@TWD: Well, being raised in Germany, Racism is a touchy subject for me, and I think it is for any German. I didn't state that Republicans are racists. I actually stated that I do NOT compare any party with fascists. Of course Racism has always existed. That doesn't mean that it should be tolerated. I know that freedom of speech is very important for many Americans, however, if these protests were held in Germany some would have ended up in prison for their racist remarks. You know, people watching these things on television, and what kind of reputation is this for this country?
"What does talking about it accomplish?" Nothing? Well, "friendoh" you are quite wrong about that. Discussing it and actively opposing it can make all the difference. In your family, at your workplace, in public.
Even the small things count.
I give you an example: I was invited to a family gathering here in the States last year. So, everyone had BBQ, beer and we were all having a great time telling jokes ...then one Uncle, who had earlier described himself as a redneck, started telling "Black" jokes - well my wife simply told him in front of all that these kind of jokes are not being tolerated here and if he keeps telling them he has to leave. He apologized and everything was fine - no hard feelings, just a reminder "Ok, this is it - no more"
I think it makes all the difference. Will the guy keep his view on black people? Most certainly, but others who watched the scenario might not. They might feel it is actually degrading to do this.
BTW we are not Democrats and we do not belong to any other political party.
Yes, this has nothing to do with the real issues about spending,taxes, gov. growing larger etc. - but if people, not just a few bad apples, publicly throw the race issue in, as if it has something to do with the problems, than one must oppose it imo.