Racism still exists in America, and I understand the reasons behind Rev. Jeremiah Wright’s mixed feelings and fiery remarks.

It isn’t unpatriotic and un-American to question and criticize the establishment; democracy depends upon it. A moral and just society welcomes dissent and self-examination, changing when wrong. But sometimes hearing the truth hurts, especially when we are in denial.

I listened to Wright talk with Bill Moyers and at the National Press Club. This veteran of Vietnam and the civil rights movement era also talked about forgiveness, reconciliation and unity. But most of the media and politicians ignored that part, instead focusing on snippets taken out of context and spun to fit their own agendas.

Religious leaders sometimes say goofy things, too. So who singled Wright out and why? Republican John McCain’s surrogates intent upon destroying Obama via Wright declared Obama “guilty of association.” But guilty of what? Seeking harmony between the races? Talk about vicious McCarthyism politics.

Obama is a victim of under-the-surface, smokescreen racism and dirty politics.