Complaining Quote by Ishmael Reed
“I was on a panel with light skinned Blacks and a famous gay science fiction writer, who were complaining about how Blacks are against gays and light skinned Blacks and how intolerant Blacks are of different groups. My position was that Blacks were among the most humanistic, tolerant groups in the country and that across the street from my house in Oakland was one inhabited by White gays.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Public discussion, date unknown
The speaker argues that Black communities are generally tolerant and humanistic, countering claims of widespread intolerance toward LGBTQ+ groups within them.
In simple terms: Blacks are often tolerant, contrary to some complaints.
Key Takeaway
Recognize and highlight the diversity and acceptance within Black communities.
Themes
tolerance
humanism
racial dynamics
LGBTQ+ issues
Mood
reflective
hopeful
Type
analytical
controversial
When to use this quote
- community dialogues
- diversity training
- intergroup relations
- media representation
Key Concepts
social cohesion
intersectionality
stereotype challenge
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal experiences shape perceptions of group tolerance?
- What evidence supports or refutes the claim of broad Black tolerance?
A Different Perspective
This view may overlook specific incidents of prejudice and the complexity of intra‑community attitudes.
![“How does the [New York] Times treat White pathology? They reported an epidemic of heroin addiction in the Philadelphia suburbs. which included emergency admissions and overdoses; these White people in the suburbs were doing heroin like it was going out of style. I counted the words: the article…” quote by Ishmael Reed](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/a16/ishmael-reed-7430_addict_how-does-the-new-york-times-treat-white_541651.jpg)
