Page 08, Cubs commentator's comments crass

Daily Illini Editorial, 09/26/95

Cubs commentator Harry Caray is known for his personal hallmarks, such as
lines like these. Unfortunately, he is also becoming known for something
much worse.

The veteran Cubs announcer let out a Japanese racial slur during a
pre-game interview recently. Caray was interviewing the Cubs' manager
about Japanese rookie pitcher Hideo Nomo when he jokingly asked, "Well my
eyes are slanty enough, how 'bout yours?"

While a remark like this would have been ordinary about 50 years ago, it
has no place in today's society. However, since the show was recorded, a
great deal of the burden of the responsibility shifts to WGN-AM, which
should have edited out the slur. Immediately after, WGN officials
apologized for the incident. However, Caray still refused to apologize or
acknowledge that he had done anything wrong.

In his defense, some might argue that Caray grew up in a society where
hostility toward the Japanese was acceptable. When he first started
broadcasting, we were at war with Japan, and the U.S. government was busy
churning out propaganda films denigrating to the Japanese. Even in today's
environment, the Japanese, often regarded as our fiercest competitors, are
still despised by many.

But Caray is a commentator. It is his job to know what is offensive and
what is not. Clearly, he should realize that racist comments have no place
in broadcast journalism.

But let's face it: If this had been almost anyone but a Chicago legend
like Caray, there would have been a hail of calls for his resignation.
Instead Caray's prestige served as an excuse for his actions. This is
wrong.

If Caray doesn't understand that his comments were inappropriate, then WGN
needs to pull him aside and explain it to him. If that doesn't prevent it
from happening again, then WGN should consider stronger action, like
fining Caray.

Otherwise, we risk propagating the concept that racism is acceptable in a
whole new generation of sports fans.