[Hoot Gibson]

At least you don't deny your prejudice and preconceived notions regarding African Americans. There is actually no excuse for your comment regarding fried chicken. I never made an excuse actually. Would love to know where you see one.

In that case no group should be respected or seen in a positive light since they are judged by the actions of a minority.

I will never understand the sensitivity of many blacks when it comes to associating certain foods with their culture. Fried chicken is not a "black" food and neither is watermelon and many other staples of Southern cooking. Black Americans took southern food with them as they migrated northward to find work.

I lived in Jackson, Mississippi for a year and it is absolutely amazing how many restaurants are there that serve chicken. They are everywhere - in mostly white neighborhoods, mostly black neighborhoods, and in fully integrated neighborhoods. I loved it.

So, why do blacks not embrace southern cuisine like other ethnic groups proudly claim their favorite traditional foods? I loved that catfish, fried chicken, watermelon, and pulled pork was so affordable and easy to find in the Jackson area. Overall, I think that Mississippi had the best food of any area in which I have lived. It was great southern food, not black food or white food but Southern food.