Don Imus  Returns To Radio Airwaves

By: Chante' Wallace

After leaving the airwaves for several months as a result of racist and sexist remarks, Don Imus will return December 3 to the radio scene.

Citadel Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the rumors that Imus would be returning to WABC-AM. 

Imus was fired on April 12^th by CBS Radio after calling the Rutgers University women’s basketball team “nappy-headed hoes”. 

His return has outraged critics including the National Association of Black Journalists and the National Organization for Women.  They have stated that the idea of Imus returning to radio is insulting.

Sonia Ossorio, president of the New York City chapter of the National Organization for Women, asked, “How can America’s memory be so short?  It was only six months ago that he was on the air denigrating young black women who were just out there trying to play ball.”

She goes on to say, “A lot of people say he’s suffered, but how can he be suffering when he got six months off and somewhere between $10 million-$20 million payout from CBS?”  Ossorio was referring to Imus’ settlement with his previous employer.

Before he was dismissed, Imus signed a five-year, $40 million contract with CBS.  After he was fired he threatened a $120 million lawsuit, but settled in August for an undisclosed amount.

Martin Garbus, Imus’ attorney, confirmed the deal but did not elaborate on the financial details of his return.

“We are ecstatic to bring Don Imus back to morning radio,” said WABC radio President and General Manager Steve Borneman. “Don’s unique brand of humor, knowledge of the issues and ability to attract big-name guests is unparalleled. He is rested, fired up and ready to do great radio.”

The resurrection of Imus is nothing new.  The veteran radio personality has remained in tact after bad publicity, a high profile drug and alcohol addiction, and a disastrous appearance at a Washington dinner.

Citadel Broadcasting Chief Executive Officer Farid Suleman also recently defended Imus, telling the New York Times in a recent interview: “He didn’t break the law. He’s more than paid the price for what he did.”

For some civil rights leaders that isn’t enough. 

Al Sharpton stated that Citadel needs to explain how they plan to prevent the radio host’s from making another offensive racial comment.

 “Mr. Imus has the right to make a living, but we have the right to make sure he does not come back to disrupt our living,” Sharpton said. “Particularly since these are commitments he made personally.”