS:

The issue here PEOPLE is equal justice under the law. The young man was not beaten "half to death" but in fact attended a school function later that same evening.

The fight broke out after the young man taunted the 1st black kid about a similar 'beat down'- white kids on 1 black kid over the previous weekend at a party. No charges were filed against those kids or the actual adult that took part in that incident.

The fight itself was broken up immediately by school personnel and other students black and white. The DA came in with the attempted murder charge much later in what should have been a matter that was handled by the school.

The students who hung the nooses (months earlier its true) as a warning about 'the whites only tree' were initally suspended but that was overturned by the school board and changed to an in-school suspension. During the time of that incident a white student pulled a gun on group of black students to intimidate them and no charges were filed.

I am sure that a detailed review of cases brought and charges filed would reveal gross disparities in this case. 10 months in an adult facility should be enough to satisfy even the most hardened law and order type. When is enough, enough?

Gridlock in Jena

Michelle Taylor — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:29 GMT

Why does no understand that we, as black people are not saying it is OKAY to beat someone else for what they did. We are just saying, that there should be EQUAL, FAIR and JUST PUNISHMENT for all races. YES, they should be punished - but 15 YEARS IN PRISON!?!?! NOT FAIR!!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

Chele, Baltimore MD — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:30 GMT

Hanging a noose is a crime(done by whites). Threating someone with a shotgun at someone is a crime(done by whites). Fist-fighting is a crime. Now there were two fights. One in which a group of white men jumped a black boy and one in which a group a black boys jumed a white boy. The people that commited these crimes should be punished. And that punishment should fit the crime commited. The question I have is this, with all the known crimes commited, why are only the black kids in jail? The police in Jena, LA need to round up the rest of these clowns and throw thier butts in jail too. I think that's the reason for the protest. Why is that only the white victim can get justice?

Gridlock in Jena

Rich in Name Only, Fort Lauderdale, FL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:45:46 GMT

Not Again! OK...some idiot white kids put some nooses in a tree. The blacks(all adults except for 1) decide to beat the crap out of one of them. I could understand the rage these men had, but couldn't they have just used harsh language? I mean, a physical beating is a crime and throwing some nooses over a tree is not. My question is if one or more of the black males said "I'm going to kill you" and then started the beating, I could see the initial attempted murder charge. If it was a lot of other language minus anything about killing, than likely no. Based on the news, the attempted murder was dropped and charges of battery are pending. It all seems the way it should be except for the "gathering". What is with the support from David Bowie? The point I am making here is that lawmakers and other officials should basically try to ignore these marches because these people will almost always make a race issue out of anything that involves a white person. They know that this is unacceptable and illegal behavior...the beating. The noose hanging is unacceptable as well, but hardly comparable to a beating. Also, why did it take 5 or six of these guys to beat one kid?!? Anyway, I do my best to ignore these "gatherings" as most of the time they are perpetrating the same thing they accuse whitey of. You know if Al Sharpton is there, it's basically another race card game. These people may one day realize that they must abide by the same laws that the rest of us follow...no exceptions...not even race. You don't need Al Sharpton and you don't need race marches. You just need to stop breaking the law!

Gridlock in Jena

Ricardo, Chicago IL — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:21 GMT

has anyone really follwed this story? I am an african american male & feel that the boys should be punished but not just the blacks. Attempted murder for a bunch of kids getting in a fight? The boy who was beaten left the hospital of his own free will. The media has attempted to play this as if the boy almost died, is this what it has come to? Only when the case gets national attention do the charges get lessened but mind you this arent 20 yr olds where talking about. These are children who where provoked. I have taken the time to read all of the posts on here and a majority of them are very ignorant not addressing the simple facts of the case. No the boys should not be let off the hook but charging them with a felony that would distroy their lives? Do we actually consider that to be fair? No charges where filled against the whites boys' who instigated this entire event but when the blacks retaliate then you try to bury them under the court house. Yes racism is alive and well and it is apart on both sides. It is time that the justice system in this county see the crime for what it is and not the color of your skin.

Gridlock in Jena

John Starks, Nashville,TN — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:23 GMT

Wow!! Just reading previous comments makes me realize that racism is still alive and well. Wouldn't we fare better if we all do some research on the issue before making blind statements based on our preferred color. But then again who needs the truth...

Gridlock in Jena

MELLY SAUTEREAU — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:32 GMT

FIRST things first: Shouldn't Jesse Jackson be spending this time taking pull-ups to his 'baby mama'?
You know, the one he cheated on his wife with? AND, shouldn't not-so-Sharp-ton be in a barber shop on a fat farm? SECONDLY, every comment here is cancelled out by the pathetic grammar...are we focusing on the wrong issues? HELLO???

Gridlock in Jena

Jane Doe — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:35 GMT

I believe the white kids that hung the nooses should be charged with a hate crime. The black students should be arrested too, but on battery, not attempted murder. A person should be punished for the crime, regardless of race, but the punishment should fit the crime. All students involved should be expelled as well. I don't understand why Sharpton and Jackson have to be so intrusive on every issue.

Gridlock in Jena

Raymond, Atlanta, Georgia — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:46 GMT

It is funny to read about how everyone is saying "what if 6 white kids beat up a black kid?" News flash... That's exactly what happened. Before you comment, it would be best to know the WHOLE story. After the nooses were hung, the black kids complained and one of them were beat up by a group of white kids. The black kids retaliated and now are being charged for murder and the white kids???? This is why they are MAD!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

L W Augusta Ga — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:46:55 GMT

The whites who hung the noose should be charged with hate crime. the blacks who beat the white kid should be charged with hate crime. both should get the same charges. two wrongs makes no right. move on to the next problem.

Gridlock in Jena

Jane.Doe — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:00 GMT

Please refrain from using the words 'BEAT A PERSON NEARLY TO DEATH'! This student went to a school function THAT SAME NIGHT!!! Read about it before you write about it!

Gridlock in Jena

Cathy L, Rutherfordton, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:12 GMT

I bet MLK is rolling over in his grave at the stupidity of Al Sharpton and the others getting up on a soap box over this.
I am so sick of the Black Ace Card that keeps being played. Hanging a noose on a tree is far different from 6 people beating up on 1 lone person. I could understand if there were black people attached to those nooses. A noose was just used to hang Sadan Hussein, so should all Iraqi people in America be protesting too.
These 6 black kids need to do the time for the crime they committed. The jails in America are FILLED with black people who broke the law. Should we free them all just because they are black? HECK NO.
If blacks want equal rights, then stop breaking the law and then crying race.
Blacks came from Africa to white America. Yes, as slaves.....BUT THAT IS OVER. When are the white people of America going to stop paying for the past? Blacks think they are intitled to lives of luxury because their great granddaddy was a slave. GET OVER IT and MOVE FORWARD. The blacks are the only ones keeping America from moving on. Live and Let Live, Forgive and move on.
What about the laracose boys that were tried for raping a black girl........only to find out she LIED. Every black in America was ready to put a noose around these white kids necks and hang them for something they were innocent of. These 6 black boys have admitted to beating this poor white boy..............WHERE IS THE JUSTICE FOR HIM?
In my 44 years I have NEVER been racist, but with all of the BS going on I am starting to change my mind.
Everyone gets the same punishment......white, black, red, yellow.
Al Sharpton, if the gun man on the Virginia Tech Campus would have been black, would you have pity on him and call it a racial thing? O Thats right....he was Yellow so we can all hate him!!!!

Gridlock in Jena

John Doe — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:16 GMT

It's nice to call the white boy a victim, and yes, the black boys were wrong for beating him up. However, I'd hardly say he was beaten "within inches of his life" as one of the previous comments on this posting stated. The boy was able to go to an event the same night, so I don't think he was beaten nearly as severely as is being advertised. In that vein, the legislation is wrong for bumping up the charges just to make something stick. The ones who are really wrong in this situation are the adults who are not setting a good example for these boys to follow. If they had had better role models, both black and white, this issue would never have occurred. The truth is, as adults, we ARE responsible for the conduct of all of our children. And all children are ours, not just the ones we physically gave birth to.

Gridlock in Jena

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:18 GMT

OK first of all noone is saying anything here about the white boys who invited one of the blk kids to a party knowing there were nothing but white kids there, and then they beat him up, why are you all not mentioning that? And why no mention on the one blk kid who got hit over the head with a glass bottle and got stitches from a white kid.. The white boy who was beat up went to a school event after only being in the hospital for 2 hours.. he was not beat within mins of his life. This was a fight between young kids and thats all it was. Everyone sees what they want to see, and not what actually is happening. The march is not becouse of racism its becouse of injustice and unfairness. Treat them all the same God made us all equal, put the white kids up on trial and lets see what happens.

