NYT Op-Ed: ‘You Want A Confederate Monument? My Body Is A Confederate Monument’ | MSNBC

[@raybeaulieu6187]

How you got here is a tragedy, but we are blessed to have you here and now to set the record straight. You're intelligent and beautiful and you're making a difference in our unjust world and our corrupted culture and history. Thank you.

[@BriC7]

"Intelligent and beautiful"? Patronizing.

[@Harley08]

BriC7

[@BriC7]

@@Harley08 No. 🧐

[@vw3575]

They worship these traitors and salute the flag at the same time. Love her oped it is beautiful and on point.

[@AmericanAfrican13]

Yes we call those people Oxymorons.

[@ecchidragon8038]

@@AmericanAfrican13 Love that pun! 😂 Have a like.

[@joejose8433]

Trump supporters

[@kalunjoku3497]

I have never heard the confederate monuments defined so succinctly by a living by-product of the slave masters' evil work. Hopefully, those that talk about their heritage would now look her in the eyes and understand Black people's pain.

[@raeannuria5691]

Kalu Njoku 👏🏻👏🏻

[@shanellecarlson9499]

There were black slaveowners as well. Should you ask some of the black people who are descendents of those black slaveowners to pay reparations? Only those blacks who are descendents of slaves should be asking for reparations from the descendents of those who were slaveowners, regardless of their color.

[@paulinelarson465]

Some black slave owners were simply buying their families, and holding them in order to protect them.

[@7milegreat]

shanelle carlson the ignorance in your statement is applauding you do know freed slaves had to buy back their family members who were still slaves technically making them slave owners on the books.

[@caller347]

7mile GREAT There are more slaves in Africa than there ever were in America.

[@pjmvdbroek]

She demonstrated my ignorance about slavery and racism in such an unsetteling manner, it will take some time to process.

[@40thstreetblack63]

Keep going with courage, you'll get there. ✌

[@christophertcorum152]

Take your time just keep learning and understanding

[@essencemylyfe]

At least you're open and willing to process so many have brick wall brains, nothing can penetrate.

[@navyforeveryoungjean-phili5940]

Were u willfully ignorant about slavery?

[@mercwindow]

Peter van den Broek heartwarming that you openly admit this. There is no excuse for continued ignorance when the light goes on as there is a plethora of information. Enjoy the enlightenment. It makes for a better more loving America

[@thechef6417]

She is eloquently ntelligent and wise, a beautiful soul. A beautiful woman

[@BriC7]

Would you make that statement if a white woman was talking? See? That's part of systemic racism! Of COURSE, she's eloquent!! What did you EXPECT??? SMH!!

[@susangreene3060]

BriC7 I’m sorry, but it is wrong to not allow someone to admire her for her positive qualities and call her admirers racist. Did you ever think maybe the Chef didn’t expect such eloquence and wisdom in such a YOUNG soul?

[@iarocks44]

@@BriC7 C'mon, they were complimenting a very nice young lady and you have to turn it into something ugly. Is it so hard to believe someone would just be complimenting her?

[@vsedai]

@@BriC7 I know where you are coming from

[@vsedai]

@@susangreene3060 Go ask your black friend why BriC7 is disgusted. It is just that often white people say eloquent whenever they hear intelligent black folks. PLZ discuss this with your black friends so can gain some understanding.

[@pnoronha2278]

From OZ This is a very powerful piece in NYT by Caroline. Wow

[@mcullet2]

@pnoronha22 ~ It's as close to perfection as I have ever heard. We need to hear more voices because I wonder whether the ocean of blood made as significant an improvement in the lives of those set free. I see a covert re-enslavement via prisons. The terrible truth is that the vast majority of young men who fell for the south were so poor they couldn't afford shoes let alone a slave. Few, if any, saw a person. Race hatred is very much alive in the south as are evangelicals.

[@ritafranklin9031]

So powerful and true.Wow!

[@bobvoorhees9402]

Mike C bob my key board is not working

[@mcullet2]

@@bobvoorhees9402 Hey Bob, really? I stopped using keyboards years ago. I used my bigass 65" 4k TV as both monitor and onscreen keyboard. And I'm now training my PC to handle voice recognition. It's brilliant. In truth, I had an accident and have incomplete quadriplegia. That sucks bigly but lots of people have far more difficult lives. We adapt or die.

[@4knewt505]

Poignant. She lends words my heart couldn't express.

