CNN

Racism is fine and well in the US...

Jack it is very sad. It means that with all that was gained in civil rights over the last 40 years mean nothing to the backward thinking in Louisiana of individuals with authority to grant a marriage license. Is there still a law like this in Louisiana? If so hello, Louisiana joint the rest of the United States and abolish such a law. We should all be blind to such things as interracial marriage in this day and age.

Jack,

I think this is wrong nobody should be denied marriage license gay, straight , bisexual , transgendered, black, white, latino We need to amend the 14th amendment to say that Marriage is between two loving couples. I think we as gay americans have waited to long we need hope we need equality.

Albany ny

It means there are pockets of ignorance and hatred in this country that have been bubbling to the surface since the election of President Obama. I hope this guy gets the pants sued off him.

There is a person or persons in Louisiana that have lost their mind.
Joanne B
Mn

Racism is alive and well in the USA, despite any attempts to say otherwise. It is especially flourishing in the Republican strongholds of the south, the radical right, and older white male! The good news is that it isn't as predominate among the younger generation. Hopefully there will be improvement in each generation to come.
A leopard doesn't change it's spots, but eventually old leopards will die off and be replaced by a new, more enlightened generation!!!

It means that we still have a few states that never made it into the 20th century, let alone the 21st century. And to the moron who decided to do this, I’m really thrilled to hear that this is your most important and pressing problem. But instead of bothering with trivia like that, please come and teach the rest of the country how you solved all of your state’s problems, such as healthcare reform, education, debt, unemployment, balanced budget, illegal immigration and so forth. We could really use your help and insight.

It just reaffirms that anyone who says, "I'm not a racist, but..." is about to say something REALLY racist.

That is the symbol of Louisiana – a primitive state, so is Alabama and Mississippi. The majority of the people there are caught up in the 50s and 60s.

It is a matter of minutes before the democrats blame this on the republican because if they disagree with Barack they are immediately classified as racists.

It simply means that Lousiana has one heck of a long road to hoe in order to get in step with the rest of the civilized world.

What does it mean when an interracial couple is denied a marriage license in Louisiana in 2009?

Just one more example that racism is still a problem here in America.

That JP should lose his license.

Jenna
Roseville CA

Jack, it was not really the state of Louisiana denying a marriage license but only one person in power wrongly pushing his bigoted views upon a happy couple wanting to spend their life together. But this does shed some light on how people in most states, including my California, wrongly use their voting power to push their bigoted views upon same sex couples in 2009,

It just means America is on it's way back to the future.

It means that racism is still an issue in America – contrary to all the politicians and media mouthpieces want America to believe.

This is absolutely absurd in this day and time.

Come to the south, and turn your calendar back 200 years.

We have come a long way Jack, but racism is alive and well in the bayou State, I know I live here..... now they will tell you they are not racist but actions speak louder that words........ we are a rabid red State too.......hmmmmmmm go figure.

One step forward, and two steps back.

Non-hetero-sexuals are denied marriage licenses in most states of this country. We've come a good distance in meeting America's promise of Justice for all, but we are still on our way. Keep walking.

That the clerk might be a teabagger?

It means that the justice of the peace who refused to issue the license
does not know he is living in 21st century America.
This clown should be removed from office and jailed for first degree stupidity.

There are just some people who feel that they are right enough to make other people's decisions for them not realizing tht they are overstepping their bounds and even breaking the law.

It exposes the same racism in Louisiana that Hurricane Katrina did.

The Justice of the peace should be fired, he can not impose his belief on others. If he can not fulfill the requirements and duties of his job then he should be fired.

Buy a calendar, Mr. Bardwell; they start with a '2' now.

T.J. Cassidy,
Arlington, VA

Jack, people are going to do whatever they want to do.

Thats means SOME people are still living in the JIM CROW ERA or want it to return. I bet this jerk just loves the distinquished southern Senator Strom Thurmond, because its ok to have sex with them BUT just don't marry them.

It means that someone needs to be fired for being such a total jerk, especially since he admitted he did it, and that the Republican Louisiana government is protecting its own by not doing so. I can't stand the Republican government in this state, and Jindal and his buddies are no better than Bush.

It means racism is alive and well still. How ignorant people choose to be.

Racism is alive and well in Louisiana as well as ignorance and bigotry.
Those who hoped for a post racial society with the election of Obama need to wake up-we aren't there.
The solution is more and better public education. But, it won't happen without a revolution-teachers unions resist all change and legislatures won't provide adequate financing.
Terry

Jack this is not surprising but not because of a black white marriage but because there are few qualifications to become a judge and common sense is not one of them.
I have personally pulled a drunk judge out of his vehicle and had him transported home only for him to take the bench the next day and decide the fate of a DWI offender.
I have seen other judges sign affidavits for search warrants without reading them. The point I am trying to make is that you get what you elect or appoint and with that comes things exactly like your writing about.

This just make me sick .we are in 2009 people should accept one anothe regarless of race >GOd help us .

In this particular case, which appears to be unusual, I think it means that Bardwell has a hangup about interracial marriages.
I think his "reason" – that it's hard on mixed race kids – is a bunch of bull. A friend of mine who has taught kindergarten for 30 years has said in the past that her smartest students are mixed race children.
I have a beautiful 15 years old "mixed" granddaughter (with red hair and blue eyes!!) who is a straight-a student, on her school's dance team and has had NO problems EVER adjusting to anything, and nobody has ever had a problem with her.

It means that we are far from a post-racial America. Anyone who says, "oh, they could go find another justice of the peace," has never been denied something because of their race. This couple has the right to get a marriage license from every justice of the peace and should not have to shop around for approval of their interracial marriage.

Jack where they a same sex couple if yes then right so if not than this is wrong.

jack ,this is not right although i don't believe in interacial marriage but i also believe anyone should be free to marry anyone they want to as long as they are of legal age.i wonder if the judges ruling is unconstitutional as i believe it is

Unfortunately, I would expect this question if it were two gay people attempting to obtain a marriage license. I surely thought this prejudice was in our past and we now require laws to balance out gay civil equality.

Disturbing, considering my parents one white, one hispanic obtained a license to wed 43 years ago. Wait, that license was granted in the UK; I now wonder if they married in the UK before they moved back to the USA.

It's disgusting that we have to contemplate this. Doesn't our Constitution grant us ALL equal rights, it did when ratified on March 4, 1789. This can't be happening in 2009, what is wrong with us as a society. I can only hope this situation was an error by an uninformed civil servant.

It explains why someone as backwards as Bobby Jindal is governor of Louisiana.

It means it's Louisiana, and you know the pace of the South.....sllloooooooowwwwww. They have a lot of catching up to do since the Civil War and Civil Rights movement.
Lucy
SF, CA

Jack–
It means the racism that was underground before Obama's election is quickly rising to the surface and rearing its ugly head. This guy is a racist and an elitist, using his position to make decisions about people's lives that he has no right to make. He should lose his job for his ignorant arrogance. Americans who think this kind of attitude and behavior is wrong, need to speak up and then act on their values to stop this immoral activity.

it means that Tangipahoa Parish's 8th Ward will probably have a new Justice of the Peace after their next election.

It means that that particular Justice of the Peace is pretty stupid. In other words, he acted stupidly.

It means we still have a long way to go & that neither our president nor the American people should be so quick to brush off continual dialogue about race relations in America just because it makes people uncomfortable. The fact that in 2009 the mere idea of a dialogue about race relations in America still makes people uncomfortable & defensive, even with a bi-racial president in office says it all. We may have come a long way as a nation but we still have a long way to go.