Gridlock in Jena

pd weber, LA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:21 GMT

Nothing new here - in Long Beach, near LA, three white girls in Halloween costumes (!) were jumped by a large group of blacks, and beaten badly...one is on her fourth surgery to try and save her eye. The blacks first taunted the girls, then jumped them, with one beating them with a skateboard. Arrests, then slaps on the wrist by the typically-spineless liberal judges in our town. Several mothers of the black thugs ended up on Oprah, etc...no doubt paid to do so. So if you think Jena is new, or recent, think again. The Bureau of Justice Statistics clearly shows, year after year, that for every 100 race-on-race crimes involving blacks and whites, the blacks are the perps in 90-95 of them. You're probably tempted to say: "Wow, that's that's a 9:1 ration...", but you'd miss the bigger picture: blacks are only about 1/9th the number of whites, meaning it is 50-60 times more likely that a black will attack a white than the other way around. It is clear that cretins like Jesse Jackoff and Al the Smell won't ever say that out loud, but more odious is the fact that no liberal white or black journalist, professor, or judge will say it, either. Having been a civil rights worker in the South, an inner-city teacher who spent a lot of my own money to buy clothes and supplies for black students, and a cop who used to pay for bus tickets to help gang members leave town and their gangs, I agree with the earlier writer ("Just Me") who mourns the loss of Doctor King's vision. Tragic it is that blacks - themselves - completely hosed away their former moral high ground with their own racism and irresponsible behavior. Remember Tookie Williams, the Crips founder executed a few years back? I was his personal jailer, and had a daily and cordial relationship with him - he started a 20-year plan when I first met him to "write" (someone else did the work) "children's books" that he felt would make him look sympathetic to the "chicken-necked liberal judges" and help him beat the death penalty for multiple murder of an Asian family in a robbery...he felt zero remorse for the victims, and sought, exclusively, to find a way out of the mess. Just like the Halloweenies (the local name for the black thugs of Long Beach), the Jena thugs, and OJ, blacks today no longer resemble the - in my mind - civil rights heroes of the 1950s and 60s...they more resemble the irresponsible blacks that are destroying Africa with their greed, ignorance, and, often, murderous behavior. The difference is that American blacks are willing to look weak and self-serving in promoting the liberal-coined "social justice," which, like "equality" are terms today made meaningless by our liberals, socialists, and feminists...and race-card dirtbags.

It is time for this country, and it's contrived "victims," to GROW UP.

Gridlock in Jena

Ramon, Atlanta Ga — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:47:31 GMT

I Think those of you who stated what about the victim. Okay, lets get the facts correct and understand that he was not almost beaten to death. He sustained non life threatening injuries and was released hours after being treated at the hospital. Al Sharpton has not condoned the black boys for being in the fight. He stated" that the appropraite punishment should be given to all participants in the fight. What makes this wrong is charging the Jena for attempted murder when it should have been simple battery. Also, no witnesses testified that they saw any on the Jena 6 assault this young white male. Get the facts and you will see the punishment does not fit the crime. Any blind person can see that.

Gridlock in Jena

Big D Flint, MI. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:56:17 GMT

I just believe justice should be served appropriately. Kids will be kids no matter the race this is just an extreme case of IMMATURE adults placing their morale values in a kid's situation. Yes, the teens should be punished but not to this extreme.

Gridlock in Jena

Ytown N8tve — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:07 GMT

Has anyone stated that these white kids beatthe crap out of the black kids first even bustingthe one kid upsaid the head with a beer bottle. Then when the same white kid who was part of beating up the first blacks was alone that is when he got his but spanked...

Gridlock in Jena

john n.c. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:16 GMT

I would like to start with, the boys who hung the noose were in the wrong,but they did not physically assault anyone.everyone does something that someone else is going to disagree with. thats life. but the real issue is this boy got beaten down pretty bad and all you here about is how the black kids are getting the bad rap.thats a bunch of bull----.they done the crime and they should do the time.

Gridlock in Jena

Sharon, Columbus OH — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:19 GMT

The point of the protest is about the unequal justice being applied here. This is not about condoning acts that are violent. I find it interesting that the Press wants to skip over the facts that occurred before this beating of the white student. Prior to the incident where the 6 black students battered the one 1 white student, there had been incidents where white students jumped black students....however, no charges were filed...WHY, should not the same letter of the law apply to them? Also why wasn't the noose hanging incident been prosecuted as a hate crime? While I agree two wrongs do not make one right, the problem is when the white persons commit a crime against someone of color, be it a black person, latino, or asian, the white public does not care, but when the person being assaulted is white, then there is this great outcry. Had the crimes of hate- beginning with the mock lynching threat with the nooses hung on the tree , ending with the assault by the white students on the black students- been dealt with, there would not be a need to protest. Equal justice and prosecution of all, not just someone of color. So stop demonizing Al Sharpton for bringing the light of examination to this very dark part of the human spirit and a very selective justice system. The last time I checked a "jury of your peers" should include someone who is of your own race, not a jury of all white.

Gridlock in Jena

Julian, Charlotte, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:19 GMT

From a black sportswriter for Fox sports:

The "Jena Six" are becoming a cause célébre for Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson and the media. At least two or three times a week for the past three months, I have received an e-mail from someone asking me to support the "Jena Six."
On the surface, the story sounds like a horrifying tale of Emmett Till-style justice. At a predominantly white high school in a segregated town (Jena), a black student sat under a shade tree that was traditionally used by white students. The next day three white students hung nooses from the tree, sparking racial tension and a sit-in (under the tree) by black students. The principal attempted to expel the three white students, but the school board overruled the principal and the students were given a suspension, which sparked more racial tension.
Police patrolled the school's hallways. The town's district attorney visited the school for an impromptu assembly, allegedly looked at the black students and said he could end their lives with one stroke of his pen. A little more than three months after the noose incident — and just days after two off-campus fights/heated exchanges involving a black student and white former students — the "Jena Six" punched, beat and stomped a white kid who made fun of a black kid for getting whipped in a Friday-night fight.
The white kid was knocked unconscious. After a three-hour hospital visit, he was released. The town prosecutor initially charged the "Jena Six" with attempted murder. Mychal Bell, the first of the six to stand trial and a Division-I football prospect, was convicted of aggravated second-degree battery and conspiracy by an all-white, six-person jury, a white judge and a white prosecutor. His public defender did not call a single witness in his defense. Bell could be sentenced to 22 years.
Whew!
Before I go any further, let me state this: The prosecutor should've never charged these boys with attempted murder. The entire school board should be replaced for stopping the noose-hanging kids from being expelled.
OK, having said that, much of the mainstream reporting on this story has been misleading, irresponsible and inflammatory.
No one mentions that Mychal Bell's clueless public defender was black. No one mentions that there were no black jurors because of the 50 people who responded to the more than 100 summons, none were black. No one mentions that Bell was already on probation for battery relating to a Christmas day incident in 2005. No one mentions that Bell was adjudicated (convicted) of two other violent crimes in 2006 and one charge of criminal damage to property. No one mentions that Bell's father acknowledged he moved back to Louisiana in February (after seven years in Dallas) to supervise his son because of the "Jena Six" mess. No one mentions that Bell starred on the Jena High football team while constantly jeopardizing/violating his seemingly flimsy probation.
This was all talked about in open court during a bond hearing for Bell, and a newspaper in Alexandria, La., wrote about it. Just about everybody else has pretty much ignored the "other side" of the story. Including the fact that not one witness — black or white, and there were 40 statements taken — connected the jumping/beatdown of the white student (Dec. 4) to the noose incident (Sept. 1).
No one mentions that a black U.S. Attorney, Donald Washington, investigated the "Jena Six" case and held a town-hall meeting explaining that there was no evidence connecting the jumping/beatdown to the noose incident.
Only after the prosecutor overreacted (or tired of letting Bell and others skate once the successful football season was over; Bell wasn't the only football star charged) did the "Jena Six" blame the attack on the nooses and the white shade tree.
advertisement

STORY TOOLS:

print

send

blog

RSS

LIKE THIS STORY?

