About the Author

Fredric is a web developer based in Chicago who hopes to one day start a foundation to support young, Black males in programming and computer science.

paris, texas. in plain view

March 13th, 2007 • Related • Filed Under

Shaquanda Cotton the one thing i love most about reading online is the ability to find little nuggets of information or interesting stories without having to flip through a giant stack of recyclable paper with messy ink. yesterday was no exception when i stumbled upon a story in the tribe (may need free signup) about a small town in texas that seems to relish in its violent racial past.

paris, texas is the home of the Paris Fairgrounds, a stage where thousands of white ’spectators’ would gather to burn and lynch blacks as if at some sort of carnival. today, it is a highly segregated town that has implicity dared anyone to question how it chooses to treat blacks that live in the area.

the facts:

“black parents have filed at least a 12 discrimination complaints against the school district with the federal Education Department, asserting that their children, who constitute 40 percent of the district’s nearly 4,000 students, were singled out for excessive discipline”
the paris public schools are under investigation by the U.S. Education Department
19-year-old white man, convicted last july of criminally negligent homicide for killing a 54-year-old black woman and her 3-year-old grandson with his truck, was sentenced in Paris to probation
judge chuck superville sentenced a 14-year-old white girl, convicted of arson for burning down her family’s house, to probation
a 14-year-old black freshman, shaquanda cotton, shoved a 58-year-old teacher’s aide at paris high school in a dispute over entering the building before the school day had officially begun. she was tried in march 2006 in the town’s juvenile court, convicted of “assault on a public servant” and sentenced by the same judge chuck superville to prison for up to 7 years, until she turns 21

yes, you read that last part right. i’ll let it sink in for a second.

so its 2007, one state is drafting formal legislation to apologize for slavery, and another is trying to flex its ‘dont mess with texas’ ego. while i complained earlier of how dismayed i was that some black blogs tend to be angry, this type of reality justifies that sentiment, and rightfully so. while i’ve never been the most articulate when it comes to expressing the complete shock of ‘in plain view’ racism, i can honestly say that this type of white arrogance and hate needs to be called out and handled swiftly. but how? the article mentions that naacp is on the case (rolling eyes), but i feel like more, MUCH MORE needs to be done.

if you get to the end of the article, the turmoil suffered by shaquanda in juvenile prison, where 95% of the offenders are repeat and violent (read: real crimes), has caused her to attempt suicide on her life 3 times. 3 times! a 14-year old, my little sister, is trying to kill herself because a racist bigot of a judge put her in prison for shoving someone. SHOVING!

so what can be done? link to this article. publicize this story. let’s see what blogging black can really do. go to the governor’s page at http://www.governor.state.tx.us/contact and let him know how you feel and how this is completely bullshit.

free shaquanda cotton. NOW!

i ask that some of my more articulate readers post a statement in the comments that we can all use on the contact form on the texas governor page.

[update 1]: looks like we’re getting the word spread. a fb group has started.

[update 2]: i started a thread over at topix. interesting pov’s, without question. i’ve also gotten word from a few friends that we have connections to ebony magazine and cnn that are being explored. keep spreading the word!

[update 3]: a site has been setup for her at http://freeshaquandacotton.blogspot.com/

[update 4]: thanks to everyone who gave their opinion and overwhelming support. we had to turn off the comments to save our servers, however. be sure to pingback if you want to keep up the discussion on your blogs!

[update 5]: the last, and probably best update, shaquanda cotton will go free.

There Are 277 Responses So Far. »

Comment by Fredric on 13 March 2007:

Here is what I wrote:

I found a recent article in the Chicago Tribune about a young girl named Shaquanda Cotton. This young girl was sent to prison for 7 years by Lamar County Judge Chuck Superville for shoving a hall monitor in school. This is racist. It is wrong. Please investigate this case and free Shaquanda Cotton NOW. She has already expressed distress from her conditions and attempted to commit suicide. This is wrong for a 14 year old to have to go through this.

Link to the article: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/nationworld/chi-0703120170mar12,1,1921178.story?page=1&track=rss
Comment by Paula Mooney on 13 March 2007:

Oh my God. This is unbelievable!

Thanks for telling me about this.

I’ve got to research more and write news reports about this today!

Let’s pray and act and get our voices heard over this misjustice until she is released!
Comment by David McQueen on 13 March 2007:

That is just NUTS.
Complete and total utter stupidity.

Are her counsel appealing this? Have the NAACP gotten over back slapping Bono to give this their real attention?

Its scary that in the 21st Century something like this could still happen?
Comment by Brittania on 13 March 2007:

The discriminatory sentencing in Paris, Texas happens all over Texas. Doesn’t Texas hold the dubious title of putting the most black men to death in this country? The entire state needs to change and its going to be up to black people to force that change.
Comment by Fredric on 13 March 2007:

please don’t forget to go to the governor’s webpage and send a quick contact.
Comment by kia on 13 March 2007:

after these kinds of stories make their way on the evening news rounds and they aren’t aired after a few nights, it’s so easy to forget, because it may not be your (my) reality, but this is heartbreaking, demoralizing, harsh, inhumane, and not was the USA stands for… this is supposed to be our past! disgraceful! thanks for sharing! (and the picture speaks volumes, also)
Comment by Yolanda on 13 March 2007:

Excellent article- thank you for spreading the word!
Comment by Martin Lindsey on 13 March 2007:

The Tom Joyner Morning Show and all of Tavis Smiley’s venues. This young lady needs big media attention and serious legal aid.

Why don’t we all forward this link to those guys on their blogs? I’m going to search them out and get back to everyone on it.

If anybody can get more details and give attention it’s Tavis, Tom and crew.
Comment by Martin Lindsey on 13 March 2007:

I couldn’t find a blog on Tavis’ home page , http://www.tavistalks.com , but I sent an e-mail with this blog link to one of his producers, Denise Pines, at dpines@tavistalks.com . I asked her if Tavis could investigate and publicise. Why don’t a few more of you try to jam up her in-box so Tavis definitely gets the word on this one?

Tom Joyner’s Express Yourself forum on Black America Web is offline at the moment but try again tomorrow sometime at http://www.tjms.com and see if we can get Tom and Sybil to give it some journalistic research and discussion on their end. This isn’t one of J-Anthony’s “hidden racism”s. It’s out there all the way!
Comment by Kimberly Michelle on 14 March 2007:

Thanks for the idea Martin. I think making sure Tavis and Tom know about this is definitely key to making progress in this case. I couldn’t get the ‘Express Yourself’ page up either, but your can email BAW at news@blackamericaweb.com.
Pingback by YBP Guide — tech news 3/14: ‘free shaquanda cotton’ edition on 14 March 2007:

[...] ← paris, texas. in plain view [...]
Comment by Fredric on 14 March 2007:

I’ve emailed Tracy McGlover and Denise Pines at at TavisTalks.com.

You can use the first comment as a cut and paste if you want.
Comment by Lola on 14 March 2007:

I cant believe this! i mean; i can! But i hate to admit that this is in this day and age ( and in this part of the world where “justice” is said to prevail), there is a child sentenced to be imprisoned for 7 years simply because she had “shoved” someone.
If that is right, then many more people adults and children alike, deserve to be in that prison with too!
Please release this child before she succeeds at taking her own life! Please release this child and undo this flaw. Lets start to attempt to undo this curse thats been placed on her. this isnt right. this could have been anyone’s child! This, could have been me. Please replenish her chances at a better life; free her.
Comment by RED on 14 March 2007:

This is not surprising to Blacks here in America. As Blacks, we have two choices.

1. We can control our behavoir KNOWING that there is grave injustice here in America.

2. We can stop complaining, attend law school; get involved in the political process — and run/seek appointment for a judge seat. When we become a judges and legislators, we can judge our own people and protect them from draconian punishments.
Comment by Fredric on 14 March 2007:

Unfortunately, your rationale is flawed.

First, you’re assuming that:

1.) Control of one’s behavior is constitutionally allowable. The legislations in this country allows us certain unalienable rights to not have to ‘fit in a box’ or ‘control ourselves’ amidst a majority. This type of ‘lets not make waves’ thinking is exactly what this country is founded on. She did not harm the man. She simply acted like a teenager.

2.) All people of this country, especially blacks, have the opportunities to go to law school and ascend into the political system. While you may enjoy the benefits of your parents and ancestors hard work, others are not as fortunate. Our country is also built on the premise that all should have an opportunity.

This girl is being imprisoned and not only are her rights being stripped, she is being made example of to all blacks.

I cannot accept this.
Comment by Iman J on 14 March 2007:

I read about this in the Trib, it’s disturbing on so many different levels. I’ve passed it along to my contacts at Essence and Ebony.
Pingback by YBP Guide — “Where are you from?” on 14 March 2007:

[...] every time we think we’ve come a long way up from slavery, judicial racism occurs in small towns like Paris, Texas, making us feel like, on the road of progression, we’ve taken giant steps backwards. The case [...]
Comment by ROY M on 14 March 2007:

This is sad but it is so true believe me I know seeing that I’m from Paris Texas also and I have witnessed first had the racism that goes on in Paris on a daily bases. In Paris the white kids are allowed to cruise the strip and park at the shopping center as long as they want but as soon as a group of black people gather at the park the police ride through and shut down the whole park. I still have family in Paris so any help that anybody can offer would be great. Not only do we have to deal with the judges we have to deal with the Police harassment.
Comment by Bobby C on 14 March 2007:

my class talked about this. and she shoved the hall moniter to get riddilin. WTF she needed her medicine and the hall monitor wouldnt let her get it she had the right to move them out of the way and maybe if he let her get it this wouldnt have happened. But the real problem is the fact that she is in prison with people who have killed and she shouldnt even have to think about being in prison but because the Biggot of a judge cant see the truth and is blinded by blaitent ignorance he deserves to be in prison instead of her with his judge license revoked.
Comment by Terris McMahan Grimes on 14 March 2007:

Fredric, thanks for bringing this to my attention. I wrote a post yesterday, “Black Child Lynched in Paris, Texas”
http://motherfac.blogspot.com/2007/03/black-child-lynched-in-paris-texas.html#links

This evening I talked to Ms. Cotton, Shaquanda’s mother and Brenda Cherry a local civil rights leader.

Ms. Cotton is concerned because Shaquanda says she is tired. She also said the child loves to receive cards and letters. Send them to: Ron Jackson Correctional Complex, Unit 2, Dorm 4, P.O. Box 872, Brownwood, Texas 76804.

Ms. Cotton will be setting up a trust fund at a local bank for Shaquanda. I’ll pass the information along to everybody as soon as I get it.

One more thing–I suggested a Shaquanda blog so her mother could keep the world updated. Ms. Cherry has a computer. Anybody out there in the blogosphere willing to design a blog and set it up for her?
Comment by Fredric on 15 March 2007:

done.

http://freeshaquandacotton.blogspot.com/
Comment by Cara on 15 March 2007:

I can’t believe that I’m reading this! My heart is so sadden to know that this type of treatment is allowed. It just makes no sense that a 14 year old child should have to serve 7 years for “SHOVING” someone. How is this allowed can this judge be investigated?
Comment by Nneka on 15 March 2007:

This is an outrage! Everyone please click on the link above to write the governor. Remember this could be your child, this is such an injustice.
Comment by E Jackson on 15 March 2007:

I am speachless after reading about this! This is complete BS and they know it. That poor child is going to be damaged for the rest of her life all because of a judge with racist ways has done this to her. I am definitely going to send her some cards telling her to be strong and hang in there!
Thanks for the address and the blog.
Comment by lukresa on 15 March 2007:

Here is what I wrote to the gov…

Dear Gov. Perry,

I am deeply saddened by a story that I just read about a 14yr old child that has been sentenced to 7yrs in prison for shoving someone? I am sure I am not the first or the last citizen to inform you of this incident, but I just wanted to express my extreme frustration and disappointment with the whole situation! I just can not think of any reason (besides hatred and/or racism) that would influence such a harsh and unjustified punishment. I am aware that I may not know all the fact surrounding the case. However, what it boils down to is a child was sent to prison for something that should have been handled by the child’s parents, principal of the school, and the victim (person that was shoved). To take it to court and to convict the child is down right uncalled for and ridiculous.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Respectfully,
Lukresa D. Williams, MBA
Comment by Faraji on 15 March 2007:

Please use the link to send the governor a message expressing your support for having this outrage overturned, particularly if you are a Texas voter. Send the link to your friends and make them send the gov. a message. The only way to exert influence over events like these is to leverage what power you have (votes, tax dollars, etc.). Black people have been very bad at this post civil-rights era. Anyone who doesn’t take three minutes to do that has no right to bitch and moan.
Comment by BoogieMatic on 16 March 2007:

Without launching a tirade…
I will make as many people AWARE as possible!
This has got to stop!
Comment by Teroy on 16 March 2007:

Shit like this will keep on happening until some one stand up and speak out and don’t stop until some thing posivtive change’s.
Comment by Rev Roy Felton on 16 March 2007:

It’s a shame that we as Black people in the year 2007 are still trying to get a equal hand in life. We do not have to look very far to see why the state of Texas treat our people the way they do. All we have to do is simply look at the white. Where the president of this country continues to add racist people into his cabinet. The only way we will ever get this changed in this country is exercising the right to vote that was granted to our people because of the civil rights activist back in the 50’s and 60’s. Many of them died for the right and never got the chance to cast a ballot. Did they suffer and die for nothing. Black people we MUST VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Wendy on 16 March 2007:

God allows different things to happen so that his people can pull together. Continue to pray for this young lady and her family. God will hear us and show those people just who he is.
Comment by Katie82640 on 16 March 2007:

I could just lay down and cry. Wendy - this kind of thing isn’t the doing of God. Not at all.

Send email to the Tx Governor - but also any business Chambers in the area you can find. People aren’t going to want to travel or do business where there is racism afoot. It will hurt their business. And rightly so - they need to get their police force right and a judge who isn’t a racist on the bench.
Comment by Katie82640 on 16 March 2007:

Can anyone find out how to contact her mother? To see if she is getting help from somewhere? One of you investigative types?
Comment by Kelvin Pruitt on 16 March 2007:

First of all let me start by saying that I reside in Dallas, Texas but I was born and raised in Paris, Texas. This is what I wrote to the governor.

Mr. Governor my concern is the young lady Shaquanda Cotton a native of the small town of Paris, Texas. In your response to me, I really and truly need an honest answer from you if this case is being looked at or not. In the meanwhile I will make sure that the city of Paris and all surrounding cities know about this particular case. I will be sending you a signed petition with as many people that I can get to sign it to see if we can get this thing if not overturned atleast looked at. I don’t have alot of money and I don’t know much about the law, but I do have enough since toknow that it doesn’t take a degree to free this young lady. I definitely look forward to your response and again all I am looking for is for someone to atleast look into this disaster. I know we are always looking at the so called criminals but do we ever find ourselves looking at the man or woman who is handing down the punishment. Has this judge been fair across the board with certain cases. The two cases that are printed definitely are much more severe than the one she supposedly committed and they both got probation, and the sad thing about those cases is both criminals that were charged were white. So again I ask that your response be honest. Finally let me say this. I went to war for this country and the people of this country. If this is what I fought for and if this is what the people over there now are fighting for then I regret I ever fought at all. I look forward to hearing your response.
Comment by Christina Sowells on 16 March 2007:

This is outrageous. We need to have that judge thrown off the bench. I wonder, was he voted in? Also, we definetly need to get this young girl and her family some legal aid. I am going to toss this around to a few people I know in the legal community to see what we can get done. This is racism, plain and simple. We need to get the word out.
Comment by Ecclesiaste Guerrier on 16 March 2007:

This situation is unfortunate and in a word, criminal. I pray that God gives Shaquanda the strength and resolve to endure; however unjust and unnecessary her having to do so is. As a student at FSU in Tallahasse, Fl who grew up in Miami, I am all too familiar with the injustice of justice. Black people.. Minority people.. I beg you to hear the cries of the wrongfully accused. It’s time we put our individual differences aside and work together toward forming our own chain. A chain that doesn’t lock up the innocent through false and exaggerated accusations. A chain we can use to bend the bars of discrimination. If you read this or any other article reflecting such a story I ask that you be a link in the chain by strengthing the links to your left and right side. This is not a coicidence,nor is it an isolated incident. This is the life me and you live everyday. The life some of us were fortunate enough to escape. But now is the time for action. Will we be happy to simply survive this epidemic? or will we stand together with all of our differences aside and shout with one voice that we will no longer be silenced!!! Fellow black people, fellow minorites, let’s make a change… let’s be chain.
Comment by DIARRA on 16 March 2007:

THIS IS TRULY SAD….BUT EVERYONE PLEASE WRITE THIS CHILD LET HER KNOW THAT WE ARE TRYING TO DO SOMETHING ABOUT THIS..HELP TO UPLIFT HER SPIRIT AND ENCOURAGE HER THAT THIS WILL ALL BE OVER SOON .
Pingback by YBP Guide — weekly roundup: 3/17 on 17 March 2007:

[...] paris, texas. in plain view [...]
Comment by LaTrela on 18 March 2007:

Is there anyone who knows Oprah’s web address? She is the one who can and will get this story out. I would love to see her do a show on this little town. If anyone knows it, please send it to her. I am sure she can shed some well deserved light on Shaquana’s and others (I just know there are others) stories.
Comment by Credo on 18 March 2007:

Great work that you are doing for Shaquanda Cotton. I won’t forget Ms. Cotton. This sentencing shocks the senses of any law abiding citizen. It should be immediately overturned.
Comment by K.V. WORLD on 19 March 2007:

This traggic injustice confirms what I have always felt about this systematically racist country in which we live and that is this..it will NEVER change, so we people of color have to change! Our comfort-zone mindset has to change. Let’s face it, this horrible thing happening to young Shaquanda Cotton is unfortunately not surprising at all because whether it’s Paris,Texas or anywhere else in the “land of the free” we can all (Black folk) be subject to attacks of racism at anytime,anywhere, and for any reason.Loving one another,spending money with one another,supporting one another..shit I could go on!! A house (race) divided is always an easy target for attack..time for us to stop being that house!! Write to Shaquanda,send her our love and support.
I’m out.
Comment by Michael Robins on 19 March 2007:

Dear,

Governor Rick Perry, I reside in Arlington TX, but was born and raised in Paris TX, educated in Paris school system. I have not lived there since graduated from Paris Junior College 1990, I can assure you I too have experienced harassment from the Paris Police Department on many occasions while growing up there. To read about this young lady Shaquanda Cotton, being JAILED for shoving a teachers aide, and other students of the same age different race, same childest mistakes, being given lesser punishment by the local Judge Chuck Superville. This is an injustice that needs to be addressed by the Texas AG as well as Federal Justice Department (DOJ). I have been and educator and understand how challenging it can be in the classroom this date and age. However, to take the child hood away from this young lady is a travesty of justice. The racism surrounding the justice system in Paris Texas is a flawed system which doesn’t apply Justice equally amongst it’s citizens. I recall a case in Paris where a young man got LIFE in PRISON for 1st time offense for selling weed, not to say it’s OK , but their is no precedent for this kind of sentencing within Paris for white children. Show us a white teen who has had any of these punishments applied to their case as has Ms Cotton’s or Mr. Mitchell (the young man who was 2 weeks from graduate college) but made mistakes that cost him everything he had worked for. These injustices will not go unnoticed Mr Governor. We will speak out and someone will hear us and listen. Will you be able to say you never knew about these injustices? Are will you be able to say, I have been made aware and will work with state and local officials to address the states racial injustices. Paris, Texas is and will always be home to me. I have family their and I’m concerned about the kind of justice they are receiving. We ask for know more or less, just to be treated equal by the law and judges that apply the law.
Comment by Konette Horton on 19 March 2007:

I’m praying for Shaquanda. I wrote, Governor Perry a letter and I went to my U.S. Rep. Office today , he was in Austin, but I spoke with the regional deputy whom is going to Austin today. I told her about Shaquanda and ask her if she could tell every in Austin she knew and she agreed. Also, I spoke with prosecutor of Shaquanda. At first, he said he could only give me general information, because her mother had no authorized him to give details. He said she has an indefinite sentence of 7yrs. He said, he doesn’t know why the judge didn’t offer her probation as he did the 14yr old white girl whom burned down her house. That Shaquanda and her mother was offered an informal probation(not on paper-before being charged), but they refused to cooperate . She has been in juvenile facility for a year. Her case is now in appeals court. In the meantime, it is up to the TYDC to release her when they feel she has meet the requirements. One of the requirements is to admit your wrong doing. which the prosecutor said she refuses. I told him she may not admit it because its blown out proportion. He added that the lady fell and received minor injuries. I said even with all that, shes been in there a year and that’s long enough. Set Shaquanda Cotton free. He told me that there was a march today and they have received national calls from the media. I believe in my heart she will be reunited with her mother soon.

