Two multiplied negative numbers create a positive number. But it is also learned that two wrongs don’t make a right. So when one media outlet calls out another on racist commentary, is it part of the solution or the problem? According to the powers that be at Golfweek magazine, they’re part of the problem. The magazine fired editor Dave Seanor after electing to run an image of a noose on the publication’s cover. The cover story responded to the Golf Channel’s Kelly Tilghman’s racially-charged commentary directed toward Tiger Woods — a commentary that included the word ‘lynch.’ The symbolic cover walks that tightrope of controversy but Seanor should be applauded for scrutinizing Tilghman’s words. While Seanor — who suspected advertising pressures played a role in his departure — lost his job, Tilghman merely faces a two-week suspension. In an interview with Michael Arkush, Seanor said: “When race and golf are in the same sentence, people want to change the subject as soon as they can.” Perhaps the wealthy white readership isn’t ready for this dialogue; perhaps Golfweek wasn’t the venue for a race discussion. But in 2008 it should be.
