Is this t-shirt racist?

[w¡n9Nµ7 §£@¥€r 123]

The Curious George cartoon character is getting dragged into the presidential race again in an ugly way - and Boston’s WGBH-TV isn’t happy.

A Georgia tavern owner has been selling T-shirts showing the cartoon monkey happily eating a banana with the words “Obama in ’08” written underneath.

The tavern owner, described as an “ultra-conservative,” has since seen his Marietta, Ga., establishment picketed by outraged critics who say the characterization of presidental candidate Barack Obama as a monkey is racist.

http://www.bostonherald.com/business/gener...ticleid=1093895

[Ban Hammer 13,352]

yes

[*JG* 2]

To me, no. But then, I'm a monkey myself in the Chinese New Year. Hubby too.

[rhymeswithcandi 0]

A little, yes.

[HAL 9000 96]

Context.

[Krikit 1,164]

Absolutely it is.

[Sister Fracas 5]

They know exactly the message they are trying to send, and it isn't just to be "cute"

[Scott & Lai 12]

Of course it is.

To me, no. But then, I'm a monkey myself in the Chinese New Year. Hubby too.

Different culture, different associations.

[Mr. Big Dog 10,747]

I want to say "Yes" but I don't know if I am enough of an expert on this issue to make that statement. Apparently, we now need to first establish expert credentials to voice opinions.

Edited May 14, 2008 by Mr. Big Dog

[almaty 19]

yes....i guess, he could not find a little black sambo one.....

why not have scooby doo or donald duck on it

[churipu 4]

Curious George is absolutely adorable...but in this context I do find it racist.

[rebeccajo 14]

Absolutely.

[almaty 19]

my type

[Jenn! 918]

Curious George is black?

[almaty 19]

Curious George is black?

well known fact in toon land...so is mickey mouse ..