Readers: Cosby has good intentions

A recent Project: Reader Reaction question asked about entertainer Bill Cosby’s recent criticism of low-income blacks who fail to use opportunities won by the civil rights movement. Some responses:

“I believe that Bill Cosby’s comments were right on target, but they apply to more than blacks. Parents who care for their offspring should take note and do more to prepare them for the future.”

— John Frey, Clovis

“I think Bill Cosby is an inspiration for anyone, not just African Americans. I grew up listening to Bill Cosby and he had inspirational messages in his comedy routines. ... What he said about parents not educating their children could be said for any race. When he lost his son to a shooting on the side of the road in California I cried that something like this should happen to one of the good guys. Keep going Bill Cosby. We love you.”

— Ardyth Elms, Clovis

“It is very easy for someone like Bill Cosby to make remarks as he has. I think his remarks are divisive. He has never had to walk in the shoes of the other person. Education, I feel, is the main reason more blacks have not been the benefactors of better paying jobs. ...”

— Mac McDonald, Clovis

“As far as Mr. Cosby’s opinion on low-income blacks are concerned, everyone has a right to say what is on their mind. It didn’t take a movement to give that right. It is a God-given right and a Constitutional right. I believe strongly in equal rights to all citizens. I don’t believe in quota systems or special rights obtained by movements. The sooner we realize all men are created equal and that we all have to work for a living the better off the country will be.”

— Jim Sitterly, Clovis

“I believe that Bill Cosby’s intentions were good when he delivered his ‘civil rights advancements’ speech, but that he would have done well to employ an experienced speech writer.”

— Harold Burris, Clovis

“I believe that with (Cosby’s) education, he ranks up there with Dr. MLK and is doing all that he can for the blacks that he possibly can. However, if they lack the initiative to do something, other than have things brought to them on a platter, they have nothing to complain about or criticize his statements. Nor does any other race because we too have slackers in the Caucasian race. Everyone is created equal and needs to expand on their God-given talents to succeed in life.”

— Gerald Majewski, Clovis