Rather than report the truth, flames have been fanned by lazy or cowardly or agenda-driven members of the media. Because the white kid regained consciousness and survived the attack with only a swollen eye, defenders of the "Jena Six" have called it a typical "schoolyard fight." Would anyone call it that if six white football and basketball players jumped one black kid?
I've mulled this topic for months, and I keep coming back to one question: Where in the hell were the parents — all of the parents, white and black?
Shame on the parents of the kids who hung the nooses for hiding behind a seemingly racist and insensitive school board when their kids were inexcusably wrong. Shame on the parents of the "Jena Six" for blaming white racism for the cowardice of a six-on-one attack.
And shame on the prosecutor, the media and Al Sharpton for not rising above the ignorance and distortions, and seeking a truth that will set everyone in Jena free, including the "Jena Six."

Jason Whitlock
Kansas City, MO writer

Gridlock in Jena

Rogers, AR — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:23 GMT

The judicial system will decide the fate of the six that stand accused. Not Al Sharpton or others like him who milk these kind of situations to their own political benefit. The facts should come out in court. If need be get a change of venue in order to get a fair hearing on this matter. To me this has turned into political posturing than anything else.

Gridlock in Jena

Kathy, Pittsburgh, PA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:32 GMT

People seem to be misunderstanding the whole situation. The reason people are ANGRY is because the six students were initially charged with "Attempted Murder". That was wrong. ALL the children should have been charged with assualt as juveniles. ALL of them did something wrong, white and black. The thing that I find funny is that these "fights" happen everyday in every schoolyard for years. It happened when I was in elementary school and will happen when my grandkids will be in elementary school. I think that this is the way kids actually became friends, at least back in the day. This day and age people don't even "fight" the first thing they want to do is shoot or stab someone. That is attemepted murder, not a schoolyard fight. If a schoolyard fight is attempted murder then I know that ME and a whole lot of you reading this should be sitting on a life sentence. All the kids should be disciplined but not with jail time period.

Gridlock in Jena

B K, Redlands, CA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:56 GMT

I am amazed by the ignorance of many of the posters on this board who think this is about 6 black kids beating up a white kid. The black kids in Jena were threatened by white students who placed nooses in the "white" tree, the black students were threatened by the DA - Reed Walters, the students appeals to the board of education were ignored. Racial tensions were aggravated by those in authority in Jena, whose actions (or lack of action) gave racist white students free license to harass black students at will. One of the results of this was the attack on Justin Barker, who was released from the hospital after two hours, and for this the Jena 6 were charged with attempted murder. If you cannot see the disparity in the justice system from this example, you are blind! This is just one example of the unfair treatment of Black Americans by our justice system. Things need to change NOW!

Gridlock in Jena

John Doe, Cleveland, Ohio — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:56 GMT

FACT: Black Kid asks to sit under a tree
ACTION: white kids hang a noosees on tree a CLEAR indication of threat.
REACTION: Principal reccommends expulsion
WHITE school board just suspends students
OBSERVATION: Boys will be boys.

FACT: White kid pull a shotgun on Black kids
ACTION: Black kids take shotgun from white kid, and take it to police.
REACTION: Black kids get charged with theft of GUN HUH??!!??
OBSERVATION: Perhaps the kids should have let them SHOOT them. But then they would have gotten charged with stealing the bullets in their bodies

FACT: Black kids Beat up white kid.
Action White kid goes to hospital, THEN to a DANCE that evening
REACTION: Black kids get charges with ATTEMPTED MURDER???
Atempted murder with a deadly weapon... TENNIS SHOES!!!!
Consipracy to commit murder...(when did they have time to plan this??
OBSERVATION:How was the dance?

FACT: Jena DA in one breath says "the act of hanging the nosse was deplorable, and this that did it shoud be ashamed of the consequences that have wroght on this town, then in the NEXT breath says " the beating by the J6 was totally unrelated to the hanging of the nooses".. DUH.... if the actions were un related why should the noos hangars be ashames of the actions they did and the consequences on the town?
OBSERVATION:2 faced retoric, buy a-good-old-boy white prosecutor

Pity to the ignorant people above... yes im calling you IGNORANT.
They only see the reaction, but not mention of the ACTIONS that caused it...
Typical southern white arrogance, lets do somehitng totally ignorant, then be aghast when the subject of the ignorant actions reacts. (oh my how could they do that, those people get so upset, oh my, theres no racism in this country, im shocked).

They choose to focus on the fact that Sharpton, and jcakson are in Jena, and their hatred for them is blinding them to the fact that this is a REAL injustice. go back to your small little world, and be angry. Because injustices like this cant stand. they will be overcome.

We as African-americans have issues, no doubt, but one of our issues is YOU.
And in spite of your racist arrogance, and denial, We will over come.
Ignorance cant last forever.

Gridlock in Jena

Ray, jacksonville, Fl — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 16:57:59 GMT

Why is the whole story not being told. Did the boy beaten to death not attend a social occasion that evening?

Gridlock in Jena

B. Salter — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:02:31 GMT

Why hasn't the federal gov. stepped in and filed federal "hate crime" charges??? DUH???? Put the shoe on the other foot "honorable REVERENDS". The reverends need to spend more time trying to save these people's souls instead of upping their coffers. I realize race has taken the back seat over the last 20 years with the exception of the hyped up situations like L.A., O.J. and such. What about the black teenagers that KILLED the boy in the Carolinas because he had a rebel flag in the back window of his pickup, with his little girlfriend witnessed this MURDER. What happened to them? What, MEDIA??? It is all about money. Money and ratings with the media, money with the reverends. They make a living on hype. Poor blacks sending half their social security checks to these scums who could care less about them. Racist? Who is racist?

Gridlock in Jena

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:02:44 GMT

The biggest injustice here is not that done to the victim, but the fact that we live in a nation where it matters that the attackers were black and their victim was white. When it will only matter that 6 boys so badly beat another boy, and not that they happened to be black, white, brown or purple with pink polka dots, THEN we'll know that we're finally honoring the civil rights of ALL Americans, and not just paying cheap lip service to rights-march slogans we don't even really understand.

Let them protest. See where it gets us as a nation. And somebody shut up the good Reverend, eh?

Gridlock in Jena

A. Work — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:02:46 GMT

Wow. I am amazed at how many people are commenting on this story and not researching anything about it before hand. If you would research, you would see also that this fight was in retaliation to an incident in which a group of white boys DID beat up a black boy -

The incident that happened where several white students beat up a black student. The next day or so, when the black student and some friends confronted one of the white students involved in the fight, the white student pulled an unloaded shotgun on the black students. The black students took the gun away from him. The judge did absolutly nothing to the white student (for either the original assult or pulling a gun) - however, the black students were charged with theft for taking the gun away.

The original incident that started the current:

"The fight at the school followed highly charged racial incidents that started last September when white students placed three hangman's nooses in what was known as "the white tree" at Jena High School. Black parents wanted the white students expelled, but Superintendent Roy Breithaupt, who also is white, suspended them for three days, calling the nooses a prank."

(How in the world could this be considered a "prank"?! So basically, they are saying that if I went to the nearest Jewish Synagogue and painted three large, prominent Swastika's all over it and hung a life size picture of Hitler, that would also be considered a prank?)

I think we all need to remeber that we are talking about 16 and 17 year old BOYS - all of them, black and white, are still boys. Most (not all) kids that age are going to react to fights like all these kids did.

I pray for all involved.

Gridlock in Jena

Angela Johnson, DC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:02:57 GMT

Why didn't anyone protest the injustice the Duke Lacrosse players faced when they were wrongfully and purposefully charged for them basically being white boys "raping" a black girl? They were INNOCENT. Why is that NOT an injustice?? Where is their support? It's nonsense. This is Just another reason to bring up race and be hateful. Who are the real racists?

Gridlock in Jena

Tynara New Orleans,Louisiana — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:00 GMT

I am so appalled of all those who wrote comments esepcially of those who don't understand a thing about Louisiana. I have lived there all my life and racism still exists. These young men are not the only ones who had a fight in a school, fighting in a school is common. It's all over the united states. Many students aren't sent to jailed but expelled from that school. If you would have taken the time to read more on the Jena 6 you would have known that this is all about race. The young man who was so called badly beaten. Bragged about beating up a black student who went to a party. Now where is the justice for that person also as well a white man pulled a gun out on three young black men. They wrestled with him and took his gun but they were arresested for robbery. The saddest thing for me see is that people pretend to be so liberal when your are really hypocrites. Before a lot of you make a statement or pass judgement get the facts. Just from reading what alot of you wrote sounds racist to me. For the record the young man was not beaten severely as a matter of fact he was release from the hospital that day and attended a party.

