"Several Wisconsin tribal leaders quickly came to the defense this week of Democratic congressional candidate Steve Kagen for his use of a racially insensitive term for American Indians. But just because they say they're not angry doesn't mean they - and others - shouldn't be disappointed that someone they view as a friend and supporter would use such an expression.

The fact that Kagen and the tribal leaders say they have enjoyed good relations is all the more reason he should have thought before he spoke. Unfortunately, Kagen has the bad habit of shooting from the hip, which we noted in our editorial Sunday recommending him in the 8th Congressional District race.

Kagen, an Appleton physician, used the expression "Injun time" during an appearance Friday at a Green Bay clinic. He apologized Monday.

The problem is that Kagen later used the term "Injun," which Hughes and at least one other tribal leader said is offensive. They're right, of course.

But a final observation: A few in a lather over Kagen's remarks are among those who can be depended on to regularly decry so-called political correctness. A hope: Maybe they've realized, as we hope Kagen has, that courtesy is a virtue."

Get the Story:
Editorial: He shouldn't have said it (The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel 10/24)

Related Stories:
Tribal leaders not upset with 'Injun time' remark (10/24)

$ad1