On Thursday, “The View” co-host Sunny Hostin criticized comedian Bill Maher for his negative views on “wokeness” and stated that he should be “ashamed.” Hostin argued that the term “woke” has been misconstrued by Maher and the political right. Maher associates the word “woke” with identity politics and a range of perspectives, a viewpoint that Hostin vehemently opposes.
She argues that the term originated during the civil rights movement and has always been about fighting against racism and social injustice and promoting equality.
Co-host Alyssa Farah Griffin asked Hostin why “diversity of opinion” should not be part of the definition of “woke.” Hostin explained that this is a co-opting of the term, and the goal is to take power away from Black people standing up for what they deserve in this country. Farah Griffin then asked why “diversity of thought” would not be included if the goal is to reach as much diversity, inclusion, and equity as possible. Hostin explained that “woke” is not a political term and should not be equated with political beliefs or opinions.
Co-host Whoopi Goldberg argued that Republicans need to “admit” they were “asleep” and unaware of what needed to happen. Goldberg also criticized Maher in January 2022 for comments he made about COVID-19 and masking.
During an interview with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Maher expressed his belief that “woke” started as a “good thing” but turned into an “eye roll.” He feels that Democrats can sometimes take it too far and that “woke” has become synonymous with being against diversity of ideas. He also expressed frustration that Abraham Lincoln, a figure he believes should not be controversial, has become controversial among liberals.