Gridlock in Jena

MP, Aurora, CO — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:06 GMT

I believe that some of you need to get your facts straight with the reason why there is a protest going on in Jena. The young man that was "beaten" was NOT beaten within inches of his life. How could he have been beaten that bad and go to a school function that very same night!!!! I'm not saying that there shouldn't be any punishment for the six who were involved, but attempted murder...PLEASE. How come no one is talking about the fact that these young men had a gun pointed at them when this particular fight took place and that one of their charges is theft of that weapon? How come no one is addressing that there was an assembly at the school prior to this incident in which the black students were threatened to let the event of the hung black dolls go or else they would suffer dire consequences? Where is the justice in all that! Let's get all our facts straight about what lead to this before we start pointing fingers at the few who the LA justice system decided to prosecute.

Gridlock in Jena

A. Work, Michigan — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:15 GMT

Gridlock in Jena

JANET DOE — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:20 GMT

If 6 white boys had severely beaten a black kid,blacks would be rioting and killing people right now. Gang beating with bricks to the head...... I've really about had it with all the black racists & Al Sharptons. We are going backwards here people. Black people are turning me from not racist to racist in a hurry I can tell you.

Gridlock in Jena

Micky D. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:38 GMT

Sharpton and these people protesting are the racists! As always, these same protestors are looking for special rules due to race rather than equality. This is not what MLK fought for!

Gridlock in Jena

Buddy, Florida — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:03:45 GMT

This rally is an act of Treason. Americans must uphold the sustaining fiber of our society- The Laws that keep us from civil disobedience is what has made this country as great as it is. To call for freedom for any lawbreakers is a call for freedom for all lawbreakers. To call for freedom for these kids is saying that no crime was committed. If this crime was committed then the punishment is due. What makes this a crime is the Law and anyone who says that punishment is not due should try to get the law changed if they don't like it and make it Ok for 6 kids to beat another kid half to death. They could get a few more laws changed as well like the one about robbing convience stores or doing drugs. It appears that the only laws they feel are worth having are the ones that apply to other people.

Gridlock in Jena

Jane Doe, Warrenton, VA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:03 GMT

This IS absurd... but because "african americans" want their cake and to eat it too! They want to be "equal", but only if that equality comes with special privleges and treatment... what kind of equality is THAT?! Get over yourselves, people! YOU were never a slave! I never owned one... we're just people, and if you beat a kid badly enough to put him in the hospital, you're a scumbag, regardless of the color of your skin. Period.

Gridlock in Jena

G Cooley — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:04 GMT

We keep saying the white student was beat near death but he went to a school function that same day. If he was so badly beaten as reported how could he attend a school function? The problem here is the justice system and the way they are handling the situation. Fights happen between students,was it not mentioned that a black student was beaten by several white students prior to the white student getting beaten? What happen to those white students who beat the black student? All facts need to be looked at and what I am seeing is an injustice in the way the D.A. is handling the case, attempted murder, 15+ years in prison for a school yard fight. Did those white students who beat up the black student get any jail time or were they even arrested? All who fought should be given punishment equally across the board not one this and one that, but to take away the Jena 6 livihood and a chance to do better is not right. Are you taking away the white students who beat up the black student their livihool away? Equality must be the same for all involved. Black/White etc. If the student attended a school function the same day he was beaten nearly to death than something is wrong, wrong with the way words are being thrown around and wrong on how the D.A. and the school system is handling the cases.

Gridlock in Jena

susie — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:07 GMT

regardless of the colour of the teens,,the law is so blind in north america,,,,it takes two to tangle so the white kid is a bad as the six black kids...is that how we call humans defile ourselves.....put it this way white people do not like any other race,white people thinks they are the best,,,so stupid,,,they call themselves humans ,,,I don't think so,,,,,,they are the most racist people on this earth and little did they know that they will be wripe off of this earth soon,,,,,,,

Gridlock in Jena

Nicole, Spring Hill, Fl — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:13 GMT

The issue to me is that these young men were charged with attempted murder when the youth who received the beating only had to be in the hospital for a couple of hours then attended a school function that night. He obviously wasn't within inches of his life. If it had been 6 whites on a black then I'm sure that they would have gotten a slap on the wrist and sent home, especially if the black youth had provoked them like the white youths did in this case.

Gridlock in Jena

B. Salter — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:20 GMT

By the way, if these poor 'teens' were old enough to be tried as adults, why were they on campus in the first place??

Gridlock in Jena

Jayme, South Dakota — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:04:56 GMT

This whole situation is yet another disgrace by the racist pigs otherwise known as Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton. Those 2 are complete scum. This is a lose-lose situation, for ALL involved, as long as the racist black community is involved. As others have already stated, if 6 white kids beat a black kid in school that badly, they'd be demanding the whiteys be charged with a hate crime. All they're doing is stirring up race relations and making it worse for everyone. 6 on 1, stomping on his head, kicking him in the face, etc, IS attempted murder. At least one of them has a criminal record, showing it's in his nature to do those things, so lock him up and throw away the key. We don't need thugs like that roaming around the street.

Now, you might ask what about what the white people did. That is NOT relevant to this case. It shows motive for what they did, but does NOT excuse what they did by any means. From what I've gathered, here is what the white people did. There was a private party that some black guys tried to crash. They came there looking for trouble and one of them got his butt kicked. That's what started it. Those kids should've gotten assault charges as well, unless the blacks started the actual fight, then it's just a fight. Then there were the 3 nooses on that tree. That basically was throwing fuel on the fire. Those kids should've been suspended, for a considerable amount of time, if not permanently. Now the white kid that got beat saw the black guy that got beat up in the gym and was taunting him about getting his ass whipped. Then he walked outside, with his girlfriend, and ran into a group of blacks. He turned around to avoid them and they attacked him FROM BEHIND. They proceeded to beat on him, 6 of them. He did nothing more than taunt someone for getting beat, and he was FRIENDS with the guys that tied the nooses on the tree. That's hardly grounds for being severely beaten.

(The instance about the guy with the shotgun was a different white guy, at a convenience store. He got out, got confronted by a group of black guys, went back to his truck to get his unloaded shotgun, and they took it away from him. The black guys then went to the other side of the truck, opened up the door and punched his gf in the face, then ran off with the shotgun. Takes a real man to hit a girl doesn't it? Scumbags)

Gridlock in Jena

John Conrad, Winston-Salem, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:05:09 GMT

Like most responders, I know little about the specifics of this incident other than there have been shameful actions by all parties. What I do know, based on NPR interviews I heard on Dianne Reems' show this morning, is that 1) the young man who was beaten was released from the hospital in two hours, and 2)he was among those who had attacked other students. Sounds to me 1) like his injuries were far from life-threatening, and 2) he may have put himself in a position for retribution.

Again, while I know few of the facts, it sure doesn't sound like attempted murder to me.

Gridlock in Jena

P. Moore, Rich. Va. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:05:40 GMT

First, I am appalled at some of the comments. Some of them do not even have all of the facts, just what they are just now seeing reported.

The hanging of the nooses is seen as a threat. Look back in history regarding lynchings. Let's remember it was a black youth who was hit in the head with a bottle in retaliation to the suspension of the 3 white students. It was a black youth who was threatened with a shot gun, which was wrestled from a white youth and not returned to him, charged with theft. We do not know what ensued this fight, and I have a strong suspicion it was the racial tension. But are we going to charge every youth who get into fist fights with attempted murder? Yes it was wrong of them to beat up the young man, who mind you was released from the hospital after receiving stitches, but two wrongs do not make a right.

How much does a race have to endure before equality is given? I am sure the marchers do not believe the entire Jena community is racist. But when does equal justice come in? Why didn't the district attorney charge those who hung the nooses? Why in the school's assembly did he only speak to the African American students and threaten their future? As the adult, shouldn't he have spoke to then entire school body regarding living among each other peacefully?

We must becareful not to judge those who have had enough when you do not walk in their shoes. Also do not judge Rev. Sharpton harshly. If he had answered the call of this family, which called him for assistance, would you even know about this situation? The best thing we can do as a nation is educate our children about equality for all.

And for the comment regarding black parents and controlling their children, where were the parents of the white youths who started this incident by hanging the nooses. Don't they hold some responsibility regarding their actions as well?

Just like is noted by everyone who speaks regarding the march. This is not about black and white. Unfortunately in our society, it is a class issue. This could happen to a poor white family, Hispanic or Asian. Ask the Indians.

So, let's get off of our high horses and just ask for everyone to receive fair legal treatment. From celebrities on down to those who can barely make it from month to month.

