An Example Of How The Ultra-Conservatices Lose Their Credibility

Limbaugh called alleged Duke rape victim a "ho[ ]"

During the March 31 broadcast of his national syndicated radio program, Rush Limbaugh referred to the alleged victim of a rape by members of the Duke University lacrosse team as a "ho[]."

Given that Limbaugh doesn't have all the facts of this incident (he can't have all the facts because even the police and Duke officials do not have all the facts), it is the epitome of arrogance, racism, sexism, and inappropriateness to make such a comment.

During an on-air discussion with a caller, Limbaugh said that former Democratic presidential candidate Al Sharpton was "trying to figure out how he can get involved in the deal down there at Duke where the lacrosse team ... supposedly, you know, raped some, uh, hos." Limbaugh's made the comment about a recent incident in Durham, North Carolina, in which an exotic dancer was allegedly raped by three members of the Duke lacrosse team.

There are "exotic dancers" that do not engage in illegal acts. Some of them are "belly dancers" (one form of exotic dancing), others are "strippers" in the tradition of Burlesque, others are "strippers" that make thei living by undressing and dancing at events... and, admittedly, there are strippers that do engage in illegal activities in conjunction with their dancing. But it is a stereotypical approach to call all exotic dancers "hos" on the basis of their chosen profession. While Limbaugh is free to choose to perceive strippers as immoral in his opinion, he has no license to push that view of the world.

However, even if the woman involved were actively engaging in illegal sex trade, there is a principle involved... "NO" means no. We must understand that rape is not about sex, sexuality or any type of intimacy. It is about domination, control, violation of the rights of the victim and CRIMINALITY. If a rape occurred--and we do not have all the facts to make that assessment--then all of those involved should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law... and if they are members of the Duke student body, they should be dismissed even if they did not actively participate, but provided an environment that enabled and/or facilitated such actions. These events are disgraceful for Duke, its lacrosse team and for Limbaugh who ought to know better than make comments on things which he has little knowledge about.

The incident has invoked further controversy because the victim, an African-American, has alleged that her attackers used racial epithets. Prompted by another caller to apologize for his words, Limbaugh said that he had made the statement because he was "running on fumes today," and called it a "terrible slip of the tongue." But he then added that there are "some inconsistencies" in the case and rephrased his apology, telling the second caller, "I regret that you heard me say it."

This is not the first time that Limbaugh has opened his mouth to expose his ignorance, racism, sexism and complete lack of legitimacy. He can try to make excuses for his behavior, but there is no excuse for being a complete and utter hypocrite.

Shame on Rush Limbaugh, the companies that carry his broadcasts, and the ultra-conservatives that endorse this loud-mouthed ignoramus.