[@uncleg1623]

Hear, hear. Well put.

[@richmrstonestone]

Seriously?

[@chardonnay5767]

The only good thing coming out of this precidency seems to be that Trump's legacy of disgrace will cast a permanent shadow on the confederate movement. The clown king of the confederacy didn't lead them to Shangri-la, but to a dumpster fire instead. On a related note, Caroline seems like a genuinely awesome woman. All the power to her and to everyone else who's running against the current of distorted historical perspective.

[@hmmcinerney]

Imagine if Jewish people were asked to walk past man made tributes to Goebbels and Himmler

[@iamwell5654]

This! Hits the nail on the head.

[@l.u.rehuher3714]

@Linda Terry So the Jews were waiting for Stalin

[@j.s.t.6515]

@Linda Terry what? how do you know that? Don't confund what you think with what other people think, it's a slippery slope that one

[@mercwindow]

Linda Terry even if this were accurate, why is that even relevant?

[@hmmcinerney]

Linda Terry On the contrary, people have been working for decades to get these affronts to decency taken down. wjla.com/news/local/fredericksburg-slave-auction-block-removal

[@blackbird5634]

Mrs. Williams is strong, smart and aware. We are blessed to have her with us.

[@spritals]

Ms. Randel Williams is a lexiconic Goddess. So powerfully written.

[@sandybutt9898]

@Darth Quantum No, you are the liar but you are not very good at lying.

[@shirleywilliams-lewis1520]

Darth Quantum Perhaps you are one of those persons who refuse to acknowledge the atrocities black women suffered at the hands of their white slave owner masters. You may pretend it never happened, however, it will not erase history and the hurt, hatred, disrespect, pain and in humane treatment inflicted upon black women. Yes, biracial children were

[@fatdoi003]

@Darth Quantum first learn to type properly

[@damonzap8659]

@Darth Quantum ☝This guy is a troll. Hate destroys the hater, you wanker.

[@randycouch2769]

@@damonzap8659 how many kids does she have with different men??

[@TT-di4qz]

My great great grandmother had two sets of children.. one set with skin light enough to pass for white. The product of her ownership by a white man. My body is also a confederate monument.

[@harleynut1969]

God Bless her for speaking the Truth.

[@lyndacb50]

Point of fact: Africa is not a country but a continent-with many countries.

[@badmonkey222]

@John Hillman The truth as it is a fact and not just as she sees it.

[@davidbelway6076]

that kind of articulation is a true talent. she really has brought to light an unsung truth.

[@stellashepherd844]

David Belway I love that Lawrence gives amazing people like her a platform.

[@zoolamriki9366]

My Body is a monument ... Perfect statement.

[@TheRealCrimdor]

Harvard graduate along with her mother. She is using her education to sow division and cash in on hatred.

[@mssiaes]

Aren't you always divided? Couldn't bear to face the ugly past?

[@Siggersian]

Crimdor, how would you suggest one unite and combat hatred?

[@TheRealCrimdor]

Ian Siggers - it’s late and I’m tired and I’m not going to write out an essay right now for you.

[@Siggersian]

Sleep safe, or as we say where I come from “tight”🥱😴

[@haskellbob]

I love Ms. Williams' insertion of a very special truth when she says "I decided, as a black woman, that I would lead the way - like we always do". She laughs a bit self-consciously, as if knowing that what she has said will provoke controversy, but she knows it is true. And the grin produced on her face by that tension is beautiful. Then her assertion goes right over Lawrence O'Donnel's head.

[@andreaperry938]

Stunning editorial. Everyone should read it.

[@Siggersian]

To P, A and S, there’s something I don’t understand about your comments. I hope!

[@Shonufff88]

Will do.

[@MR-wz9zw]

It's one of those pieces that will stay with me forever. Powerful stuff.

[@Siggersian]

marty methuselah, what do you mean?

[@martymethuselah]

@@Siggersian Trudeau is one obviously if you see his pics (as a joke of course..free masonry is a joke).. they are everywhere..(or 'every wear')...they are also called marrano..or 'off the rack' Spanish inquisition converts who still deal as happy merchants 'undercover' of paint and robe... or 'shoe shine box'...

[@lalah9481]

She is amazing. Thank God for black women.

[@dorothybutton9656]

LaLa H the strongest group of people in the American community are black women. They are gobsmackingly smart. I am not an American. I make this observation as a frequent visitor.