Gridlock in Jena

HS Bristol, RI — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:05:45 GMT

Everyone please read all the details before giving comments. This has to do with being charged as an adult versus a juvenile. I have not seen where anyone says they should not be charged it is to the degree they should be charged. the white student was not killed, he attended an event the same night. Additionally, it has to do with bigots thay hang nooses in trees and only get suspended for a few days and not expelled as they should. Bottomline is the justice is not equal, racism prevails, and it is about time everyone realizes the issues and addresses them.

Gridlock in Jena

R, Dallas, TX — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:06:01 GMT

For all of those who cannot understand ...do the research and find the truth..it was a school fight..the kid who was beaten attended a school function that same night...how is that attempted murder? What about the White man who pulled a gun on the black kids? Get all the FACTS before passing judgement

Gridlock in Jena

Steve Carter. Snyder, Tx — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:05 GMT

If someone calls you a name, or hangs a noose in a tree, while it might be offensive, it is not a crime. Beating someone nearly to death is a crime, using six people to do it makes it a cowardly act of a bunch of thugs. They should do some hard time and learn to make better and more peaceful decisions on how to handle people who call them a name. My God, doesn't anyone take responsibility for their behavior anymore. And we wonder why our civilization has these kinds of things happen regularly.

Gridlock in Jena

Liz, Raleigh, NC — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:07 GMT

The issue here is the disparity of the justice system....White kids have hung nooses and beat up black kids (yes, some white kids DID gang up on a black kid and beat him up shortly before this incident) with impunity in Jena...Then some black kids beat up a white kid and the DA throws the book PLUS at them, initially seeking 100 years in prison? Sounds like a double standard to me.

Gridlock in Jena

T Ivory — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:21 GMT

I think the school district should have control this issuse long before the nation see that american cant' take thier own problem in a small town

Gridlock in Jena

RP — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:29 GMT

Six on one...how typical....

These kids need to be punished to the full extent of the law.

Note to NAACP, Al and Jesse, et.al: being black does not absolve you of responsibilty for violence against another human being.

Gridlock in Jena

samuraishrew — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:30 GMT

I think we all know the state of affairs, to bad we are all typing instead of marching. I am living and working in Japan, that's my excuse, what's yours? We really do need to focus on two key issues, deeeep hate and ignorance to some degree by all parties and the knee-jerk American response. We overdo, then we overcompensate in the other direction. We need accountability, and that means from everyone! I am so sick of "white America" being the scapegoat for everyone.....Asian Americans never seem to have trouble with standardized tests...hmmmmm wonder why?

Gridlock in Jena

IRONBLUEEYES — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:48 GMT

THIS MARCH IS TRYING TO ESTABLISH THE CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS OF SIX BLACK STUDENTS TO BEAT UP ONE WHITE STUDENT. SOMEHOW I WON'T BE GOING. THANK GOD FOR THE SECOND AMENDMENT.

Gridlock in Jena

T Estes, St Paul, MN — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:54 GMT

This is not about the blck kids getting away with beating a white kid this is about eqaul justice for all. If it was 6 white kids that beat 1 black would the white kids be charged with attempted murder, no I dont think so Lousiana is prejudice and it is sad in this day and age we should all be treated eqaul. Yes they should be punished for what they did and so should the white students for hanging the 3 nooses. If white people were treated like black people were I dont think they would just brush off the fact that the 3 nooses were hung. I think the white boy should be charged with having a shot gun but will that happen NO.

Gridlock in Jena

Jake B. — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:57 GMT

the poor victim was treated and released and showed up at a function that same night. the charges against the 6 included asault with a deadly weapon, i.e., tennis shoes. this is just like the Duke case, only reversed. but it is this way for alot of Black people. hanging a noose is a hate crime punishable by the Feds. the EEOC won a $250,000+ judgement against a company who had no idea that hanging a noose from the rafters insulted and cause concern in the Black employees working there. AND, it isn't about Al Sharpton. It's about justice, equal justice. That prosecutor should be tried just like the Duke prosecutor, and have his license yanked.

Gridlock in Jena

Sala — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:22:58 GMT

This so crazy this world will never changed it seems to me that everyone is taking this the wrong way the only crime here is stupidity on both sides we as a people need to work together because black , white , red , blue , we all have to live together.

Gridlock in Jena

C.J. Brooks, Baton Rouge, LA — Thu, 20 Sep 2007 17:23:08 GMT

It's not a matter of whether or not these boys invovled should be punished. It's the severity of the punishment! A fight happened and put someone in the hospital. Not anyone is negating this fact. However, charging these boys with attemtped murder is absolutely ridiculous! Furthermore, Mychal Bell was tried and convicted as an ADULT for a fight...does this make sense? If this victim was so terribly beaten that he almost lost his life, why was he at a school function later in the evening? Regardless of race, let's look at fact.

Gridlock in Jena

jr24 — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:09:59 GMT

sunshine moon the gov. has failed katrina victims not blacks. we are talking about lives and unfair justice. violence is not the answer but the fact remains the young men are not getting fair justice. fair is fair and nothing is fair about this case.

Gridlock in Jena

True American, Los Angeles, CA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:11:59 GMT

Unfortunately, the majority of the people on this message board are not very intelligent, nor do they understand the issue. Of course it's about race. Do you not understand that this entire country and this entire world has many problems because of racism? If 6 white guys had beaten up a black guy, No, they would not have received the same punishment. As a lawyer and an American studies scholar, I can tell you that. If you think you are not racist, then you are more racist than the average person. The first step to improving our society is acknowledgement. And honestly, do you really think you're not going to get the shit kicked out of you if you put up nooses in the south? People that stupid deserve a beating.

Gridlock in Jena

Ree North Carolina — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:19:53 GMT

Ok everyone is saying the black kids should be punished, no one is saying they shouldn't. But the punishment is to severe. The white kid who cracked a kid over the head with a bottle, got simple assault and probation. Ok fine, but the black kids in a fist fight get attempted murder. If he was so severly beaten how come he went to the school function later that day? The D.A. knew he set the charges too high that's why he lowered the charges. I guarantee the D.A. didn't expect the backlash thats happening. I suspect before this is all over with, this guy will be on his knees crawling for cover.

Gridlock in Jena

Knoc15 Charlotte NC — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 01:20:43 GMT

People get the facts before you make ignorant comments about this situation. Kids get in fights all the time in school and the most they normally get is suspended or expelled. This is about fair treatment of all those envolved. If you look at the charges it's pretty cut and dry. The black students were'nt given a fair shake. Let's keep it real. The Deep South has'nt changed much.

Gridlock in Jena

Debra H., Country Club Hills, IL — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:04:30 GMT

Hello People! We have all been following the Jena 6 story but some of us have not heard a single word. I agree -- the 6 students who beat the white student should be punished but not have their lives ruined by the severity of an unfair sentence. And for the record, the white student couldn't have been beaten within "an inch of his life" since he was released from the hospital and able to attend a school function the same day. There has been a hodge-podge of misinformation throughout this unfortunate incident but I agree with an earlier comment. The kids probably would have resolved these issues over time--the overzealous prosecutor added fuel to a fire (with his comments alone)and now that fire is out of control. And the lax attitude of the school administration is also to blame. This could have been another "school issue" resolved through a series of meetings with the students and their parents had the administration paid more attention to brewing storm. Also, what role, if any, did the beaten teenager play in instigating the fight? And for those who keep trying to dismiss racism - forget it. The white student who initially punched a black student got off without being charged with aggravated battery and somehow I believe that if this had been a one-on-one battle, the outcome would have been the same, even if the victim had been black. Crimes like this are unacceptable no matter who commits them. But for now, let's focus on the real issue here; justice is not equal depending on your skin color, your economic situation and sometimes the town you live in.

Gridlock in Jena

James D. Morrison — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:12:09 GMT

I know MSNBC will not let this through their censors in this, our free, unbiased media, but, for the love of God, when will it ever end? When will blacks feel that the white man has done enough to appease their eternal suffering? I am SO sick of this race-baiting, and blacks marching, and oppression this, and injustice that....how about just taking personal responsibility for ones actions? I agree that if this were six white kids who beat a black kid half to death, the NAACP and the Rev.s Al and Jesse (two do-nothings who contribute absolutely nothing to the greater good of anything) would be calling for the death penalty. If I stand up and shout that I am proud to be a white man, I am a racist. If I were to start a college fund, or several colleges for that matter, that catered to whites only, Id be a racist. Its a joke. Black people: fight for a just cause; not a thug cause. Wake up.

