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Ben Carson Gets Clowned for Being Trump’s Token Black at MLK Jr. Day Proclamation

Posted byBy Tanasia Kenney | Published on: CommentsComments (0)

Retired neurosurgeon and ex-presidential candidate Ben Carson became social media’s punching bag Friday, Jan. 12, as he flanked President Donald Trump at the signing of a proclamation commemorating the Martin Luther King Jr. holiday.

The signing comes just a day after outcry over Trump’s controversial comments about not wanting immigrants from “shithole” countries like Haiti, El Salvador and African nations in the U.S. Rather, America should admit more immigrants from nations such as Norway, the president said, according to several who attended the Oval Office meeting Thursday.

“Why do we need more Haitians?” Trump reportedly asked. “Take ’em out.”

Naturally, many weren’t pleased to see the reality TV star-turned-politician commemorate a holiday honoring a champion of civil rights like Dr. King, after such overtly racist comments against Black and brown people. Then emerged Carson, seemingly there to offer Trump his support. However, many saw it as Trump’s way of using his sole African-American as a prop to show how “not” racist he is.

“… Today we honor the legacy of the man who marched on Washington for jobs and for freedom, achieving both for millions of Americans of all races and backgrounds,” Carson said, recalling the moment he learned of King’s assassination.

“This April, we’ll observe the 50th anniversary of Dr. King’s assassination,” the HUD secretary added. “Far from silencing his dream, death wrought him immortal in the American heart. His message of equality, justice and the common dignity of man resounds today.”

Critics on Twitter didn’t hold back on the former brain surgeon, however, for allowing Trump to use him as a “token Black.”

https://twitter.com/willishl/status/951859972207497216

Trump’s declaration will designate King’s birthplace, church and tomb as national parks.

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