It means there are still racists in public offices. Surprise, Surprise that it is in the South! I hope that it is not as much a reflection of the electorate, and more of an inaction in policy change combined with the occasional racist judge "gone rogue."

All it means is that the spirit of racism has always been alive and well even with a black man in the white house...

Jack: It makes Louisiana look like an all white boys and girls club. It is the worse thing that can happen in a southern state. The Justice Department needs to send a warning to Louisiana via the state attorney generals office this type of behavior will not be tolerated in the United States. The parrish justice of the peace is causing a problem for the citizens of Louisiana it does not need or wants.

It means this country has not put its racist past behind it! When are people going to learn that Equal Protection under the law MEANS equal protection under the law. In 1967, the Supreme Court, in Loving v. Virgina stated that one cannot help who they fall in love with and the government should not dictate such a choice. A justice of the peace at Hammond, Louisiana either didn't get the memo, or refused to read it. After this ridiculousness, the only job he should hold is one in which he s required to say, "Do you want some fries with that?"

I think it is very clear...It means a law suit filed against the justice of the peace, an elected official, and possibly the parish that he "serves".
I don't care what Keith Bardwell — justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana beleives as long as the law of the land is carried out. Laws against inter-racial marriage were overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court on 12 June 1967; as a result of the Loving v. Virginia case. Bardwell should resign, immediately.

Jack, it means we are back to the days of slavery. yes, it is sad to even think of something like this will happen in the twenty-first century; but surely enough it is happening. something about the human race i just do not understand, but this is what i do know though, so long as we continue to view ourselves as different from one another there will always be discrimination with stupid laws to back those views. One thing these crazy legislators do not understand is that love is blind, and there is nothing you can do to stop its force. I am African (from Sierra Leone) and my girl friend is American (white, originally from Britain), but we get along just fine.

It means we have a long way to go before we undestand the meaning of equality. in this country - if not in the world.

Jack, it means that this cretin has thrown down the race card to trump society’s hard-won ace of racial progress. No wonder every time one turn’s around some group or another is accusing the other of playing the race card. Too many like this Louisiana person insist on playing the Joker’s wild card games with person’s lives. So my back at you questions are at what point will our society realize that we can’t play a card if it’s not in the deck? And where is this Neanderthal Joker working now?

Much as I would want to tell the justice of the peace that its not their province to determine what happens to a marriage in the long run and that his denial may boader on racial lines; it has also been proven that mixed children find it hard to find their place in society as both races end up pushing them away. In a much rational way he was right but of course any instance like this in our racially polarized nation comes out with a racist canotation.

Indianapolis

Well, he's fired, they should make him pay for the wedding too.

It's stunning to know that in 2009 we're still facing an issue like this. It says that this country still hasn't really moved forward enough from to leave racism behind. Let's move on America. The rest of the world has!

Orlando, Florida

It means that Jim Crow is still thriving in many parts of our country. Unfortunatety there are those that think that the only way to increase their own social status is by decreasing the social status of others.

This is one of the most asinine and blatantly racist things I've seen since the dragging death of James Byrd, Jr. in Jasper Texas! This JP has been elected to perform the duties of a Justice of the Peace, not make moral judgements on the racial discrimination against the couple's possible children! Some of our Southern states, including parts of my own, need to update themselves to at least the latter part of the 20th century, if they aren't willing to join us in the 21st!

A suggestion...if the couple really feels like it, I wonder if this could count as a "hate" crime?

The south may have lost the war but racism is still alive & well. That 'Justice' of the Peace should be removed from office, now, & sued by the offended couple for violating their civil rights.
David, Las Vegas

It means that racism is alive and well in the South. It also means that the same people that believe that government should not be involved in providing health care for the uninsured have no problem with government interferring with who marries whom. When some southern colleagues told me once that the South would rise again, I never thought they meant from where it left off before the civil war.

It means that particular Justice of the Peace is about to lose his commission and that some attitudes are hard to eradicate.

Jack,

It means we still have a long way to go!

Independent Joe

That they believe that their in Russia and can control peoples lives or that marriage is between a man and woman of the same skin color. Wouldn't you love to be a lawyer to get rich off of Louisiana? Even I could argue that case in front of the Supreme Court and win.

It means that the civil rights fight is not over. And for me being a Louisiana resident and us [Louisianians] having elected a person of color governor is truly embarrasing. This insident shows that the Southern states still hold on to that Confederate mind set.

It means that the shinning light on "America The Beautiful" is not as bright as we want the world to think it is.

Fred
Livingston, AL.

From Albert Graham
Huntsville, Alabama

Jack,

No one should be surprised about this incident. As shocking and revolting as this behavior of an elected public official is, we must as a country, acknowledge that bigotry and fear is still prevalent in our society.
I am a child of an interracial marriage and both of my parents had to endure insults and hateful behavior from their fellow citizens. Being of mixed race (African American and European), I often take notice of official forms asking me to specify my race. I set a big X over the usual options (caucasian, black, asian, hispanic etc) and proudly write in all upper case letters:

AMERICAN!!!

I see this latest incident as part of a larger cultural reaction from the less intelligent members of the majority ethnic group in this country, reacting to the undeniable fact that the demographics of this country is changing. As they see this reflected in the diverse racial mix of positions of power in our government(first African president, first Hispanic supreme court justice, first asian secretary of energy etc.), expect the Rush Limbaughs, Glen Becks and other bigots to wine more and louder as time goes by. I honestly don’t understand what the root of their fear is. Perhaps they fear that when they become part of an ethnic minority in this country, the majority will treat them with the same degree of dignity as they have the current minorities? I am confident and proud to say…that we will not.

Oh yeah...fire that idiot . He has no business in public office.

Means what many have tried to say: we'?2 422, fantastic Progress but there are still those who are Perverted in there perception of the Real World. I'm sure GOP candidates will get this idiots vote.

What does it mean?

It means that Rush Limbaugh, Glenn Beck have a listener who is a J.P. in Louisiana. This is not a big surprise.

Bob
Louisville, Ky

It is time to take away power from stupit judges, Judges think they are god. I'm from La. and I think he is sick.

Maybe that is why our president spent only four hours in that state? With their attitude towards segregation he should feel lucky everyone wasn't dressed in sheets at the airport.

Holy crap. "neither black nor white society accepts biracial children" So um, when the majority of the US voted for a biracial man to be the leader of the free world, both black and white society were rejecting him??? hmmmm....
Lucy
SF, CA

It means: nothing has changed, authorities need to take broader steps and harsh punishment to those responsible for this kind of behavior.

It means that the judge is a racist and hes got a big shock coming up when the gay people show up at his door step its proubly time for him to retire .

Maybe someone should have pointed out we have a half and half president married to a woman with white blood in her ancestory? If is okay for the president shouldn't it be okay for people of Louisiana/

It means that Joe Wilson will have to move over on his exalted southern pedestal, the christian conservative south has a new hero to worship.

Well Jack, I'd say: you can take justice of the peace out of the swamp, but you can't take the swamp out of justice of the peace.

Jack we paid just under 9 million to France for the Louisiana puchase is there anyway they might want to buy it back? We would offer a discount if we sold it with the people to remain in it.

Dear Jack
You obviously have not spent much time in Louisiana. Jerks like Bardwell are legion and usually occupy local elective office where they can indulge their whimsy and petty tyranny without let or hinderance. Check out Paul Stekler's documentary "Louisiana Boys Raused on Politics". The Bardwells of the Pelican state come from a long tradition and their misfeasance in office are generally ignored or viewed as amusing by most Louisianans. That's why Louisiana is what it is.
Pablo

It means that maybe we have not come as far as we thought we have in race relations. Does the judge lose his job?

