I am nonplussed. When or where did I "valorize" white racism?
Pointing that "racism" can be identity politics does not deny the existence of racism - just like criticizing the "Holocaust industry" is not tantamount to "holocaust denial." I believe that "racism industry: in this country is just as bad as the "holocaust industry." However, I also think I said enough on this list on the effects of slavery and other forms of discrimination (to which you responded, if memory serves), and the role racism plays to divide organized labor in this country to prove the above assertion wrong.
As to gangsta rap and boom boxes or rather car radios, I hate them for several reasons. First, they are a prima facie case of the loud obnoxious American stereotype. Second, this whole rap thing is using black people to do some questionable work that white people would not want to touch. Can you imagine what would happen if a white band was singing rap lyrics? Third rap and car radios are used by both blacks and whites - there is plenty of that shit in white suburbs. Fourth, it plays out the worst racist stereotypes that whites have about blacks, hence reinforcing white racism and sometimes even creating it. Fifth, it just rubs me the wrong way. BTW, I love reggae - which is musically very close to rap - but what a difference in the message and attitude! It has good vibes, while its cousin rap sucks.
So I just do not like rap, or rather how it is played, it offends my sensibilities in the same ways as, say the confederate flag or the god bless America stickers do. The difference is that I turn my head to stop looking at the confederate flag or kindred displays of jingoism cum stupidity, but I cannot turn my ears off to stop hearing the rap crap. So it gets on my nerves.
Now, I consider myself an easy going person, having a live and let-live attitude. So if this thing affects me in a way I just described, what reactions do you think it evokes in people who are more uptight or prejudiced?
I agree, however, that a "white" list may not be the best forum to discuss problems of black communities. I happen to live in one, so I bring these problems up from time to time, but I think that your point about the dangers of stereotyping is well taken.
> The claim that I have "romanticized" working class life is false. I just
> said to you yesterday:
OK I take your word. :)
Wojtek