Insensitive Remarks by Brando and Handel

Re “Can We All Get Along?” editorial, April 10:

In your efforts to mollify the racial strife rampant in Los Angeles, you have sided on the wrong side of two very minor incidents: KFI radio host Bill Handel’s sarcastic remarks about Asian Americans and actor Marlon Brando’s critical opinion of Hollywood Jews.

Handel’s remarks about ice skaters Kristi Yamaguchi and Michelle Kwan were pure satire, following the tradition of Jonathan Swift. That Handel now apologize because some Asian Americans did not appreciate his ironic criticism of redneck racism would be inappropriate. Better that those offended educate themselves on the finer elements of parody.

Brando’s remarks about Hollywood Jews were nothing more than constructive criticism from an entertainment industry insider. That Brando now apologize because some Jews could not appreciate his critical point of view would be inappropriate. Better that those offended heed Brando’s criticism and show more sensitivity to minority groups other than their own.

Has America lost its sense of humor and ability to appreciate critical feedback? Have we in Los Angeles become so oversensitive to any form of racial or ethnic commentary that we are willing to eradicate our right of free speech? Enough is enough: Time has come to obliterate this ridiculously self-imposed politically correct silence.

Let the bigots speak! Let them either make fools of themselves or make clear our foolish behavior.

JAY RUBIN

Tarzana

* I listened closely to Brando’s nearly incoherent meandering on “Larry King Live” (April 5) and perceived no insensitivity toward any group. His comment that Jews rule Hollywood appears to be true and deservedly so. They have no reason to be apologetic about their success. Brando recognized this success by pointing out that the power to be more sensitive in the portrayal of minorities was in their hands. The use of stereotypical words was his way of explaining his premise.

Perhaps unfairly, many of us expect Jews to be especially attuned to religious and racial injustice in view of the many injustices inflicted upon them throughout history. This seemed to be Brando’s view and his plea.

BETTE BALLIET

Huntington Beach

* It seems actor Brando is still playing Stanley Kowalski, the insensitive, opinionated, overbearing, undershirted, Neanderthal from “A Streetcar Named Desire.”

SOL LONDON

North Hollywood