Barney Frank’s ‘Trayvon’ Graduation Quip Falls Flat
Congressman Barney Frank’s joke about a hoodie and a black recipient of an honorary degree fell flat at a college graduation.
The crowd gasped as retiring Jewish congressman made the crack at the University of Massachusetts graduation, which honored civil rights leader Hubie Jones, the Daily News reported.
“When you get an honorary degree they give these,” the Massachusetts Democrat said Sunday, tugging at the hood on his commencement gown, the paper said. “And Hubie, I think you now got a hoodie you can wear and no one will shoot at you.”
The quip was a reference to the shooting death of Trayvon Martin in Sanford, Fla. One of the reasons Martin’s alleged killer, George Zimmerman, thought the teen was up to no good because he was wearing a hoodie.
Frank later insisted he didn’t mean to offend anyone.
I’m personally matching all gifts to the Forward, up to $36,000. Can I match your gift now?
Hello, fellow Forward reader! I’m Joel Brown, a Forward reader and supporter for more than 15 years, and currently the chair of the board of directors.
I’m an avid Forward reader because it ticks so many of my essential boxes: excellent journalism, Jewish focus and diverse viewpoints. In today’s political climate, what I most appreciate is the Forward’s independence — made possible by the generosity of its membership.
The Forward is committed to bringing you unbiased, nuanced Jewish news. From my position as board chair, I see an exciting future as we expand our position as the definitive independent voice of contemporary American Judaism.
— Joel Brown, Forward board chair
Support our mission to tell the Jewish story fully and fairly.
