I hope you don't mind me speaking today on a topic that's been heavy on my mind. It's something that, by now, we all know exists within the cultural realm of black existence, but for some reason, we choose not to address it or boycott anything related to it. At this point, I think that's the problem. We're aware of all the issues but unwilling to put our livelihoods on the line and be part of the solution. So, what am I talking about? I'm referring to how black media continues to glamorize, exploit, and monetize the trauma, pain, suffering, death, and even gossip of black people for financial gain.
Consider this: We have only been given one major superhero, and tragically, he departs both in reality and on the silver screen. This leaves our young black boys with a scarcity of admirable role models to aspire to. For young black girls, they are constantly bombarded with the narrative of being paired with white boys, while positive representations remain rare. Regrettably, there seems to be little genuine motivation to create additional positive characters, as they emerge only sporadically. Yes, I'm addressing this head-on. We encounter radio shows that assert their dedication to our culture, yet all they offer is an incessant flow of gossip and discussions that perpetuate our denigration and division with each passing day.
Let's face the reality that there is a lack of genuine effort to promote true images of black representation—a union of black men and women, rather than the perpetuated narrative of black women solely with white men. Yes, I'm addressing this, and I hope you've been paying attention. Regardless of the show's quality, we need to ask ourselves: Are we paying attention? Are we still waking up and consciously choosing what is best for our people—embracing the good and rejecting the hatred and insecurities that have tarnished our image, but not our spirit? This is why the push for change persists.
Now, let's delve into the exciting part—the solutions. Here are a few that I've come up with: turn off the programming that does not serve us, boycott content that undermines our progress, call out those influential figures who produce and promote inferior content disguised as black entertainment, or even consider moving to a country where we can establish our own elevated standards of living. In my view, these are the necessary steps because, with each passing year, the quality of music, films, and overall media worsens.
I can't name a single show that doesn't perpetuate stereotypes or impose predefined ideals upon us. What we need is uplifting storytelling that portrays a strong black family—devoid of pain, trauma, and unnecessary drama. A solid, well-written narrative that speaks truth without compromising our dignity. Yet, we remain silent. It's time to break that silence.
If my proposed solutions don't resonate with you, perhaps you're content with what the world has offered you. But let me remind you of the spiritual aspect. It takes spiritual discernment to want to turn off the noise and keep it off—to seek other fulfilling activities that align with our divine existence. We may occasionally engage with mainstream media, but we must not allow it to dictate our emotions or internalize harmful perceptions.
It all comes down to making conscious choices that reflect our true desires and align with our divine purpose. By doing so, we can attain a peace of mind like no other.
Peace and love, y'all.