Gridlock in Jena

equally concerned — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:17:19 GMT

it is a gross miscarriage of justice and an intentional misrepresention by the press. the press deliberately fails to mention a related incident where a black student was knocked unconscious by a group of whites, including being assaulted with beer bottles. In addition, the press intentionally fails to mention that one of the whites involved in this assault later pulled a shotgun on several blacks. when the blacks took the shotgun from the white the blacks were arrested for assault and theft.

give it equal justice and equal press.

Gridlock in Jena

Nicole, Greensboro, NC — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:18:42 GMT

Kevin... he wasn't beat to death or his tail would not have been at a "Social Gathering" after he was released from the Emergency Room.

Gridlock in Jena

Sheryl — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:24:48 GMT

That boy deserved to be beat.

Gridlock in Jena

tallahassee fl — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:32:20 GMT

fighting in high school is not attempted murder. White nor black? Its part of high school. Its part of growing up? Its part of peer pressure. But when the adults get involve then its a crime. Kids learn hate from their parents. And we need to start somewhere, HOME. If we all look at the big picture here we would know thats it more to this story than 6 black kids beating a white kid...look into everything before you judge. and all the negative comments about "why should they get off.." we should look at the police, the judge all the adults... lets start there

Gridlock in Jena

TRACY ROSS — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:33:14 GMT

The press is suspiciously leaving out the shotgun the white student had in this incident. If information is reported please report it all, not just the part that make the one sided.

Gridlock in Jena

Toni, Cleveland OH — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:38:54 GMT

For those of you who believe these kids should be responsible for what they did I don't disagree but should CHILDREN be dealt with as adults? NO NO NO!!! That's the crime in this Mychel Bell is a child and he should be dealt with as one. Some of you fail to look at the big picture. There were things that occured before the fight. There were other issues at play. These children were harrased and taunted by whites. You are seeing what you want to see. The injured child was fit to go out the same day of the incident. It could not have been that bad. How would you feel if it was your child?? I am an African American woman who grew up in LA.

I would never raise my children there. These things happen all the time. Sure it happens in other places, too but the South is something special for racial injustice.

Look at the full story before commenting. Why aren't the white kids being punished for their crimes?? Punish this kids the same way whites would be punished. The rally was about EQUALITY. Treat this boys fairly.

Gridlock in Jena

Chas Marin, NE Texas — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:41:33 GMT

This is the very place where the "N" word IS appropriate. Just say "N"o to Al $harpton, "N"o to Je$$e Jack$on, and all the other unemployed, free loading, worthle$$ publicity hounds that descend into areas of perceived persecution to draw attention to themselves, and otherwise disrupt communities that are trying to deal with THEIR problems in THEIR own way. No one asked these people to bring their blackness down on Jena. LEAVE PEOPLE ALONE. KEEP YOURSELVES IN YOUR OWN PLACES. QUIT STIRRING UP STINK.

Gridlock in Jena

April, McDonough,Georgia — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 02:55:07 GMT

To those worried about the victim who was assaulted. Don't worry too much. He or his parents werent worried enough not to let him attend a school party that same night. If it was attempted murder or anything else other than a school fight, he would have been in the hospital more than a few hours, and partying would be the last thing on his mind.

Gridlock in Jena

karen, brooklyn, new york — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:10:23 GMT

I think what Al Sharpton is doing is right. It's not about blacks beating white. It's about the principle and how the situation was handled. If a white kid had beaten another white both would be punished, so why only the blacks are being punished(sent to prison)Why should all the blacks be in jail, while the whites got suspension.I got the story that all of them were fighting, so why not lock up both parties or suspend both sides? If we could just look at the big picture here we could see that the prosecuters are going about this all wrong. Obviously, this is a racist thing and this is why things turned out the way it did.This is like history repeating itself.Mr.Al Sharpton, a big hurray to you and the others who are trying to make things right and to see justice done.

Gridlock in Jena

Seattle WA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 03:23:44 GMT

This was a hate crime - It was 6 against 1 - the 1 was targeted because of his race - why are they protested for the 6 - what about the victim, what about the crime itself?!?

Gridlock in Jena

Buddy — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:07:11 GMT

As a Black man who participated in the most famous Civil rights March of all,the March on Washington August 28 1963 a month prior to entering the US Army. I know I am going to catch steamy hot hell when I say--"It did not take six people to beat one boy no matter what color he is.They committed a crime "BUT" the punishment should "MATCH" and "FIT" the crime.They MUST pay some price for this but a just and fair price accordingly.In any event--they just can't walk free.My only two Sons committed major crimes and while as a loving and responsible Father that had correctly taught them right from wrong,I could not, and would not "DEFEND" them because there is no defense for wrongness.If My disposition is this for my own flesh and blood what more for anyone else? I had the very unpleasant task of telling them BOTH--"You have broken the law now you MUST pay the price for it."NOW" for the good you think it will do--Go ahead and attack me and call me names but it will not change my position.I yet love my Sons and Daughters but I cannot make a stand for them when they are wrong.Love and "SUPPORT" them yes--defend their wrongness--NO.I advised their Lawyers--You are obligated to "REPRESENT" them not defend them because they are wrong

Gridlock in Jena

RF chicago IL — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:07:18 GMT

There seems to be a misconception here about the white kid who was beaten. Some of you claim that he was severely beaten or beaten half to death but that wasn't the case at all. After seeing the pictures of his injuries he only seemed to have a black eye and he in fact attended a school function later that evening. Surely someone who have been beaten half to death wouldn't be attending a school function that quickly. What is also not being taken into consideration is that a group of whites had also beaten up some black kids and none of them were charged with any crime. But as soon as the blacks beat up a white they were charged with attempted murder.

Gridlock in Jena

PDW, Little Rock, AR — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:36:07 GMT

This just makes me sick at my stomach. I despise situations that over look the main issue and focus on the end result. I am just SICK of hearing over and over that African Americans are protesting to have six black thugs as someone called them freed for committing a crime. Over and over it has been said that six black students beat a white student almost to death. This is an insult to our intelligence. No one or at least most people are not suggesting that the six be patted on the back and go free despite their actions.

But even if the charges and the convictions stay the same, why is not one talking about the other fights and the horrible treating actions like the nooses and the gun that were initiated by white students are not mentioned. Why did they receive the same treatment? That is the whole point. It was wrong for the six to be charged with attempted murder as adults, but it wouldn’t have been as big of an issue if the white students that hung the nooses, threatened other students with a gun and beat up black students had faced the same harsh charges as the black students did. LET’S NOT GET IT TWISTED and don’t try to ignore the other facts. There is another side to this that no one is talking about, and that is the REAL issue.

As it has always been, when one group, race or ethnic group endures injustices day in and day out, then when it comes to a head every one is appalled. How can people say people need to teach their children to handle racial slurs and injustice. There are only two thing being mentioned the first and last incident; the nooses and the last fight.

Did everyone forget there were a lot of things in between? People keep saying if it were reversed and six white students beat up a black student it would be a different story. HELLO WAKE UP PAY ATTENTION TO THE DETAILS!!!!!!!! There were other fights and white students did beat up black students BUT NOTHING WAS DONE ABOUT IT. Why isn’t more being talked about concerning the events that lead up to this? What about the white student that pulled a shotgun on black students, and when they took it away from him, they were charged with thief. Now that is a joke. This is not about six black student beating up a white student, yes it happened but that was not the only incident or the only fight. It was just the only one that charges were brought for. THAT IS THE ISSUE!!!

As long as the oppressors oppress, nothing is said. But as soon as the oppressed start to complain and bring it to light, then they should just get over it.

I do not believe, and I have not heard many say that the six black students shouldn’t be punished. The whole point was that the punishment does not fit the crime. Why are so many people saying that black people want them to go free and not answer for what they did? But, considering what happened and what should have happened, if the charges were changed to reflect the crime, shouldn’t they be released on time served. Which by the way is way more than what should have received. Then what about the other students that were not prosecuted or punished at all? No on is really talking about that.

The truth of the matter is that the nooses on the tree what a HUGE statement and should have been dealt with accordingly. How can you not expect something to happen after that? If you have not experienced it, it is hard to understand. I am sick of people saying “get over it”, “that was in the past”. Obviously not since it is still happening. It isn’t that far in the past. Most of these student and young people to day still have first hand accounts of these horrible injustices from their parents and grandparents. Then to have it pop up again. (AND DON’T THINK FOR ONE MINUTE, THAT THIS IS THE ONLY TIME IT HAS HAPPENED SINCE THE 60s) Yes it is enough to strike fear in you heart, followed by anger. It is time to face what has happened in the past and understand that it is still going on to a degree today. Sweeping it under the carpet and ignoring it, only makes for a lumpy carpet.