Keep the pressure on,
Konette
Comment by Andrea Fuller on 20 March 2007:

This is really sad that the governor and the state of Texas will focus on a child pushing someone opposed to the sexual predators, rapists, and murderers that Texas has. This is as WHITE as it gets. This is a shame. God bless this child and keep your head up because vengenance is mine said the LORD!!!
Comment by Lea Prevost-Casimir on 20 March 2007:

This is an atrocity. The people who prosecuted this case must have a seared conscience. Instead of using this opportunity as a teachable moment, they have used the power to further exposed their hatred. The bible tells us, it is a sin to know to do good and refuse to do it. Shaquanda does not need a prison sentence, she needs a mentor. I will be interceding on Shaquanda’s behalf until this conviction is overturned. I will also be praying that God will give both she and her mother the strength to endure during a difficult time. Be of good courage, at the back of this dark cloud, is a silver lining.
Comment by Cassandra on 20 March 2007:

Thank you for bringing this article to my attention. I am a resident of the state of Texas, living just outside of Houston and at no time in watching daily news reports of what happens around town did I hear about this criminal judgement against this CHILD! I am blessed to have access to black leadership in Houston so I will forward this email to their attention and I plan to send my heartfelt sentiments of injustice to the Texas State Legislature.
Comment by Donna on 20 March 2007:

I am not surprise at the different thing that are
still going on in this country today. Pray changes
and if we would start praying and continue praying god will make a way. Heart go’s out to her and her mother. Another person that you can get involved is John Rily Price if anyone knows his webiste or how to reach him that will help.
Comment by Jeff on 20 March 2007:

This is just uncalled for, you mean to tell me this BLACK CHILD is having her childhood taken from her for shoving someone aside? The judge who made this ruling should be removed from that chair. I don’t condone what the CHILD did, but the punishment does not fit the crime!
Comment by LATISHA on 20 March 2007:

I read this article and became totally disgusted, i cant believe after all this time that racism is still being displayed so openly, and its even worse knowing that the judicial system is so screwed up, just think we are raising our children to believe that the judicial system is fair/equal, i am very angry to know that i am teaching my children a big fat lie! SHAME ON THE STATE OF TEXAS ALL TOGETER
Comment by Arlene Gillespie on 20 March 2007:

This is ridiculous!!!!! I think someone needs to take this to the supreme court or something! Someone needs to file a lawsuit against that town. I am going to email this to Oprah Winfrey and I think everyone else should also.
Comment by Pastor Romano White on 20 March 2007:

As a pastor; I will pray earnestly and swiftly that the Lord WILL release this child from prison NOW!……. As a Parent; I share your pain and concern, this is beyond just being another story, I believe we as a people need to lobby together and protest against this type of action and the unjust so - called justice system of Texas. I can be reached through email if needed in any way. I’m believing the Lord to move even as I pray..@…. romanowhite@yahoo.com….God Bless YOU child, and we will see your soon release.
Comment by Lizz Straight on 20 March 2007:

I am going to have this as a topic of discussion on my spoken word radio show this Saturday. I am based out of Tampa. However the call in number is 813-239-9663 and the show is available on line at http://www.wmnf.org. Let’s get it going!!

Uhuru,

Lizz Straight
Comment by Keith Seymour on 20 March 2007:

This some of the most insane BS I’ve ever heard of!!! When are we going to get sick and tired of this nonsense and stand up and demand our rights to be treated like human beings?! I’m sick and tired of marching, singing, and praying!! God is looking at black folks in this country and shaking his head in shame and pity for us allowing this to happen to one of our children! As for the good reverend who thinks voting is the answer: What good did voting do us in 2000 when Bush became president in the first place?! The time for the house negro mentality is over sir! It’s time to stand up and take action! By any means necessary!!
Pingback by DryerBuzz.com, Urban Headlines From Atlanta and Beyond » DryerBuzz & Company LIVE - Special Report: Inside Shaquanda Cotton Story, March 20, 2007 on 20 March 2007:

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Comment by C Mosley on 20 March 2007:

See if Al Sharpton can help…. this is a hot mess and truly a major sign of racism. This story saddens me as I am a Paralegal and see all kinds of worse cases w/not so hard verdicts — does Texas Judges believe in Probation for our people at all? I have to believe that God will take care of this and release this young black student soon. God bless you Ms. Cotton.
Comment by Donna Shannon on 20 March 2007:

My prayers go out to Shaquanda Cotton & her family.

To all that has read this story please take one more step and send a note to the above Governor’s link.

I am a mother of two children, and when I read the story regarding Shaquanda Cotton, who resides in Paris, TX I was very, very, deeply saddened. I can not believe what I’ve read. This is truly an outrage. A 14yr old (still a child) going to jail for SHOVING. This judge Chuck Superville a Conspicuous racist?…I think so!! So tell me Mr. Governor Rick Perry why is this judge even allowed to be practicing law? Please Set Shaquanda Cotton free.

Donna Shannon
Atlanta, GA
Comment by Jamie on 20 March 2007:

Often times, it’s thought that Blacks are not people at all. We are ostracized and discriminated against by local and national businesses, yet we continue to frequent them. My proposal is to show people exactly how important we are to the economy. There are plenty of Black owned businesses and restaurants in the area that could benefit from our hard earned money. I have a feeling that an economic slam will get the attention of today’s leaders. Money talks, so do your research and visit businesses that will not look down upon us. Edification of Black-owned businsses will have an impact beyond belief.
Comment by Lamonte on 21 March 2007:

7 years! I’m calling the judge today!
Comment by B. J. Swygert on 21 March 2007:

I am totally appalled at this situation in this day and time, yet not at all surprised in the least.
Time to call upon on my personal friends at the NAACP and My Marketing Sista’s at Give N’ Take Network where we are 300 sistas strong.
We will spread the word on this in a “BIG WAY” ! As I sit at my desk in this moment I feel an actual ache in my heart for this young lady. Already she is having thoughts of suicide and thats frightening. Let’s band to together to get her justice. We need to make a lot of noise and be consistent with the volume.
Comment by Kara on 21 March 2007:

I have just sen tthe following message to the governor and please believe me when I say I plan on doing much more than just talking and expressing myself in order to get this 14 year old free:

My heart is sadden at what I just read about 14-year Shaquanda Cotton. I can not believe that such a punishment would be given to a child who hasn’t even begun to experience life. To have her child hood stripped from her and her education ceased due to this punishment is abhorrent. You sir, should be ashamed of your state and the way it is treating minorities in today’s time. Blacks, are just as human as whites first and foremost, but because our skin is darker we are looked at differently and treated differently. This is not the way of the Lord and most importantly, this is not Christ like. How could any adult exert a punishment such as this on a CHILD? I know that judge’s conscience has to be eating at him right now. I have worked for lawyers and I have well connected attorneys and other authority figures in my corner right now in Georgia that handles all types of cases and whose status carries serious weight in the government, and I will be forwarding my thoughts and my suggested resolutions to them about this ridiculous situation. As governor, you should be heading this up, but it has become apparent that you are not, so without much more being said on my behalf, I will say this: You will reap what you sow. This is God’s world, we just live in it and please believe it when I say, GOD has the final say so, and for your authority figures in the state of Texas who are trying to play GOD, they are surely on the right path to self-destruction and eternal damnation. May God have mercy on all of your souls.
Comment by Jessica on 21 March 2007:

It is sad for a young girl have to go through this. But, she have to remember that God is watching her every step of the way. Also, by having faith everything is going to be alright. Just always keep your head up.
Comment by Lawrence on 21 March 2007:

i just sent a link to Deniece Pines, Tavis Smiley’s producer and will forward this to my entire email address book. This is the reason my parents would not allow my siblings and I, to grow up in Texas. Sad as it is, this isn’t the 1st or the last time something of this nature will happen. Until we as a country…not just blacks but an entire nation, does something to stop it, there will be other stories told and untold simular to this one. my heart and prayers go out to the Cotton family as well as 14 year old Shaquanda Cotton.
Comment by ANGELA COFFEY on 21 March 2007:

THIS IS SO UNJUST THIS NEEDS TO BE STOPPED
Comment by ANGELA COFFEY on 21 March 2007:

THIS HAS TO BE STOPPED SUCH INJUSTICE
Comment by Diana Brooks on 21 March 2007:

I AM ABSOLUTELY HORRIFIED AT THIS STORY… MY HEART ACHES FOR THIS CHILD AND HER PARENTS.. IT IS SICKENING THAT IS STILL HAPPENING IS 2007 …. I WILL DIFFIDENTLY BE PASSING THIS STORY ON, MAKING CONTACT TO SEE WHAT MORE I CAN DO AND SENDING ENCOURAGEMENT TO SHAQUANDA…

SPEAK LIFE COTTON FAMILY THIS TOO SHALL PASS…. CAUSE GOD WOULD BRING YOU TO IT IF HE WASN’T GOING TO BRING YOU THROUGH IT!!!!!!
Comment by BRENDA DENSON on 21 March 2007:

THIS IS CRAZY - FREE THAT CHILD!!!!!
Comment by shonde on 21 March 2007:

This is BS. I hope if your child shoved someone that they to will be put in jail for seven years too.
This is some crazy shit i have never heard in my life. help this child dont take away her hopes and dreams. Honey keep your head up God is with you and thats one thing they dont know about is him. They would have to answer to him when they day comes.
Comment by Consonant Mainer on 21 March 2007:

My heart goes out to this girl and her family. I have always fought for what I believed in and this is what the family should do. I have a 21 year old son and 17 year old daughter and I will share this information with them. It’s important that they understand the type of world we live in and challenges they will face with their own children.
Comment by Yushima Cherry on 21 March 2007:

I will be posting this on my site by the end of the day today. WE NEED SOLUTIONS PEOPLE. Come on! What…Boycott, March, MEDIA! WHATS UP? Who is in WISCONSIN? GET W/ ME.
Comment by karen lee on 21 March 2007:

this is an outrage! free this baby now! God is surely disappointed. my prayers be with this child and her family.
Comment by Stevie on 21 March 2007:

I feel for the young lady and the state of the Black Union. I watched the Tavis Smiley episodes and really feel it was done in word and I have not seen the deeds. Our leaders have faded. I think that the people of the Paris, TX commuity is going to need to pull strenght from each other. I am sure the men and women in the pulpits in the TX area have a sermon or two. Here is the chance to serve others. GOD has ordained many things in our lives to give us an opportunity to act on his word. I don’t know where to start or end with this. Why are we discussing this and not rejoicing in victory over the circumstances we have overcome. The institution of racism and discrimination has moved into high gear. I thank everyone for input and now it is time for us to not only prepare for battle but embrace each other for war.
Comment by B. Baylis on 21 March 2007:

This is the most absurd thing I’ve ever heard of in my life! TX needs Jesus.
Comment by Creda on 21 March 2007:

Father God in the Name of Jesus, we come before you today as humble as we know how. We know that you are the most high and all power belongs to you. Lord, you said if we ask anything in your darling son, Jesus name that it shall be done. So today we are standing in the gap for this young lady. We there is pain give her relief, where there is confusion give her give peace, and we there is hurt give her comfort. SHAQUANDA, remember no weapon formed against you shall prosper. Lord, we thank you for the victory because we know you can move mountains. In Jesus name we pray, Amen…

My first thought was to go to the Father in prayer. He holds the key to it those cell doors and can release her ask we speak.

GOD BLESS!!!
Comment by William Wallace Whirl on 21 March 2007:

Outrage. This is not the world we want to live in.
Pingback by YBP Guide — tech news 3/21: “keep hope alive” edition on 21 March 2007:

[...] most regular readers probably know, the voice of shaquanda cotton’s ordeal has taken off. keep adding your voice to the comments, her message board, your local branches of [...]
Comment by Yvonne on 21 March 2007:

Dear Governor,

I find it very disturbing that in 2007 such an outrage as occurred in Paris, TX still exists. I find it hard to believe that judge Chuck Superville sentenced a 14 year old child up to 7 years for shoving a hall monitor. It is unrealistic for Texans to accept that we are no longer in slavery and everyone deserves rights of a fair trial. Does he hate the black race so much that he can even pardon a child for her improprieties? What is really going on?

What can you do about Shaquanda Cotton’s case; she needs your help and she needs it now. Stand up and stand out from the rest. Don’t be afraid to be different. Given your position, I feel that you are the one who holds the key to her future. Please, please, “DO THE RIGHT THING.”
Comment by Diedre on 21 March 2007:

Letter sent to Governor Perry:

Each night when I turn on my TV to watch the evening news I am reminded of our country’s military objective in Iraq to spread freedom, democracy and equality and restore stability to a country previously ruled by a dictator. Smiling to myself I wonder which country is going to invade the USA in order to spread freedom, democracy and equality and restore stability to a country currently ruled by dictatorial judges, impassive politicians and inflexible racists. The scales of justice in the Shaquanda Cotton case were disproportionate and the punishment certainly did not fit the crime. I implore you to use your gubernatorial powers to intervene on behalf of Shaquanda Cotton and to monitor her appeal process to ensure it results in her immediate and unconditional release.
Comment by Lyndell on 21 March 2007:

that’s some real BS right there, a damn shame
Comment by Vivian on 21 March 2007:

The judge in this case needs to be brought up on charges. Shoving a teacher gets a 14 yr old 7 yrs in prison. You know race is a factor. There are murders who get less time that this child. Someone needs to help her. I don’t know any attorneys in Texas but the Crochran Law Firm is everywhere. Her mom needs to contact The Cochran Firm or Willie Gary out of Flordia.
Comment by Ervin Rome on 21 March 2007:

It’s sad that in these modern times acts of racism such as above are still being allowed to thrive in America. What the hell is it gonna take to make WHITE PEOPLE change? A revolution? Probably. I hope this young girl gets justice…
Comment by RODJUAN on 21 March 2007:

first let me express my disgust at this young sister’s pain. The truth of the matter is that we all feel the same pain deep down. 2007 is a year of power, a year of amplification, our ancestors tortured cries for redemption and justice is coming thru louder than ever. Until we as Africans in the diasporas and the mainland mourn for our ancestors slaughtered during the maafa (African hellacaust) we will not be able to effectively and collectively move beyond this paradigm of pain. We will continue to react to their actions, they will continue to take pot shots at us, kill us one by one, send shockwaves thru our ollective consciousness, while we continue to plug the leaking levees of New Orleans with our fingers. we cannot continue along this wasted path, WE ARE AFRICANS, WE GAVE BIRTH TO CIVILIZATIONS.

