The column by Ayrel Clark in Friday’s Daily (“Oscars not colorblind after all”) left me confused, annoyed and a little angry. Although Clark probably meant well, she seems to have gotten the wrong idea about the comments made by Halle Berry, Denzel Washington and Sidney Poitier.

Is it racist when white actors win and give thanks to other white actors or white people who have influenced their career? I’ve never heard anyone say that was racist or “the epitome of racism.”

So why, when Berry, Washington and Poitier give thanks to and mention previous black actors and actresses, is that considered racist?

Clark, you say you’re proud of your heritage and wear Irish symbols on your ring and necklace. Does that make you a racist for flaunting your Irish heritage?

Berry knows she is a good actress. Not a good black actress, but a good actress.

Washington knows he is a good actor. Not a good black actor, but a good actor.

By matter of opinion, some might say these wins were past due. Both these actors know they’re good. Unfortunately, there hasn’t been many black winners, so it is a big deal. Recognizing, or giving thanks to previous black actors and actresses who influenced them is not wrong.

Clark mentions discrimination seems to be subsiding in Hollywood, which means you acknowledge there was discrimination.

So what is wrong with these actors or other people being proud of these individuals succeeding? They’re not proud simply because Washington, Poitier and Berry are black. They are proud that despite the fact these individuals are black, their talents are still being recognized and praised. Would you rather they keep quiet about their heritage? You’re proud of your heritage, Ms. Clark; why can’t they be?

I’d also say you have a long way to go. People who need to mention their “friends” of ethnic backgrounds to help support their argument of how liberal and non-racist they are, usually aren’t as liberal as they say.

I do, however, agree with your ending statements about achieving unity and how color shouldn’t be important. Those are very true.

All I’m saying is before you make judgments, read up a little on the history of African American actors and actresses, while you’re being proud of being Irish.

Adrienne Presswood

Freshman

Pre-journalism and mass communication