Broward School Board member: “Underlying racism” behind objection to Obama speech
(Note: Notter has made listening to the speech a mandatory school activity in Broward.)
At a Labor Day picnic in Pompano Beach, Broward School Board member Bob Parks had this to say about parents who objected to President Barack Obama’s televised speech to students today: “I believe a part of it is underlying racism, and of course the Republicans aren’t in power.”
More from our colleague Anthony Man’s entry on the Broward Politics blog:
In overwhelmingly Democratic Broward County, Parks said, there really isn’t all that much public angst over the speech. Parks, who represents a northeastern district, said he’s received only about 15 critical e-mails. Gottlieb, who represents a larger, countywide district, said she’s received about 50 calls and e-mails, about 90 percent opposed to the speech.
Parks and Gottlieb, both of whom are seeking re-election next year, praised Broward Schools Superintendent James Notter, who ordered the showing of the presidential speech.