[@lunarballoonistxo]

@@dorothybutton9656 thank you, Dorothy! 💜

[@KatherineUribe-1]

@@dorothybutton9656 As a Hispanic woman, I beg to differ.

[@jesnyc146]

The future is female Our only hope to fix this lopsided "democracy" @Katherine Uribe --no need to divide or compete. Check your heritage, I guarantee you have some indigenous black or african ancestors. We all come from the same mother. Mother Earth

[@Tigatron1448]

Jes NYC no need to divide or compete, yet you and others constantly keep elevating black/African ancestors above all others. It’s hypocritical and foolish.

[@heperile]

this is refreshing to have an articulate writer instead of typical cable tv talking head, good interview

[@angrydoggy9170]

Let me excuse myself for my language, I don’t write and speak PC, I try to live it. But damm this girl just rules, you go girl, keep calling out the bigots.

[@milkoansah-johnson8768]

I like your comment and tag Angry Doggy....hahaha! 🤣

[@milkoansah-johnson8768]

@KZbin Moderator Please explain the bigotry you spotted in comment by Angry Doggy.

[@DDDDDDD34]

That is the real honest truth. A wonderful piece of work.

[@n.g.h.calmarena7013]

Caroline Randall Williams, what a fantastic person!

[@spiceyhotpot]

She's right about rewriting history and making these people heroes, going to start using that.

[@kevinheller5414]

Nothing but respect for this amazing author and teacher

[@msv177]

The key to a healthy prognosis is a timely and accurate diagnosis. "Truth," be told.

[@cherylstone3919]

I am a white woman who was raised in Canton Mississippi. 60 years ago I was born in one of the worst states of racism. After watching this beautiful woman who has opened my eyes and heart to the things we have done to our people of color! I am not a highly intelligent person but, I have a highly emotional heart. Never been racist..never will. Watching ,listening to the words of this beautiful woman has changed my life. And the way I see it. I have not stopped crying (honestly) since these words ripped my heart open. I thank you from the depths of my soul. My eyes are open. My heart broken. I am so sorry. For every pain death and despair caused from people of hate..

[@opeyemiadegoke361]

Ma'am I really appreciate you as a person ,I wish all of these uneducated, shallow minded ,racist biggots could open their minds to the truth and change their ways ,the future is going to be very diverse and the earlier we all get used to it the faster we'll get past this dark era that is currently upon us

[@mrcurly1147]

@@opeyemiadegoke361 It could disappear in one generation if the parents stopped teaching hatred to their children.

[@opeyemiadegoke361]

@@mrcurly1147 I totally agree but due to the current situation we find ourselves ,also the president of the country is not making it easier as it is .I know racism has always been present but we've always tried to tolerate one another as much as we can. with all of these mess that has been created on daily basis the repair might take longer than we hoped

[@cherylstone3919]

@@opeyemiadegoke361 Thank you for your kindness. I truly hope hearts will change also.

[@philtreman9944]

At the moment 31 racists dislike this.

[@m.d.walker]

philtre man They want to say this history is a version that is not true. Their idea of the reality of slavery is that it is fluid. Whilst we can mine history for myriad of facts, the facts still stand. Slavery benefitted one set of people and it wasn’t African Americans.

[@marlonbeckett8793]

On the 4th July 56

[@tonibrooks9719]

M.D. Walker Preach!

[@karencarr8845]

I am related to hundreds of people who are 100% white. All related either 3 or 4 generations back. Most still living in the south. I am also a living monument to the confederacy.

[@jordanabeaulieu2530]

@@m.d.walker Don't you think it's amazing to hear white people saying that Slavery wasn't all bad or when they refer to them as "immigrants"? It is mind boggling how people are quick to rewrite or deny the real history 😐

[@thierrybudts6687]

These words made me literally shake,I really didn’t understand racism

[@spinningbackkick6021]

So.. You've been bred to believe you're the dominant race in the world. Then someone comes and takes all you're equity and tells you that you are now equal to the people you were told you were better than. Now you are resentful so you take it out on the most vulnerable population.

[@tonibrooks9719]

Spinning Back Kick... I am a black woman and I am trying to understand your response to the comment of Thierry Budts. It doesn’t seem as though your interpretation of the initial statement qualifies your response. There are many white folk that don’t understand racism, but to assume that this person is one who is resentful and taking it out on our vulnerable population, might be overstated. Although you make a valid point, it doesn’t seem to apply in this circumstance.