Even in Louisiana this type of behavior is considered backward and racist. There is a long history of accepting bi-racial children in this state, especially in the New Orleans region and this person really needs to study his history more.

Good lord. Why are we going backwards instead of moving forward? I swear people are becoming more stupid but sadly this is how alot of Southern people feel. Mind you own business. Isn't this a form of Communism?

I wonder how many "white folks" he has married and what are the precentages of those still together. Nothing has changed and in my lifetime I don't think it ever will.

I am surprise something like this still happens, even in Louisiana. This man says he treats everyone equally. I guess he means as long as there is no difference in skin color. He is a racist and a idiot that should be fired immediately. I don't know if it is just me but it seems whenever something like this occurs it is usually in the state of Louisiana. It sure doesn't speak well for the state. It's about time that they stopped living in the sixties and join the rest of the country.

If the State of Lousiana doesnt fire him IMMEDIATELY, then a federal investigation of Louisiana needs to take place.
If the Federal governament doesn't apply pressure to have him removed from office IMMEDIATELY, then the federal governament needs to be investigated.

Wait a minute..........forget it.......I'm still waiting for my "forty acres and a mule".....

Actually I did get my "Forty acres and a Mule"............I can only travel about forty acres anywhere in this country before running into racism in some fashion, wheter direct or suttle...............And I have to constantly deal with 'MULES" like this so called "JUSTICE of the PEACE" on a daily to weekly basis....Go figure.....

We will keep on having racial division as long as we continue to refer to our fellow Americans by their color or ethnic background first and American as second or last. When I refer to you as "African- American" instead of "American of African decent" I think of you as less American and more foreign, so it's okay to degrade you, or short you on your American freedoms. Americans of Hispanic decent should more than anyone else be interested in stemming illegal immigration because of what they and their ancestors have gone through to have the title of American, instead we put Hispanic in front of America and it becomes how my poor fellow Hispanic should have amnesty and not have to be held accountable for being here illegally. Let's wake up and call our fellow Americans, "Americans" and work together for a better AMERICA.

Judge Bardwell should be fired and the couple married forthwith.

Part of the South is still in the Klu Klux Klan mode. He should be fired and sent to sensitivity classes.

It means that this interracial couple now should realize what gay men and women face every day in this country.
Brownwood, Texas

what was that crack about there is no racism in this country. This judge must be a snake oil salesman on the side trying to give us hus reasons for denying an afircan american man and white female the right to marriage just as we all and should have. I am reminded of a story I once heard from the great Dodger announcer Red Barber who described a story that took place way back 1903 thats still relevant today,Branch Rickey (who once was a baseball coach at ohio weslyan university) his best player was black and was denied lodging cause of his color. The player was allowed to stay in Mr. Rickeys room and when he returned later he saw him crying on the edge of the bed saying if I could tear my skin off i'd be like everyone else. Well Judge this man is exactly like Jack, Like wolf or just like anyone on the CNN staff. He is a human being and should be treated as such.

Of course this guy knows what he's talking about. Biracial children like Barack Obama truly do suffer greatly. Imagine the indignity he suffered by being elected President of the United States.

Fire this guys rear back to the Stone-Age where he belongs.

Bardwell and people like him must be dazed and confused that a biracial child, who wouldn't have been born if it were up to them, managed to grow up and become President of the United States.

It means that some people might need to be reminded to turn the pages of their 1935 calendars.

Mark
Oklahoma City

Geez, I wonder if Louisiana knows we landed on the moon.

It means MLK Jr. is fake, Obama is not real, Oprah is nothing but a TV Barbie to the Down Southern....We should ask the Judge to paint his face black and walk around the town so everyone can give him a wipe while he is marching to his grave.

What is means is that he is probably a white evangelical republican who thinks he has the right to decide what people should do, ,just like most of the white evangelical republicans to them they are the only ones who have the right to decide how people should live their lives.

It means that there are too many out there that want to "turn back the clock" and party like its 1959!

It means this-That the deep south still has more then their share of Neanderthals. White people that cannot get over the fact that the nation started changing socially 40 years ago – and good for us that it did.
I lived with a black woman for 6 years and even though we ended up going our separate ways, mainly due to the fact that she wanted to get married and have children and I had been there, done that – I loved her and still do. People are people and you can't always choose who you fall in love with.
And the hell with the rest of the idiots, wherever they are. And by the way Jack. The most gorgeous people on the planet are usually of mixed race.

If this racist is a social scientist then I’m a princess. And by golly, he even lets the black folk use his bathroom! What a guy. They’re all crawling out of the woodwork these days, and it’s not pretty.

It means the justice of peace has some problems. I wonder if he would have done differently had the mixed couple consisted of a white male and a black woman?

Darn those social scientists, always up to something.

Maybe Justice Bardwell is just afraid that one of their children might grow up to be president.

This is 2009, not 1909. This is clearly a case of Discrimination because I would bet anything that the figures would show that Same Race divorces are much more numerous than InterRace Marriages.

If you do not like InterRacial Marriage, don't marry outside your race, if you do not like Gay Marriage, don't marry a Gay Person. But stop trying to tell the rest of us how to live our lives on a day to day basis.

The meaning is simple, racism is still alive and well in Louisiana.

It means Louisiana is still hanging on to the stale, out-dated ideas of segregation. Maybe they haven't noticed that the majority of voters elected an interracial person President of the United States.

No doubt those rules were made a long time ago. Are they both US citizens?

Jack,
Who elected this pinhead? When he says that "black friends...use my restroom", is that while they are cleaning it for him?
Have a great weekend!
Rory Murray
San Bernardino, CA

It means that this loser is breaking the law, simple!
Racism is a horrible disease, get well soon!

It means it's Louisiana. Anyone surprised? He surely is an exception, but an exception that is apparently tolerated. Is it too late to sell the "territory" back to France?

time for this joker to be fired. Does he think this is 1950. He needs to get a reality check

His reasons are the problem and many in other states have the same raciest view whether Latino, Indian , African American, Asians or Arab . They are the reason that children are not accepted. Many of my generation have grand children of mix races and cultures It's our "friends" like Kieth Bardwell that try to belittle our children's choices of who they marry. Actually, I am their friend they are not mine. I don't treat my friends that way. We have enjoyed our family and learned a valuable lesson that is, to have had the ability to walk in others shoes.
It means that as soon as Keith Bardwell is removed from his office the better off Louisiana will be. Our family is learning to live in a melting pot of beautiful children which are now adults.

It means they need to move to San Francisco. It comes down to a simple question: Do they want to get married or stick around and fight city hall? And, of course, there's always Las Vegas - Chapels there will marry anybody, anytime - middle of the day or middle of the night.
This coupling seems to be getting off to a rough start.

Gary H. Boyd, Scottsdale, Arizona

Why should it even be up to him? As if the fighting over gay marriage wasn't enough, this guy has to take upon himself the arbitrary laws of the civil rights era?

Why does anyone even tolerate this kind of crap? I say fire him and let the two people get married already. They're not violating any laws or hurting anyone so who honestly cares? Besides that the way the world is going now, we're all going to end up mixed together down the line anyway. One less interracial marriage is not going to stop it.

Ain't that America...

HD in Phoenix, AZ

Jack,

I am a Chinese and my ex is white. No one ever worried about what our children would look like....why pick on the black?

We should post this judge's picture on the hall of shame in American history of civil rights.

Mr McKay appears to be of mixed heritage. Who does this fool of a judge think he should marry?

