More questions for Smiley

That was a very nice interview with Tavis Smiley (Interview, by Leah Samuel, March issue). I have come to respect his work and vision. In the African American community, Smiley is a rising star and a beacon of hope in the world of media.

I did have one concern that I hoped the interview would have addressed. On Smiley's PBS program, I have noticed that one of the sponsors is Wal-Mart. It is very prominent as the show comes on the air. I wish Leah Samuel would have asked Smiley about the use of Wal-Mart as a sponsor. I am certain Smiley does not support the anti-unionism and other questionable employee policies of Wal-Mart. In the past, he has always taken companies to task for certain business practices. I hope he has the same standards for his own show. If not, what is the deal? And where was that question he should have been asked?

Brian Gilmore

Takoma Park, Maryland

Noting your adulatory treatment of Tavis Smiley, I switched him on last night--and witnessed a softball interview of rightwing culture warrior Michael Medved that could have been delivered by any corporate flunky on cable TV. Even when Medved said that Michael Moore attacked America at the Oscars-when he really attacked Bush--Smiley offered no contradiction. What were you thinking?

A. Goodman

Memphis, Tennessee

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