I guess many people that have not had to experience it, don’t have a clue and can’t understand what happens when you are treated unfairly and your rights have been violated, they say you go to the justice system. But what happens when the justice system doesn’t work. And you take and take and take, people eventually get tired and react. It is not to say that it is right. But, what do you do. As it has happened many times in our justice system, when a woman is abused over and over, she goes to the police and tries to get protection. Sometimes she stays and endures the abuse, okay that is not to bright but it happens, does that mean she should continue to be beating and degraded. Then when she finally clicks, everyone can say how terrible she was to hurt or kill the abuser. They say she should have left, but no on says, he should have never beat her to begin with. Provide some justice before it gets to that point and it could be prevented.

People deal with racism everyday, and the main ones that are saying that black people want the Jena 6 to go free even though they committed a crime, those are the same ones that go around with their head in the clouds while people of different races are treated unjustly with no recourse everyday. But when something like this occurs the focus on the end result and try to down play what lead up to it. Just as it was many years ago, if you stay in your place and endure injustice then everything is fine. But, when it rears its ugly head then it is a problem. THE PROBLEM WAS ALREADY THERE AND HAS BEEN FOR A VERY LONG TIME.

COME ON PEOPLE STOP HARPING ON THE THINGS ON THE SURFACE. Look at the real issues. There is no way you can add, subtract, multiply, or divide and make it come out right. There is a problem. If it had been handled from the beginning it would have never gotten to this point. The problem was not the nooses on the tree. The main problem started with the “all white tree” in the first place.

Gridlock in Jena

HG,Detroit,Mi — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:39:11 GMT

People and this mean everyone here

Read all the fact in this case before making a comment on the protest or the charges that was press against the jena 6. I believe punishment should be given but only what is fair to all that are involved. There are a lot of issues that wasn't address in here and still pressing the matter of the jena 6.

Please read people the case
A that can't learn is a wasted life

Gridlock in Jena

Shadowman,Small town, Oklahoma — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 04:50:28 GMT

I wish I had the time to comment on all the things that disturb me today about our Society, our people and our so called leaders or people of influence. So let me start by saying, I wish Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton would put as much effort and time into making their kind heal over things that happened so many years ago, but they don't. They want to re-live the 50's and 60's and what transpired 200 years ago and keep it alive today, instead of getting over it and learning and healing from it. I'm 46 years old and for as long as I can remember I've heard the words "Minorities" I would like someone to define that for me, then next tell me when we can change it to the word "Priorities" or something. Last time I looked our goverment and it's laws say all men are equal and there is no deviation from it because of our race or ethnicity, it's the people who have done that. First the Indians, now Native Americans, then the Blacks, now African Americans, then the Mexicans, now latino Americans, and it looks like now we're heading for Arab and Muslim Americans and the last time I looked or heard, whites were whites and still are and they are called Americans. Far as I'm concerned everyone should be called Americans if they were born here, or legalized here and there shouldn't be anything else to it. You wonder why we have so many problems here in America now, because no one knows who the hell they are. Nothing wrong with teaching our children and grand-children of the past, but do we have to teach them the hatred and fighting to and carry it on still today. Come on people, grow up. I grew up in a community of mostly balcks and had no problems, then in my elementary to junior high school years I grew up in mainly hispanic community with mexicans and puerto ricans, had no problems there either. I now live in a small town mostly white, and have no problems there. It's not a matter of our skin color, it's a matter of out upbrining and what we are taught. Now for the comments on this weeks activity on the Jenna 6. As an Investigator and prior law enforcement background I can only say this. Other than what I mentioned above it seems simple to me. The boys who hung the rope nooses on the tree, should be punished, if there are no laws to charge them with and the school punished them for what they did, then the law was followed. Now for the six black boys, I don't know exactly how severe this white kid was hurt but did read some where that he was at a school function that night, so I assume it wasn't life threatning. What should have happened is the ones who actually commited the violence should be charged with assault and battery, because that's what they did, of others didn't participate then they shouldn't be charged with anything. Also, depending on if there were any weapons or not and their intent to do the harm should also weigh in on the charge and the severity of the charges and nothing more. It's this simple, this is not a race issue, though some would like it to be. Although I disagree with the prosecutors charge severity, of attempted murder, I believe he's right in saying it's not racial. Our Justice system at times have failed us in some prosecutions throughout history, but all in all it's the best system in the world and we need to let it work until something becomes wrong. That's why we have the problems we do today and have messed up our rules of law because our Justice system has lost a lot of its backbone, and stand up for the law, instead of trying to hurry and change or add to it because we upset some other race or someone trying to make a race issue out of something that isn't.

Let me end by saying, Reap what you sowe, love your neighbor as your brethern, remember we all will answer to God some day, even for our wrongs. God Bless.

Gridlock in Jena

mike jones — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 05:04:59 GMT

theres more to this story than what we hear. i remember when i was in school i fought doesnt mean i should be charge with attp. man slaughter come on now hanging a noose is a hate crime to me just as burning a cross or other things should the kids be punish yes suspension should the kid that hung the noose be punish yes it plenty of blame to go around as much as i dont like shaperten n jackson if light wasnt drawn upon this case this kids will have been convicted of something as simple as a school yard fight. and for those who think american arent racises take off ur blind fold. what a shame we human what we have become we've dominate each other to our own injury.

Gridlock in Jena

Stephen McClendon, Oakland, Calif. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 06:46:25 GMT

No one talks about the Black youth who was beaten up by several White youth at a mini market near the school. After being rescued by other Blacks,who took a Shootgun from the white attackers truck and took it the police station. Were later charge with theft, for thaing the shootgun to the police. The three White attacker were never arrested or charged. Where was the District Attorney. The White victim was not Beaten with in a inch of his life, he left the hospital within several Hours and attended party. The Black victim also had to go get medical treatment. What was the D.A. doing? He was at the High School treating the Black student about protesting the nooses, he in fact told thwm if they didn't stop he could ruin their lifes with his pen.

White America should quit trying to blame O.J. for muder for the Americam Justice system found him not guilty of muder, all charges filed by District Attorneys aer TRUE, that must be proven to a jury. As well as District Attorneys, must stop over Charge Non-White defendants.

Wake Up Amweica. racism still marchs on.

Gridlock in Jena

d.c. miller — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 09:05:53 GMT

I thnk White America is missing the point because they are not looking at the facts. This guy was not beaten "half to death"-he went to a school function that same night.Yes, the violence was wrong, but does not amount to attempted murder.Justice is most certainly not blind in America-not in socio or economic terms; face it, money or lack thereof determines the justice meted out way too often. And race is also a factor, especially when White people are administering the penalties.If equality was consistently given, the despair and hopelessness minorities feel would not lead to violence.Do you really think a kid should get 5-15 years for this transgression?? All of you have to wonder how prevous complaints and incidents were mishandled and unpunished by Whites that committed acts against Blacks prior to the noose hangings. America continues to harbor rascism and choose politicians who practice divisiveness.We are being rediculed worldwide because it seems we are stuck in the 60's. And people, stop stereotyping- no race is monolithic; everyONE is different-there are criminals of every color and outstanding characters of every race and color.

Gridlock in Jena

Jimmy ragland Hartford. Ct. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 10:51:14 GMT

Why do most of your "white posters" chose to ignore the fact that Black kids were beaten-up by white kids and no white kids were charged? Also the Black kids were originally charged with "Attempted Murder" and one young man was tried as an "Adult" and has been in jail since December of 2006!
Why are most white people simply ignoring the real facts of this case? Is it just to satisfy their own prejudices?

Gridlock in Jena

MM, Dublin, OH — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 11:40:43 GMT

This is a miscarriage of jsutice pure and simple. No one is saying that the 6 should not have faced some diciplinary action. But it's the charge that has the whole black communtiy in an uproar. The kid who got whipped most likely for running his mouth went to the hospital YES, but released the same day. No serious injuries. The prosecutor was totally wrong in the charges he levied against these young men and i am glad that the black community stood up and is basically telling the WHOLE system that still practice a subtle system of racism against blacks that we are ALL watching you and WE ALL are not going to sit back and watch you systematically ruin our young black men by sending them to jail for a crime that you would not have levied against a white teen that did the same thing. You got caught this time Mr. Prosecutor. And those like you will get caught in the future.

