I don't think it's complete and utter bullshit but I do think there's a distinct difference. Iraqis are being dragged kicking and screaming to democracy. I also think there's something to be said for the idea that Democracy only works well when a society is economically flush. It's also quite difficult to be looking towards democracy when their continues to be a war going on. And, I think it's asking a lot of Black Americans to see the similarities of the struggle when it lacks a color line, when it doesn't showcase the reality that democracy already existed in America for the majority and was denied specifically to Blacks. The difference is that the carrot was out there just outside the grasp of Black Folks. Iraqis have no frame of reference to work from. Posted by: Jason on August 10, 2003 12:25 PM

Jason: Were it just a matter of distinction (WRT present-day Iraqis and Civil Rights-era African Americans), I wouldn't have even mentioned the article and it's bullshitness. That distinction is bogus because Iraqis are being forced fed democracy by America's Military-Industrial powers. The true bullshit: no one is saying People of Color don't want/desire freedom and democracy. Let her ass show anyone that has made such a statement. And even if that were true, why choose that audience? The alleged National Security Advisor performed horribly in that capacity in the weeks leading up to 9/11 and I'm suppose to gulp down that tripe?! We would be much harder on her were she not Black. Posted by: ronn on August 11, 2003 01:22 PM

I am not so sure I would go as far as to call Condi's comments BS as I would misguided rhetoric aimed at blacks of the same caliber as whites who don't mind their President constantly mispronouncing 'nuclear' ... Most certainly, Iraqi's DO want freedom/democracy and are seeking it. They do not want a psuedo-version which really only suits the interests of the United States and it's major oil conglomerations. True democracy in Iraq would probably yield a Shia ruled government with the possibility of it lapsing into an Islamic state on the order of Iran (in 1953, mind you, the US sponsored a coup to oust the LAST democratically elected leader in Iran in favor of a Shah who favored our oil interests). NOT good for our greedy interests NOR the 'minority' factions (Sunnis, Christians) which had some semblance of protection under Sadaam's 'secular' regime. My only issue is people reading/researching for themselves and not being caught up in flag waving "we're so perfect in America" mumbo jumbo. Bottom line, I don't think we have a CLUE what we have gotten ourselves into and only countless body bags will make people get a grip! Posted by: Qusan on August 14, 2003 01:55 PM

hi Ronn, Rice accuses others of being condescending, but in my opinion she's the one guilty of condescension. I honestly don't know what the word freedom means to an Iraqi, but I do believe that people have the right of self determination, whatever that may mean for them. What is truly bullshit is that the Bush administration feels they know what's best for Iraq. If they really wanted freedom for Iraqis they would turn this occupation over to the U.N. and let the community of nations work to rebuild Iraq. But I fear all they're really interestd in is Iraq as a U.S. buffer state and the oil that comes with it. So, until I'm proven wrong ... Posted by: don on August 16, 2003 01:48 AM

For Rice to include Africa along with the Middle East in its desire for Democracy is stupid.There are many democracies in Africa,none in the Middle East and much of it has to do with culture.Rice is simply trying to show that she is down with black people. Posted by: Baca on August 17, 2003 06:23 PM