A grass roots initiative has beem launched out of Atlanta, for an INTERNATIONAL DAY OF MOURNING for our slaughtered ancestors, this will take place on June 19th 2007, and continue each year for seven years on that date, in the 8th year and beyond that day will be an INTERNATIONAL DAY OF CELEBRATION. We must TONE this painful energy of the past, release our ancestors who were brutally slaughtered and free up our ancestral energy that is desperately needed now. We need to de-toxify our collective body.
Comment by jite eghagha on 21 March 2007:

Was the old woman shoved down a flight of stairs? Did she suffer any visible injuries? I’d like to know her side of the story. The law never provides justice to “poor” people of any race.
Comment by Nina Fennell on 21 March 2007:

What amount of time is given to an African-American student if she falls down and her skirt is above the panty line? Sound stupid? What the judge has done is just that. If you’re white you’re right , if black don’t even get in line.
Comment by Antoni on 22 March 2007:

Past it on
Comment by SAG on 22 March 2007:

7 years for a shove??? Yeah, I’d say there is some craziness taking place…. Did she pull out a knife or a Gun? Where there word threats of killing involoved?? If NO, then these folks need to let their grip go… Young Women, Never give up, Jesus will Grip you in His Grip, as you will grow up to Testify of the Goodness of the Love of Jesus in your life, as there will be NO room for HATRED…. You will be a testimony for Whites, Blacks, Hispanics, Iraqis, for all the world to see. God will visit you again. Jesus loves You very much. This message will reach you.
Comment by Nique on 22 March 2007:

I have just received this email from a friend in the states, I am from England, and it just happens to be the 200th supposed anniversary of the abolition of the slave trade over here - anyway the less said the better. It is with this in mind that I am absolutley astounded that this kinda injustice is still happening, these people with stop at nothing to break us as a people. When will they realise that we are not here at their disposal, I could use more choice words than this, but i figure there is no point in stooping to these peoples clear basement levels.
This poor young child I am passing this on to as many people as possible, although, we are not there with her we are there in spirit, brothers and sisters across the pond pond let us know anything we can do from over here, you have my email address, this has got to stop. God Bless Shaquanda Cotton, you are in our prayers little baby a change going come!!! xx
Comment by Debra on 22 March 2007:

Truly it is an outrage that such things still exist, but lets be real they still do. What has happened to this young lady is really, in a sense, a way to tell the African Americans that no matter what, WE (whites) are still in control. There are things that can be done. My prayers are going out to her. I am emailing all my family and friends to get the word out. In this situation, we need to contact the AfAmerican Representatives all over the US, spreading this like a bad computer virus. I pity the judge that sentenced this young lady. The Bible tells us the you reap just what you sow. His harvest will be plentiful!!!
Comment by nickelbagback on 22 March 2007:

Well……..seems like another sad love song.Reffering to the love of the black community for another of our lost children.Voting?Negative.How?When probably close to 50% of blacks are unable to vote due to probation,felony records,illiteracy,yada, yada.Seems to me you it will never stop.Turn the other cheek?Come on!!!!Stop it.Somebody needs to stand up and “put it down” .Brothers are constantly going to prison and death row for nothing.If your going to go……do it for a cause.Fire with fire.Not advocating violence….but damn!They snatched up YOUR daughter and put her in a cage???!!!Paris would STILL be smoldering if she was my kid.
Comment by April on 22 March 2007:

I wrote the following to the Texas Govenor:

I was raised in Los Angeles, California because my family moved from the Deep South 40 years ago to escape such tyrannies as I have just read happening in Paris, Texas today. It doesn’t seem like much has changed in the 40 years my parents moved away. This is incredibly sad. I am appalled to hear that such injustices are still happening. I am very thankful I am not living under the Jim Crow laws that are apparently evident under your jurisdiction in Paris, Texas. If you have forgotten about the injustices happening in Paris, Texas then please investigate the cases of Judge Chuck Superville and especially the case of Shaquanda Cotton.
Comment by Debra on 22 March 2007:

Please pray for this child and her family. Does anyone know who her attorney was? Does he still practice law? Hopefully, not. With all do respect to lawyers and attorneys worldwide, he should be ashamed to say that he has license to practice or represent someone. From the way the sentence was handed down, and the length of time she has spent in JUVY( appealing probably, to the same judge who sentenced her), I am led to believe that the attorney was court appointed; perhaps a relative of either the judge, hall monitor, or even on the school board. Would you agree? The severity of the sentence falls under cruel and unusual punishment. The Supreme Court should be hearing this (only if her boot-leg attorney has filed proper procedures to notify them). If she would have struck the monitor, perhaps the sentence would have been lighter (detention, suspension). To all who read, send this information to your local news stations and their affiliates: cbs, nbc, foxnews, and others. Apparently, they have not heard of this incident yet. I will begin today notifying as many as possible. This has got to be a dream–a bad one. If it stays at the local level, Little Miss Shaquanda will never receive justice. Spread the word.
Comment by Marcie on 22 March 2007:

I am a Texas resident and Texas voter. It saddens me to think that in 2007, issues like this still exist. I have asked my fellow Texas residents to not only contact Governor Perry but the Mayor of Paris Texas and council members as well. Let them also feel the heat!
Comment by Craig Morgan on 22 March 2007:

Very disturbing news. My first reaction was that this is some contrived story someone put out to just get a reaction. Well contrived or not I am saddened for this youth and her family and more ashamed of us as American citizens to over look such an overt act. What will it take for us not only as Blacks but collectively as American citizens to began addressing the injustices imposed by our supposedly fair justice system. This is ridiculous and totally absurd that a 14 y.o black female be given such a harsh consequence for shoving a school aid. I am convinced that we are moving backwards and that hearing a story such as this only confirms that things truly will get a lot worse before they get better. Does anyone feel me on this issue. God truly is allowing situations to occur to pull us up from hatred to a level of harmony, peace and true love. It is time to wake up America. Lets become vigilant in our quest for equality by voting and showing that there is true power in numbers. Share this story with as many people as possible. America needs to here this story. Pass it on.
Comment by Susan Nelson on 22 March 2007:

I wrote an email, requesting an address to write Shaquanda, to the Chicago Tribunes Editor who wrote the original story on Shaquanda. See email below….. I’ll post if I get feed back.

To: hwitt@tribune.com

Do you have an address for Shaquanda and her family so that I and many friends can write and support her and her family.

My husband works for Alex Jones (radio show host) in Austin, Texas and he is going to see if Alex will talk about this on the show.

The more people know about this crap the better. The more this family and Shaquanda know that people are listening and working towards helping in anyway possible will hopefully give Shaquanda the much needed hope she needs in this time of her life.

I just hope something happens before this young child follows through with anything worse.

Thank You,
Susan Nelson
Austin, Texas
Comment by Susan Nelson on 22 March 2007:

You can reach Shaquanda Cotton At:

Ron Jackson Correctional Complex
Unit 2, Dorm 4, PO Box 872
Brownwood, Texas 76804
Comment by Rasheed Wilkes on 22 March 2007:

This just goes to show how far we are from justice and how close are are to injustice. We as descendant of ex-slaves have to realize our power over the world, we are not hated because people fear us, we are feared because of our spiritual, mental and psychical abilities that co-inside with nature. One of the things that keep us talking is our inability to unite. W have become a people of talk and no action. Which leave this little sister in hell to a system that is geared to palace the chain of bondage on the mind. No wonder she want to kill herself ! Stop letting them kill the minds of our little ones , for the future will be one of our darkest moment “slavery” get that sister out stop talking and do the right things.
Comment by Shawn on 22 March 2007:

This is obviously racism. How can teenagers that have been convicted of arson and killing two people be sentenced to probation and a child convicted of shoving someone be sentenced to 7 years of juvenille. This is so wrong and the word needs to be spread. I think a MySpace page should be posted for her and there should also be ads posted in every state on Craigslist.com (rants and raves section,etc.) i will also post a Craigslist ad and forward this information to as many people as I can. Something has to be done about this!
Comment by ANGELA HILL on 22 March 2007:

LOOK THE MADNESS HAS TO STOP, IM A MOTHER OF 3 TEENAGE GRLS SO MY HEART IS HEAVY FOR THIS CHILD AND HER MOTHER….JUSTICE HAS NOT BEEN SERVED, IT SLAVERY IN TH E21ST CENTURY..COME BLACK TEXANS UNITE AND GET THIS CHILD OUT OF THAT HELL HOLE..GOD FORBIDES SHE SPENDS ANOTHER YEAR THERE.
Comment by Katrius Muhammad on 22 March 2007:

From what this, and so many other issues point to is, we need our own land, our own laws, our own seperation from a ruling class that has never had our best interest in mind. We are moving closer to the point of this becoming a very serious manidatory concern that will be declared soon. The injustice only breeds the facts of my statment, so let them be themselves, it only works in our favor in the end.

The God is watching.
Comment by henderson on 22 March 2007:

This is absolutely obsurd and it is not over yet.
Comment by Mary Mays on 22 March 2007:

This is a tragedy. I feel for the child and her family. Where was her attorney in this case. To be given 7 years prison time for shoving a teacher is such a obivious rascist ruling. 7 years of the child life and not to memtion what could happen to her in prison. Where are the BIG BLACK Leaders? Where is the NAACP? Where is JESSIE JACKSON, WILLIE E GRAY? Have they not heard of the situation(to use a soft word). God bless the family and just know that he does not sleep. He reins on the just and unjust . The judge that did this will have to pay for it.
Comment by Parish on 22 March 2007:

I mean 7 years in jail for shoving a school employee is very outrageuos! I don’t know the story but maybe she was wrong for putting her hands on someone but 7 years is wrong. I would be able to understand an anger management class, probation, community service or something of the sort but not 7 years. She is going to miss the rest of her teen life becoming an adult. How is she supposed to adapt to life once gets out, probably on probation :~
Comment by Kenetria B. on 22 March 2007:

It’s honestly doesn’t surprise me that something like this would happen in 2007 . As americans we have put up a false wall of belief. I think its because of the cocky nature that this country. After 9/11 we were all so patrioctic and proud to be an american! We forgot that when the tragedy accord it was Black, White, Latino,Asian,Middle Eastern, and i’m sure other nationalities that suffered. When are WE going to realize that life and death has no color! We are all suffering from racisim in this country and in this world! What saddens me is the fact that our babies are still dealing with the stupidity of our grandparents. We all love our kids but we fill them with such undue pain and hate! I pray for shaquanda and her family. I pray that God give her strength and that she knows she is beautiful and loved beyond what she could even imagine. Let us look inside of ourselves and see how we are destorying our most precious resource…Our youth!
Comment by Tonyia Menard on 22 March 2007:

Oh my Jesus,
This is insane. How can a child that burns down a house that could have caused catostrophic damage be given probation and a child that just shoves someone get 7 years in prison. Houston we have a problem.
Comment by Stormey on 22 March 2007:

I can’t even fathom how this so called “justice system” has failed this child. A CHILD! Did they even consider the time matching the crime? No. They acted with emotion and judged her out of anger (towards blacks). Ok, we see that racism is alive and well…We have to respond with reason, logic and wait on the Lord… I’ve learned that we can’t fight these battles with anger. We have to show this little girl (our little girl) our support. That she is not alone, and that God will handle the unjust and is close to the brokenhearted and weak spirited. He won’t fail her..
Comment by Taunia on 22 March 2007:

This is very sad and I the punichment doesnt fit the crime. I think there is a much deeper issue at hand.. Why are children so disrespectful these days? What happened that we have lost their respect.. They do not respect home, authority and mostly themselves. Yes, cry injustice, because this is extreme ,but desperate situations will resinate desperate measures. It just so happens that a young 17 years old black girl will pay the ultimate price. What if this was you in the classroom trying to teach children who are too lazy to learn (for the most part) and too self absorbed to follow direction? What is you are the parent who has tried everything you can to encourage the best from your children. Not only through word but by example? We are not raising a nation of proud leaders. We are perpetuating the “haves and have nots” in our society. The kids fear nothing. They do not stand for anything, so chances are they will fall for everything.
Comment by rodshanda on 22 March 2007:

You can completly see that this was a racist descion. There is no way that this little girl should have went to prison. She did not committ a crime that where she needed to go to prison. An afterschool detention would have been appropiate for this situation. The two cases that was explained was actual crimes. Of course they were not sentenced for there crimes that they committed. May because they were white. I do believe that the judge was making his own rules. His ruling doesn’t make any sense.I will pray for Shaquanda and her family. Also the judge that have gave the sentenced, he will have to answer to God.
Comment by RODJUAN on 22 March 2007:

WHY ALL THE SURPRISE? ARE WE STILL SLEEPING?

OUR ANCESTORS USED FORGETFULNESS AS A MEANS OF DEALING WITH THE HORRORS OF ENSLAVEMENT, THEY INTENDED FOR US TO REMEMBER THEM AND REDEEM THEM, WHY ARE WE OH MY GOSHING ALL OVER THE PLACE? WAKE UP AFRICANS, LOOK TO EACH OTHER.
Comment by this is sad on 22 March 2007:

I think that this should get to Oprah as well. We need people that have “pull.” We all talk about how we wouldn’t have put up w/slavery back in the day, but we allow things to happen to others without pulling together and making NOISE. So, in some sense we are still putting up with how whites treat us. We only do something about it when it directly affects one of our own. We need to stand up NOW!
Comment by Windy on 22 March 2007:

I must say that this is unbelievable… that this kind of stupidity is still carried out today.

It makes me feel impotent… like all the love, kindness and blessings that I could give to anyone is as nothing in the face of situations like this. I’ll stand, my friends.
Pingback by About Shaquanda Cotton « The Anti-Essentialist Conundrum on 22 March 2007:

[...] Prometheus 6 linked to this post at Young Black Professional Guide that has a rap sheet of sorts about Paris, Texas, and some more reactions to the situations with [...]
Comment by Bryan from Garland, TX on 22 March 2007:

Free Shaquanda only if her mother/father would take her place.

As a parent of two, I believe the bigger problem is the parenting involved in this case. From the context of the articles, I am sure this is not the first time Shaquanda has acted in this manner. It would be different if she was a model child or even an average kid and this happened but since she was already termed a “troubled” kid. I’d say her parents created this situation if every time she acted out in the past; Ms Cotton went blaming someone other than Shaquanda. God didn’t make any “troubled” children. Ineffective/inactive parents troubled God’s perfect creation.

The first time Shaquanda acted out, her mother and/or father should have been there to do what my mother calls “snatch a knot in her a$$”. Where were they?

The NAACP is once again sticking itself in some defenseless mess. When is the modern NAACP going to take a PROACTIVE step and actually do something about all these parents letting their kids run a muck, do something about all these fathers not raising their children, do something about these kids who can’t pass a simple reading test or add & subtract, do something about all these teens becoming parents, do something about these folks who’d rather get a check from the government than get a job and go to work, DO SOMETHING INSTEAD OF REACT to the white man’s ill will. Racism will always be with us until the Lord decides to do something about it. Till then, we need to stop serving ourselves up on silver platters for a racist system to devour.

If Ms Cotton and Shaquanda’s dad had been there every step of the way like they should have been, they wouldn’t be in this situation and Shaquanda would not be in jail for the next third of her life. Judge Chuck Superville would never have gotten the opportunity to take her childhood away. When is the NAACP going to return to the business of acting where it can really make a difference? When will it become relevant again?

Please forgive me, I’m just a frustrated parent here trying to feel my way thru fatherhood. Its tough and very frustrating at times, and sometimes I feel like bouncing out of here too. I stay because I love my kids, love my wife and I don’t want them to fall victim to the world. Furthermore, I have an obligation to my God to live by his commandments. Parenthood is not easy, nothing worth doing is.

I don’t know these people, but I do know the old term about the apple not rolling far from the tree is usually correct.

reposted from http://www.dallassouthblog.com
Comment by Groovy144 on 22 March 2007:

So sad indeed…although her action was unacceptable in any forum…..it was not worth the punishment…a clear case of racism…and racism in any form….should never be tolerated nor accepted…
Comment by Taunia on 22 March 2007:

Bryan from Garland, TX: You are 100% correct but its not always as black and white as it seems. My husband and I are parents of 2 teens and I can tell you parenting is tough. We have been to every littlle league game, every play, recital and actively attend (participate) in church). Sometimes these children are trying to find their own way and even the best of us can go through a rough spot in rearing them. One thing I will say is that “parenting is not for the faint at heart”. It truly does take a village to raise a productive and honorable child. A village of parents, family, church, and other avenues that will empower them to be their very best. It truly does start at home.. May I be the first to say that I hate BET, MTV and all those other TVs. My girls are 17 and 15 and those channels are blocked.. We need to start by having more positive representation in the mainstream. The FCC and NAACP can start there. Everytime I turn on the tube its the same old thing.. Sex sells and money talks.
Comment by Birdia Chapman on 22 March 2007:

I will write to this young lady and send up prayers for her freedom that we as African Americans are still fighting for. I am a native of Texas, I know the racism there. But sadly to say, it’s everywhere when it comes to African Americans. I and my family have been subjected to a form of racism in the adoption of my nephew, the state of New Jersey felt that a non relative from two different races was more qualified or New Jersey’s comment better parents, at 25 and 26 years old. I an an educator who has worked with teenagers for the past 35 years. I wrote the NAACP and our self appointed leaders, but no one was willing to investigate the case. I pray that it will be different for this young lady. We as a race is in trouble, we have no one who will support our concerns or mistreatment by the system and society. But will run to support and defend the few who say they are helping us. Good luck and many prayers, there is a God and he does perform miracles. Judges are not in support to help our people or care to understand our young people. But there are a few good white people who will help. Birdia
Comment by Rosalind Stevenson on 22 March 2007:

My GOD!!!!!….
Yes we need more discipline in our schools systems, and yes our youth is very much so out of control where are we, when we are now convicting instead of disciplining. She was very much so in the wrong for putting here hands on and adult(with no physical injuries) but why scar her soul, destroy her youth. SOMETHING MUST AND SHOULD BE DONE !!!!! PEOPLE WE HAVE SEE ALOT WORSE BUT ITS ABOUT TO GET EVEN WORSER IF WE DON”T TAKE BACK OUR GOVERNMEMT OUR STATES AND MOST OF ALL OUR CHILDREN!!!!
Comment by this is sad on 22 March 2007:

bryan from tx i just want to say to you that parents are usually the first ones to blame. this is NOT always the case. you can’t just go around blaming someone and not having all the facts. TRUTH BE TOLD the judge gave her a sentence that does NOT fit the crime. she is a CHILD! that’s the problem. putting her in jail is not helping her. think about if it were your child. PLUS the fact that you did all that you could and some…will that still be your fault?
Comment by Kay Lee on 22 March 2007:

Reading some of the past decisions of Judge Superville, I have to agree that this appears to be a racial judgement.

Judge Superville, people like you give all non-black citizens a bad rap. That’s not fair, Judge! You are on the bench because you are supposedly somehow wiser than the rest of us. The decisions you are making show all of us you are no King Solomon. Everyone is looking, Judge… Do the right thing equally for Shaquanda.. and every citizen who comes before you… or get off that bench!
Comment by 87 Tammie on 22 March 2007:

It’s hard to believe that some one could have so much hate in there heart for some one that they totally don’t no anything about. Justice was not served for this young lady Shaquanda Cotton. We all no who will have the last word, and that is JESUS CHRIST our Lord and Savior.
Comment by Katrina on 22 March 2007:

My heart was sadden when i read this story. My being a mother of three that reside in the state of Texas is very afraid now for my children’s wellbeing. I will keep Shaquanda in my prayers. May God bless her to come home soon. GOD BLESS!!
Comment by Nathaniel Bell on 22 March 2007:

Being born and raised in Texas…it has been known for years that racial descrimination, and bigotry is alive and thriving.
Not has this occured in that community, but throught the entire state. After being sentenced to a term of 30 years, for just being present…not for participating directly…I’ve learned to respect my home state in a very special way…..and that is…to never go back to live…visit, yeah….but never to live.
Comment by Monica Roman on 22 March 2007:

You know this is really a shame for this child to have to go through this and it is nothing that noone can do. I know that someone is needed to enforce the law but is is sad when you have someone so heartless to do this to a child just because she was born to the beautiful BLACK race. But what is even sadder is that this had to be seen through an e-mail, where is the publicity about the wrong in this story but they want to broadcast about a silly white woman driving across the state in a diaper . But this child just shooved a white person she is sentenced to prison for 7 yrs. Her whole child hood is being snatched from her and his heart is so cold and stuck in those days that he doesn’t care. BUT OUR LORD SITS HIGH AND HE LOOKS LOW! This little girl is being prayed for all over the world and she will be alright !!!!!!!!
Comment by Ja'licia on 22 March 2007:

Im so glad my best friend is out when they told me that Cotton had 7 years in prison I freaked out, but like they say GOD Will Always Make A Way!! Im Glad She’s out.
Comment by Deana White-Raymond from Urban Solutions on 22 March 2007:

I don’t usually blog or post comments because because I’m not sure if they’re ever really read. If by chance someone is interested in joing with me in creating a petition and doing some national social justice campaigning please email me at: Info@UrbanSolution.Info or Deana@UrbanSolution.Info
Comment by Monica Roman on 22 March 2007:

This e-mail is to BRYAN-IN GARLAND You responded to this e-mail at about 1:01 pm on 3-22-07 How dare you attack the parents for this and unless you know this child personally then you don’t know that she is a problem or has been a problem that was never mentioned in the article. Furthermore if it were mentioned in the article what does her behavior have to do with her being punished to this extent this punishment is to much for a push for a 14 yr old and especially when they are letting killers and arsonist go on probation. Anyway if you are as blessed as I to be born to the beautiful BLACK race then you are the kind of black man the white racist man wants on his team, and if you are white then you just probably really don’t care, and just want something to say.
Comment by MATTHEW WHITE on 22 March 2007:

My prayer go out to the family .My god watch over her in her time of troble
Comment by Terry Howcott on 22 March 2007:

Thanks for this work on Shaquanda Cotton. I also have a piece dedicated to her case at “”Get That Girl Out of There!”

