For many, John Wayne and his films represent a great time in American cinema. His films were great enough that California considered dedicating a day to the actor. However, California ended up denying, this past Thursday. After an assemblymen, a woman brought up racist instances and remarks carried out and made by the actor.

The resolution for “John Wayne Day” needed 41 votes to be passed, but only received 35 votes. Many of the people who opposed the resolution questioned why a man who openly opposed the right of Native Americans to land that is theirs, as well as offered negative opinions on African Americans, would receive a day honoring him.

When asked about the reasoning for turning down the resolution, Assemblyman, Luis Alejo, referenced a 1971 John Wayne interview conducted by Playboy where Wayne said "We can't all of a sudden get down on our knees and turn everything over to the leadership of the blacks. I believe in white supremacy until the blacks are educated to a point of responsibility. I don't believe in giving authority and positions of leadership and judgment to irresponsible people." Mike Gipson, another Assemblyman who opposed the bill, said, "I think when we come here to support a resolution, it's something we believe in, it's something we can wrap our arms around. Certainly his movies are one thing, but in terms of his private life, and also his views, I find them very offensive."

Assemblyman Matthew Harper, a Republican who sponsored the John Wayne resolution had an opposing view to the other members, said, “Today is the day that political correctness prevailed over a profoundly American figure recognized throughout the world. Opposing the John Wayne Day resolution is like opposing apple pie, fireworks, baseball, the Free Enterprise system and the Fourth of July!"

John Wayne died at the age of 72 in 1979.

Source: nbcnews.com| Photo Cred: Youtube