It has been a tradition for championship teams to visit the president. I think it is a political move on the part of any president who does this. If a player doesn't want to go this is still a free country. I don't know Harrison's political bend but I would have gone just so I could tell my grandkids. As a black person I would have been very proud to have been invited to The White House regardless of the occasion to see Martin Luther King's Dream and all of those who fought and struggle come true..but that just me.
JQ Citizen - 15 years ago
It shows how culturally and politically ignorant he is, OF COURSE if the other team had won they would have gone to the White House. I don't know who started the tradition, but all of the WINNERS visit the White House - All the conferences (even Hockey, right?) It is the privilege of winning - a visit to the White House.
If anyone understands anything about politics, culture, and business they would understand that outside of family, there is NEVER a social visit to the White House. It is 24/7/365 State Business of every kind. That's what we pay for and that's what we get. It is not a bad thing - and is quite enjoyable for a all who have the chance.
This is typical of a very talented person with limited awareness, holding an opinion and then acting on it without speaking to anyone. I think his action says a lot more about his limitations than public opinion about Obama. This player probably has some brother envy - classic case.
Oh, and Obama is not a GOD! He is the guy we all want to be deep, down inside. Capable, intelligent, lucky, makes the right choices more than the wrong ones; knows how to win friends and manage enemies. He understands the field, the game and is holding a great deal at this point in time. Feel lucky he is president. Just imagine if we had an intellectually bumbling wannabe as president at this moment in history.
Hey, but everyone is has opinions even if the opinion is arrived at via a certain level of ignorance.
Jamayiti Henri - 15 years ago
He is in a country where it is free. For 1 thing ya'll are acting like Obama is GOD so he have a rights to in titled in his own opinion. So I feel that it wasn't no disrespect.
The reason James Harrison gave for refusing to visit the White House was an irrational, crippling grandstand. It's too bad the team had their celebration dampened by such a selfshish player.
PEECHEZ - 15 years ago
I THINK HE DID IT FOR THE PUBLICITY. I GUESS HE NEEDED IT. OBVIOUSLY ITS WORKING FOR HIM BECAUSE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT IT. I REALLY DIDNT KNOW WHO HE WAS UNTIL NOW. DONT WATCH MUCH FOOTBALL. MAKES HIM LOOK RETARDED THOUGH.
Paco - 15 years ago
Simply put, James Harrison is making a feeble attempt to stand out. He appears to be someone who wants to be set apart. In principle, there's nothing wrong with having such a disposition. But there are more favourable ways to do it.
Honestly, he reserves the right not to go, as he suppossedly did in 2006. But if that's what you want to do, then just do it. Don't try and steal the media spotlight because of your stupidity! Had he done this and defrayed questions from the media, I would be inclined to leave it at that, but this guy gives an interview on the matter? Based on that alone, I believe his intentions are far more selfserving.
We live in a time where people, no matter how famous they are...tend to want to extend their time in the spotlight. Madonna was the queen at doing just that. She knew how to create a story, followed by a controversy, which lead to a public discussion and (in some instances) a new trend. This is what I believe Harrison is up to - trying to call further attention to himself. Its a damn shame, because he should simply let his football exploits speak for him. Yet again, it derives from the type of person he is. I don't know the guy, but my impression is that he is: selfish, self-centred and hungry for notoriety. What a combination?
Indeed, inhis selfishness, he is also proving disrespectful to the Commander-in-Chief. That, on many levels, is a damn shame. But, in any event, President Barack Obama need not worry himself with the James Harrisons of this world. The brotha's plate is already full enough.
One last point, I seriously doubt the President will miss James Harrison. In the grander scope of things, Harrison is irrelevant. His rationale gives testimony to his lack of significance.
Susan - 15 years ago
I wonder what the comments would be if Bush was still President...which he was back in 2006 so I guess it really doesn't matter...so what is the big deal now?
Ron - 15 years ago
I think he has a point, he did not attend the previous invitation. I am Black and cannot understand why they feel all Blacks have to do the samething just because the president is Black. I strongly supports his decision and does not question it. I don't think I would waste my time either.
sassyme - 15 years ago
I will never understand why someone wouldn't want to be part of history?? so many people miss out on great opportunities like this because of their attitude. I'm very glad Martin Luther King Jr. didn't have this attitude when Rosa Parks told the bus driver she was too tired to go to the back of the bus, or when Nelson Mandela when he was rewarded the Nobel Peace Prize for equal rights in Africa, or Malcolm X when he spoke out about racism in America our Black leaders fought and died for this day and now that it is finally here some of the younger African Americans don't understand what it means. I don't want anyone of my children or any children I know looking up to James Harrison or the Steelers.