The word is definitely spreading as I’m getting a very good response on that article at Myspace.

If they do the right thing, which has always meant doing the right thing under durress, they’ll move swiftly and let her go immediately AND pay her reparations for this terrible experience.

Thanks,

Terry
Comment by Rakhee on 22 March 2007:

To be honest, such incidents of blatant discrimination & cruelty have become so common, that they’ve actually lost their shock value. Hence, I won’t pretend to be shocked beyond belief. Ranting, raving & fuming about such things don’t seem to make much of a difference either. One can only shake one’s head and wonder: What & whose purpose does this serve? If certain people are under the impression that they’ve taught uppity black folks a lesson, and this will teach them to be submissive, they’re sadly mistaken! The truth is that no self-respecting human being will take such treatment lying low! If anything, such incidents will make black youth far more angry & hostile! My appeal is to the common sense of the perpetrators of such injustice! Whether or not the treatment meted out to the young, black girl was cruel isn’t even a debatable point!
Comment by wife of an inmate on 22 March 2007:

This is completely outrageous no matter what color your skin is. As a wife of an inmate who has been incarcerated for 19 years I know that this so called “justice” system is so very broken. We are waaay past our MEPD but yet still sit waiting for them to deem us worthy of being released. Anyway, While this all seems so wrong I have to believe that this is one of Gods plans that we may never, ever know the reason. I know as I/we have had our share. I think of the story in Genesis about Joseph. Our God loves us He will be with us to bring us thru even the most terrible confusing moments that make know sense. Girl, hang in there, know that you are there for a reason andd your father (Jesus) has your beautiful face in His hands holding you thru this. Stay strong, I will be praying for you and your family.
Comment by M. Reid on 22 March 2007:

This is so sad that this mess still exists. Racism is a ignorant animal that just needs to die. I’ll be praying for the yound 14 year old. God bless her and keep her.
Hold one sweet heart. GOD has NOT forgotten you.
Comment by Joe Whiteman on 22 March 2007:

To be fair and honest, I an a white man from Paris TX. Here is what is most disturbing to me. Ms Cotton had a long history of behavior problems before this all happened, you all know this! This was not her first criminal offense. Yet to counter the so called racism in the matter the black community calls in the New black Panthers and the Millions more Movement, both extremist, racist, anti-semetic, anti-establishment, organizations. Didn’t Dr King say you can’t fight hate with more hate? Also be honest with yourselves, the Black community in north Tx in general is plagued with social problems, 75% birth our of wedlock rate, even higher teen drug use, black on black violence, single parent poverty, single mother cocaine addiction, school disruption, rampant reverse racism and moral relativism. You will vehemently brandish me as a bigot, you will briskly argue that the white community is trapped in a meth addiction, and you will claim systematic racism. However, until you truely follow Socrates and “Know thyself” you will never escape the bondage that is modern day self inflicted. Don’t you know that Louis FaRRAKAHN, Jesse Jackson, and Al Sharpton have made millions off of the black community purposefully keeping the discriminitory ideals of the old society ALIVE AND WELL today. Dont you see that those men are gaming your societies out of a freedom that was once concieved in the 60’s. This statement, none of you can honestly deny, remember, I grew up here amongst the black community, THREE TIMES AS MUCH RACISM PERMEATES THROUGHOUT AMERICAN CULTURE PROJECTED FROM THE BLACK COMMUNITY TOWARD THE WHITE COMMUNITY, as is the situation vice versa. You know it is a fact, if you do not you are purposefully and willfuly misrepresenting the facts on the ground. The black community wound rather, jam screw, find they next baby momma, check their email and myspace fo bitches, find a new pair of shoes, Pretend like their talking on thier cell phones in front of crackers, and see who won tha game, than handle their own social problems. ITS THE TRUTH. Stand up and be men bruthas. READ MORE BILL COSBY. He aint no uncle tom neither cuz. Intelligence begets prosperity. Wake UP!!!
Comment by Linda cole on 22 March 2007:

I have never heard of such!! This makes my blood boil! I have kids and grandkids that could verywell be in this same way. My son was sent to prison, and received more time then a person who murdered someone. My girlfriends son has been locked up for 15 yrs. and has never killed a soul.{snached a purse}. What can I do?
Comment by Joe Whiteman on 22 March 2007:

To Monica Roman,

You are the very embodiment of apologist non compliance. Your Posts Seeth with Black Nationalism. WHICH IS RACISM!!!! What if I said “I am proud to be a part of the Beautiful White Race” I would be racist. This girl is a repeat offender. Thats what happens to repeat offenders in AMerica, they get stiffer sentences. The old days are gone ma’am, now all we have is each other. I have lived in harmony with the black folks of this are for a long time now, can you say the same of your counterparts?
Comment by hmariewv on 23 March 2007:

This is about a 14 yr old being in prison for 7 years! Not a foster home but prison!!! The punishment should fit the crime. This is a child who needs help . Regardless if she is black or white!
Comment by Mitrxxx on 23 March 2007:

I’ve read this story and was immediately distraught once I finished reading it.I’ve wrote a pretty lenghty statement to the Governor of Texas and is in the process of spreading this story around as much as possible because this is a prime example of injustice in our justice system. I’m praying for the young Ms.Cotton and God Bless!
Comment by M.S on 23 March 2007:

My name is Matt and I’m from Australia,I stumbled onto this story while reading some hip hop rumours on allhiphop.com. I believe this situation is extreme and the girl in question should have never,NEVER been sent to jail for such a petty crime. To put a young girl through such trauma and taking away her rights is disgusting and I truely,truely feel for her,her family and I hope real justice comes through to rectify this terrible situation and she is set free.
Being that I’m an outsider I have read some stories and come to my own conclusion about situations like this,racism is alive in America more so it lives within people who are in a position of power and unfortunetly you can never have a fair balanced system because of this.Whats needed is not only the African communities but all communities White,Latino,Asian,All races and creeds to come together and flush all the corruption out of the system.
Im sorry if Im not qualified to comment on this story because of my location but I was so shocked when I Read this.To Ms. Cotton stay strong and please dont kill yourself.They will win if you give up!!.
Comment by Temple3 on 23 March 2007:

Thanks for putting this story out front for all to see.

http://temple3.wordpress.com/2007/03/14/burning-down-the-house-paris-texas/
Pingback by Reflections of a Tomboy Turned Princess on 23 March 2007:

[...] love how much people are advocating for Shaquanda Cotton. Keep hope alive. 133 comments for YBP Guide. Awesome. Know what else is awesome? MartyBLOGs shout [...]
Comment by Edger McMoore on 23 March 2007:

This is outrageous and I believe the judge should be in prison not Shaquanda Cotton. It’s obvious were dealing with discrimination which should not be. If SHOVING someone gets you 7 year’s in prison and killing a 54-year-old black woman and her 3-year-old grandson, which is vehicle homicide, gets you probation. More than half of the convicts should be on probation and not imprisoned. Like I said, “judge Chuck Superville should be in prison. If SHOVING equals jail time then the world is in for it.
Comment by Michelle on 23 March 2007:

This is unbelievable. The degree of blatant discrimination and injustice directed at our people without ANY or such MINOR consequences for the persecutor is completely intolerable. Obviously racism still exists but a story like this really just blows my mind. I just don’t understand how a black teenager can receive such a harsh sentence for NOTHING when there are obvious examples of white teenagers unquestionably committing real crimes and doing absolutely no time for it in this town. How can this be?? We have to speak out against this and have her sentence overturned.
Comment by D Williams on 23 March 2007:

This is the craziest thing i’ve ever heard.
Someone call Uncle Al
Comment by Nicole on 23 March 2007:

Everyone should contact MSNBC
at Dateline.com
They are know for investigations like this. Please contact more than once.
Comment by LB on 23 March 2007:

Dear Governor Perry:

I would like to take this opportunity to first let you know that I truly appreciate your position on the HPV vaccination issue.

Given your demonstrated concern for the children of Texas, I feel encouraged to write this letter to you regarding the recently reported* case of Shaquanda Cotton, a little Texas girl who in 2006 received a 7-year sentence to be served in a facility for children who are in most cases violent repeat offenders — Shaquanda does not fit this profile.

Even if the issue of racism were not a factor in this case (and reports of ongoing investigation of the Paris Independent School System by the US Department of Education do not bear this out) the harsh and disproportionate manner in which Shaquanda’s case — along with a major, and formative part of her life — has been disposed is simply no way to treat a child. While I recognize that Shaquanda’s actions were deplorable, in a just and reasonable world the issue would have long since been settled by means falling far short of leaving a frightened 14-year old in an institution for which she was so mentally unprepared that in desperation she repeatedly harmed herself.

I am aware of a pending appeal in this case, but I ask that you will see fit to intervene in Shaquanda’s behalf, without waiting for a procedural outcome; leaving her to serve this disproportionate sentence in order to enforce the all too predictable (though, I realize, dependable) tough-on-crime message will accomplish nothing so much as establishing Texas as yet another depressing example of how we sometimes overreact to a child’s impulsive misbehavior, and casually (and cruelly) discard our hopes for a young life.

When my daughter was Shaquanda’s age I first read her Sam Hazo’s poem:

“I wish you what I wish myself:
Hard questions and the nights to answer them
And grace of disappointment
And the right to seem the fool for justice.
That’s enough.
Cowards might ask for more
Heroes have died for less”

Governor, I am writing this letter in the sad anticipation that maybe none of the many letters which I am certain you have received regarding this case will make a difference; that I’m a fool for writing it. But as I helped my daughter prepare for junior prom — something that little Shaquanda might not experience — notwithstanding, I knew I had to write it.

I hope you will take the time to look into the case, and find a proportionate and just solution that recognizes a fourteen-year old should not be made to serve what will amount to a third of her life by the time she has repaid society for a crime which caused no significant or lingering injury to her victim.

Sincerely,
LB

*) Chicago Tribune, March 12, 2007
Comment by DB on 23 March 2007:

this is sad but this is how some of America works. there are so mant things going on in this country that our government needs to address ASAP but they are to busy helping the folks in the middle east. The U.S.A should always be the number one priority but since we are not issues like this will continue. Where is the coverage on this story on CNN, FOX News, MSNBC, etc? If this was a young white female you would here is 24/7 on the news. May GOD be with this young girl and give her strengh to get through this. Free her ASAP.
Comment by gemarr on 23 March 2007:

This is complete bullshit.i for one think the time to take polls and talk is over.we have been trying to work racism out with the government for too long.now we can cry about it and complain and try to get that corrupt judge fired or we can organize and go to paris tx and physically remove his ass and anyone else that got a problem with it.we tried piece with mlk and look what it got us,nothing but a holiday.black people need to wake up and swallow there fear and do something,because talk is cheap and the government dont fear talk.i bet my life that if blacks all over the country started confronting all these racist officials and police and throwing they ass in the street or just whooping they ass,we would have a debate on racism with the president tomorrow.if you feel the time for change is now stand up ,dont let these muthafuckas tear you down,and if you see one racist fucking with one of us anywhere,get involved and knock they ass out.in not writing this because ima racist,i loveall races and wish we could get along, but these racist bastards control by fear.i think we should put the fear in they eyes
Comment by HJD on 23 March 2007:

I can not believe that something like this can occur anywhere in America today without penalty. I believe that those directly involved with this case that abused their power should suffer panalty and serve as examples to what will not be tolerated. This is absolutley crazy and I can not even imagine what God is up there saying as he looks down on us.
Comment by Regal Sisterhood on 23 March 2007:

I just heard about this case on the radio this morning and it is deeply disturbing. As always, there are 3 sides to every story. His side, Her side and the Right Side. Whatever the case may be, 7 yrs for shoving someone is an obvious injustice. It is my belief that anything unexplainable is God at work. He will work through this situation to give a wake up call to many and shed a bright light on injustice throught America. My prayers are with this family for strenght to endure and lessons learned.
Comment by this is sad on 23 March 2007:

To Joe Whitman…19-year-old white man, convicted last july of criminally negligent homicide for killing a 54-year-old black woman and her 3-year-old grandson with his truck, was sentenced in Paris to probation
judge chuck superville sentenced a 14-year-old white girl, convicted of arson for burning down her family’s house, to probation
a 14-year-old black freshman, shaquanda cotton, shoved a 58-year-old teacher’s aide at paris high school in a dispute over entering the building before the school day had officially begun. she was tried in march 2006 in the town’s juvenile court, convicted of “assault on a public servant” and sentenced by the same judge chuck superville to prison for up to 7 years, until she turns 21

How does this compare?! Seriously! Stop trying to act like you white folk are better. You have white folks eating people, and sniper shootings…taking lives of other people. Please stop acting like the white race is pure. SHE IS A CHILD! SHE DID NOT TAKE A LIFE, SHE DID NOT CAUSE ANY BODILY DAMAGE. IF SHE HAS HAD PROBLEMS, THEN SHE NEEDS HELP NOT A SENTENCE!
Comment by Yolande on 23 March 2007:

I just read this story this morning and just began to pray for Shaquanda and her family. Faith is an action and we must continue to put this story out there and keep sending messages to the governor of Texas. If anyone out there knows an attorney willing to do a Pro Bono case, please give them Shaquanda’s information. I believe the Lord will put it on someone’s heart to help release her. I will write her to keep her encouraged. The enemy is trying to steal her joy and keep her from the mighty work the Lord has for her to do. I intercede on her behalf and ask the Lord to keep her strengthened until this storm passes. Unity is the key!!
Comment by Mr Red on 23 March 2007:

Joe Whiteman: You Wrote..

“What if I said “I am proud to be a part of the Beautiful White Race” I would be racist.”

Love for your race doesnt make you a rascist. Everyone should take pride in who they are and love their race but not to the extent that you act in an unjustly or immoral way toward another race of people. That makes you a rascist! When a white judge can abuse his power by sentencing a 14 year old girl to 7 years in jail for shoving someone and the same judge can give a white girl a slap on the wrist for burning down her house, THATS RASCISM Mr Whiteman! It doesnt take a rocket scientist to see that that is injustice. Regardless of even the color issue…..if it were two whites being judged by that judge and handed those sentences for those crimes IT STILL WOULDNT BE FAIR! ITS INJUSTICE no matter how you try to paint the picture. LETS SET RACE ASIDE FOR A SECOND MR. JOE WHITEMAN! Its easy for you to take sides and defend this injustice because your child wasnt thrown into jail for 7 years for shoving someone. You wrote along drawn out opinion on the way you view blacks in America and it has absolutely nothing to do with the subject at hand. You sound like the rascist people in Paris America is now beginning to take a look at and examine. I dont want to believe that you are. I want to believe that you do live in harmony with all races of people and that you dont treat anyone any different but by your remarks and statements you make rascism in America look real alive bruh!

WHERE IS THE EVIDENCE THAT SHE WAS A TROUBLESOME TEEN AND DESERVED 7 YEARS! You and I know that kids always cause trouble and get into things in their youth! So does that mean we lock every kid up in jail for 7 years for stealing candy, lying, shoving other kids, skipping school, or doing something our parents told us not to do? Thats what we all did when we were young at some point in our lives! Kids are just being kids and they need the CORRECT discipline and not UNFAIR and INJUST TREATMENT!
Comment by Nate Scarlet on 23 March 2007:

If ever there was a reason to rally this is it. How dare we, as blacks, let stuff like this go on in the US. So I propose we get all our people to go to Paris Texas and get things straight. We need to show that judicial system that times have changed, and just because your a small town you can’t hide from the rest of the world. I know Texas is a big state with lots of other problems but this is something we can fix quick. this is racial profiling, classism, and just down-right wrong. I’m calling out all of our black activist to at the least adress this as a problem.
Comment by Ron G. on 23 March 2007:

Racism at it’s best if you think that it’s gone your fooling yourself. I group in Beaumont, TX. near a known Racist town called Vidor, TX where it has been a Klan maintstay for decades and still is. This doesn’t surprise me at all this is one reason I haven’t moved back to Texas for stuff like this.

Think back to a few years where the Black Male from Jasper, TX. was dragged to his death by two white racist men. It’s time that we do something about this!!!!!!!!!!
Pingback by YBP Guide — affirmative action for whites on 23 March 2007:

[...] have been very revealing as discussions i’ve had with friends and family, reading comments on shaquanda cotton’s issue, and articles i’ve stumbled across have thrust a common issue back into my mental space: [...]
Comment by DONN KIZZEE on 23 March 2007:

JUST WHEN I THINK MAN’S INHUMANITY TO MAN CANNOT GO ANY FARTHER OR REACH ANY LOWER DEPTHS, i AM BROUGHT BACK TO REALITY BY SOMETHING LIKE THIS. iN A COUNTRY THAT IS BEING HELD UP BYOUR PRESIDENT AS A MODEL FOR A DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY THE FACT THAT THIS KIND OF UNDER THE RADAR RASCISM CAN STILL EXIST AND THRIVE SHOWS US SADLY HOW FAR WE STILL HAVE TO GO.
Comment by Willie Lynch on 23 March 2007:

I’ve forwarded this to the people i know at MTV news. This is a disgrace. This should be on the cover of every newspaper. This isnt just an issue for the rev. Al’s of the country, this is one for every politician, regardless of color to step up and do the right thing.
Comment by Bryan from Garland, TX on 23 March 2007:

Monica Roman,
We need not turn on each other. The truth is there have been many articles written about Shaquanda Cotton and yes some mention that she was a “troubled” child with a history of poor behavior. I am blessed to be African American but more importantly than that; I am a husband and a father and I know what parenting is about. 7 years in jail for a push is excessive, but we have to realize that this did not happen in a vacuum. What’s been going on in this child’s life for the first 13 years that she felt she could push “assault” and old woman at school? That’s a parenting question. That’s what the local NAACP needs to look in to. By letting Shaquanda get this far w/o behavior modification, her parents, like many other African American parents around us, fed her to the likes of Judge Superville. The types of punishments given to white kids are irrelevant; our kids are not white. We know what they are going to do to us when given the chance. Our job is to keep them from getting the chance. Black folk need to go on the offensive by taking back the home (turn the boob tube off, pick up books and read them, talk to one another, pray, praise academic success as much as athletic) NOT react to some mess like this.