Gridlock in Jena

DownSouthGeorgiaGirl, Atlanta,GA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:23:59 GMT

While I am sitting here reading everyones' opinion on this matter, I had to voice mine on the matter. First of all...I need everyone to get their facts straight...the "victim" was not nearly beaten to death nor was he beaten within inches of his life...yes he did have to go to the hospital but if you all would read and do further research you all would know that the "victim" was out at a school function the very same night he was supposedly "beaten within inches of his life". Furthermore, the protest was not and has not ever been to condone the actions of the Jena 6. The protest or uprising if you may is to bring awareness to the injustice in that town. As I previously stated that many of you probably haven't even did the research on the events that led up to the school fights. Did any of you know that one of the Jena 6 had arrived at a so called "whites only" party just days before the incident at school and was attacked by several white party goers and NONE not a single one was charged with a crime. Or did any of you know...that the Jena 6 was attaked by a group of white students at local convenient store and even had a shotgun pulled on them. They managed to wrestle the gun away from the attacker and they called the police and THEY were charged with 2 crimes...one including theft of the shotgun! And if you were wondering what about the white attackers...They got off with a little slap on the wrists! So tell me do you still think its not about race? Why is it that when we as black people try to stand up for what is right...we get ridiculed! I mean come on...Yes the Jena 6 should be punished for getting into fight but being charged with attempted murder...oh my god...come on now! Do any of you know the reason why they were charged with attempted murder? Because of their tennis shoes! Yes thats right the DA said that their tennis shoes were a deadly weapon! If anything those kids should have at least gotten probation or community service! They weren't bad kids...NONE of them with the exception of 1 had any criminal records! One of the Jena 6, was a highly recruited football player with several scholarship offers but now they have all been withdrawed because of this unfortunate incident! Now if these boys get out of jail, their lives are RUINED! Just like the Duke Lacrosse players...once you've been labeled a certain way by the media and you've been through the legal system...your life will never be the same! We as Americans should all be upset that this type of racism, and I don't care what anyone says it is racism, still goes on in 2007. So many people have blinders on their eyes and think things have changed since 1967 but the reality is NOTHING has changed, the evil racism is still there and has always been there, its just been under the surface and all that was needed for it to rear its ugly head was an incident like this! Like I said, you all should do your research because there were a series of events that led up to this and for this to have just gotten to national media when it all began over a year ago is ashame. But like the saying goes " whats done in the dark always comes to light"!

Gridlock in Jena

Ambrose Wolf, New York — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:45:47 GMT

I have seen many responders say it was only a high school fight. Six against one is not a fight. It is a gang assault and because of the odds it could be construed as attempted murder.
Other people say that the white kid was not hurt so bad because he went to a dance later. The report was that he was unconscious and had to be taken to the hospital by ambulance. That is serious injury.
There are several people in NY that are doing time because they beat a black youth that admittedly was in their neighbor hood to steal a car. If the Jena 6 get off, these NY kids should also be released.
Has anyone asked the white boy that was beaten how he feels about this and if he would be willing to drop charges? I doubt it.

Gridlock in Jena

Albert Lea, MN — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:49:23 GMT

The story says the kid is still sitting in jail because he cant raise bail money. Huh! there are thousands of people protesting for his release yet they cant seem to scrape together his bail money. 10% of $90,000, Al Sharptons suit probably cost less than that. Talk about peopble just trying to get their name in the news.

Gridlock in Jena

Ken Simmons, Valley City,ND. — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:52:03 GMT

It is my firm belief that when anyone is attacked by more then one person, the intent is implied (as such by extreme number of men in an assualt against one). This in its self expressly show's the extreme nature of their intent to do severe bodily harm. The age or color is not the issue here, nor is there cause for calls of predjudice except by the man whom was assualted.The charges should be ajudacated and based totally on of the number of atackers. It matter not that these men happen to be of a difering ethnic background.As far as the charges filed in this case they should be held strickly to the letter of what the law will or will not allow.

Gridlock in Jena

Karyn Kirkwood — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 12:55:14 GMT

Let's use the race card again and again. The only reason racism is alive is because all those protesters want it to be alive. Stay in your own neighborhood and worry about where your children are and what they are doing.

Gridlock in Jena

Concerned Ciitzen, USA — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:00:24 GMT

Something is wrong in our society today when we march and try to get guilty criminals out of jail an use race as an excuse. There is no excuse for the beating of one individual by six indivials. If the white population were to march protesting this beating, the whites would be called racists. Enough is enough. The blacks should discover that Al Sharpton and Jesses Jackson are parasites leaving off of their racist convictions. Enough is enough.

Gridlock in Jena

Julia, Cleveland, OH — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:00:39 GMT

People wake up! This is about equal justice and punishment. A white kid pulls a shotgun on black kids who takes the shotgun away but they get charged with theft of a firearm. White kids beat up a black kid and nothing happened to them. Black kids beat up a white kid and they get charged with murder.

Gridlock in Jena

ron shearn — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:03:02 GMT

what white america refuse to understand no black person condone fighting but there was a race crime here. The people of jena should have intervene long ago buy cutting down the tree in question .

Gridlock in Jena

veejay, Baltimore, MD — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:16:39 GMT

THIS MARCH IS ALL ABOUT EQUAL JUSTICE!!!

I wish that everyone will learn all of the facts before commenting with partial information. A lot of people are only focusing on the fact that these six black students attacked a white student. The majority of Africans-Americans know it was wrong and agree that those black students should be punished. In the comments, people are asking "what if there were six white students attacking one black student". If they had read all of the facts before commenting they would have known that white students had previously attacked a black student at a party. They would have also known that a white man pointed a shotgun at black students at a nearby store. When the black students took the gun away from the man, they were charged with theft of a firearm, while the white man got a small fine.

THE REASON WHY AFRICAN-AMERICANS ARE UPSET IS BECAUSE OF THE UNEQUAL JUSTICE IN JENA, LA!!
The black students were punished too harshly, while the white attackers were either not punished at all or got a "slap on the wrist" for their crimes.

Gridlock in Jena

Dana J. Adams, Atlanta, Georgia — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:40:07 GMT

I keep reading such comments as "American Africans" (frankly, I don't know what that is); "your own kind" (I thought we were all human); the victim "a white student", though there were black victims as well. I have read where the six are called "terrorists"; where the young white man is described as having been "beaten half to death"; "beaten within an inch of life"; "beaten to death." It amazes me that such liberty is taken with the facts and that so many seem to focus on some details to the deliberate exclusion of others.

It also amazes me that either through ignorance or indolence, so many are not familiar with the facts. The march was primarily prompted by the blatant disparity in the way criminal and or unacceptable behavior was treated in connection with the events of 2006. And though the issue is about justice, the disparity seems to fall along color lines. According to reports from such sources as MSNBC, CNN and so forth, the facts include, but are not limited to, these: nooses were hung in a tree but the white teens were given "in-school" suspension. Black teens tried to attend a nearly all-white party (to which they were invited by white friends) and while trying to gain entry, a black teen was beaten up by a 22 year old white man (other whites joined in). The white man was charged with simple battery. The white was charged with a misdemeanor. The next night, one of these whites pulled a shotgun on three black teens at the convenience store; the white man was not charged, but the black teens faced charges of assault and theft. Subsequently, the white teen (Barker) was beaten up by blacks and the initial charges were attempted second degree murder and conspiracy to commit second degree murder. Contrary to so many posts, the white teen was not beaten to within inches of his life; neither was he beaten to death. He was, in fact, hospitalized and sent home; of sufficient good health to attend a social function that evening. The charges of conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder against the six were not reduced until much later.

The issue is the disparity in justice; the disparity in the charges; the disparity in the handling of the matter from the beginning. That is what is enraging people – the obvious disparity. The fact that the D.A. pointedly told the black teens that he had the power to take away their lives with the stroke of a pen. Again, this is the issue: the disparate treatment. The march was a response to the disparate treatment.

Gridlock in Jena

cincystyle, cincinnati, ohio — Fri, 21 Sep 2007 14:25:28 GMT

After reading some of the comments here, now I'm confused. Who was nearly beaten to death? Surely you don't mean the white kid that was released from the hospital and attended and school function the same day. Had this been 6 white boys beating a black boy, I firmly believe that they might have been suspended and that would have been the end of it. No one wants to address why this fight began in the first place. In 2007 Racism is alive and well in the United States and rearing it's ugly head in Jena, LA