Source: CNN / x
Dr. Michael Eric Dyson promptly confronted a Republican congresswoman over her racist remarks regarding Kamala Harris, garnering attention on social media.
During a panel discussion on CNN’s NewsNight, tensions escalated as a Republican House member vehemently denied any racist implications while criticizing Kamala Harris. The Thursday evening segment, hosted by Abby Phillip, debated the pronunciation of the Vice President’s name. Dr. MJ Dyson, a prominent author and African-American Studies professor at Vanderbilt University, addressed South Carolina Representative Nancy Mace, calling her a “wonderful human being” but indicating her mispronunciation of Harris’ name was disrespectful. “I know you don’t mean it that way, but that’s the historical disregard for the humanity of Black people,” he asserted.
“So now you’re labeling me as a racist? That is absurd. Absolutely absurd,” Mace responded. As they began to argue and interrupt one another, Dyson countered, “You don’t have to mean to be racist to actually be racist. Your disrespect towards Kamala Harris is rooted in a larger tradition of disdain.” Mace continued to assert, “You are implying that I am racist, and that is both offensive and wrong.” Dyson maintained he wasn’t labeling her a racist, yet Mace insisted, “You are. You definitely are and it’s reprehensible.” Dyson pressed her to correctly pronounce the Vice President’s name, which she again mispronounced, stating, “I can say it any way I choose!” Democratic strategist Keith Boykin interjected, “Congresswoman, you’re doing this deliberately!”
On social media, many highlighted Mace’s behavior, linking it to her support for Donald Trump as the Republican presidential nominee. One user criticized her for stating she had never heard Trump attack Harris’ racial background, while another suggested she aimed for “a Cabinet position. It’s reminiscent of Jeff Sessions’ 2016 energy.” Numerous social media users commended Dyson for his assertiveness in holding Mace accountable, alongside Boykin and Phillip’s participation in the discussion.
Take a look at the social media reactions to this segment below.