boss - 15 years ago
He is one of tha most disrespectful dum fucks i ever seen look here u asshole obama dnt giva fuck bout tha steelers u fag if bush was in house still it wud be bush inviting you and yea u stupid fuck if arizona won he wud have asked them newsflash thats 1 of tha perks bein superbowl champs its nuthin personal jus tradition have sum manners
TJ - 15 years ago
I think he's trippin, its a tradition for the winners of the championships to go to the white house and meet the president. Thats just what happens its not political its just something we do as americans. Its not dissrespectful just wierd that he feels that way. he doesnt have a point, Its a tradition that has nothing to do with politics, I dont see where hes coming from. It doesnt matter if its jorge bush, thats just something that is done here in the states. but to each is own.
Girlfriend - 15 years ago
I feel it's rediculous for him not to attend with his team. They were the champs and being invited to the White House is indeed an honor. Take notice Mr. Harrison, most sports when the team wins the championship there is Fanfare...
So, in my opinion if he's apart of the team he should attend, be a team player. Putting himself aside because it's not about him but the team.
Rita - 15 years ago
I also think it would be honor to just be in the presence of the First Black President of U.S.A. and you don't have to give a damm about politics to go to the white house, there politics all in football, baseball, sport. and do we really care why James Harrison's didn't go to the white house? Maybe that just another way for him to be number 1 in his own eye. Call me Mr. President any time. I a winner and loser in most things.
Chelly D - 15 years ago
I just so happen to be a 49er fan, however, I respect his right not to want to go to the White House if that is his choice, yet as a black man he should have wanted to go if for nothing else, Because our President is a Black man! I myself would have been honored just to be in his presence! I just don't see what all the fuse is about so what he don't want to go! Let it go. And if our president wants to meet J. Harrison and the funky steelers, then let the President go to Pittsburgh! Leave the man alone.
Troy - 15 years ago
Hey Taz, I think you are correct. But I would have a publicist issue a written statement, because that interview was...damn.
Taz - 15 years ago
he didn't go in 2006 either, and i don't remember that being a big deal!
First, why is the team being invited now, when the Super Bowl is long over?
Are you telling me that the timing was bad and President Obama had other pressing things like the economy, to contend?
Perhaps the invite should have been extended at the time of the victory.
Perhaps Harrison has a point "... invite us when we don’t win the Super Bowl...” that would show that the president is a true fan or cares to meet them as football players; not just because they won and the he is the President.
Personally, I would not miss the opportunity to meet President Obama as a football champion...I would get off my high horse and go in a heart beat.
Renee - 15 years ago
Personally I think it would be honor to just be in the presence of the first black president of US but everyone has a choice. I don't consider him either crazy or disrespectful,yes its a once in a lifetime opportunity but no one should judge him. Yes it would have been nice if he invited both teams that played in the superbowl but remember the president is human as well there is a limit of what he can do as well....so people let it go...leave him alone..
MIKEDDIAZ - 15 years ago
Mr. Harrison did not feel like going he did not go.So what ? Let it go! If he did not care what the president though what makes you think he would care what we think?
Karen - 15 years ago
It doesn't appear to be personal. So what if he is not impressed. Who really cares if he doesn't go? I don't think Obama would be upset anyway. As a winners people get invited to events or whatever, not the losers this cat ought to know that. He sounds kind of whiney though. He wants to be invited as a loser... what is the thrill in that?
carl - 15 years ago
When every someone like the President wants to honor you for your hard work. SHUT YOUR MOUTH !!... I hate stupit people !!!
I GOT SOMETHIN TO SAY TOP ESPN ABOUT THEM THREE UNCLE TOMS TALKIN TRASH! JUST CAUSE U SING AND DANCE LIKE LITTLE BLACK SAMBO! DNT MEAN WE ALL WILL DO IT! THE MAN HAS AH POINT IT AINT NO BIG FUCKIN DEAL! HE'S ABOUT FOOTBALL NOT POLITICS! I CANT BELIEVE YALL ACTUALLY DISSED UR FELLOW BRUTHA AND THE ONE WHITE GUY TOOK HIS SIDE! THIS IS AH PRIME EXAMPLE OF BLACKS HATIN ON THE NEXT MAN, YALL REALLY SHOWED YALL TRUE UNCLE TOM COLORS! YALL SHOULD BE ASHAMED! CAUSE UM ASHAMED TO CALL YALL BLACK MEN! HI HATERS I C U!
Gix - 15 years ago
He may have a point somewhere, but the reason he gave is so Stupid! He's not a steeper fan he's from chicago. It's just recognizing and giving respect to the world champs for being just that!
