"Unlike the episode with Janet Jackson, CBS couldn't claim they didn't know beforehand. Last month, as the final Grammy act, Andre Benjamin of the hip-hop group, OutKast, performed "Hey Ya."

Benjamin and dancers were dressed in stereotypical American Indian garb, including war paint, feathers and fringe. I stared at the television, wondering how this was ever approved.

I am especially disappointed when black people are insensitive to another oppressed people's history and culture. It is sad that OutKast didn't think the costuming and dancing would be offensive because the song was inspired by American Indian music. One of hip-hop's more appealing characteristics is creative use of borrowed melodies and rhythms.

Since OutKast members Benjamin and Antwan "Big Boi" Patton are from Atlanta, which is rich in black history, they should easily be able to relate to the American Indian experience."

Get the Story:
Carmen Cazares Polk: OutKast dances out of line (The Indianapolis Star 3/1)

Relevant Links:
Native American Cultural Center - http://www.nativecc.com
GRAMMYs - http://www.grammy.com

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