Jack, I hope Bardwell soon becomes an EX-justice of the peace and the object of a discrimination lawsuit, because he's an embarrassment to the profession.

Speaking of Louisiana, today at a town hall meeting in Louisiana a fourth grade African American kid asked the President “Why people hate you” and the President responded with numerous reasoning way why this type of behavior has occurred, none being more important than when he responded with “Now first of all I did get elected President, so not everybody hates me”. Yet, the media misquoted the kid as saying “Why does everybody hate you” my point being that the media has engaged in trying to make news oppose to reporting it, which has directly and indirectly created an atmosphere that’s conducive to this type of behavior, and if you don’t think that it’s true, just take a look at the birthers, tea parties and every other nut job out there that has gotten undeserved attention. So it’s not surprising to me when I see the small minority view being exploited.
So once again, if you don’t think that this Country is going to hell in a hand-basket, just take a look at what’s been happening since the President has taken office. Gov. Rick Perry calling for the secession of Texas from the union, and perhaps the most Liberal station in the Country helping to promote the Birther movement by interviewing someone that questions the President’s right to be our leader, when she herself (Orly Taitz) was born in the Soviet. Forgive me, but did I fail to mention that on the other side we have one of the most conservative stations around promoting a Shock Joke (sorry I mean Jock) as their leader, leaving you as one of the only sane Journalist around, Jack. It appears that opinionative journalism has gone in the same direction that my comment has, yes; you guessed it, (to hell in a hand-basket). Perhaps there are those that might argue that at least it’s better than calling us to arms against a Country with weapons of mass destruction. When we see folks calling others traders and accusing Citizens of committing treason as not being delusional and total madness, how can then honestly expect the government or big business to be any different when they see the rest of us jumping off the nearest bridge?

What about the case that the judge tried and the was defended was Black.

The JOP in question is most likely married to his own cousin or worse. To people like this incest is a game the whole family can play.

Jack: Just another example of the "REAL WORLD". Some people do not get it and never will. This "racist" should be removed from any public position.

It means racism is alive and well in the South, just like everyone has already said over the last several months. Evidently the Supreme Court decision of 40 years ago still isn’t enough to convince these Neanderthals. My wager is this “Justice of the Peace” was probably a Republican too.

The jp who denied to marry the interracial couple in la.. Is there any doubt who he voted for in the last presidential election?? Dahhhhh

Jack, are you sure this Justice real name is not David Duke???

Old, old fool!!!

The KKK is still alive and reeling.... sickening.

someone wants to take us back 15,330 steps (or days) to a place that denied upon race creed or color. I thought we were better than that after all those days inbetween til now. I thought the mafia, KKK, weathermen, black panthers, all the old way of thinking was gone really I thought we had out grown it I thought we had reached a more mature outlook. Opps sorry wrong we call each other name and think we are grown up. We are a bunch of babies in this country looking for differences to fight about whether it is health care or who can marry who someone else has to put their two cents in on what i should be allowed to do. Tell them to MYOB (mind your own business). They shout they do not want the government to tell them what they can do but it is ok that they tell others they can not marry or have health care. This is just plain law and it has been for 42 years Jack I was 10 years old when this happened I remember seeing interracial couplese more and more after that before we would stare now it doesn't even life my eye. I am married to an Arab so I guess I am just like those. I had to wait for the government to approve our marriage for immigration purpose. It is the law. those laws on the books should be honored and abided. This is a land of lawlessness again we thought the wild west was won and now look at us. sad

It means that Justice is clearly NOT blind. Justice can see just fine... and Justice is a bigot.

Jimmy Turner
Sacramento, CA

Jack, It means the south is still the only place in America where this kind of bull can still graze on the pastures of progress.

“I just don’t believe in mixing the races that way. I have piles and piles of black friends. They come to my home, I marry them, they use my bathroom. I treat them just like everyone else.”

Jack,

this is unbelievable from a judge! He should be fired and sent to retrain his brain if it is not too late...! You know, as a french person I learn not to use the word pile...in english the word pile does have a different meaning!

This is absolutely ridiculous. We should all know this. Anything said of another opinion should be thrown in jail.

Just sounds like a pissed off Republican trying to get a shot in.

It means that one justice of the peace in Tangipahoa Parish is living in the past. That's all. Let's not generalize Louisiana, folks.

OMG, ":and I even let them use my bathroom." Well, that says a lot about him. I will be amazed if he has any friends after that one. He should be removed from office and disbarred. This is, after all, 2009, and he is about 40 years behind the times.

"I have piles and piles of black friends. "..........Thats what they all say

That bigotry is alive and well. Jack it is on both sides of the color lines. Many folks feel it is not right. What they don't know is the color of your skin is not what defines you as a human being. This situation is improving though or we wouldn't have the man we do in the white house.

It means Katrina missed a few spots, down there.

It means there is an idiot down there that didn't get the memo.

Blatant racism period.

An appalling story, but no less upsetting than our country denying homosexual couples the right to marry.

Jack...really what can we say as Americans?...just lol

It means that we obviously have not come as far in race relations as people would like to think.

Jack, I guess it means that gays can expect to be denied marriage until at least 2051?

–Stephen Fox
Panama City, Florida

It means the judge has listened to too many Glenn Beck conspiracy-opinionated news shows. What ever happened to choice?

Why are people so shocked about this? The state has always told individuals who they can and cannot marry. What is the difference between telling an interracial couple or a gay couple that they cannot marry?

The Heene family is biracial and there's nothing wrong with them.

You say that when can the governement decide who can marry? Well, why are gay marriages prohibited in many states by our government? It is the same thing. Some things can't change until we change our ways of thinking on ALL marriage issues.

It means that we're not as far along as we'd like to think, Jack.

Cearwater, Florida

It means that the south has always been conservative but with Obama they've really gone over the coo-coo hill.

In defense of the state of Louisiana, my husband and I got "interracially" married in Terrebonne Parish 35 years ago....and oh yeah.....it's still lasting.
Julie

It means a law suit. And I wouldnt stop at the justice of the peace I would take it to the state of LA.

It means he broke the oath he took and needs to find a new line of work. No ifs, ands, or buts.

Jack

It says there are still a lot of ignorant morons out there. This is just one of many examples.

John
Carlsbad, CA

Jack- it simply means we have not come very far in our quest to be a racially neutral society! That minister should find another line of work! Let me also put my two cents in on that kook, Heene- regardless of the motivation for the UFO ordeal, Mr. Heene should take two classes: Anger Management and Parenting! Thanks, Jack!

Justice Bardwell, the cleaners called...Your Klan robes are ready, come pick them up!

Jack, knuckle-dragging morons decide who people can marry every day. Being a gay man, elected officials all over the nation have decided I do not have the right to marry the person I love, no matter what race he or I might be. The government either needs to let consenting adults marry according to their own choice, or else they need to get out of the marriage business altogether.

I,m not surprised at all because deep down,the US is as racist and backward as its always been.

Of course the judge is racist.....

Just like my white college-educated retired Navy cousin who was born and bred in Louisiana.

She says she just can't help herself.

I was a white 21-year old in Seattle, Washington in 1962 and I dated black guys because they were great dates! Respectful and they took me to the best dance places around! But that was the Pacific Northwest. Best place to live in the WORLD!

It means that Jimmy Carter knows what he's talking about concerning the continuing influence of racism.

Not suprising for louisiana. Racism is still prevalant. There are white males who openly threatened POTUS and are never reprimanded because of race and class issues. This behavior is acceptable and folks who try to stand up for right are punished and demonized

What in the blue hell is going on? Seriously? What's even more unbelievable is that this guy wasn't tossed out on his racist rear end after the first couple he turned down. He has got to go.