GO RAVENS!
jeff l - 15 years ago
Exactly. it could many things. Mad Props to James for his stand. Fuk the Steelers! Lets Go Jaguars!
joyyy - 15 years ago
maybe he just isn't into politics. obviously...leave him alone
It has been a tradition for championship teams to visit the president. I think it is a political move on the part of any president who does this. If a player doesn't want to go this is still a free country. I don't know Harrison's political bend but I would have gone just so I could tell my grandkids. As a black person I would have been very proud to have been invited to The White House regardless of the occasion to see Martin Luther King's Dream and all of those who fought and struggle come true..but that just me.
It shows how culturally and politically ignorant he is, OF COURSE if the other team had won they would have gone to the White House. I don't know who started the tradition, but all of the WINNERS visit the White House - All the conferences (even Hockey, right?) It is the privilege of winning - a visit to the White House.
If anyone understands anything about politics, culture, and business they would understand that outside of family, there is NEVER a social visit to the White House. It is 24/7/365 State Business of every kind. That's what we pay for and that's what we get. It is not a bad thing - and is quite enjoyable for a all who have the chance.
This is typical of a very talented person with limited awareness, holding an opinion and then acting on it without speaking to anyone. I think his action says a lot more about his limitations than public opinion about Obama. This player probably has some brother envy - classic case.
Oh, and Obama is not a GOD! He is the guy we all want to be deep, down inside. Capable, intelligent, lucky, makes the right choices more than the wrong ones; knows how to win friends and manage enemies. He understands the field, the game and is holding a great deal at this point in time. Feel lucky he is president. Just imagine if we had an intellectually bumbling wannabe as president at this moment in history.
Hey, but everyone is has opinions even if the opinion is arrived at via a certain level of ignorance.
He is in a country where it is free. For 1 thing ya'll are acting like Obama is GOD so he have a rights to in titled in his own opinion. So I feel that it wasn't no disrespect.
The reason James Harrison gave for refusing to visit the White House was an irrational, crippling grandstand. It's too bad the team had their celebration dampened by such a selfshish player.
I THINK HE DID IT FOR THE PUBLICITY. I GUESS HE NEEDED IT. OBVIOUSLY ITS WORKING FOR HIM BECAUSE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT IT. I REALLY DIDNT KNOW WHO HE WAS UNTIL NOW. DONT WATCH MUCH FOOTBALL. MAKES HIM LOOK RETARDED THOUGH.
Simply put, James Harrison is making a feeble attempt to stand out. He appears to be someone who wants to be set apart. In principle, there's nothing wrong with having such a disposition. But there are more favourable ways to do it.
Honestly, he reserves the right not to go, as he suppossedly did in 2006. But if that's what you want to do, then just do it. Don't try and steal the media spotlight because of your stupidity! Had he done this and defrayed questions from the media, I would be inclined to leave it at that, but this guy gives an interview on the matter? Based on that alone, I believe his intentions are far more selfserving.
We live in a time where people, no matter how famous they are...tend to want to extend their time in the spotlight. Madonna was the queen at doing just that. She knew how to create a story, followed by a controversy, which lead to a public discussion and (in some instances) a new trend. This is what I believe Harrison is up to - trying to call further attention to himself. Its a damn shame, because he should simply let his football exploits speak for him. Yet again, it derives from the type of person he is. I don't know the guy, but my impression is that he is: selfish, self-centred and hungry for notoriety. What a combination?
Indeed, inhis selfishness, he is also proving disrespectful to the Commander-in-Chief. That, on many levels, is a damn shame. But, in any event, President Barack Obama need not worry himself with the James Harrisons of this world. The brotha's plate is already full enough.
One last point, I seriously doubt the President will miss James Harrison. In the grander scope of things, Harrison is irrelevant. His rationale gives testimony to his lack of significance.
I wonder what the comments would be if Bush was still President...which he was back in 2006 so I guess it really doesn't matter...so what is the big deal now?
I think he has a point, he did not attend the previous invitation. I am Black and cannot understand why they feel all Blacks have to do the samething just because the president is Black. I strongly supports his decision and does not question it. I don't think I would waste my time either.
I will never understand why someone wouldn't want to be part of history?? so many people miss out on great opportunities like this because of their attitude. I'm very glad Martin Luther King Jr. didn't have this attitude when Rosa Parks told the bus driver she was too tired to go to the back of the bus, or when Nelson Mandela when he was rewarded the Nobel Peace Prize for equal rights in Africa, or Malcolm X when he spoke out about racism in America our Black leaders fought and died for this day and now that it is finally here some of the younger African Americans don't understand what it means. I don't want anyone of my children or any children I know looking up to James Harrison or the Steelers.