[@Harley08]

Spinning Back Kick

[@spinningbackkick6021]

@Godfather 12&6 LOL. I felt like I was spelling that wrong, But you don't know that. It could be a slice of sourdough I'm responding to.

[@spinningbackkick6021]

@@tonibrooks9719 I'm basically saying that some of the hate comes from rhetoric that blames others for your current life circumstances or the circumstances of your society as a whole. I.E. it's the Mexican's fault or the blacks fault that your life is the way it is. Basically it's taught.

[@sambeach2726]

Caroline, Gen. Lee himself in 1869 said he didn’t want monuments to the confederacy erected. He believed that it would continue the bitterness etc. in travelling through the south a few years after the war he was annoyed and embarrassed at the adulation he received. I think he was over the whole thing. It’s a pity that those who cling to the failed confederacy don’t take any notice of this. 🦘🦘

[@pogo1140]

Robert Lee had a monument to his work when the US government took his wife's land and with it his home and used it as a national graveyard that we now know as Arlington National Cemetery.

[@Ginab3001]

Only in human nature.. losers want to be winners..

[@bonitahobbs2097]

However, a majority of those statues were erected in the 1950's and 60's simply for that : to intimidate not particularly to really memorialize anyone.

[@bonitahobbs2097]

@@pogo1140 PLEASE double check that. The location of the Arlington Cemetery was a black neighborhood, where history states during war so many white men died fighting around there in battle against their non- black enemy. Hence, rather than making the Blacks continue to move them and bury them elsewhere THEY just took the neighborhood and turned it into a cemetery. " STUDY long but don't study wrong "

[@pogo1140]

@@bonitahobbs2097 It's on the 1st page of the Arlington National Cemetery Website.www.arlingtoncemetery.mil/Explore/History-of-Arlington-National-Cemetery

[@wafflesmomforlife9215]

BRAVO to her!!!! As a light-skinned black woman, I COMPLETELY AGREE WITH HER!!!

[@C1001-b9p]

I do, too. Light-skinned, yet no white ancestor that I know about or can point to. We have always known why. I am so glad that she shed light on this truth.

[@wafflesmomforlife9215]

@@C1001-b9p Exactly! I could NOT have said it better!

[@caller347]

Uh oh, identity crisis.

[@C1001-b9p]

caller347 I do not care what you think or what you say. Be blessed.

[@C1001-b9p]

caller347 But I like I said, we have always known why and WE are not the ones who should feel a “crisis of identity” or shame...

[@AngelGabriel-ws7gc]

I thank Ms Williams for her truthful and powerful accounts of her heritage. As a native Indian myself, she has shed light on many of the lessons my ancestors taught us.Statues are not important to us as a people, it is what we inherit, learn from and can change that matters.I praise you wisdom.

[@jennifercamille16]

Wow. Caroline Randall Williams, I applaud you. What compelling and important writing. As a Southern white woman, I stand with you 100%.

[@theother1406]

Robert E. Lee was opposed to monuments for the confederacy after the war.

[@troymcdaniel4038]

Who cares, Robert E Lee was still a traitor, as the republican party is today!

[@theother1406]

@@troymcdaniel4038 I am in no way defending General Robert E. Lee. He did know when to concede. He said erecting monuments in support of the confederacy would leave a gaping wound that will never go away. He tipped his hat to the Union army. These imbeciles that still in 2020 support this need a history lesson. Robert E. Lee saw first hand how unbelievably awful that war was.

[@theother1406]

@@troymcdaniel4038 Who cares?

[@michaelboulware1240]

@@theother1406 We all should care because the comment shows that people defending confederates dont even listen to their own confederate history accounts. In fact they are flying the wrong damned flags. So we see what they really are about.

[@nunyabiznez6381]

He was also opposed to Slavery. He was beginning to become involved in movement to phase out slavery in the south when Lincoln jumped the gun and attacked the south in S. Carolina. He felt he had no choice but to defend the south from aggression. The North sold the war as having the purpose of ending slavery but that was only a part of it. Lincoln wanted to strengthen the centralization of power in Washington and used slavery as a test case. Prior to the Civil War most people considered the state they were from to be their country. We were Virginians and New Yorkers first and Americans second. The Civil War ended that way of thinking once and for all. And to be clear, half the states at one time or another contemplated seceding including northern states.