Mount Vernon, WA

Jack:

There are people down in the southern states that still believe in slavery – whats the difference if this "good ole boy" turns down a marriage license or wants to still own slaves. It fits the profile to a "T".

After seeing "foil" looking UFOs yesterday & reading this...
I really had to check what year this is.
Tell me isn't not 1960, please.

Of course he's racist. He's from Louisiana isn't he? He should be made to resign. On the other hand your statement, "The ACLU says the Supreme Court ruled in 1967 that the government cannot tell people who they can marry" must sound a bit ironic to gays and lesbians.

As for the hyperactive brat and the balloon, I agree it's a scam perpetrated by the abusive father, who terrorizes his family, including little "Falcon" who looks autistic to me. His behavior is inappropriate. He can't even answer simple questions at the age of six. He's probably as nuts as his father. They should be made to pay for all expenses involved in the commotion they caused even if they AREN'T lying, just for their negligence and irresponsible idiocy.

this means that this country is still debating whether or not it's still the land of the free. come on, this is so pathetic

just like the obama haters...."confederacy"...................ever been to louisianna????its the dark ages...corruption.....poorest state in the union.......no leadership....very sad...highest crime in the country.....i expect rhett and scarlett will jump out any minute

This is an example of just how much bigotry exists in this county including by people who have convinced themselves that they are not bigots.

Jim, Craig, CO

Yes, it is atrocious that this happens still in 2009. But is it really that strange? As a country we STILL will not honor a homosexual couple their right to marriage because of nothing but blind bigotry. This is no different.

As I watched you and Mr. Blitzer laugh at this yahoo who denied the LA couple a marriage license I couldn't help but think of my own life. Of course, it's ridiculous that two people who love each other can't get married! As a gay man, I can't wait for the day when it's considered egregious that two adult men or women can't get married.

It means that there is still some racism in this country, but that isn't new to anyone is it? It's not like it just goes one way. There are just as many racist blacks in this country as there are whites, if not more. The media only points out the white ones. What it boils down to is that it cannot be tolerated anymore and this guy needs to lose his job immediately.

Holy Cow!! That judge is clearly racist. Hasn't he heard that we have a biracial president? Why don't we stop calling Obama our first black president and identify him as biracial.

Lynn
Fort Mohave, AZ

It means that the Governor of the state, Bobby Jindal better get his butt in gear to get this "clown" fired. If he doesn't, he can kiss ALL political aspiratins goodbye. It's on his watch.

I think it means that there are still a few true people holding onto their beliefs. Can't they go somewhere else to get a marriage license? obviously this man has a good track record of marrying both black and white couples. Why is this such a big deal?

It means the same thing as when a Gay or Lesbian couple is denied a marriage license in most of America

This is typical of those freedom loving Americans, sic repulicans, as long as they decide what freedoms we should enjoy. Certainly not a womans freedom of choice or a city's freedom to ban guns, or a husbands freedom to follow his comatose wifes wishes. Why should we enjoy those freedoms when they give is the freedom to chose which health insurance company, oops that's right we don't have that freedom either

jack it means that some americans are still quite unevolved, as i type this i can only hope this person is being fired or is handing in his resignation.
george
chester,ct.

What does this say? It says that we still have morons in this country that think they can tell other people how to live. I am a gay man living in the south, and I can tell you first hand, that discrimination is still all around us. It is a plague in this country that must be fought against at all costs. No one should be denied life because of whom the decide to spend it with. It's called CIVIL and HUMAN rights, people! Look it up if you aren't stubborn enough to actually take the time to read!

Jack , It means that FOX news is no longer just a news channel . They are into LAW and Justice too !!!

My guess is that Justice Bardwell is a Republican and a big fan of Rush Limbaugh and Glen Beck. Stupid is as stupid does!!!

Jack,

it's the same answer to the question "What does it mean when a same-sex couples is denied a marriage license in the USA in 2009?" It's an international embarrassment.

Alex
Greensboro, NC

I agree with the judge. The children will suffer. I have a child who wants to date a black girl and I flat refuse to let him. I was raised not to date outside of my race and I don't want him to do it either.

Hello Jack, I,m 47 years old, born in louisiana. that judge is not the only one feel that way. most of the state. are republicans. and they let you know how they feel. remember jena.

What is troubling is people know how horrible it is to be a racist, and knowing that makes them cowards when it comes to admitting how horrible it is. He is a racist plain and simple, and I resent what he says because it's a lie. I am a biracial child, my father was Irish and my mother African American and I turned out just fine.

I guess change is still to come to that parish.

I am not surprised.
Just disappointed.

It means that racial prejudice is still alive and well and Clarence Darrow is rolling over again in his grave.

I wonder if this Judge would be considered an “Activist Judge” by conservatives and Republicans.

Well Jack, it means that we are a little too optimistic about racism in this country of ours. We tend to think we are no longer racist as a country and then something ridiculous like this happens and sets us back in our place. We need to be honest with ourselves about the kind of people we have in our government. Are these fools the kind of people we want representing us? For some people, I'm not so sure they're against this judge, which is very disappointing for 2009. He should have been fired before this was allowed to happen. I am disgusted!

Very simple - it means racism is alive and well in America. So much for post-racial!

The guy is a CLOWN...for lack of a better word & should be fired!

It means, Jack, that the bigots in America are still alive and well and will, unfortunately, continue to raise their ugly head.

It was only a few decades ago that if you had 1/32 negro blood, you were considered Negro in Louisiana. As a lilly white person, you rode the back of the bus, ate at black lunch counters, drank from black fountains.

Court decisions do not change conditions of the heart. That takes generations. We're not anywhere near the changes of the heart needed in the old-South to end this racial divide.

It shows us that racism is still alive and well in this day and age. While many of us have tried to rise above it, it is still thoroughly engrained in the American psyche. It maybe time for people to come to the realization that just because you ignore something it doesn't mean it still isn't there.

It means the GOP has tracked so far to the right that bigots feel they are in the mainstream and have social support for such prejudiced views...even a government employee.

It means that you are in Louisiana

Perhaps the Justice should take a look at the nation and its successful individuals; most of them are multi-racial! Plus, I think he thinks himself God to be able to determine who marries who!

I'd like to know the political party that JP belongs to.....and my wife sarcastically commented that the south is still trying to rise again...

It means that SOME semblance of what America was and stood for, STILL remains!!
Halleluja!!
N.D.N.
Pasadena. CA.

What amazes me is that this imbecile was elected judge in the first place... You've said it right Jack, this is 2009 – unthinkable!

This is the reason why racism still exists, because of "non-racist" folk who do racist like thing, but not. I am half mexicns, and my brother and sister are half black. Our mother is white, the actions of this man make us sick. The world has enough problems, GROW UP!!!!!!!! Thank you.

Jack, While on the surface in this day and age you would think he (the judge) is a nut case bigot but unfortunately there is some merit to his thinking. Kids of bi-racial parents are subject to ridicule and abuse by their classmates and society too. I agree it is not right but wake up Jack it is happening. The President himself went through it.

2009 racism is here. actually it never left . America is better now but you've seen the tea party and so called birthers! its time for people to wake up. the minority is still considered the minority in 2009! sheesh! what a country

it means that racism is alive and well in America. still.

I'm glad this is getting attention. Maybe all the straight couples out there who thought Prop 8's mentality doesn't affect them will open their eyes. It's the same sort of bias preventing thousands of same-sex mariiages today, in several states. This isn't an isolated problem. It's one we decided to accept and ignore. By telling elected officials in tax-funded offices that they can pick and choose who to wed based on personal bias, you allowed this man to do just that.

