Barkley says personal choices matter and rejects blaming slavery and racism for every problem facing Black Americans.
“People don’t see famous Black people as regular Black people," Barkley said. These comments fit with the way he has approached the subject for years. Barkley has never claimed that racism doesn’t exist, but he also doesn’t want that to become the only explanation for why the Black community struggles."
"Charles Barkley has never been shy about discussing his beliefs, even when some of those words could put him in an uncomfortable position within the Black community. His recent appearance on The Chris Cuomo Project was no different, as the former NBA forward discussed race in America.
"Barkley made sure to clarify that he doesn’t believe slavery and racism should be used to explain every problem facing Black Americans, while he understands that racism still exists.
"“I’m not one of those black people who hangs on to slavery – I don’t blame White America for every ills of the Black community. I don’t do that. I’m not gonna play the victim card. I think too many black people play the victim card, because of all the slavery and racism. No, sometimes your choices matter,” Barkley said.
"Personal responsibility has been a topic of conversation when Barkley speaks about the Black community. He has previously spoken about fatherhood, education and the choices young Black men make, but he believes that some Black people need to take a hard look at problems within their own community, rather than pointing fingers." . . .More.