[@matteotestino8646]

"I am a black woman and I would lead the way like we always do!" thank you you made me cry and felt the love I have for intersectionality

[@roberthoward6590]

If apologists want to have monuments that truly represent the confederacy's values, they would need to make replicas of slave auctions complete with chains and shackles and portray beatings and lynchings rather than arrogant traitors on horseback.

[@oftenlucid]

Robert: I honestly think that is a good idea. I don't think we will get past this and will continue tripping over ourselves until we name it and own it. We SHOULD have monuments to lynchings and slave auctions. Much like the German's have done with the their Nazi history. Own it so we can get perspective and work to heal the country. Very interesting times we are living in.

[@fatdoi003]

usually statues on horseback represent victors but funnily your country idolizes losers

[@roderick617]

We don't need anymore monuments. What it's going to take to inspire hope and change can't be built by human hands. It has to start with facing reality, accepting responsibility and the changing of hearts. What Mrs. Randall-Williams shared hit me directly in my heart in a way that no one, not even the most hardened racist can ignore.

[@nunyabiznez6381]

Prior to the Civil War it was Virginia first, America second. It was also, New York first, America second, Texas first, America second and Rhode Island first, America second. In the Civil War there were no traitors because it had been since 1781 each man loyal to his state first. Nobody, not even Lincoln, thought of the Confederates as traitors. This notion of treason didn't even come into existence until well into the middle of the twentieth century by historical revisionists.

[@michaelsquare9325]

@@nunyabiznez6381 You're so "smart" that you're dumb. What did the soldiers of the American revolution call Benedict Arnold? They called him a traitor. What did Francis Scott Key call those freed slaves who fought for the British against the American colonies? He called them traitors. The concept was alive and well back then. So you mean to tell me that Americans somehow forgot what a traitor was? Your argument screams Southern apologist and you're way off the mark. The Confederacy was viewed as traitors and rebels. Hence the term Jonny Reb. Get back to school and learn something!

[@Ja-wx4dc]

I'm a black woman, so I'm going to lead the way... like we do!!!!!

[@kurtwinn7035]

NYT Op-Ed: ‘You Want A Confederate Monument? My Body Is A Confederate Monument’ As powerful and moving an article as I have ever read.

[@stuckcase7775]

600,000 free men fought/died to free-yet we only talk about the confederate side-it took a northern army of whites to oppose

[@christinebuckingham8369]

Amen to the Eloquent words of this beautiful and wise young lady! Thank you for sharing these truths so well and with such poignancy!

[@leewalsh2428]

Trump is preaching to an ever diminishing crowd.

[@rosss1959]

Right? As evidenced by the 'Likes' and 'dislikes' of this particular video. 5,000+ likes and 140 dislikes ...so far....

[@Ms.A_FunkySoapBox]

There are a lot of underground Trump supporters...

[@leewalsh2428]

@@Ms.A_FunkySoapBox I agree most of Trumps 2016 voters are underground, literally 6 feet underground getting old is a bummer.

[@9nxt]

@Jo Jo ignore this comment. It's probably a Russian/Chinese troll farmers. His argument is whataboutisms

[@PanglossDr]

Caroline's article is the best and most powerful piece of writing I have seen in a very long time. What a fantastic woman.

[@vincef7487]

Lawrence O’Donnell; thank you for this.

[@petepete2284]

Wow . I get it . I'm so sad. So So Happy that it is coming out. I cant stop crying as I type this . I support you .

[@alvinfrazier4152]

“The sins of the fathers shall be lain upon the children” William Shakespeare . Cut the check for reparations or there will be no peace.

[@StreetnastyEntertainment]

"The Big Pay Back!" RIPower King James Brown...but good thing we don't want revenge. 😊💯😡😈💪 B1 #4Life #NoAntiBlackRacism

[@tryin2beehappygolucky431]

@@StreetnastyEntertainment I LOVE James Brown. About 2 1/2 yrs. ago, i played the song, 'I'm Black, I'm Proud' at a Waffle House, on their Jukebox. Do you know they took that out? I cannot find it in their Jukebox! That tells me that they are racist, or being too Politically Correct???.( I was hanging out with an African-American friend of mine.) My favorite song by Bob Marley is, 'Get Up, Stand Up'. I don't see why this song would be offensive either. It is about being proud, having dignity, being human, and not allowing ANYONE to diminish who you are. Same message James Brown was singing.

