“Post”-Modern Racism

Following Obama’s historic election, recent events suggest that ‘change’ may not be quite so imminent. The implications of a recent New York Post cartoon are explored.

By Eddie Fernandez, Spring 2009

On February 18, the New York Post ran a cartoon of two cops shooting a chimpanzee with a caption reading, “They’ll have to find someone else to write the next stimulus bill.” I was appalled after reading the cartoon and reading the Post’s defense of it.

I interpret the cartoon as depicting President Obama to be a crazy chimpanzee being shot by two white cops. Rev. Al Sharpton began a protest immediately after the carton was released; however, The NY Post defended its cartoonist, Sean Delonas, by saying that, "The cartoon is a clear parody of a current news event with the shooting of a violent chimpanzee in Connecticut," and that "It broadly mocks Washington's efforts to revive the economy. Again, Al Sharpton reveals himself as nothing more than a publicity opportunist."

Upon first seeing it, I did not believe that it could have even been printed in a newspaper, let alone one from my hometown. Quite frankly, I enjoy the Post’s ranting and ravings, but I did not believe they would print something so blatantly racist and offensive. Since the release of this cartoon, the Post issued a half hearted apology, stating that they are sorry for those they may have offended, but that no apology was due to those that were attempting to use this opportunity to get back at them. Then, Rupert Murdoch (yes, the guy who owns Fox also owns this newspaper) issued an apology about the cartoon. The apologies have fallen on deaf ears.

Entering into psychology for my degree, I have always been aware that there are not many Latino’s in this field. While I have experienced micro-aggressions here and there, I have never really felt overtly insulted due to being a minority in a field populated by Caucasians. Nor has anyone ever thought that I should be killed (that I know of). Being an Obama supporter, I see him as someone who serves in as a role model to African-Americans, as well as other minorities. To then see such a cartoon published was a reality check. As much progress as this nation has made in regard to racism and stereotypes, it’s clear more work must be done with those that do not even realize they are being offensive. That a mainstream publication is defending this egregious cartoon highlights how much further we need to go.

I hope people will seek out the cartoon and read about the controversy it created. This issue can serve to educate people on how subtle, and not so subtle, forms of racism function in the U.S. Hopefully, the clamor created by this cartoon will spawn new dialogue and awareness that challenges racism and stereotypes against all groups.