

John McWhorter – Is Ta-Nehisi Coates Right about Israeli Apartheid?
6 snips Oct 11, 2024
In this engaging talk, John McWhorter, a Columbia University professor and New York Times writer, dives deep into the controversial critiques by Ta-Nehisi Coates regarding Israel's policies, questioning if it fits the definition of apartheid. He reflects on the complexities of Black identity in journalism and the challenges of truth-telling. The conversation also touches on Mayor Eric Adams' leadership and the intricacies of race within his governance, as well as academic freedom and its implications in the current political climate.
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Coates's Journey to Dakar
- Ta-Nehisi Coates's book, "The Message," details his trip to Dakar, Senegal.
- This journey is a personal exploration of his connection to Africa, both insightful and predictable.
Coates's Critique of Zionism
- Ta-Nehisi Coates strongly criticizes Zionism, viewing Israel as an apartheid state.
- He believes the project of a Jewish state is problematic due to the region's heterogeneous population.
Eric Adams and the Race Card
- New York City Mayor Eric Adams faces criticism and potential legal trouble.
- He attributes this to racial persecution, a claim that seems opportunistic.