[@StreetnastyEntertainment]

@@tryin2beehappygolucky431 You are spitting facts! It sucks that they took the song out. You have great taste in music no doubt! 💯

[@craigcorson3036]

While I agree that reparations are certainly in order, I am of the opinion that there is simply not enough money to make things right. The debt owed exceeds the amount of money in existence. If we gave African-Americans ALL of the assets of the United States, it would still not be enough, especially in light of the fact that, by rights, they would have to share it with indigenous Americans.

[@craigcorson3036]

@mistercrowly86 וזה קשור לסיפור הזה?

[@keelee4691]

Absolutely fantastic editorial. I understand now.

[@haskellbob]

Interesting choice of words by Trump in saying the painted words would "denigrate" Fifth Avenue.

[@jgroovy1973]

Trump Tower denigrates it. It makes me think of the building in "Devil's Advocate".

[@alexisrivera200xable]

@ZI This is the part that Trump has exploited to this day. The filthy racist was very deserving of straight up confrontational accountability to his face whenever a press briefing happened, for them to openly demand to see evidence on every claim he made and to call him as lying whenever he refused. But the press feared losing access, feared repercussions so they treated Trump with kids gloves... All in deference to the office of the president of the United States. He rode that ingrained respect for all it was worth and he is still getting treated with kids gloves relative to all the crimes he has flagrantly commited live on air.

[@mcullet2]

@Robert Haskell ~ Racism exists. Regardless of our defining features, fear of the 'other' makes us stupid. Not long ago many tormented women wearing headgear. Now we all need to wear effective masks. Trump is incapable of genuine normal feelings, especially love. He can't empathise. In what universe is the expression "black lives matter" offensive? Perhaps it would be instructive if another phrase contained the words, "Every life matters". One must be stated unambiguously yet is included within the other. Both value life. This is the guy whose criminal negligence has killed 120,000 and more every day and he has ignored the suffering: they can't vote...

[@mcullet2]

@@alexisrivera200xable Hi Alexis, it appears as though you had more to say. I'm interested.

[@Jakob_DK]

ZI It seems he is running on a clear message. The question is what you choose (and if you get to have your vote counted)

[@andrewwhitfield5480]

When it comes from the heart with raw truth it cannot be denied. Caroline is amazing and beautiful.

[@marylindagail]

She is mind-boggling, I think she is the best writer I have ever read or heard. I love the way she thinks AND to be able to put into action with that incredible op-ed. It was an epiphany big time, I felt it. This generation ROCKS!

[@olyvoyl9382]

A brilliant young woman we can all be proud of.

[@colinhoulder3712]

Confederate monuments were erected from 1910 up to the 1950's not only to honor the Confederate leaders, but also to remind people of color of their "rightful place" and who was still in charge.

[@patrickcleburneuczjsxpmp9558]

Confederate monuments were mostly erected at the same time Union monuments were erected.

[@davidjamal378]

She doesnt even know how brilliant she is. BLACK WOMAN I am so proud of you!

[@MrBY17]

I felt chills as he read this exert.

[@loisjohnson8504]

What a beautiful, powerful and wise woman. With stunning clarity, she summed up this blight upon the soul of this country. For this, I applaud and thank her.

[@honkawiman]

Wow! What a beautiful lady with a beautiful mind. AMAZING!

[@vanessafarria1161]

I read the article this morning and the power of her words captivated me. I felt goose bumps from the top of my head to the bottom of my feet. Confirmation of truth. My body is a monument.

[@bjohnson6108]

She is a phenomenal writer.

[@StevenSmith-tb7hj]

doesn't she owe her life to slave owners?

[@Siggersian]

Steven Smith, there’s so much I want to say when replying to your comment, but I’m not articulate enough. Can anybody hjelp me. Please.

[@bjohnson6108]

@@StevenSmith-tb7hj identifying and siding with rapists.

[@robertbennie7889]

What a beautiful human being, inside and out, that Caroline is. I feel better having heard her give a deeply new perspective on a horrible past in American history. Thanks!

[@felixlamirada4048]

Her existence is her resistance.

[@richardraymond9108]

Makes me tear up. Thank you Caroline Randall Williams!! Your a National Treasure!!

[@paulbourdon1236]

Thanks for posting this. Caroline Randall Williams is so insightful for such a young person.

