To suggest that these African-American leaders would somehow shortchange their own citizens is absolutely without merit,

[Farrakhan's invitation comes even as other African American leaders, from Reverend Al Sharpton to hip-hop superstar Kanye West, call for greater acceptance of gay people.] This could signal a turning point in our community, ... We are seeing an unprecedented discussion about sexuality in the black community. I'm confident that 20 to 30 years from now we will look at homophobia in the same light that we now look at racism.

As an African-American, you think of slavery as being associated with (our people). But here you realize it's everyone. Everyone could be slaves.

Women's teams have traditionally performed at levels a bit higher than men's teams academically, so that's not surprising. African-American student-athletes (male and female) are doing better academically than in the past.

I'm shocked that he would have the nerve to show his face in front of any African-American organization after the way they treated those people in New Orleans,

[Smith said he, too, is pleased by the recognition of African-American actors. He noted that Poitier was the last man to win a best actor award] and that was 28 years ago. ... Lilies of the Field.