We called Tavis Smiley’s office to see if the original invitation would also be made available. They refused. We also asked a producer of SOBU what the platform or forum would look like as part of this year’s SOBU. We were told producers didn’t know or had no idea. After a few more inquiring questions, we finally got the “no comment” and was directed back to the commentary.

In the end, (at least we hope this is the end of it), Tavis may have learned a hard lesson. In this day and age, everybody has a voice [or a blog]. To be an effective leader, you have to listen to your followers. We are half way through the primaries and Obama is doing very well with the black vote. What does that say about needing a leader? Tavis is either too late or too early. Too late if he wants to influence the nomination. Too early? Not quite, but his actions may have affected his leadership during the general election especially if Barack Obama wins the nomination.

Barack Obama got it right. Go directly to the people. Voters feel they are connected to this candidate because he communicates with them. (i.e. following Tavis on TJMS). Where does this leave the State of the Black Union….divided?

I agree. Negroes have to understand BO is running for the prez, not the Black prez. And to also add to your point about the black issues not being vote getters: black issues are local issues, not federal issues. Jena 6, Imus, Shawn Bell. That shit is for Al and Jesse to tackle. If the Supreme Court reestablishes Plessy vs’ Fuergonson (forgive the spelling) or takes the vote away or outlaws niggas getting let into white schools, then it will be Obama time (if he becomes prez). Other than that, black issues are Tavis et al.’s hustle. Right about now, I’m tired of race leaders.Niggas should play their positions and shet da fuck up.