If a college educated brotha that owns his on business goes to work every day to own a home w/ his wife and put his kids thru private school & participates in the PTA, church going and God fearing and owns a horse farm in the country is what the white racist man wants on his team, then I fit the bill.
Comment by Debra on 23 March 2007:

As a Black woman living in this world of hatred and racism I am appalled at the response, namely 1. of Commentor 14.

In some instances I have experienced in my workplace, even with my own people, I have been falsely accused, riduculed, harrassed and treated so bad that I developed health problems from the blatant abuse by white people who manage to cover up their lies.

But The Word of God says: “No weapon formed against me shall prosper.” God sees and knows all and He will have the final judgement when they meet their maker.

Until that time, we as Black people have a duty to STOP this type of behavior that is constantly, blatantly and subtley put upon us. I believe there are ways to expose this kind of discriminatory behavior and have those who are in favor of it dealt with!

Let’s have our voices heard people, don’t sit back and let this continue, especially to our children!!!!

To God be the Glory!

Debra, San Diego
Comment by Mr Red on 23 March 2007:

Man Mr Bryan from Garland TX!!! You sound real stupid to be a college educated business owning, proud successful black parent in America by that last statement you made. I can agree that black parenting is an issue in society today, but what does that have to do with the judgment of 7 years given to a girl who shoves a person and a slap on the wrist given to another gil with a more serious offense? The issue is injustice and rascism even if she was a troubled teen, her offense doesnt merit her sentence no matter how you cut the cake. We dont have enough evidence that her parents were bad parents BUT we do have evidence that white serious offenders were given lesser punishment than a black teenager with a less severe crime! I”M NOT EXUSING HER PART IN THIS AT ALL! She needs to be punished for her action and be a responsible human being but she doesnt deserve 7 years C”MON NOW!!! As much as you want to think that your pretty life is perfect and you are the epitome of an Angelic parent and that your kids cant do any wrong, the truth is they can no matter how much GOOD you teach them. Thats human nature. At some point even the best parents have to deal with a child who does wrong and goes astray. Thats life. But giving the child 7 years for something that crazy is in itself RIDICULOUS. If it had been your child, and it can happen to any of us, you would not be condemning the parent of this child when you dont even have proper facts. That doesnt show alot of intelligence on your part bro!
Comment by Samaya from Oakland, Ca. on 23 March 2007:

This is a prime example of no matter how far we may think that we have come, there is always people who go out of their way to keep us in that slavery mode. Never again, that power will never stand as strong as it once did. This is no doubt the devils work and if we let him get away with this we will be fueling his fire. We spend too much money on sending children to jail and close to nothing to rehabilitate them. If the children is our future how do we neglect them or just ship them off to the wild? Think about how long it’s gonna take for this young lady to regrasp a hold of her life after having to endure something like this. How can we get her to believe in justice? This man’s power needs to be revoked, no matter how long or how many it may take to make this dream a reality. This is the devils work and with the devil is exactly where you need to be, and I am pretty sure you know wher that is. How can you even think about putting the word Honorable in front of a name like chuck. It fits better as Devil Chuck- FREE SHAQUANDA!!!!!!
Comment by david johnson on 23 March 2007:

i think that this has got to be one of the crazies things i have ever heard. the teacher, had to do something to provoke this young girl. that judge chuck superville has to have a mental problem.or just as white as it get.being white don’t always means you are right.only in the united states. and especially in paris,texas mayGOD bless shaguanda cotton and her family.
Comment by Bette on 23 March 2007:

I just received this email from a sister (black, brown or ebony is what she says) I couldn’t ask for a better friend. She is always there for me when things don’t go right.

I grew up in Kansas. I’m sure there is still bigotry in Kansas but my folks would never even thought about telling us to stay away from the black families. Dad would have said to me that God loves all of us, black, white, green, or blue. We moved to the country and we lived around black familes. A couple of the families were desendants from when Lincoln freed the slaves. These people were great people to talk to learn about the slaves.

I guess what I am really trying to say is that this is really a bad Racial problem. How could a judge even think of giving a young child that many years in jail? Even if Shaquanda had other problems in her life, someone should have been there to help her. I’m not talking about her parents, there are other people that could have helped her through these problems. The more I think about this the madder I get.

Maybe Bush should get rid of this judge like the Supreme Court Justices that were let go.

I think Shaquanda should be let out of jail and her and her family should be compensated for all the pain and agony they have had to go through this past year. I mean compensated, not a measly little bit of money. My heart and love goes out to Shaquanda and her family. God is there to watch over us and this judge will get his do. Like they say “what goes around comes around”. If we stick together this judge may never hear another juvenile court case. Shaquanda keep up the faith, and please don’t do anything to yourself. Your folks have enough to worry about. That would really tear them up if you did do something. Like I said Shaqunada you have a lot of people out there praying for you and I hope we can all be a comfort for you. Keep up the FAITH.
Comment by Que on 23 March 2007:

This is an out rage this day and time people are still getting away with this garbage. I know our young people are hard headed at times but this is too much for a young lady to learn a lesion for putting her hands on another person or better yet SHOVING a white woman! If you ask President Bush for his help with Shaquanda Cotton case he may say this is above my head being that he is from Texas and all, Texas good old boys look out for each other so he would turn a blinds eye to this black baby or better black people.
Comment by Tracy S. Rex on 23 March 2007:

This is TERRIBLE! I can’t belive that this is happening to one of my peers. And I complain every day about my life while this young girl is going throught unbarable things. My prayers go out to Shaquanda & i’m going to do everythings in my power to get this around my city,state, & were ever I can. KEEP YOUR HEAD UP GIRL! Your going to get out of there!
Comment by Shanice Oakland, Ca on 23 March 2007:

This really frustrate me, for one for one this could be anyone family member and two how did this happen? Meaning that we have a president and his brother whose currently in charge of the country and state just sit back as this happen. Bush got away with KATRINA, but look at how quick they reacted when Florida was hit by they whatever you wanna call it because it sure didn’t measure up to KATRINA. We as a race is obviously not a priority, but that no where near means play with our lives. We have overcome much worse and this will be no different because no matter who we think we are here on earth, we all answer to the same GOD when we leave here. REMEMBER that “BUSHES”. What ever power you had on this earth is gonna mean nothing when you are trying to get behind those gates-
Comment by shanice Oakland, Ca. on 23 March 2007:

My appologies for the error on line 1 of my comment.
Comment by this is sad on 23 March 2007:

Mr Red,

Thank you!

Bryan from Garland, TX - remember this conversation when one of your children do something that YOU know they knew better.

As parents, we give our children the information but we can’t hold their hands. They are going to do things that they KNOW we don’t approve of, but I’m not going to beat myself up and blame myself for the decisions my children make.

Bryan from TX, you shouldn’t do that if you don’t know what kind of parents she has.

GOD is the only judge! Be careful of what you say and do because you never know when it might happen to you.
Comment by Cristian Vasquez on 23 March 2007:

I can’t believe what I just read. How can one judge be allowed to use the penal code to impose punishment based on his racist predespositions. How can anyone look into the eyes of an African American and tell them that the justice system works for them.
Comment by D.B.Ballard on 23 March 2007:

So, are we as committed to encouraging this young lady as we are to expressing our outrage? That’s the test for us all.
As for the President, that position is always the lightning rod for every complaint, even for state and local issues. We, the public, only know what the media tells us, and not the truth behind the scenes;We have no idea what truly goes on behind closed doors. That’s why we must vote based on the heart of a person — because we can never truly evaluate one’s effectiveness or decisions without knowing all the supporting facts (and not the media’s ‘facts’).
God bless us all, for we all suffer injustice at times in our lives. Forgive us also when we dispense it.
Comment by Cyobie on 23 March 2007:

This is so so sad. No matter how far we may think that we have come, there is always people who go out of their way to put us back in the fields, of slavery. This young girl needs us all. May God bless us all, and the family of this young baby girl.
Comment by Yes the President on 23 March 2007:

Well D.B. Ballard yes the president and a long list of others are to blame and we will continue to voice our opinions at who ever we feel is at fault. As far as the media, yes we do only know what they tell us, but in a situation like this there is not much that they could have left out. No matter what they did or did not tell us the sentence is still the same 7 YEARS. So it really aint about the media, its about what the majority of us all has been sayin “This Is Wrong” and we are gonna hold all parties accountable. Yes we are angry at the president, it doesn’t matter who’s in office we would be outraged at who ever let this happen, but this happened right under his and his brother nose so how do you explain that? Better yet don’t even try because at this point I can’t tell who side you’re on now anyway. I am gonna call you the commenter for the White House! We don’t want them- FREE SHAQUANDA
Comment by Kelly from Oakland, Ca. on 23 March 2007:

I am pretty sure that this girl was taught to keep her hands to herself, usually all kids are. Yes she was wrong. So what does that make the judge?
Comment by Pastor IHPM on 23 March 2007:

Well , hello America. Isnt it something that in this ay and ge that there is a culture of people who still fail to realize that all people ARE created equal! Amazing to me that a lot of the same people who allow discrimination and unjust punishment to continue in society are the same twited people who we see on show like to catch a predator, neeking around to be with women f other cultures. It is unbelievable that we dont domuch about it. What has happened to the spirit of DrM.L.King. There ought to be a arch not only in this town ut in every major city in this great old USA. But until we become outraged nothing is going to change. Not only should we be angry about others thtreating us like this but we should also be mad as hell about what we allow us to do to us. The greatest weapon against hatred is LOVE and LOVE is still non-violent. Loves persues justice till justice is achieved.Justice is allows blind, it’s the insecurity of those who hold positions who are really afraid of the futre of our people once we realize that we CAN AND WILL OVERCOME. FREEDOM HAS NOT YET RANG. LET FREEDOM RING!!!!!!!!!
Comment by Ase from Oakland, Ca. on 23 March 2007:

No matter how we look at things it still remains that we spend too much time and money on throwing the book at youths. Teachers want to rant and rave about their salaries but you cant deal with someone that hasbeen in your class since when? What September. It was her job to have known before this day that this girl perhaps need help. If you could not give it to her you should have been able to refer her to somebody. Im pretty sure her temper didn’t just flare over night. Our Kids need teachers who care, and not just about the check
Comment by teri on 23 March 2007:

when i got the email with this link i seriously thought it was an internet hoax. this cant be true and if it is it is the greatest misstep in justice that i have seen in many years. what can we do to help this young lady?
Comment by Mr Red on 23 March 2007:

HOLD ON NOW ENOUGH ABOUT THE PRESIDENT YALL!!!

The President didnt judge this case and sentence this girl to 7 years!! Why is it that every time something tragic happen we are ready to hang our own president. Its true that the man has flaws and everything aint right about him and his presidency, but he aint to blame for EVERYTHING PEOPLE C’MON NOW! I do believe that if those who are in higher power looks at this and turns a deaf ear to the cries of injustice and doesnt do anything about it, they would be just as guilty but I dont have any facts that the president of the US is aware of this situation. The man got a billion issues to deal with so lets stop blaming the president and do something about the evil hearted judge who is in a position he shouldnt be in handing out sentences he should be recieving himself!
Comment by Sheila McGriff on 23 March 2007:

This is what I wrote to the Gov.
The discriminatory sentencing in Paris, Texas for Shaquanda Cotton was
Inhumane, this is supposed to be our past disgrace.
The legislations in this country allows us certain unalienable rights
Not to ‘fit in a box’ or ‘control go back to what exactly our country is founded on.
Unfortunately the rationale of this case is flawed you judge these cases in the same
City and State having more of a crime and judge there sentence against the sentence
Of a 14 year old Black teenager.

1.) 19-year-old white man, convicted last July of criminally negligent homicide for killing a 54-year-old black woman and her 3-year-old grandson with his truck, was sentenced in Paris to probation. “HE KILLED TWO PEOPLE” “MURDER”
2.) Judge Chuck Superville sentenced a 14-year-old white girl, convicted of arson for burning down her family’s house, to probation. “SAME JUDGE FOR “ARSON CRIME”

3.) A 14-year-old black freshman, shaquanda cotton, shoved a 58-year-old teacher’s aide at Paris high school in a dispute over entering the building before the school day had officially begun. She was tried in March 2006 in the town’s juvenile court, convicted of “assault on a public servant” and sentenced by the same judge Chuck Superville to prison for up to 7 years, until she turns 21. “FOR SHOVING SOMEONE”

How could any American call this Justices unless they have “NO MORAL FIBER WHAT SO EVER” “UNABLE TO TRULY JUDGE RIGHT FROM WRONG?”
OR BLACK AND WHITE WHICH IS WHAT THE LAWS ARE SUPPOSE TO BE
You can not tell me that any “REAL AMERICAN” not dealing with color but just
Between what is right and wrong would not clearly be able to tell you this case is
Inhumane and discriminatory this case will be voiced all over this State and Many
Others.
Two criminal cases received “PROBATION” for there crimes and a “NON-CRIMINAL CASE” received a “7-YEAR SENTENCE” “” FOR SHOVING SOMEONE””

This young lady has tried to kill herself three times for this sentence
Comment by ALIAS94124 on 23 March 2007:

To all these black folks running around waving their hands and ranting as if this were something new: Just like the Panthers told you, just like Malcolm told you, revolution is the only rational remidy to the trials and tribulations faced by blacks in America.
Its foolish to suggest joining their gang in order to make change- its a good way to become rich, powerful, and succesful, and to forget your people, but not to change a system that’s so firmly entrenched in its power.- cuz Judge Joe Brown does’nt like niggers either.
What I mean by that is succesful blacks often look down on ignorant Blacks much the same way racist white folks do. Another reason is that the time you kiss enough ass to be accepted in their ranks, chances are you’ve completely sold out or forgotten who you are and where you come from. Besides that, white folks are’nt that stupid, and Black folks are’nt that united yet. The only give us token blacks to passify us on our mision.
Its easy to say do better, but some folks are supersensitive to this racism shit- especially when uppity niggaz are tellin you what you feel and experience it isn’t reality. I cried with anger as a teen when I saw civil right footage of Black men and women attacked by dogs, hoses,etc..- and then to go to school and have to obey these same white folks, some of whom you KNOW are prejudiced, and them not address the issue of slavery at all!?! A SLAP IN THE FACE.
We are foolish to forget or get over slavery while we still reside here in America…the overall sentiment towards us remains in the laws not to mention the govermment. Do you remember Robert Bird or the late Strom Thurman? They were both on the front lines fighting against the civil rights movement and Bird, after being elected “pro tempore” is third inline to the presidency after vice president Cheney, and house speaker Nancy Pelosi. I don’t know about you but that does not sit well with my soul.
As it was once put byone of our great prophets, Tupak Shakur - Until we get this shit right for the least of us, we are ALL still some niggas…

Peace in the Middle East (as well as the inner city streets)
GOD is watching YOU.
Comment by RODJUAN on 23 March 2007:

DO YOU SEE HOW EASILY THE ISSUE THAT CONCERNS THIS YOUNG SISTER HAS BECOME A PERSONAL DEBATE ABOUT OUR PERSONAL OPINIONS? DO YOU SEE HOW EASY IT WAS FOR THAT CAUCASIAN CLAIMING TO BE FROM TEXAS TO DISTRACT OUR ATTENTION FROM THE SISTER’S PLIGHT AND GIVE IT TO HIM?

UNTIL WE RECONCILE THE PAIN OF OUR PAST, THE PAST WILL CONTINUE TO BE A BURDEN FOR US. DON’T LISTEN TO THOSE WHO TELL YOU THE PAST DOES NOT MATTER, IF THAT WAS THE CASE WHY DO CHRISTIANS MOURN THE SO CALLED CRUCIFIXION OF JESUS? THEY HAVE BEEN MOURNING FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS NOW, WHEN WILL THEY LET GO ODF THAT PAST? HOW MANY PEOPLE RUN TO ALTARS DURING REVIVAL AFTER HEARING ABOUT THE GRUESOME DEATH OF JESUS, OVER AND OVER AGAIN?

WHEN DID WE EVER MOURN FOR OUR SLAUGHTERED ANCESTORS? THIS IS OUR WAY TO RELEASE THIS TRAPPED AND PENT UP PAIN, STOP BEING DISTRACTED AND GOING OFF IN SO MANY DIRECTIONS, WHEN WE TAKE THE FOCUS OFF OUR INDIVIDUAL SELVES AND MOURN FOR OUR SLAUGHTERED ANCESTORS THE HEAVENS WILL OPEN FOR US.

HE THAT WILL SAVE HIS OWN LIFE WILL LOSE IT. WE ARE LOSING PEOPLE. AFRICANS WAKE UP AND UNITE NOW.
Comment by Bedford Palmer on 23 March 2007:

You should post this on CNN.com. They have a section for the public to post on. It might draw some national attention…
Pingback by This defies explanation « Skeptical Brotha on 23 March 2007:

[...] 6 tipped me off to the situation involving Shaquanda Cotton. Steady yourself before you read this. Take your blood pressure [...]
Comment by Concerned Citizen on 23 March 2007:

Dear Governor,

The Paris, Texas case concerning prosecution of the 14yr old child- Shaquanda Cotton, has recently come to my attention. As a former 15 year resident of Houston, Texas I would like to express my concerned astonishment and distress in regards to the VERY HARSH sentence that Judge Superville has handed down to a juvenile for what should have been a misdemeanor at most and not a felony. I would ask that you please review Shaquanda’s case as well as examining the judges sentencing of another juvenile of the same age who committed a far worse felony arson crime only to receive probation as a punishment. I believe that Shaquanda ’s punishment does not fit the crime if in fact there was even a crime committed. To my knowledge the law is rather ambiguous when defining the term “public servant” and to whom that may apply which is what the whole case was hinged upon. Respectfully, I would implore you to investigate the judge’s as well as the prosecution’s conduct as it relates to this case as there is the appearance of gross injustice, inequality and inequity.

Sincere Regards.
Comment by Concerned Citizen on 23 March 2007:

Here’s what I sent off today. I also spread the word about Shaquanda’s situation from my myspace page.

Dear Governor,

The Paris, Texas case concerning prosecution of the 14yr old child- Shaquanda Cotton, has recently come to my attention. As a former 15 year resident of Houston, Texas I would like to express my concerned astonishment and distress in regards to the VERY HARSH sentence that Judge Superville has handed down to a juvenile for what should have been a misdemeanor at most and not a felony. I would ask that you please review Shaquanda’s case as well as examining the judges sentencing of another juvenile of the same age who committed a far worse felony arson crime only to receive probation as a punishment. I believe that Shaquanda ’s punishment does not fit the crime if in fact there was even a crime committed. To my knowledge the law is rather ambiguous when defining the term “public servant” and to whom that may apply which is what the whole case was hinged upon. Respectfully, I would implore you to investigate the judge’s as well as the prosecution’s conduct as it relates to this case as there is the appearance of gross injustice, inequality and inequity.

