By: V4 Agency
“I’m black on the inside,” CNN’s white-skinned host has said, but his comment has provoked a considerable outcry. Many commenters stressed that being black is not just a costume that one can wear at will.
Chris Cuomo is one of CNN’s most prominent hosts. He is the brother of New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is charged with sexual misconduct by several women.
While speaking with friend and fellow CNN host Don Lemon on Friday, Cuomo began singing the theme song for “Good Times,” a sitcom about black people.
“How do you know the words to ‘Good Times’?” Lemon asked. “You know I’m black on the inside,” Cuomo answered immediately. Presumably, he wanted to take a stand by black people, but found himself on the receiving end of backlash.
The words of the white-skinned TV host have provoked quite an outrage on the internet. Sister2Sister magazine editor Aisha Staggers wrote that Cuomo’s statement was offensive, as “black isn’t something you can just say you feel you are inside without having to deal with the racism that comes with being physically Black on the outside.” The journalist added:
Others wrote that Mr Cuomo needed sensitivity training. Journalist Megin Kelly pointed out:
After an emotive reaction from CNN’s political correspondent, there is little doubt regarding the channel’s independence….