Judges like this exist because most people dont take the time to make an educated vote for their local or state positions such as judges that do not get much media. even if it is during a presidential election, many people either skip the page with reinstating judges, or just mark them all as yes. I am one of few people that actually look up the judges' stats on the state gov website as well as googling them before marking yes. You will find out many more cases such as this and you will be able to vote no for bad judges. Unless constituents do this, he and others will remain in their appointments.

Tucson, AZ

It might be politically incorrect to bring up racism, but believe me it is alive and well as evidenced by this story. If we were to be perfectly honest the problem is that America is still a very prejudice nation. The JP can believe whatever he wants however, when he puts on the robe he had better follow the law. If he can not, and clearly he can't or won't, he needs to be relieved of duty.

Are you guys just realising that rasism is still very dominant in 2009, I lived in Louisiana juat left after I lost my Job, I see it everyday, and as for the inter-racial couple, the Justice of peace is just doing what is predominant in teh state.

I am an interracial woman and I can totally understand what the Justice is saying I am not saying I agree but, I have never met my white side of my family, they disowned my mother for marrying my father, and it has been hard for me dealing with not knowing my grandparents and they are both dead on both sides now. I still have not met my mother's family at 32 years old. I don't think it's his place to let his personal feelings get involved in his job though.

It means exactly the same thing as a Gay American couple being denied a marriage license in California. By the way, Jack, there's not much difference between a racist and a bigot.

Francis
Cathedral City, California, USA

He should be fired, but only after marrying an interracial couple. There is no room for his "opinion" in his job. He is there to unite couples together..what he thinks should not be allowed. Just because he has black friends, and they go to his house, and they use his restroom, that has nothing to do with it. Yes he says he has married some of them, but I bet it was to a black woman.

Well that means that there must be some people that were sucked through a hole in time and space because he must not have been around for the what 3 Civil Rights act and he had no idea that President Obama is a mixed child

This tells me nothing that I didn't already know. Louisianna is a haven for bigots...Jena 6 anybody?

While I agree wholeheartedly that this is incredibly wrong and share in your righteous vitriol, Jack, I think it is also telling that you continually deride this justice of the peace for "deciding who can get married." I wonder how many people who are incensed by this story also voted for "defense of marriage" acts or Prop 8 in California. You are right; we have no business telling two people they cannot get married–whether that means a mixed-race couple or a same sex couple. Race or sexual orientation, those who try to define love based on narrow, bigoted terms are "knuckle-dragging neanderthals."

This tells people that a guy like Bardwell are stuck in the Jim Crow Law Era. Ignorance is a thing of the past, and it is time to open up minds for inter-racial couples to get hitched, and be able to have inter-racial children.

It's about time the FBI and ACLU take action against Mr. Bardwell.

It means the South is still a messed up place to live. A whole lot of them love to still fly the confederate flag. I have only one thing to say, grow up. Or how about just grow in general.

That's very "white"of the JP to let Blacks use his bathroom. It's probably the one outside that says "Negros".

What's the most telling is that the judge said "neither black nor white society accepts biracial children, and they would suffer". Seems to me the judge is afraid of President Obama. And I'm guessing Gov. Jindal won't be asking the judge to resign.

Jack, I don't know why everyone is so surprised that racism still is alive and doing well. Hell all you have to do is check out the republican party and you can find all the racist bigots on the planet. Michael Steel is their party mascot and in charge of the Uncle Tom department.

It means we haven't come as far as we thought and there are probably other justices of the peace out there who feel the same way he does.

Its not that surprising Jack. If we can deny same sex marriages than isn't fair game for anyone to other 'type' of marriage to be denied? Yes, its 2009, but discimination roots are much deeper in our culture...no matter how much we try to grow as a society.

It means that the good ole boys system is still alive and well in Louisiana. Too bad, it wasn't thought of when the slave owners were raping innocent black women and girls...don't touch because of race. I've heard about Bardwell all day, but his age has not been mentioned. I'm willing to bet that he is over 60 and a card carrying member of that white hood organization. He'll never change but will die and end up in that overly hot place below with his bigoted ancestors.

Who said anyone that wants to marry can? We still don't have legal marrage for gay and lesbian couples in all states of the US. The Louisiana situation is all wrong, but so is the marrage system in general in the US.

Are you kidding me,this is news. Ask the gay communty if they've ever heard of such a thing. Welcome to America.

It boggles the mind that these things still happen in the USA in the 21st century. This Justice of Peace should be removed from his post imidiately. I personally believe that no matter race or gender all consenting adults should be able to marry whomever they want.

I guess it means that despite all the progress we've made, some people continue to choose to live in the Dark Ages as far as race issues are concerned. Is Justice Bardwell the only Justice of the Peace over there?

It means that Lousiana is still existing in 1966 America and that need to change, YESTERDAY. And what is this comment about using the bathroom? Does anyine who is honestly NOT racist think about what color individual uses their bathroom???

And people wonder why minorites distrust the establishment...

It means they are being treated like gay couples have been treated in this country forever.
Grants Pass OR

Jack, it means the same thing it meant when a bunch of highly educated Australian doctors donned afro wigs and black face while singing Michael Jackson songs. Evidently we have not come as far as we think. On the other hand, it is very encouraging when people like you and Harry Connick, and millions of others are outraged over such racist idiocy. There is still a problem, but in the words of the song, "I have to admit, it's getting better...a little better all the time."

I live in Washington State, where I hardly ever see or hear about racial problems. I visited Atlanta a few years ago and was appalled by the racism that goes on there. Can't people realize that everyone is the same. How many of these racist people have had a blood transfusion and did not know, that it came from a different race?

Speaking of Morons and moronic activities, nothing that happens in Louisiana surprises me anymore. If there was ever a question about if Racism still exists, one has to go no further than youtube and look up videos of blatant racism in Louisiana. How this clown still has his job is beyond me.

Jack,

What does it mean when an interracial couple is denied a marriage license in Louisiana in 2009? Well it is outrageous of course. As you said on your broadcast, how can this guy think he can tell someone who they can marry in 2009? Of course, my question is how can the state of Louisiana continue to tell me the same thing just because I am gay?

H.V. Shivadas
New Orleans, LA

As a native of Louisiana, and having moved back here from Georgia due to a job transfer it's really no surprise to me that in 2009 people like this so-called Justice of the Peace continue to promote racism. Louisiana is a state that has a long ways to go in terms of our now diverse landscape and how it works. Actually, these Cajuns couldn't spell d-i-v-e-r-s-i-t-y if it written on a piece of paper.

Too bad Justice Bardwell can't see the light of the new day. And that day was many years back. Perhaps he is not only color blind, as he tries to profess (gee, he lets dark skinned people use his bathroom? Wow!) Maybe he's just plain deaf and blind to what's happened since the Kennedy regime. . . civil rights and all that went on since then.

Jack, this Justice might be making sure that no more Obamas run for the White House. Maybe he expects at least 2 or 3 talk show hosts to support him. He will get that support, right?

justice is funny on our country.. Moral Principles should over rule ANYTHING in ink...

It means this judge is worng, just plain wrong. He should be immediately removed from the bench. I am married to a Native American 9+ years. this judge does not follow the law and should be removed.

Aurora, co

It means Americans have been too busy criticizing other peoples of the world rather than 'seeing' what has been happening in the USA.
What are those American values you all talk about so much?