[@heroinjones7478]

Trump never paid taxes in NYC and got questionable deferments instead. He doesn't have the right to say a word what goes onto 5th Ave. Not only should they paint 'Black Lives Matter' in front of Trump Tower they should also paint 'The Central Park 5 Is Still Waiting For Your Apology'. I love Caroline Randall Williams. What a writer. What a voice.

[@peterdollins3610]

Native Americans worked in great numbers on the skyscrapers of New York. My Canadian ex-partner's grandmother was a Native American and my Partner, Claire, when we lived in Montreal went with Doctor Forbes--a West Indian Doctor--to give medical and social help to the Indian Camps. She'd come back in tears every time but said 'I must do it' when I asked her why if it was so upsetting did she go. Generally working people of Black of Native American of Chinese heritage as of European from many places built these cities of the US with all of its infrastructure.

[@marthavazquez1952]

Powerful and honest . Thanks

[@nittamimi8842]

ABSOLUTELY THIS 💯

[@MrLTLB]

I have to get a Copy and Frame it. I always knew someone like her existed and for her to do this, is not only Brave but Courageous. She is Absolutely. I can't find the Right Words here...Thank You for doing this. 🙏🙏🙏

[@altitudeillume6729]

#MyBodyIsACONFEDERATEMONUMENT said a black american. superb, a great line, a flash.

[@waltergodsoe5526]

Powerful, the truth rings out. Thank You Ms Williams

[@bobbydavis2713]

Thank God for a knowledgeable sister like Caroline I love you black sister

[@johnplanteen-vo1rf]

Mitch's nonsense juxtaposed with the brutal,beautiful truth of this incredible woman is truly stunning. I know enough history to be aware of the reality of slavery but never have I heard such eloquence about the unspoken aspect that so dominates southern society.Being moved to tears is no longer enough...

[@connie5245]

Congress needs to call him on that veto. He's a bully, not a hero. He'll fold like a deck of cards!~

[@alisaoliver1969]

Right on point. People like to ignore this reality of the lost cause, as if a single ray of sunlight can sweeten a pile of trash. Impossible.

[@JorgeFlores-ox4pr]

What I am surprised about is the lack of thought to native people. Will the USA return the lands back to the original people of this nation, for example the five nations of the North East, the Seminals of the Southeast, etc,.

[@StevenSmith-tb7hj]

The natives used to go to war with each other all the time . Just so happens they lost the last war to the US .

[@kadokang4479]

@@StevenSmith-tb7hj do you know why the Indians lost the last war?

[@StevenSmith-tb7hj]

@@kadokang4479 Because the US was more powerful .

[@garywoodruff6032]

@@StevenSmith-tb7hj yeah they given blankets with smallpox.

[@constituenta5293]

I'll bet Don Hardcastle wakes up with a wicked-azz hangover this morning.

[@williseric2012]

Wow! What a powerful statement!

[@bsmithlove]

Jesus said, "The Truth will make you free."

[@gregorypeterman6216]

Problem is, most democrats can't handle the truth.

[@TheGymnast71]

she is correct. The germans have done a great job not idolizing nazis but teaching the next generation about what the nazis did wrong and how to never repeat it again. We need to do the same and move on from ignorance.

[@LoRo_Moon_Stars]

The Confederate flag, etc. belong in a museum. It should not be celebrated equal to the American flag. Naming buildings and making monuments to those that fought to preserve their slave driven way of life, should never have happened in the first place. That would be like if Germany were to name buildings, and make monuments to Hitler and his Nazi Generals. Yet in America, especially in the southern states, the traitors to the nation and humanity are glorified. The phrase of, "The South will rise again.", still gets thrown around, we are in the year 2020. All that should have stopped when they lost the war.

[@edwarddiaz9724]

MAGA is code for bring back Jim Crow.Suppress anyone who won't accept Trump's Policies.Oh by the way all you white people cheering Trump,He & the rest of the Republicans are determined to repeal the Affordable Care Act[ObamaCare].They have nothing to replace it with.They take there marching orders from the Health Insurance Industry

[@devy1534]

Miss Randall Williams, you are a monument to love and respect. You are a monument that decries racism and racists. Thank you for providing a picture that we can honour.

[@evertvandenberghe]

This is a shocking insight... Tnx for shedding an extra light!

[@supersonico9364]

What a powerful message, I’m out of words there’s really nothing else that needs to be added ✊🏿

[@stevenmorgan5334]

This was a very informative message in this video that I will never forget. Stay safe.

