Political Opinions, News Aggregation

Use of word Negro on 2010 census forms raises memories of Jim Crow

The census form for 2010 features a word more often heard in 1966: Negro. For many New York blacks, the word conjures visions of Jim Crow and segregation - even if the Census Bureau says it's included to ensure an accurate count of the nation's minority residents. "It's a bad vibe word," said Kevin Bishop, 45, a Brooklyn salesman. "It doesn't agree with me, doesn't agree with my heart." Pamela Reese Smith, visiting the city yesterday from Rochester, said the term was outdated. "I don't think my ancestors would appreciate it in 2010," said Smith, 56. "I don't want my...

(Lindsey) Graham Defends Efforts Amid Conservative Criticism (barf bag alert)

Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) is pushing back against home-state conservative critics who have sought to censure the independent-minded lawmaker, arguing that he will not allow the criticism to block his efforts to find common ground with others in the Senate. The Charleston County Republican Party this week formally censured Graham over his repeated efforts to work across the aisle on the economy, climate change and immigration. The county party also asked the state party to rescind a resolution commending Graham. Graham spokesman Kevin Bishop issued a statement defending the Senator’s legislative work and his track record on conservative issues. “Senator...