He is one of tha most disrespectful dum fucks i ever seen look here u asshole obama dnt giva fuck bout tha steelers u fag if bush was in house still it wud be bush inviting you and yea u stupid fuck if arizona won he wud have asked them newsflash thats 1 of tha perks bein superbowl champs its nuthin personal jus tradition have sum manners
I think he's trippin, its a tradition for the winners of the championships to go to the white house and meet the president. Thats just what happens its not political its just something we do as americans. Its not dissrespectful just wierd that he feels that way. he doesnt have a point, Its a tradition that has nothing to do with politics, I dont see where hes coming from. It doesnt matter if its jorge bush, thats just something that is done here in the states. but to each is own.
I feel it's rediculous for him not to attend with his team. They were the champs and being invited to the White House is indeed an honor. Take notice Mr. Harrison, most sports when the team wins the championship there is Fanfare...
So, in my opinion if he's apart of the team he should attend, be a team player. Putting himself aside because it's not about him but the team.
I also think it would be honor to just be in the presence of the First Black President of U.S.A. and you don't have to give a damm about politics to go to the white house, there politics all in football, baseball, sport. and do we really care why James Harrison's didn't go to the white house? Maybe that just another way for him to be number 1 in his own eye. Call me Mr. President any time. I a winner and loser in most things.
I just so happen to be a 49er fan, however, I respect his right not to want to go to the White House if that is his choice, yet as a black man he should have wanted to go if for nothing else, Because our President is a Black man! I myself would have been honored just to be in his presence! I just don't see what all the fuse is about so what he don't want to go! Let it go. And if our president wants to meet J. Harrison and the funky steelers, then let the President go to Pittsburgh! Leave the man alone.
Hey Taz, I think you are correct. But I would have a publicist issue a written statement, because that interview was...damn.
he didn't go in 2006 either, and i don't remember that being a big deal!
First, why is the team being invited now, when the Super Bowl is long over?
Are you telling me that the timing was bad and President Obama had other pressing things like the economy, to contend?
Perhaps the invite should have been extended at the time of the victory.
Perhaps Harrison has a point "... invite us when we don’t win the Super Bowl...” that would show that the president is a true fan or cares to meet them as football players; not just because they won and the he is the President.
Personally, I would not miss the opportunity to meet President Obama as a football champion...I would get off my high horse and go in a heart beat.
Personally I think it would be honor to just be in the presence of the first black president of US but everyone has a choice. I don't consider him either crazy or disrespectful,yes its a once in a lifetime opportunity but no one should judge him. Yes it would have been nice if he invited both teams that played in the superbowl but remember the president is human as well there is a limit of what he can do as well....so people let it go...leave him alone..
Mr. Harrison did not feel like going he did not go.So what ? Let it go! If he did not care what the president though what makes you think he would care what we think?
It doesn't appear to be personal. So what if he is not impressed. Who really cares if he doesn't go? I don't think Obama would be upset anyway. As a winners people get invited to events or whatever, not the losers this cat ought to know that. He sounds kind of whiney though. He wants to be invited as a loser... what is the thrill in that?
When every someone like the President wants to honor you for your hard work. SHUT YOUR MOUTH !!... I hate stupit people !!!
he is a selfish,hater
I GOT SOMETHIN TO SAY TOP ESPN ABOUT THEM THREE UNCLE TOMS TALKIN TRASH! JUST CAUSE U SING AND DANCE LIKE LITTLE BLACK SAMBO! DNT MEAN WE ALL WILL DO IT! THE MAN HAS AH POINT IT AINT NO BIG FUCKIN DEAL! HE'S ABOUT FOOTBALL NOT POLITICS! I CANT BELIEVE YALL ACTUALLY DISSED UR FELLOW BRUTHA AND THE ONE WHITE GUY TOOK HIS SIDE! THIS IS AH PRIME EXAMPLE OF BLACKS HATIN ON THE NEXT MAN, YALL REALLY SHOWED YALL TRUE UNCLE TOM COLORS! YALL SHOULD BE ASHAMED! CAUSE UM ASHAMED TO CALL YALL BLACK MEN! HI HATERS I C U!
He may have a point somewhere, but the reason he gave is so Stupid! He's not a steeper fan he's from chicago. It's just recognizing and giving respect to the world champs for being just that!
GO RAVENS!
Exactly. it could many things. Mad Props to James for his stand. Fuk the Steelers! Lets Go Jaguars!
maybe he just isn't into politics. obviously...leave him alone