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(KSL News) A sock doll meant to represent Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama quickly drew condemnation as an image condoning persistent racism in America.
"TheSockObama" was created by West Jordan couple David and Elizabeth Lawson. They said it was intended to celebrate Obama's accomplishments and introduce children to the political process.
But as soon as it went on sale online, hate mail and death threats began pouring in from across the country. People were calling the doll and its promoters racist.
The Lawsons have since issued an apology and have stopped selling the doll. But they contend there is a double standard.
Tonight, University of Utah associate professor of sociology Theresa Martinez joined us to discuss this issue on Talking Point. She has spent her career studying American society through the lens of race and ethnicity, among other things.
To view this Eyewitness News Talking Point segment, click the play button above.
The makers of "TheSockObama" are scheduled to talk with KSL Newsradio's Doug Wright tomorrow morning between 9 a.m. and noon on KSL Newsradio 102.7 FM/1160 AM.
