John Clark, whoever he is, can take what he thinks he knows and stuff it. Racism has more to do with systems of power that were originally based on skin color than skin color itself.

That said - I am black, and the first to admit that so much of American culture and norms do have racist origins - it's hard not to when the country itself was forged and thrived on systems of oppression. These norms, by definition are not questioned and therefore in most cases people like John won't see them where they are legitimately exist.

I agree with Kage here, and find it hard to equate this phrase with racism. My first thought when hearing this is not Strange Fruit, but the Fable of the Fox and the Grapes. I think we need to be careful to examine where we are and are not finding bias and not give people like John reason call into question legitimate claims of racism in our culture. Sorry to say, but I don't think this example fits that bill.

EDIT: After doing five minutes of research I came across this reminder:

"Winters also notes that while there is 'no direct connection to lynching,' she recommends 'that we begin to be more sensitive to what we say because seemingly innocuous phrases can conjure up very different meanings for some.'"

So please disregard my sentiments in the third paragraph above. Live and learn.