It means that there is absolutely no such thing as a "post-racial" America. Just because we have a biracial President does not mean that all our racial problems will be magically solved overnight - they still exist, and their denial of a marriage license is proof of that.

It's also quite comical that this judge would try and pull the "but I have black friends!" card to justify his ridiculousness.

Juliette
Phoenix, Arizona

Jack,

It's genetics. Nothing more than genetics. There are some people who have the mentality of the 1800's and think their still superior.

el don Rodrigo

I guess that genius does not know President Obama is the child of an interracial couple!

This self proclaimed righteous misinformed puckered up head needs to removed from office ASAP. These are the Americans that perpetuate horrible stereotypes and should be removed from ANY public office. Leave your prejudices at the door and do your job.

Or in this case fire his butt to the curb. Let him taste a little 2009 reality.

All I can say to that couple is, welcome to Canada!

It means they are being treated like most gay couples in this country that wish to be married.

This justice of the peace has let his own beliefs overshadow the law of the land. He has made a statement and now he must suffer the consequences. He must have been ready to give up his job when he committed this act of defiance. The law will now be carried out – the couple will get their license and the justice of the peace will get his pink slip.

What does it mean? In truth, not much. The fact that this is news suggests it is rare for this kind of discrimination to occur. Fortunately, "knuckle dragging morons" like this are a dying breed. There was a time when this couple would have had to travel a thousand miles to get hitched. Fortunately, they were able to just walk down the street to another parish. It's best not to get too worked up over these dimwits, it just encourages them.

I believe the justice of the peace refused to perform the wedding ceremony which has nothing to do with issuing a license which is done by someone else. This justice called another justice who did perform the ceremony.

It saddens me that this took place. My husband and I are an interracial couple and we have been married for 5 years. I want to send out my sincerest support to this newly married couple and tell them that as long as they remain in the south, as my husband and I are, They will always have to "fight the good fight". Stay strong and always remember what brought you together while there are still elements trying to drive you apart.

Jack,
Is there a surprise here? No, none. We continue to be as racist and bigoted as ever.

Jack,

Ignorance can be cured. Stupid is forever. These people never joined the 21st century. It's likely they never will, and that is unfortunate.

Jack,

This truely helps to illustrate how backwards the southern states are when it comes to the country's morality. We need to drag these states to the new century and make them see that not only is interracial marriage a reality, gay marriage should be too.

Dave
Woodbridge VA

I can't believe that this type of discrimination is still happening in 2009! Of course it's wrong to deny an inter-racial couple a marriage license! Now, where is the outrage over same-sex couples being denied marriage licenses each and every day in all but 6 states?

You gentlemen point out that it is 2009 and one Louisiana knucklehead takes it upon himself to decide who can get married. Is this incident not the side dish to gay marriage? This knucklehead can be compared to every other person in this country who feels that it is wrong for gays and lesbians to get married. What is really the difference?

Well well... I'm not racist either...but I can't feel sorry for anyone who gets turned down for marriage when there is a whole population in this entire country who are denied marriage! Yes, I'm talking about gay and lesbian folks. jack, why don't you have the same horror over this fact??

Clearly some people should not be allowed to breed. Bigots top the list.

The sad truth is: we, the people, have a lot more work to do. Good people who do nothing is all that evil needs to win. ( ANd, yes racism is evil!).

He marries black couples at his home and "even lets them use his bathroom"??? Hilarious how racists out themselves without even realizing it. I let my dog eat ice cream from my spoon and consider her to be "almost" human and one of my family...

It means that we apparently haven't come very far as a society if this genius still has a job. I'm the product of an interracial marriage and am deeply offended by Justice Bardwell's decision not to marry this couple based on their race. He's clearly a racist, using such great cop outs as "I have black friends" and the real kicker "I let them use my bathroom." What a class act.

Forty years aft MLK Jr racism, discrimination, hatred, and just dam right ugly still exist. In today's it's not so bad but, the dream of of the later Dr still hasn't met it's potential. I hope it does soon.

Jack you're missing the point...What does Rush have to say about it?
He's the expert on biracials

It is a great reflection on health care, since it obvious that at least in one community in Louisiana they need a really good Proctologist. Although I doubt that would even help get that Justice of the Peace get his head out of where it is.

It means that despite much progress in race relations, and the election of the first African American president, racism has not gotten up on little hind legs and walked away. Racists are the last to admit that they are racists, and wherever such words or behavior rear their ugly heads, there will be denial of wrong thinking and wrong doing, but in truth it means that America has a long way to go toward true racial equality.

John in Newburyport

This judge's comments sound like they are straight out of "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?" Has this guy been asleep for the past 40 years?

Jack,
Do you truly believe that this clown is the only judge making those kinds of decisions with the power of the government behind him? It simply means that this one got the attention of the national media. If you guys looked a little deeper..(Just a little mind) you'd find that state sanctioned racism is alive and well in America. Lift the veil, y'all. We have a long way to go.

I support this justice of the peace. The bible states to multiply kind after kind. This is why you don't see cheetahs running with lions. Government is there to protect the religious from oppression...not to oppress the religious. This couple can merely go to another marital institution rather than oppress this J.O.P. for his beliefs. Calling for his removal is wrong and oppressive.

Gays are the ones that should be denied a marriage license, NOT an interracial couple. At lease the interracial couple can procreate naturally the way it should be done. Gays getting married is pointless and they're the ones that cause too much trouble over it.

One of these things is considered an abomination, the other clearly is not. The couple SHOULD be able to marry and this judge should be removed from the bench, if only for his foul comment of him "allowing blacks to use his bathroom."

Whoopie! An African American can use his bathroom in 2009! Give me a break Jack.

Hi Jack

My skin color is brown my wife is white we have two kids

Some time we have to hear bad comments we ignore those comments

It is hard to imagine that a man of authority is making statements why he has decided not to perform his duty for not marring the interracial couple , as far as I am concerned , their is no mention of color or race in the Bible when it comes to marriage , he should resign as a judge because ignorance has no place in the legal system , Jesus is dancing with sadness in heaven , what a sham , he should resign and practice being God in an other time ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

To put it plainly, it is not too far from what we are seeing with having a Black president. The country is at a turning point where it has to face its demons of the past and present so it can look forward to the future. I am a Black woman and I find it sad but not surprising. This is nothing new to the Black community, just to the White media. By the way, the J.O.P is wrong, biracial children are more likely to be accepted because, once again, it is nothing new to the Black community. Shall we have a history lesson about slavery (i.e "Massa" in the female slave quarters)? Shame on the J.O.P but good for him for showing the world what is still apparent. Racism...even in 2009.

This just confirms my belief that this country is going backwards.
I say more power to this couple. People don't get it: the only way to get rid of racism are bi-racial kids. The more, the better!

We shouldn't start making wider assumptions just because of one total nut-job. Just fire the fool & get back to the 21st century. Now, if he isn't fired...that would be a major issue of note.

Jack,

And you wonder why some of us say, some of the criticism of Pres Obama is racially motivated. Or why we're criticize the Glenn Becks, while they may not racially motivated personally, they still fan the flame these racist. What a shame we haven't progress further from the Jim Crow era.

Bob
Palmdale CA

Jack, the JoP should be put into a helium-filled flaying saucer-shaped balloon and flown far far away – he definitely belongs on another planet

Wow. What an abject moron. I think we still need a generation or two to die off. Bardwell's career is over. Maybe he could be a greeter at Walmart.

It is about time CNN came up with a real case of racism, instead of looking for it in swimming pools. When you start revealing the racists in the black community, I'll start watching again. You could also start calling out the sexists, who run around saying, "Anything a man can do, a woman can do better!" If this were true, we wouldn't have had to lower the standards for firefighters.

