WFAN radio show host Don Imus uttered racially charged comments about the Rutgers University womens' basketball team on the April 4 Imus in the Morning show, sparking national outrage and controversy. At a press conference this morning, Rutgers University President, Richard McCormick stated, "Racism and sexism have no place in our society. We cannot stand silent and be unfairly attacked. The team did nothing wrong to invite the words Don Imus used."

Team captain Essence Carson said, "Not only has Mr. Imus stolen a moment of pure grace from us, but he has brought us to the harsh reality that behind the faces of the networks that have worked so hard to convey a message of empowerment to young adults that somehow, some way, a door has been left open to attack your leaders of tomorrow."

What does the Don Imus controversy mean for race and the media? Sociologist Herbert Gans, Columbia University, who has researched ethnicity and the news media, is available for interviews and comment.

To request an interview or comment, contact Sujata Sinha at (202) 247-9871 or via email at ssinha@asanet.org.