Sincere Regards.
Comment by walter on 23 March 2007:

Stop compaining about white people that had nothing to do with this injustice and put the pressure where it belongs. Total revolution only causes too much pain and blood shed for everybody.

Here is the juges’ address and phone number:

M.C. (Chuck) Superville, Jr
Judge, Lamar County, TX
Lamar County Courthouse
119 N. Main St., # 201
Paris, TX 75460
903-737-2410
903-785-3858
Comment by Goddess Isis on 23 March 2007:

Common Sense is dying

Those in power needs common sense and those that have common sense need power.

Today someone else child. Tomorrow one of our own. OH HELL NO.
Comment by Lisa G. on 23 March 2007:

It don’t surprise me. Look who our President is. It is ashame that they have to single out a race especially the black race. You can recall a few years a black man was chained and drugged in Texas. Everyone can recall how Rodney King was so very mistreated. Let’s just pray that she will get released. If anyone has Rev. Al Sharpton or Rev. Jesse Jackson ,any of Dr Martin Luther King’s family and Bishop T.J. Jakes’s address maybe some one can contact them . I belive help will be on the way. God bless her Mom, her and all that are willing to help. Lisa G -Chas. WV
Comment by Cassandra Buffaloe on 23 March 2007:

My heart goes out to her family. I will keep the family in my prayer for her release.
I also feel sorry for the judge that could do something like that to a child. Yes she was wrong for putting her hand on an authority figure, but she didn’t deserve that.

Cassandra Buffaloe
Garner North Carolina
Comment by ALIAS94124 on 23 March 2007:

So tired of Blacks politely asking whites to do right by them- that is some true slave behavior.
Hey I know, lets all write letters!
America is the most violent nation on the planet -hands down. America needs a revolution -period. As for the rest of the world, hopefully peacful minds will prevail before the powers that be are dug in there, too. But if you have’nt noticed, the U.S. sets the pace for the rest of the free world -perhaps if Blacks finally stand up, we could be an inspiration to the world.
The entire world looks on in shame to what these white folks have done and continue to do to Black people in the U.S.- (people around the world are ridiculously more aware of history than averae Americans) and what’s even more shameful is that we do nothing s a whole.
Every Black leader who has been even the least bit effective has been murdered in front of our eyes, and yet we still do not recognize the beast that is before us.
Believe it or not, I’m an extremley peaceful man but that’s not say that I would hesitate to take the life of someone attempting to take the life of my child, even yours. And sentincing a child to prison is in effect just that. If the 3 million or so Black men and women that most label ‘thugs’ that are in prison were on the street- we might have some force with which to protect these children.
But instead we just have niggas that want to dance, get high or write letters…..

Its 2007 are’nt the house niggers supposed to be extinct?
Comment by ALIAS94124 on 24 March 2007:

And the Jesse Jacksons and Al Sharptons can’t/wont help you, becuase they are politicians- the people that do these things are in effect their colleugues- politics have become our Black leader’s profession/occupation- this is how they eat.

STOP ASKING FOR THEIR HELP LIKE INFANTS
Comment by Tony Yertzell on 24 March 2007:

Thats some bullshit right there. You’d think central government would have stepped in by now since thats violation of civil rights ammendments
Comment by Kendall on 24 March 2007:

If this is her only conviction I would say that this is too harsh. BUT, I would bet money that there has been prior problems with this girl. At 13, as rebellious as I was, would never have shoved an adult. Even then, if it is her only conviction (which I doubt) then it would be too harsh. Would love to get the whole story on both sides to everything. Don’t believe everything you read. A lot (not always) the “race” card gets abused with trouble people and too often the word “racist” is thrown around. If there truly was racism involved on the school’s part then take it up the ladder and bring it to everyone’s attention. There are better ways than violence to resolve these kinds of problems.
Comment by NIKIA on 24 March 2007:

I TOO AM APPALLED BY THE BLATANT RACISM THAT THIS STATE HAS KEPT HIDDEN FOR FAR TOO LONG. THIS IS A SITUATION THAT WILL NEVER CHANGE. THE SLAVES WERE FREED OVER A HUNDRED YEARS AGO AND YET THEY ARE NOT FREE AT ALL. THIS IS A PLAY ON OUR INTELLIGENCE TO SEE IF WE AS A PEOPLE WILL STAND UP FOR EQUALITY. I BEG OF EVERY RECIPIENT OF THIS INFORMATION TO PLEASE SEND IT TO YOUR SENATORS, REPRESENTATIVES AND EVEN THE LOCAL NEWS STATIONS. LETS NOT STAY SILENT ANY LONGER.
Comment by Isaac Laquedem on 24 March 2007:

Even though I mainly write about Oregon politics, I’ve mentioned this story on my website. It’s important. Thanks for keeping the public eye on Miss Cotton.
Comment by David L Andrade on 24 March 2007:

This is insane. We should take to the streets on this one. We have to begin to defend ouselves. A people that will not defend their children are a people that will vanish. Revolution!! Revolution!!!! Revolution!!!!
Comment by Shannon on 24 March 2007:

Her parent actually named her Shaquanda? She’s a walking stereotype
Comment by Felica on 24 March 2007:

This is sad to say but, alot of this little small country towns in Texas are still Sooooo Prejudice… I grew up in East Texas and as soon as I graduated I was ready to move to a bigger city. I am currently trying to get my brothers case retried for a life sentence he received over 12 yrs ago because he was with some friends and the (Caucasian) boy shot a man and he got off because his family had a lawyer and my brother and another (african american) boy got life sentences and my brother had not previous record unlike his friends!! I think God is starting to put the spotlight on these small country towns were the Judges are just allowed to run the town and sentence people they ways he wants..Its time out for this racial injustice and there are more cases coming out all over Texas…I will keep watching this story and spreading the word and my prayers go out to Ms. Cottons family…..
Comment by darnell roebuck on 24 March 2007:

i am appalled and concerned that the attitudes of an entire town are still affecting us today. we are living in a time of “supposed” racial harmony. this pure disrespect of a persons human rights is outrageous and disrespectful. it grieves my spirit that a 14 year old girl is facing 7 years in prison because of a bigoted and racist judge. we as a people deserve better and if we as a people decide to let this maintain and continue than we are just as bad. i pray a hedge of protection over this young lady who is truly walking in the valley of the shadow of death. i pray that she fears no evil. my heart and soul cries out to the plight of yet another black person feeling the effects of pure hatred and racially motivated acts. God said in the bible that vengeance is mine thus saith the Lord. so let us pray to God for guidance on what to do. because God said also in his word that if 2 or more people are gathered in my name there he is in the mix. so my God we commit our spirits to you so that you can get full glory for this act of pure ungodliness. in your son Jesus name amen.
Comment by jawa on 24 March 2007:

Whatever happened to respect?

Whatever happened to accepting responsibility for your actions? It’s part of growing up. Get used to it.

The kid shoves a hall monitor for refusing her entry to the school building.

The kid gets tried and jailed.

GOOD!

You don’t just go pushing people around because you don’t get your way.

Sentenced 7 years?

What was her attitude like towards the officers and the judge? Showing disrespect to a judge does not make him kindly disposed to show mercy.

So the poor girl is scared spitless because of all the *really* bad prisoners she is amongst. Now she might actually learn to think first before she rashly acts? (Take note, young lady, that you do not become like them. You have the possibility of a better future. And mind who you associate with when you’re freed. )

Hopefully, she learns from this and grows up to be a responsible adult instead of a childish, screaming, “poor me” victim.

I would hope that she exhibits good behavior and thereby might gain an earlier release.

The law exists to punish those who do wrong. If you obey the law and those in authority over you, there’s nothing to fear.
Comment by Praying for Sistah Shaquandra on 24 March 2007:

It’s time to pray! It’s time to pray!

Father God, it’s in the name of Jesus that I come humbly asking you to forgive us of anything that we’ve done to hinder our prayers from reaching you. My Father, I ask now that you move upon the heart of that judge to rethink the decision that he made and that he would make provisions for her release today.
My father, I pray a shield of protection around my sister and that you will give her peace of mind in her situation. Lord, I ask that you would strengthen her parents in this situation as they are also bound by the worries of what Shaquanda is dealing with. We also lift up the officers that she has to see everyday and pray for FAVOR, in the name of Jesus.
And Lord, please bless and strengthen our communities to determine to make a difference in the lives of our youth to avoid these things from happening, if nothing else but to teach our children how to talk and handle things in a non-violent and rational way. We pray and thank you Lord that we are not going to continue to point fingers but stand up in prayer for our young people and letting them know that they are kings and queens designed by you for your glory Lord. I stand in the gap with all my brothers and sisters here today trusting you to make a way for Shaquandra’s release and believe it to be done in your presicous name. AMEN! AMEN! and AMEN! That seals the prayer and we believe for her immediate release, in Jesus’ MIGHTY NAME!

I have started a blog for our youth. It is a blog where we set up a prayer date and fasting date for our youth. Also, to list prayer requests for other young people but I dedicated it to Shaquandra. Please join me in this effort to see God move…
The blog site is: http://standforouryouth.wordpress.com/
Pingback by proof of my existence » Free Shaquanda Cotton on 24 March 2007:

[...] Justice isn’t colorblind in Texas. this is a sad story. 14 year old Shaquanda Cotton is facing 7 years in prison for shoving a hall monitor. [...]
Comment by C.T. on 24 March 2007:

I am a African American mother of two boys- one is 20 and the other is 14. This situation with Miss Cotton is disturbing. Does any one know the reason for the “alleged” shoving? Has that been questioned? And so what if it was a “shove” did the w/w die due to being shoved? HELL NO!!!! So what in the world is going on with the Judge-first of all, and the entire caucasion race down in PT? I thought you were to 1. get suspended 2. get a ticket 3. black balled out of the district- but 7 years for a “shove”. If that sticks this entire government is SHITTY…and that is sad to say but it is true. My heart and prayers go out to the entire Cotton family because they are the ones who are suffering. I pray that Shaquana keeps her head up and allow God to work in her favor. I would not be caught DEAD in Paris, Texas. I am from a small town and they give small town justice a bad name.
Comment by Andrew Walton Jr. on 24 March 2007:

I am offended but not surprised at what happened to the young girl in Paris, Texas. The African American race has been lulled into this false since of equality that doesn’t exist. We believe that because we have a few rich and influential African Americans that equality is alive and racism is dead. Please wake up. I’m not saying that all white people are racist or white people are the devil. I’m just trying to open the eyes of a few people before more travesties like this happen. There are African American leaders in every state but how active are they? There are African Americans in every state how active are we? Let’s use this as a wake up call and continue the work that Dr. King, Rosa Parks, Booker T. Washington, George Washington Carver, and the rest of our African American leaders started. That is to fight for equality! Not only in the big cities but in the small ones like Paris, Texas.
Comment by Kimberly Michelle on 24 March 2007:

“The law exists to punish those who do wrong. If you obey the law and those in authority over you, there’s nothing to fear.”

Umm…when did we get so jaded about our injustice system that we aren’t even phased by harsh sentences? No one is disputing that “You don’t just go pushing people around because you don’t get your way.” Violence is never the answer. But you’re missing the point and the bigger picture- it’s our legal system that is seriously flawed when the solution for children who may have behavioral problems is to lock them up for 7 years.

You must always put yourself in someone else’s shoes before you even begin to form an extreme opinion about their situation. Open your eyes.
Comment by Dawn on 24 March 2007:

I am apalled that something like this can happen but I am not surprised. I mean racism is an ongoing thing and if we do not stand up for one, we will fall for all.
Comment by Carlos on 24 March 2007:

THIS IS SO INCREDIBLY UNBEALIVABLE UNDENIABLY THE MOST DISGUSTING PIECE OF RACISM AND INJUSTICE I HAVE EVER HEARD..SEEN…OR WITNESSED IN MY LIFE I HAVE CONNECTIONS WITH PEOPLE MAGAZINE AND IF YOU CAN GET IN CONTACT WITH ME THROUGH EMAIL WE CAN WORK SOMETHING OUT…..
Comment by ROXANNE on 24 March 2007:

has anyone thought to ask ms. cotton’s mother if she has gotten ahold of the american with disibilities act. i am sure they would find this as appaling as i do. perhaps they can help her. does she have a iep for school? they can work out anger management thru this. i just prey that something positive is done about this before ms. cotton is hurt or hurt’s herself. GOD say’s love all your neighbors as you would love yourself. maybe those folks in texas don’t love themselves or maybe they just do’nt know who GOD is!!!
Comment by ROXANNE on 24 March 2007:

jawa get a life. if that was your child you would be screaming the other way. i guess your addage is out of sight out of mind. these type of children have been getting screwed for years because people like you do not nor do you care to know about the medical conditions. i am not saying it is ok to shove someone but this has really gone way too far. 7 years. maybe in 7 years you will have eatten your words!!!
Comment by April on 24 March 2007:

Although it does seem to me that a 7 year setence in prison is a very extreme punishment, I really would like to know that facts which led up to the alleged “shove”…Just a few things to ponder…Why was she denied access to school that day? Was she suspended for another reason and that is why she denied access? Or was it something simple like the bell had not rung yet? Had Shaquanda breached other school rules? On another note, was the monitor harmed by this “shove”? Was it just a gentle “shove” which merely moved the monitor back so she could pass? Or was it a “SHOVE” which called for the monitor to fall? There are many, many questions in my mind as to exactly how this all happened…I do agree that when the rules or laws have been broken, there is definitely a punishment due…But in this particular case the punishment certainly does not fit the so-called “crime”…
Comment by Dwight D. Hunter, Esq. on 24 March 2007:

I posted this on my blog regarding my daughter, Shaquanda.

I HEREBY DECLARE THAT THIS TRAVESTY OF JUSTICE SHALL NOT STAND
FREE SHAQUANDA COTTON

I am going to make it my personal mission in life to see that what is happening to this poor child ends as quickly as possible and that she does not suffer from this horrible experience. This cracker judge just stepped too far over the line. No way you can justify 7 years incarceration for this child. NO WAY!

But it goes far deeper and gets much worse than the tragedy of Shaquanda Cotton. This is going on everyday, in courthouses and prisons all over this fucked up country. In many cases, our young brothers and sisters are doing things they should not be doing. But the rate at which we are being incarecerated is outrageous. This government has apparently decided that the best way to control us is to lock us up. So we go to jail while they go home. There is a clear and malevolent intent to how the (in)”Justice” system is throwing black people in jail. Any fool can see that it’s deliberate, and it is the greatest challenge we as Black people are facing in this country today.

But in the name of Law and Order, too many of us allow our so-called political representatives (they aren’t fit to lead anyone anywhere) remain silent as the prison industrial complex and the police state devour our future.

Not this time.

Burning Down the House is an excellent post by Temple3.

I am going to suggest the following…that overturning judicial decisions is slow, hard, grinding work - even for absurd cases like this. There is a tactical approach to overturning such a decision. Part of it must be legal…part of it must be waged with the public. To the extent that you can spread the word about what has transpired - and reach out to those concerned about the future (and present) of Paris, Texas, please do so. It seems to me that a great place to begin might be the Board of Directors of the Kimberly-Clark Corporation, the Campbell Soup Company and the Sara Lee Bakery Group.
I am sure that when black folk like former Green Bay Packer great Willie Davis sit down at the next board meeting, he will not appreciate that this is happening in a town where his company provides more than 600 jobs
Comment by Mom on 24 March 2007:

My son’s father was keeping a gift to my son from my father in his home because I did not
have a place for it. My son’s father decided he was going to keep it. My “white” son, broke into his father’s home to take what belonged to him and recieved a 10 year felony offense. The judge agreed to make it deferred, but because it is a felony, my “white” son can’t get a job.

I would have to have more info and statistics to jump on the race wagon, but clearly if pushing is all she did, the punishment does not fit the crime.

My opinion is that these things happen to people who cannot afford counsel willing to actually work to do waht is right for thr client.
Comment by GET ALL THE FACTS on 24 March 2007:

MOST of you have NOT checked your facts. This girl was offered a reduction to misdemeanor assault and probation, which the mother refused. After the JURY FOUND HER GUILTY (there was 1 black woman on the 6 person jury), her mother told the judge she would not cooperate or agree to any conditions of probation. The law only lets the judge release the juvenile to a parent or family member who will agree to help with changing the child’s behavior, or the judge has to send the juvenile to TYC. The judge had no choice - the mother said she wouldn’t follow probation! This girl is in TYC because of her mother.

Also, it was NOT 7 years in prison that she got - it was an indeterminate sentence which means TYC lets her out when they think she’s cooperated with their behavior changing programs. She could’ve been out in as little as 9 months - but has now been there 11 months.

WHEN will we quit trying to blame everything else in the world for the specific bad act of the person in trouble and let them take their punishment? She DID this, a jury found her guilty, and whether we agree about her going to TYC or not her MOTHER refused to cooperate in getting her daughter the help she needs to stop being a discipline problem.

GET ALL THE FACTS before you start making plans to travel to some little town and march on their streets in protest, hollering that this is the worst injustice you’ve ever heard about. The worst part of all this is that this little girl is in a bad place not so much for what she did but for how her mother handled it.
Comment by Siditty on 24 March 2007:

When I was a child, I lived in Paris, TX, and it is no secret that racism runs rampant. My family was the only black family in our all white neighborhood, and it was common to have white neighbors ignore us. We actually had one neighbor not utter one word to us until there was a for sale sign on our house. Their children being ignorant of racism would repeat their parents ignorance on a consistent basis.

This story is a sad and constant reminder that racism is alive and well, and will continue to be swept under the rug and ignored until enough people speak up to let people know we won’t take it anymore.
Comment by Agent007 on 24 March 2007:

The FACT is this case should have not been in the court system to begin with. It should have been handled in the school system. Suspension from school is more appropriate, NOT jail time.
Comment by MANNY on 25 March 2007:

I just recently read the article on the young black female that was sentenced to seven years for shoving a white hall monitor. I honestly thought it was a joke until i read the whole article. I cant believe that with all these famous people in the US always quick to help others in other countries can sit back and let this happen. We as people should be ashame for not saying or doing anything. I feel that the mayor or governor should be charged with a crime for allowing this unless they are a racist themselves? How can they go about doing your job while this is happening in the state? What would you do if that was your daughter? Would you sit and do nothing while she try to kill herself in jail? This is just terrible.
Comment by extrapolater on 25 March 2007:

Here’s my letter to the Governor:

Today I read about the extreme sentence handed down to Shaquanda Cotton in Paris, Texas. If the town is not able to rein in the racism that threatens it, I believe it is the duty of the Governor and other public servants to step in and show the way.

I find it amazing that a youthful indiscretion in which nobody was even injured is considered grounds for destroying a young person’s life in Paris. I’d be horrified at that miscarriage of justice regardless of the race of the child, but when you realize that Shaquanda is spending more time in jail than some rapists or killers have, it really turns your stomach.

