Karith Foster Says She Is No "Sellout"
Eight months after Don Imus infamously labeled the Rutgers University women's basketball team as "nappy-headed hos," Imus is back on the air with a new African-American sidekick. That sidekick, Karith Foster, has been labeled a sellout by some.
In an exclusive interview with Essence.com, Foster talked about the criticism and what Don Imus is like as a boss.
Despite heavy criticism for partnering with Imus, Foster views the gig as a historic moment. Foster said, "What an opportunity to be a positive role model, not just for African-Americans and not just for women, but especially African-American women."Photo Essay: Don Imus
Foster disagrees with critics who accuse her of being a sellout. On the contrary, she believes taking the job ushers in a new era for African-American women's collective voice.
Foster said, "If people would call me a sellout, I'd have to say they don't know me at all, and I am sorry they feel that way. I would hope and prefer they would see this as an opportunity to have a form of representation where there previously was none."
On working with Imus, Foster said, "He is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet. He does have the grumpy old man demeanor. I'm not saying that is not who he is. That is definitely part of who he is. But he is definitely a very kind, gentle person."
Foster does not deem Imus' "nappy-headed hos" comment to be malicious. She said, "He was an old white guy trying to be young and hip and use the modern vernacular. And it wasn't funny."
By Karl Moats