Am I supposed to feel badly for heterosexuals when they are discriminated against in regards to marriage? The refusal is outrageous, but so is the fact that same-sex couples can't get married. Maybe this will help people put themselves in our shoes.

Jack, I can only hope that twenty years from now you will be doing a story about a "knuckle-dragging" Justice of the Peace who refused to marry a homosexual couple.

It means that Louisianna is stuck in the year 1950. Say hello to Jim Crow alive and well in Louisianna. Fire the bum.

Jack, this may go back to the old marriage laws in Louisiana. I think I recall reading a white could not marry any other race of more than 16%. I looked this up as a child, so my memory may have faded. Might be worth checking what he actually considers inter-racial. He might marry native indians to blacks, orientals to blacks, etc. Hmmm. By the way, I was actually born in Louisiana in 1942, but fortunately my parents were married elsewhere. He is not prejudiced, he is a bigot.

It's obvious that the dinosaur is still alive and living in Louisisana. And equally obvious that an intelligence test is not a prerequisite for holding office in that state.

Of course, being Canadian, I should be the last one to speak.

The nicest possible thing I can say is that perhaps he has Alzheimers and has reverted to post-1967 in his mind. That happens. Ways of thinking that he has learned or at least pretended for years, could be lost in that case. Even if that's the case it is still extremely disgusting because he was not immediately removed from his office.

Good afternoon Jack, regarding your question: I do not know what it tells us about the state of LA. (we will find that out in the coming days) but I can tell you what I feel it tells us about this Justice of the Peace. My question is: "How old are you? My guess is that you are an older man. Are you still living in the days gone by? " It is very hard to believe in 2009, a man who is charged with enforcing the law of the land - the law of our country - acts in this manner. It simply amazes me. Sir, do us all a favor - resign and go home where you cannot do any harm to anyone else.

Jack,

it’s the same answer to the question “What does it mean when a same-sex couples is denied a marriage license in the USA in 2009?” The answer? It's the fact that the American government cannot simply fulfill a functional role but feels the need to pass ethical judgments as well. All of the above is not only a shame, but a national embarrassment.

Alex
Greensboro, NC

I cannot help, but laugh! SHAME SHAME SHAME on You Keith Bardwell!

May god give you enough common sense , Dimwit!

Jack, it means that some people aren't living in 2009. This racist justice needs to receive a good dose of reality with a side of equality. Refusing to marry an interracial couple is wrong. Really wrong. And the Supreme Court agreed with me 47 years ago. Here's my advice for Justice Bardwell: hit the road and don't turn back.

Jack:

It means that hurricane Katrina hit the wrong Louisiana parish.

Regards – Jim

To me it says that while there is more tolerance in America today, there is still intolerance lurking beneath the surface that is not always visible, yet it still there. Thankfully its not as common as it once was.

It means Jesse Jackson & Al Sharpton will be leaving Rush Limbaugh alone for while they visit Louisianna....
Jay Pea Nanuet NY

Jack,

My 11 year old son just heard your question. My son ask me, "is that not racism?"... Now tell me how am I suppose to explain this about America?

Why can't America shake that image?

James

There is a God and its not Justice Bardwell. The problem here is that Justice Bardwell doesn't know that yet. Maybe he never will learn it. We're all a little crazy but its them who think they aren't that are dangerous. Justice Bardwell should be relieved of his duties for playing God and believing his will is just. Maybe that will help him see some greater truths that have eluded him up to now.

"The freedom to marry has long been recognized as one of the vital personal rights essential to the orderly pursuit of happiness by free men. Marriage is one of the basic civil rights of man, fundamental to our very existence and survival. To deny this fundamental freedom on so unsupportable a basis as the racial classifications . . ., so directly subversive of the priniciple of equality at the heart of the Fourteenth Amendment, is surely to deprive . . . all citizens of liberty without due process of law. The Fourteenth Amendment requires that the freedom of choice to marry not be restricted by individual racial discrimination."

Loving v. Virginia, 388 U.S. 1, Supreme Court of the United States, 1967.

Being from doesn"t help but its the kind of thing that we"ve come to expecedt from the state louisiana , david duke for governor, the jena six , hurricaine katrina and now this clown ... Par for the course.

Ignorance to the FULLEST extent !!

Jack it means that even today in this day and age that there are still crusty old men that can't keep their opinions to themselves. I am a white male and at this moment wishing as hard as I can that if Mr. Barrwell has any kids that they fall in love and marry someone who is not up to "daddy's standards"

Another racist in The United States? How is this a shock? I am well aware that it should not be a shock to us, but it seriously is not.

Jack, only those who have not spent time immersed in the culture that continues to fuel many regions within America consider this shocking. Yes, this type of racism occurs in 2009. Unfortunately, this Justice of the Peace is one tip of the social, religious and political culture. We saw it in August 2005 in many LA parishes following Katrina. Today, we see it again. Call it what you want, but clearly discrimination is alive and well despite federal or state laws.

dear jack,
Just when Louisiana elects an indian-american for governor, you think it will get rid of the notion that its a backwards state. This whole interracial fiasco will only make some people think it's fact instead.

Port Chester, New York

So if there is a law saying that the government isn't allowed to tell people who they can marry, then how come gays STILL don't have the right to marry in 2009. Just as a reminder , this is the ruling from Loving v. Virinia: In June of 1967, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled the law unconstitutional. Thus, in 1967 the 16 states which still had antimiscegenation laws on their books were forced to erase them. So how come gay couples can't marry? Last time I checked it was 2009, not 1958!

I can't believe that in the 21st century we are talking about this. It goes to show that people, especially in the south, still hold on to the ancient mindset that nearly destroyed this nation. They, the couple, don't deserve to be treated that way.

Racism is live and well in America, especially in the south. Why do people put the blinders on to this fact. If i remember correctly, Louisiana has had recent racial problems down there. Nothing surprises me in the deep south(always red and will always be).

Jack and Wolf – I enjoy listening to your file daily. With respect to your story of "INJUSTICE" of the peace, you express surprise. I was not suprised, however and I doubt that many other Black Americans would express similar surprise because these are daily experiences in our lives.

It means that the judge is a racist and that Louisiana is so behind the times that they are completely oblivious that this is wrong. I myself am a Hispanic/American who visited Louisiana once with my white girlfriend and we personally found the state behind the times when it comes to their view on interracial couples. Here in New York that would never happen, and if it did than the story would be about this judge losing his job.

Jack,

It means that bigotry and ignorance are still very much alive and well in the U.S. in the twenty-first century (as if we needed any further proof). Fortunately, this couple found a real Justice of the Peace who fulfilled her sworn duty and joined them in wedlock – and had the presence of mind to speak with the national media. It could well be that the cretin who refused them is a "social scientist;" after all, Josef Mengele was a physician.

there're things in the south that haven't changed some of you reporters need to come from behind those desks and take a trip south,,,it's a shame that yes we're in the 21 centry and the souther states are still in the dark age,,,,,,,,,,

I am going to give the guy the benefit of the doubt, apparently he took sleep meds back in 1955. You know, whatever Rip Van Winkle took. When he woke up to find a black man and white woman in his chambers asking to be married he probably thought that THEY were crazy! See logical explanation! And you all thought he was a racist!!! You silly silly people!

wtf! it means that bigotry is alive and well in louisiana... moreover, since Keith Bardwell has admitted to additional denials of interacial marriage, there is also an associated tolerance of such devolution... lmao! Keith Bardwell says hes not racist, yet his behavior is the very definition of racism!