Please look into this matter,

[signature]
Comment by Connie-Jo Hall on 25 March 2007:

Humanity! What does that word really mean? Does it include everyone? I just want to live in a world that thinks of humanity. Mankind.
Pingback by Paris, Texas Has A Lot of Explaining to Do. « The Extrapolater on 25 March 2007:

[...] this article about Shaquanda Cotton. If the story infuriates you as much as it did me, use the link provided [...]
Comment by Pacesetter on 25 March 2007:

This is yet another tragedy in the on going saga, that is [AMERICAN HISTORY], or Afro American History, whichever you would prefer. None of us who are conscious living aware people should be surprised at this. We would think only about,what’s next? We know we live under an unjust system,that is nothing new!We also know the the gains and losses of the past have come through the participation of all people irregardless of race,creed, or religion. So let’s not be blind sighted by HATRED! The focus should now be on what needs to be done to reverse this injustice that is taking place at this time. Sure we know some form of discipline is warranted But let the punishment reflect the crime.Unless there is something missing from this story, it just does not add up. So let’s do what we do best, pass the story on, write letters to the newspeople, call on our socalled leaders and politcians and raise the consciouness of all the people. We all are good at one aspect of communication or another. Do what you do best and let’s get some JUSTICE down in TEXAS. By the way, PRAYER WORKS!
Comment by Lisa on 25 March 2007:

I do not sympathize. I was a public school teacher. I have a knee injury still in effect due to an African American male student picking me up and punching me in my knee. Someone in my own race. Let’s look at the big picture. Children today are bad as hell, and they need to suffer the consequence. Seven years is a little extreme, but she had no business shoving an adult in the first place. Now if that school is not mandating that all students suffer the same for such an offense that is one thing, but just to call it a racist situation because she is African American, I don’t see the point of any of us doing that.
Comment by paris texas on 25 March 2007:

After knowing this little girl personally, I too, have had some encounters with her on a personal level. If everyone knew the whole truth, you would know that she is exactly where she belongs. After B…… the judge out when he WAS going to give her probation, that’s when he decided that this child had some serious problems along with a mother who didn’t care what her daughter did or was doing in public. This child was never corrected or punished as a child. She was allowed to do whatever she wanted to do, wether it be right or wrong. How can a child grow up knowing the difference between right and wrong if never corrected at home? In my personal opinion, Shaquanda Cotton is exactly where she belongs.
Comment by Charla on 25 March 2007:

Whether black or white, this is an absurd judgement on this young girl and is a complete shame that anyone can justify this extreme punishment. Get her help and counseling or to an age appropriate facility if the actions were that extreme but to place her in prison with adults that have murdered and knowing she has attempted suicide 3 times is heart wrenching. Help her and pray for her and her family, don’t give up on her. And how come Paris Texas is allowed to practice this kind of hatred toward any color of people? Who is in control, Satan or just someone led by Satan? DISGUSTING AND COMPLETELY AGAINST GODS LOVING, KIND AND MERCIFUL WILL. Aren’t we all forgiven and shown grace? Shouldn’t we all show grace to glorify God in us? We are created in God’s image and have been given such an amazing gift of life and love through Jesus and his choice, YES CHOICE, of the cross and pain and suffering in exchange for our eternal salvation and forgiveness. Come on people. Everyone makes a mistake, we are all sinners and all have received God’s grace. We must love all in Jesus’ name and show grace, love and kindness to those who are lost but we don’t have to allow hatred to rule our lives and allow ourself to be manipulated. Save this child from the control of this evil and stop allowing this man and his allys to have this control. GOD IS ALWAYS MORE POWERFUL THAN EVIL AND ALWAYS WILL BE. THANK GOD!!!
Comment by Ron on 25 March 2007:

This is absolutely ludicrous. This type of stuff was supposed to have been stopped 50 years ago.All the judges and legislators who go along with these type of actions need to be removed now.Get the little girl out of jail now.
Comment by Jennifer on 25 March 2007:

Are you kidding? Is this still happening to ou people? And what on God’s green earth is the NAACP going to do? Nothing! I will pass this along to everyone I know. Thanks for putting it out there!!
Comment by Tahjaleenie Tahji on 25 March 2007:

This was truly disturbing to read. This young African-American girl Shaquanda Cotton, should not be in jail for 7 years because of a minor offense. Shoving a person is nothing. She did not do it with intentions to hurt the teacher. However the jude came up with his decision to convict this young lady is dead out wrong. Someone honestly speaking needs to do a retrail. If Jonnny Cochran were alive, he’d have be all over this case and Shaquanda would be free right now. But we must remember, when you’re black in American and poor, you get nothing. You have to have money to get the top of the line lawyers. They all want to retire off your case, even the judges. I feel the judge is a hard a## and is trying to send a message to all black chidren, that he is probably a racist, not saying he is, but he just might not like black people. He may work around them, but once a black person breaks the law in his juridiction, he feels he has the right to determine what type of prison sentence is right for the defendant. Which here in this case, he made a very bad judgement.
Comment by skeptical on 26 March 2007:

Something seems fishy! Is this a real story or a made up one? I would think that news all over the U.S. will be reporting this injustice. Maybe not at the beginning but by now they should be. Hmmm.
Comment by John Machado on 26 March 2007:

Can’t we install all RW nutjobs in TX, invite all others out .. and just give the state back to Mexico?
Comment by R on 26 March 2007:

If this story is indeed true, I will try my best to get some pro bono types from Frisco involved. A 14 year old should not be in prison with adults. The school could have just expelled her, if they felt her actions were crossing the line.

I don’t care if she doesn’t look as “innocent” as some of these prime time “victims”, like Natalie or Jon Benet… she is still someone’s child. People are quick to have empathy for these WASP children, but for the black children, not so much. Such a shame that adults won’t even give a 14 year old the benefit of the doubt just because her name happens to be Shaquana, or because she isn’t pale , doe eyed, and therefore a “believable” victim.

Superville has got to be doing meth, or some other illicit drug because this sentence just seems too inane for an “experienced” judge to pass down sober. I’m willing to bet he wouldn’t want his 14 year old child(or relative) in prison with hardened criminals.
Comment by Monica Y. Winn on 26 March 2007:

This is outrageous! I live in Houston Texas and I see this every day, the African American Community must begin to take a stronger stance in these matters.
Comment by Mac on 26 March 2007:

This is horrible. I’m not preaching violence but, I think black people in this day and age are coward folks. We are not like we were back in the day. I use to always say, I wish I was back in those days when slavery wasn’t modernized. I would do so much, fight so much, they would have to lynch me like they’ve done to many other blacks back then who were brave enough to stand up. Today, the slavery and struggle of black people remain the same. It’s just being done now in a slick way, so it can appear as if it no longer exist. But, we all know that slavery is worse then what it was in the 50 - 60’s. I’m mad and outrage to see that black people are still trying to kiss white people’s asses. We are not ever going to be liked by whites so, black people stop trying to offer your sincere love or befriend whites. Believe it or not, whites don’t want to be friends with blacks. I get it in my head. The rest of us blacks need to get that in your heads as well.
Comment by Boss Hogg on 26 March 2007:

Black folk…all I’m reading is how wrong this is! You all are looking for someone else to do something! Get off your arse and get to Texas’ state capital and let your voice be heard! WTF besides talk about it is Tom or Tavis going to do! The NAACP will only demand an apology! Jesse and Sharpton will try to generate some type of personal gain! Black folk, we need to start taking matters in our own hands because things are not changing! NAACP, Jesse, Sharpton, Tom, and Tavis are not getting it done. We as a whole should be doing more every day. Not when we face hurdles as this but every day. Bring these kids up to be respectable and to want something out of life. Bring the black family back out of hiding! The black family is NOT dead. Show these black teenagers that education is the ONLY way. That going to college is not an option but mandatory. Show these young ladies that their bodies are sacred! Teach these young boys to be more respectful to their black queens. What in the hell is going on today!!!! Black folk get off your arse and do something!!!
Comment by Bo Jangles on 26 March 2007:

Burn Down Paris, Texas.. This is Ludicris.. 7 years for pushing.. 7 years she might as killed the old crakkaa
Comment by J. C. Crane on 26 March 2007:

If this incident happened exactly the way it was reported then I am equally offended and outraged as the majority of the other readers.
However, I was not present during this altercation. Therefore, it is cruical for me to research both sides of this arguement. The sympathetic Black/African American side has been well documented. However, it is important for us to hear the allegedly White/Europen American “racist” side before we come to a conclusion.

One of the severe weaknesses of the Black/African American in the 21st Century is that we are very quick to play the racist card. Not one reader was present during this altercation, however, the majority of readers are ready to crucify the “racist” judge. Research all facts before you give your conclusion. If you only hear one side (the Black side) of an arguement, then you are just as racist as the “White” establishment.

To that end, if it is determined that this was a racist act, the actions of the majority of the readers are still incomplete. As I read the comments from the other readers, I see a major flaw with the synopsis. It seems that the majority of us want justice for this young girl. We want the laws in Paris Texas to be equal for all its citizens and not prejudicial. This is noble, fair, and necesesary. I support this 100%. However, we are missing something very important. Someone needs to tell Shaquanda that it is unacceptable for any student in the United States of America to put their hands on a school official! We need to be just as disappointed in Shaquanda as we are with the Texas legal system. Her negative behavior contributed to her negative situation. In short, her lack of judgement led into the alleged racist treatment she received. I wonder what would have happened if she had respected the rule of not entering the building before the school day had begun. What would have happened? I will tell you….it would not have been a court case at all..and no one would be reading this.

We need to challenge our children to behave in a constant acceptable manner and not fall into the potholes of racism. Her behavior is modeled after the rap music lyrics I hear on the radio everyday. Where is your outrage here?

In conclusion, we can debate for an enternity as to the fairness and justification (or lack of it) regarding this punishment. However, the facts are not debatable. Students cannot push school officials. All of us need to pursue justice in Texas and behavior modification with our chldren with equal aggressiveness.
Comment by J. C. Crane on 26 March 2007:

J. C. Crane can be reached at:
jc@crane-enterprises.com. The website is:www.crane-enterprises.com
Comment by Randa Bryant on 26 March 2007:

To Whom It May Concern: This is the most outragged thing I have heard in a long time. Never the less, I am praying that this situation is turned around and this young lady adhere to Jesus because I believe that if he brought it to her, he will bring her through it. Blame is not to be discussed, correction is what is needed, this is a baby and if I were the teacher, if the children are disrespectful, thats why adults are the guiders and not the children, ok expelled from school, sent to an alternative school, however prison, is just an outrage
Comment by John Adams on 26 March 2007:

This reminds me of Alabama back in the days of Gov. George Wallace’s adminsitration. Not to anyone’s surprise, post-Wallace Alabama was in the poorest condition, both socially and fiscally, as a result of the very same kind of race relations issue that are our people face in Paris, Texas. Aside from the obvious moral injustice, their lack of change in their attitudes will eventually will hit the state in the pocket book at some point. And here I was thinking that these attitudes died out with my dad’s generation…(smile) ye’ah…
Comment by Faye Pratt on 26 March 2007:

I am truely appauled .To think that the judical system would allow this. I am contacting the Governer Office of Texas , Texas Sentors and the Presindent . There needs to be a speedy investigation ,plus to release that child into her mothers custody. Everyone needs to contact their elected officals about this travisty.

Let us not think someone else will help we all need to take a stand for this young girl.
Comment by David Phillips on 26 March 2007:

It’s amazing how dogmatic opinions can be when based on faulty information. Shaquanda Cotton is not in jail. Judge Superville sentenced her in that way so she will understand that the jail sentence will be applied if she breaks the law again.
I’ve lived in Paris most of my life, and taught at Paris High for one year. I found that teachers and administrators walk on eggs when assigning discipline to black students. In fact, I know of a number of black students who were given no discipline for serious infractions.
I know a large percentage of the citizens of Paris, and I don’t believe I know anyone who is overtly racist. Chuck Superville, in fact, is a liberal Democrat.
Many of those who commented are making assumptions based on faulty or incomplete information. That does no one any good. The local NAACP chapter has looked at the case and refused to render judgment without more complete info, not yet available because of confidentiality concerns. Maybe others would better serve the “cause” if they waited for a little truth before screaming “racism.”
Comment by Amanda Jones on 26 March 2007:

This is ludicrous and sad; this is the most outraged thing I have ever heard, my heart go’s out to the family, what is this world coming too. I think the family should contact the NAACP. People of God we need to pray for our children. She is just a baby. My God, My God, I also said the court system is made for whites.
Comment by Peter Griffin on 26 March 2007:

There is a big group going out there tomorrow 3/27. Meet up at Valley View Mall at 7 am buses leave at 7:30am. This is headed up by Rickey Smiley, so props to this brother for making something happen. I will be there.
Comment by jawa on 26 March 2007:

Poster for comment 208 (Get All the Facts) - point taken.

Mr. David Phillips (#234) - excellent comment.

Would that more would have cooler heads and calmer tongues in this matter.

Wherever Miss Cotton is presently, I trust that she truly understands the consequences of her actions and learns her lesson quickly. I trust that she grows up to lead a productive and peaceful life - regardless of circumstances at home (if any) to the contrary.
Comment by Steve Jones on 26 March 2007:

I would like to ask you all to please seek more information before you fly off the handle. Let me point you to someone from Paris who researched the issues and contacted several people involved and close to those involved.

This is not the case we want to use to point out institutionalized racism. Shaquanda didn’t deserve 7 years and in fact she won’t get 7 years if she learns to behave. When she gets out, someone other than her mother needs to take her home. NAACP YOU CAN HELP HERE.(READ THE FACTS) one excellent source is http://www.dallassouthblog.com

A lot of African Americans in Paris are not standing behind Shaquanda b/c they know what she and her mother are all about. Paris is a small town, people talk, just ask somebody and they’ll tell you. Check out how many local black churches are getting behind this. Why not? Where are they?

Rickey Smiley don’t get your name caught up before you understand what’s really going on. You need to talk to some sensible people who know what’s up first.
Comment by Yolanda Henry on 26 March 2007:

Hello Shaquanda, my name is Yolanda and I live in Dallas, and I wanted you to know that I Love you and I am praying for you and your family each and everyday. See my son was murdered Sept. 27, 2005 in Lancaster, TX by my now ex-husband who was my husband at the time and he was 14yrs.old as well. So my heart go out to you and your family and remember Proverbs3:5-6 reads: Trust in the LORD with all your heart an lean not on your own understanding: in all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Have faith. Love Yolanda.
Comment by David Hanson on 26 March 2007:

To all of you people who don’t live in Paris and don’t know that shaquanda has been a source of trouble for several years should shut up or ask her mother to release her records so you can get the whole story. She was not sentenced to seven years, it was an indeterminate number of years up to her 21st birthday. that means her atttitude and behavior determines when she gets out. Second she was offered parole but her mother wanted to make a point so in effect she sent her to jail. The only reason she is raising cane now is because she realizes she messed up. Don’t just read blogs including mine and assume you have all the facts come to Paris and check it out for yourself.
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Comment by Latinos Unidos on 26 March 2007:

The article should also mention how Latinos are treated in Paris, I’m sure not nearly as bad as Blacks but I’ll bet there is some racial profiling going on against Hispanics as well.
Comment by R on 26 March 2007:

For posters 208, 234, and 238, we ARE attempting to “get all the facts”, but until then I’d rather be a cynic because I know how pervasive and subtle racism can be in this country today.

Just because the denizens of Paris are not staging public lynchings presently, doesn’t mean that a certain amount of their population wouldn’t like to bring back “the good ole days”. Also, Superville could be the most bleeding heart, tree hugging liberal in the world, but he is still capable of being a racist.

The black people who are not standing behind her are probably some backwards negroes, who would rather cluck their tongues, and gossip about a 14 year old, who can’t help it if she hasn’t had the best parenting. Children don’t learn bad behavior by osmosis…most of the time it comes from their parents, it’s not rocket science people.

Why are white kids who commit far worse crimes getting the benefit of the doubt? Well, gee because they’re white. Anyone who can’t see that is definitely living in an ignorant bliss. Having the complexion for the protection(white skin), might not get them everything they want, but it’ll damn sure garner their children more empathy than yours.

Black people(those who can)get the hell out of this backwards country, seriously, we have been loyal to this country for centuries, and we are more “American” than most of these Ellis Island immigrants…but in 2007 we still have to protest for basic things such as justice. It will never change…get out while you can, for your children’s sake.
Comment by Mr Red on 26 March 2007:

Hahaha! R is serious hahaha!!!
Comment by Steve Jones on 26 March 2007:

Judge Superville expains his thoughts on verdict of 14 year old’s case in Paris Texas

More information is coming out which is one of the good thing of the attention that this story has gotten. Here is Judge Superville’s side from the Paris News. Hopefully the healing process is about to begin.

Superville: Look at all the facts

By Mary Madewell The Paris News

Published March 25, 2007

County Judge Chuck Superville says he fears for the community’s safety and is calling for the national media and other organizations to investigate the facts before drawing conclusions about the Shaquanda Cotton case.

The judge said a March 12 story in The Chicago Tribune unfairly painted the community as racist and a recent protest as well as the threat of future protests by organized groups with national media coverage could “spin this thing out of control.”

Superville said he has refrained from commenting until now because of his position as the judge in the Cotton case, but that he believes he has a higher duty as county judge to maintain order in the community.

“I call on the media and others involved to go to the public record to get the facts of the case before they rush to judgment,” Superville said Saturday.

Superville said after a three-day jury trial, which found that Cotton committed an act of juvenile delinquency — namely assault causing bodily injury against a public servant — he determined the best place for her would be Texas Youth Commission.

“If Shaquanda had been white, the outcome would have been the same,” Superville said. “My decision was based on facts and law and I am confident this was the correct decision based on the facts I was presented.”

The March 2006 case is on appeal with the Texarkana Court of Appeals. The court conducted a 10-hour hearing in August 2006 to consider a request that Cotton be released on bond.

The judge said Cotton could have been released at that time but would not speculate why the appellate court did not grant the bond. The judge said he presented the facts of the case and that attorneys for both the prosecution and for Cotton presented arguments.

Superville said he gave the 14-year old an indeterminate sentence up to seven years — her 21st birthday.

“Once I set the indeterminate sentence, Shaquanda holds the key to her jail cell,” Superville said. “It is up to the child and TYC.”

In explaining the juvenile process, Superville said after a jury makes it’s finding, the judge determines the disposition.

“I am bound by law to ask lawyers whether or not reasonable effort has been made to prevent or eliminate the need for the child to be removed from her home,” Superville said.

“I also must determine whether or not there is enough family support to assist the child in successfully completing terms and conditions of probation,” Superville said.

“Thirdly, I must determine whether or not it is in the child’s best interest to be removed from the home,” the judge said.

“Both lawyers presented evidence on those points,” Superville explained. “The county attorney put on a substantial amount of evidence that Shaquanda had been a persistent behavior problem at school and that the mother failed to cooperate at every turn.”

“I asked if there was anything that could be done that had not already been done and the repeated answer was ‘no,’” Superville said.