[@bradfordschmidt1040]

If they really want to change the way the way the nation and the world. Let us begin to teach the real history of this country and the world. Show that black and brown people helped make this country, the world what it is. Integrate American and world history. Stop making it a separate course. All people not only need to see it,but they need to learn the truth. This will change minds and begin to change hearts.

[@onomatopoeia162003]

Towards the end. I would call this the 3rd reconstruction. Why do you think in the last few years they called it the "Cold Civil War"?

[@TRUTHBETOLD.DB_313]

She SPOKE AND WROTE THE TRUTH!

[@tangointhenightband869]

Remove the statues of confederates, leave the pillars, and replace with statues of JFK and Obama!! 😎😉👍😂

[@swanpride]

If you want to replace them, replace them with a memorial for those who died because of opression.

[@sann6756]

Caroline Randall Williams, those words just gave me shivers and i kept wondering what the next set of words will be. Brilliant as they may be i feel a deep sense of apathy for your mind process in producing this. Respect from Ghana

[@sean380]

The dislikers should do some soul searching and try to understand what racism is and what it means to the victims.

[@kekambas79]

Powerful truth! Ms. Williams nailed it!

[@AM-ni3sz]

"I will do it"

[@rmzidann]

This was an excellent segment. It’s true!!

[@cokkiekraaijeveld4617]

Black Lives Matter too.. ❤️ Listen to Frederick Douglas about Lincoln. Start building...

[@Slayer398]

Too bad they are too busy tearing down Fredrick Douglass' monuments across the country to be building anything...

[@avrilniles5472]

All I can say is "WOW!" I have never heard it stated so eloquently❤😘

[@edgarlittleton8428]

Love the Mayor of NY.

[@abrahamlincoln7912]

😂

[@goodanytimej8688]

That is POWERFUL

[@nonabritton8521]

I AM SHE

[@martymethuselah]

sheesh

[@NFTSEAROCK]

If we’re to talk about heroes, black people are the true heroes to be talked about, remember about and respected. They’ve built America from scratch to what it is today. They’ve been dishonored and treated like their contribution to building this country means nothing. That really needs to be looked into.

[@nunyabiznez6381]

They didn't build America they HELPED to build America. Only a tiny percentage of Americans were slaves/Blacks during the slave years. Most of America was built by the north and few of them derived that construction from slavery either directly or indirectly. In fact pretty much the only aspect that slaves really built was the cotton industry and not even all of that. In Florida slavery was mostly used in the Cattle and produce industry which used as much non slave labor as it did slave labor. Rhode Island is probably the only northern state that derived a significant benefit from slavery. Rhode Island being someone puny compared to states like Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, PA etc. If you differ in opinion then by all means please cite the specific industry besides textiles that slavery made a significant impact on.

[@NFTSEAROCK]

nunya biznez i think a simple type on google would feed you more knowledge than i ever can on here. Before America started producing cotton, there was the production of sugar, tobacco and in some areas rice and indigo and all used slave labor. I’m not even going to mention the several other areas where slave were used and in hospital experimentations. Bare in mind that this slaves were not paid a cent and they worked in harsh conditions. And whether it took place in the north, south or anywhere, it still doesn’t make any difference, it happened in the American soil. I’m not sure who you’re trying to defend here, but if you think what happened to the enslaved Africans was a good thing, how about i wish it for you and your generation to come?

[@valveman12]

They should also paint right under BLM "TRUMP DOES NOT MATTER" Right in front of his slimy building...

[@parkerxjr]

I explained this to an ethhiopian woman that I used to date . It is why we don't look like we are from Nigeria and look more lke east Africans and north africans. What happened to us , happened to them , colonized and invaded , happened to us , slavery .

[@catchingthemoon]

read it, it is truth, I read it in the Houston Chronical. btw

[@mgt2010fla]

What a great person! Smart, well spoken, a great zest for life and growth, with a outlook for a better America, and the American people! If anyone needs to see our past then look at her eyes, see the beauty of her intellect, and then go out and see what you can do to help her be the last monument of the failed rebellion against our Nation!

[@elloco1996]

Amazing woman, amazing article ... you should take out some time to read it.

[@thierrybudts6687]

Can I find this article on internet

[@elloco1996]

@@thierrybudts6687 -- Here you go: www.nytimes.com/2020/06/26/opinion/confederate-monuments-racism.html

[@grazianalu76]

Caroline’s writing is so powerful! Never heard anything like this before, being a product of both sides!