Thanks, DD. I appreciate you reaching out. The cartoon was not intended to be hurtful; however, clearly it was. I wanted to be respectful with the depiction of the woman and children, portraying their care for each other as sincere and the concern on their faces indicative of the current racial strife they face. My intent in the cartoon was to project the Democrat party lacking in care and effective measures, yet continuing to be supported. I stand by that intended message. I've had emails from those offended which have allowed me to have lengthy, respectful conversations with them on the cartoon's subject. Those conversations have given me a feel for the elements of the cartoon that were offensive and I'll take that lesson into future cartoons. Sincerely, Al.
The cartoon is something that I cannot fully think through. The issue, the theme of the Democratic Party as abusers of African-Americans by promising everything and coming through with little is a legitimate issue, to say the least. Yet somehow, in being reduced to an editorial cartoon it becomes offensive.
ReplyDeleteI should note tangentially that something similar can be claimed about the GOP where, after decades of promises and being the dominant, controlling party, little has been actually provided. Xtians have finally been given some crumbs in the last few years and what little the base is given is actually harmful to them and the nation. (See, Dying of Whiteness.)