Superville said reports from Lamar County Juvenile Probation Department also weighed on his decision. Before a juvenile trial which could result in probation, the probation department conducts a fact-finding survey.

“The juvenile officer said the mother refused to cooperate and said he had no reason to believe the mother would cooperate if Shaquanda received probation,” Superville said.

“That theme was repeated witness after witness—that the mother made it impossible to help Shaquanda,” Superville said. “She blamed everyone except the child for misbehavior.”
Comment by Car"lo" on 26 March 2007:

This shoud have never been tooken to court in the first place..This girl needs a helping hand and soebody to woop da judge ass for letting that happen too dis lil 14 year old hurl..I feel like this is my little sister and I’m only 17 . shaquanda cotton you might be long distance away from me but i will pray for you and your family.
Comment by Nancy Smith on 26 March 2007:

This act of a racist judge should have judge chuck superville put to rest from any and all benches for the rest of his life. To shaquanda cotton stay strong and pray we’re all trying to get a hand on your situation.
Comment by R on 26 March 2007:

Yes Mr. Red, serious as a heart attack, lol.

I understand that there are those of us who are not as “upstanding” as we should be, and those of us who are just plain content to be ignorant, but I am weary of feeling that I have to represent, and or defend my race when one of us decides to do something that is not too smart.

Above all, I am an individual, and in this life, people will prejudge me for different reasons until I die. I can deal with that because it’s human nature to make snap judgements, but I refuse to be made to feel like a criminal because some people who look like me, might commit a criminal act.

An “indeterminate sentence” is the same as saying, she will serve the whole sentence because frankly, she has some mental problems. I don’t see her learning how to behave in a facility where the average inmate is 19-20, and very violent.

The fact that her mother allegedly refused to cooperate is further proof that this kid needs help, not some violent 19 or 20 year old trying to “turn her out”. Get her into a facility that will help her mental imbalance, and send the mother to some mandatory parenting classes.

As long as you live in this country, you will always have to wonder if racism is a driving factor behind certain situations. Racism is prevalent in other countries as well, but the steps being taken to be truely tolerant is leaving America in the dark ages.

Oh, and our so called “leaders” like “Messy” Jessy, and “Showtime” Sharpton, are selling us down the river. Stop depending on these charlatans to defend us because at the end of the day, they are shucking and jiving back to their 20 room homes, while their black or hispanic maids warm their dinners.
Comment by YoBo on 26 March 2007:

Well, well, well … Mama always said when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Mama also said it would be wise to learn from others’s mistakes. So if I were living in Redneck, Texas where history proves that blacks and whites were treated differently by the judicial system on down, I’d make it my business not to put my life in the hands of the judicial system. That’s just me. Mama also said the teacher is always right — even when the teacher is wrong. And if I had taken myself to school and pushed a teacher’s aide, I’d gladly taken the punishment meted out by the court rather than deal with the wrath of Mama.

Visit http://www.BeAllYouCanBeTheEmagazine.com.
Comment by KEVIN WILLIAMS on 26 March 2007:

OH MAN! JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS CHANGING,REALLY!WHAT BOTHERS ME MORE IS THAT KNOWONE HAS DONE ANYTHING YET. JUDGES,JUST TWO WORDS. OVER TURN..WHY IS IT SO EASY TO MAKE A MISTAKE,BUT YOU ACT LIKE ITS SO HARD TO RECTIFY ONE…
Comment by Rachel on 26 March 2007:

This article should sadden every person in the world. I am a mother of three young children in Northern Texas. My husband and I are extremely invovled in our childrens educations and working hard to provide the best present and future for them.

I believe this case should be re-opened. Parents we need to wake up!!! Get involved with the schools your children attend. I know we must work to making a living, but our children are more important than making a dollar!!!

I have lived in Texas for just three short years. I am amazed with how many parents I don’t see getting involved with their children’s education.

It makes me ill to hear my 12 year old straight A student come home to tell me, how he feels the hate, and racism at schools from his teacher’s who, he feels want to see him fail!!!

After reading this article my sons views have been proven. The Texas school system-wants to see our children fail, and it is up to us to turn this around, and fight for what is only fair!!!!!

When will this world realize as Dr. King stated so well “All Men are created equal”.

I am going to write state officials and do what ever it takes to assist this young lady, who should be in school with her peers, and not locked up behind bars. My God bless her and her family.
Comment by Kim Cameron on 26 March 2007:

I will be forwarding this blog to the power brokers that I know. I will also organize a group of people for continual mailing to her. In the meantime, where exactly do we send funds in her aid?
Comment by wouldbesupporter on 26 March 2007:

I love to see people swear and pray in the same paragraph…Its hard for white people to jump on board with this when everything that is written is derogatory towards them. Not all white people are racists. Racism goes both ways and by reading various blogs, its obvious!
Comment by CONSUELLA JOHNSON on 26 March 2007:

THAT’S JUST WRONG!!! I FEEL THAT THE JUDGE HIM SELF NEEDS TO BE CHECKED. HOW YOU GONNA GIVE 2 WHITE FOLKS PROBATION AND A MINOR 7YRS OF PRISON IT AIN’T LIKE SHE KILLED HIM (AND I’M SURE SHE DIDN’T MEAN NO HARM) MY QUESTION IS THIS WHAT WAS THE TEACHER WAS DOING FOR HER TO DO TTHAT? WELL DAMN NO BODIE WANTS TO GO THERE!!!! BUT I TELL YOU WHAT THE COTTON FAMILY MY PRAYER’S IS WITH YOU AND YOUR LOVE ONE!!!
I’LL SPREAD THE WORD 2!!! ALL THE WAY FROM KILLEENTX, AND COPPERAS COVE TX.
Comment by Shoji on 26 March 2007:

My goodness!!! this is insane… I’ll tell oprah winfrey…
Comment by Liz C. on 26 March 2007:

In the 60’s we thought that racial issues would be something of the past, but today we have “Minute Men” who evolved from the KKK, but because politicians continue to tell the American people that we are free- then we have no rebels such as “black panthers” representing new modern day racial issues. As long as corruption exists within politicians circles and even churches, there will never be honest judges.
Comment by Kevin Smith on 27 March 2007:

Shaquanda’s incident seems to be stirring up controversy and creating a division within the local African American Community. I’m not a local and I do not know all of the facts, but it seems to me that the time given Shaquanda does not fit the crime. Seven years is too much time for shoving a teacher even though it could be considered an assault. One writer indicated that Shaquanda was given a “stay of execution” meaning that she was not remanded into custody following her sentence. The sentence could be called to be served if Shaquanda breaks her conditions of parobation or parole.
As I stated earlier, I do not know all of the facts related to this case, but I do know that a fourteen year old girl regardless of race has no business putting her hands on an adult, unles she if faces with a life threatening situation. Many of our African American children have been raised with little or no structure, and many have little respect for other people, their property, or their right to a quiet peaceful life. Often these children in our communities force their lifstyle on law abiding people in their communities. They drive recklessly through the neigborhood streets speeding and turning doughnuts, When they are not driving recklessly they often force others in their community to listen to their vulger hip hop music often exceeding 100 decibles, and yes sometimes 24/7.
We are raising a generation of children that is indulging in self- destruction. What does the future hold for our children? For many the future is very bleak because many will break state laws that will result in prison sentences. Some will receive long sentences early in life, and others will nickle and dime their lives away by doing a series of short sentences until they finally mature, gain education, and or gain trade skills.
Prison is where many local and state governments want our black young people. I believe they especially want our black men in prison. Incarceration of the black male is disruptive the the stability of the the black family. The last twenty-five to thirty years has been very disruptive to the black families as many males have gone to prison, became crack addicts, and have died on the streets as murder victims, and many of our children have had to be placed in to foster care. In California African Americans now have the lowest birth rate second only to that of Native Americans. Native Americans would probably be extinct if the federal government had not given them reservations where they have lived for many decades. I do not believe reservations will be provided to African Americans, and the way things are going it is possible that some day African Americans could become very rare like the Native Americans.
Shoquanda’s sentence is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to disparate sentencing. this has been going on for years. African American Parents can best keep their children safe from the legal system by properly training them the minute they enter this world. Many of our child bearing mothers, and our young fathers are not capable of training their children without proper assistance. I believe that the survival of so many young people in the African American communities is dependent on people who can influence and teach young people to raise their children in an effective mannner. Some how we must raise the children in our African American communities to repect education, to respect others, and to be smart enough to avoid life threating situations if at all possible. Until this happens I believe we will hear about more cases like shoquanda’s.
Comment by T on 27 March 2007:

To simply say that the punishment does not fit the crime is a grosse understatement. Let’s be frank and put it on the table - “if the girl were white, she wouldn’t be in prison nor would she have even been charged with such an offense”.

However, the color of her skin is secondary to potential she holds within. Potential to do any number of great things. Potential that sadly could never be realized due to a single transgression. The fact of the matter is that should she have to servve her sentence and return to society with a “record”; she will NEVER be afforded the same OPPORTUNITIES as other young people.

To me, such would be the true tragedy within this travesty
Pingback by YBP Guide — shaquanda cotton case at forefront of texas juvenile investigations on 27 March 2007:

[...] overwhelming support for shaquanda cotton in the last few weeks has been overwhelming. in fact, the story has triggered massive [...]
Comment by Keith L. on 27 March 2007:

This is really a sad case. It’s ridiculous to believe that a person let alone a minor would receive 7yrs for shoving a person, but killing two people would only receive probation. Being convicted of arson would get you probation. We as black people are all guilty of forgetting that racism still exist in today’s world. Even in one of the most prestigious professions where you are suppose to have an unbiased mind we still have idiots. I have watched my friends of different races and backgrounds give there lives for a country that we all believe is the land of the free, the land of opportunity where race, religion and creed is embraced not replaced with the beliefs of another. Sometimes I wonder why I serve! My God bless the Cotton family especially Shaquanda. Stay strong little sister!
Comment by Kimberly Michelle on 27 March 2007:

**Please read our latest post on the Shaquanda Cotton case and the follow up article in the Chicago Tribune by Howard Witt.**
Comment by Patrick on 27 March 2007:

First let me say that I am glad that this situation has got our attention and something must be done on behalf of this little girl. But as far as the legal system, when haven’t blacks been treated unfairly in this country. The prisons, jails, and juvenile detention ceters are filled with her story. If we really want to get this out and get some real attention drawn to it, Tavis Smiley and Tom Joyner are good, but if someone can get this out to Oprah that would get some real attention! But as far as her being discriminated againt and being treated unfairly…this is nothing new.
Comment by Elizabeth Moore on 27 March 2007:

This is one of the most unjustice and inhumane thing I’ve ever heard. This is a child we are talking about and for shoving! I hope this fall upon the right ears because no child deserve such a punishment for merely shoving, I don’t care who it is! The judge who sentenced her should be stripped of his bar licenses. Let’s keep Shaquanda Cotton in our prayers!
Comment by lynnevondue on 27 March 2007:

where is al sharpton,jessie jackson, micheal baisden, eric dyson and everyone else who like to run their mouth HELP THIS CHILD
Comment by Selita Carson on 27 March 2007:

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. quote donot judge me by the color of my skin, but by the content of my character.

Still today in 2007 after over 400 hundreds years of being enslave, we still have sick minded people.

Continue to Pray for change, God is still watching all of us. Only what you do for Christ Jesus will Last. Trouble donot last always!

Helpful Organizations and People with Power

1. NAACP - National Advancement for Color People.

2. Oprah Winfrey

3. Tavis - http://www.tavistalks.com

4. Tom Joyner - http://www.tjms.com

5. news@blackamericaweb.com.

Keep looking to the hills for which comes your help!

This to shall pass.
Comment by Tracy A on 27 March 2007:

Sad that this is still happening. I can not comprehend this type of behavior and am appalled that our government allows something that is so obviously WRONG to continue. This young lady needs to be set FREE now.
Comment by Natisha Butler on 27 March 2007:

I think that if you can go to prison for 7 years, just for “shoving” someone. Than you can go to jail for anything these days. And I also feel that she’s only 14 yrs old, and that was her 1st so-called “offense”. I really think this is ridiculous.
Comment by Smarion on 27 March 2007:

Dear Governor,

Im not sure how you go home and sleep in peace at night case after case, but I guess thats why your a judge and Im not. Personally I believe that our country/the judicial system is very unbalanced, polititians are scandalis, and the president killed thousands on 9/11 and Katrina !! And I think Malcolm X said it best “Thats too much power for one man.” Now you are ruining the future of a young adolescent child living in a racial society and getting away with it legally. When will the racial turmoil cease, its obvious that you have hardened your heart towards the wrong people, we are not enemies of each other. We were put on this earth to love on another, so I pray that you would look into your heart and open up to God and find your true self. Remember: Life must be lived forward but can only be understood backwards, lets move forward and give ourselves and our children a brighter future.
Thanks and God Bless !!
Comment by Prince Antoine on 27 March 2007:

Where are all our Leaders on t
Comment by Steve Jones on 27 March 2007:

At this point, how can we look at this issue as racism when Judge Superville offered Shaquanda probation just like the arsonist w girl and the w boy who committed the vehicular homicide? Shaquanda’s mother chose to refuse the probation term stating the Shaquanda was innocent even if she did push the 58 year old teacher down. Her mother said that on K104 (Dallas/Ft.Worth) yesterday.

J Superville may be racist, but this case is not the proof. This guy offers probation like its candy. We need our race card back to play another day.

I hope she is freed but not to her crazy mother. She will ultimately lead this girl to her demise. The facts are slowly coming out.
Comment by Zeina on 27 March 2007:

This is ridiculous. There is no justification for this misuse of the “law”.

Lil’ sis, stay strong your story needs to be told by you. You are just beginning your life do not allow them to take it from you. You must find a way to make it through. So many others wiill benefit from your story.
Know that you are in our thoughts, prayers and works.

Peace & Blessings,
Zeina
Comment by Tony Corso on 27 March 2007:

Blog this: Nothing happened at Paris High

By Phillip Hamilton
The Paris News

Published March 25, 2007

Shaquanda Cotton was NOT sentenced to seven years in prison.

The 14-year-old, who was convicted of assaulting a public servant for shoving a 58-year-old teacher’s aide, was sentenced to a state juvenile correction facility “for an indeterminate period not to exceed her 21st birthday.” Whether she spends seven years in the dormitory-style facility she was assigned to depends on one person — Shaquanda.

Ever since the Chicago Tribune’s Howard Whit did a hatchet job on Lamar County justice, folks across the nation have believed that County Judge Chuck Superville put Shaquanda behind bars for seven years. The fact is that’s just plain and simple NOT true.

Let me repeat that for our recent out-of-town guests. The judge did NOT sentence Shaquanda to seven years and she is NOT in a prison.

By definition, an indeterminate sentence is one structured so that the person’s conduct determines the date of release. The truth is that Shaquanda could be out by now. She determines how soon she comes home by her actions.

But that’s not something the Chicago Tribune bothered to mention during the newspaper’s journalistic lynching of this community earlier this month. Why lets facts get in the way of a good story, right?

The problem is that bloggers and talk-radio blabbers in the Metroplex and elsewhere have taken the spark the Chicago Tribune story started and fanned it into flames of outrage against our community. Now, other media are flocking to Paris to write about what one CNN producer told me last week is the “broader story” about how Shaquanda’s case is affecting Paris.

Shaquanda’s case isn’t affecting Paris, but outside influences certainly are.

In the year after Shaquanda was convicted, absolutely nothing happened except Shaquanda’s mother and a handful of wanna-be civil rights activists convinced a Dallas and Houston-based tabloid that Shaquanda had been wronged. The poorly written report was laced with inaccurate information and failed to garner much attention — especially with local African-Americans who are familiar with Shaquanda’s case. Credible civil rights advocates, including most black ministers, did not become involved.

Then came Whitt and the Chicago Tribune with a much more polished version of the wanna-be civil rights activists’ story. As spring break arrived, Blogs Gone Wild played on Web sites across the nation as wanna-be writers ate up Whitt’s tale of a vindictive, racist school district and judicial system.

By Monday, ill-informed individuals marched on Lamar County Courthouse and PISD’s administration building hurling insults at Superintendent Paul Trull and Assistant Superintendent Robert High, a real civil rights advocate who march with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in the ’60s.

By Friday, the community had been whipped into a frenzy with rumors of protests and counter protests at Paris High, the plaza and the courthouse. Amid rumors that African-American students would walk away from classes at 11 a.m. and participate in a protest rally, law enforcement officers and school officials prepared for the worse. Extra lawmen were put on stand-by status and the front of Paris High was shielded with school buses. A white line was chalked to show protesters how far they could go without breaking the law.

Guess what happened?

Nothing — absolutely nothing.

Not one Paris High student walked away from campus, which was probably a great disappointment for the news vans parked across the street and the videographer aboard a chopper hovering over the school.

I know nothing happened because I had lunch in the Paris High cafeteria with Superintendent Paul Trull, PISD trustee George Fisher and a handful of African-America ministers.

Will there be another protest organized this week?

Probably.

But don’t expect to see more than a handful of Paris residents participating. Those who know the facts understand Shaquanda’s case is about the commission of a criminal act, not racism.
Comment by CANDY on 27 March 2007:

THEY NEED TO SEND A YOUNG PERSON UNDER COVER TO ATTEND THE SCHOOL AND GET THE PROPER COVERAGE THEY NEED TO REVEAL THE TRUTH OF THE FACT OF THIS SCHOOL IN IT’S TRUE LIGHT NOT JUST SOME COVER FOR THE NEWS MEDIA & VISITORS!!!
Comment by warren woodberry on 27 March 2007:

This shows how inefficient we are in networking when we struggle to be able to highlight injustices to our people. We can’t contact Smiley or Tom Joyner some say. Is it not sad that these are the only TV personalities that we think of when we need to get a message out. That is why we need to support the National Association of Black Journalist(NABJ) so that we can network better. I am a member of the NW Ohio Black Journalist Association of Toledo Ohio (NOBMA)
and I will forward the story to NABJ.

WW
htccwarren@yahoo.com
Comment by Thomas on 27 March 2007:

Lockup the judge! Total up all the years he’s handed out to people like her and sentence him to the total. I apologize on behalf of the white race. Idiots like this should be pittied for their stupidity and ignorance.
Pingback by About Shaquanda Cotton « The Anti-Essentialist Conundrum on 27 March 2007:

[...] Prometheus 6 linked to this post at Young Black Professional Guide that has a rap sheet of sorts about Paris, Texas, and some more reactions to the situations with [...]
Pingback by YBP Guide — power to the people on 1 April 2007:

[...] paris, texas. in plain view [...]
Pingback by Paris, Texas Justice Appears To Be Back In The Days Of The Lynch Mob | Free Ebooks and Tutorials on 29 March 2009:

[...] From: http://www.ybpguide.com/2007/03/13/paris-texas-in-plain-view/ [...]

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