How much criticism did Rev. Jackson get from the black community for calling New York Hymietown? Do you find that more or less offensive than the garbage that Kramer was spewing?
I'd say it is every bit as offensive. I find Rev. Al Sharpton's comments even more offensive than Jackson's (if only because I believe they actually incited violence). But I don't think either one justifies what Richards did. The video quality was really poor, but it sounded like he was practically foaming at the mouth---really lost it. I wonder if he wasn't on drugs of some kind, it was that bizarre.
I think you're right if you are implying that there is a big double standard for some people-- the media especially-- but that doesn't make it right. My immediate reaction was to wonder if this will get as much play as Mel Gibson's episode did, so I do agree with you that different groups and individuals get different treatment. Al Sharpton, in my view, has gotten away with more anti-Semitism than Mel Gibson ever committed.
I hope you agree, though, that the hypocrisy of others-- be it the media, the Jesse Jackson/Al Sharpton establishment, Hollywood-- in no way justifies defending what Michael Richards said. It was disgusting in every sense of the word. It was pure unadulterated hatred and viciousness.