Now, exactly how does this kind of stuff happen in a state that now has the second highest number of elected black legislators in the South (after Georgia)? In the Mississippi House, African-Americans occupy 35 of the 122 seats; in the Senate, 11 of 52.
Where, you might ask, were these 46 lawmakers when this resolution passed on a voice vote?
Mostly A.W.O.L., it seems.
But not altogether. According to Hatewatch, Democratic Rep. Robert Johnson, one of the African-American legislators, told his fellow representatives that Barrett was "an avowed racist," according to the Associated Press. "He's not ashamed of it; he doesn't apologize for it," Johnson said.
Some lawmakers seemed to feel that the resolution was acceptable because it honored the students rather than Barrett. "I'm not concerned about this individual," veteran Democratic Rep. Joe Warren told the AP. "I'm concerned about these young people being honored by this."
Nonetheless, the resolution passed. And in an interview with the AP, Barrett sounded pleased about that. "I think that's a good lesson of how patriotism and Americanism depend on majority rule," he said. "It's a great lesson in democracy that we're learning."
Right on. A great lesson indeed.
Remember when incoming U.S. Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott told the audience at Strom Thurmond's farewell birthday party that the United States would have avoided "all these problems" if the racist Thurmond had been elected president in 1948?
Lott was forced from office. But not by the State of Mississippi.
Dixie willing, Barrett will be around to sponsor the "Spirit of America" next year.
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