OK, I get it. “The Cosby Show is no longer on television. Serious allegations are swirling around someone many considered the nations dad. Positive representation of African Americans are almost nonexistent. The Oscars are too white, according to most media outlets, and Iggy Azalea and Macklemore are stealing hip-hop. OK, I get it!
The truth of the matter is that all forms of media are influential and have an effect on our psyches. With that being said, I have a confession to make.
Hello … my name is Precise and I watch “Scandal” and “Empire.”
Now that I have confessed to the world one of my deepest, darkest secrets, allow me to say that even though I watch these shows I am still a Black man and an awesome guy.
For some reason there is a divide in our community. Those who label themselves “conscious” have a total disdain for these television shows and feel like they are setting Black people back hundreds of years.
Many Black men have decided that these shows are for women, and if a man watches them his masculinity is questionable.
Seriously?
Look, some of you take yourselves much too seriously. I agree that the portrayal of Black people on television leaves a lot to be desired. Around the world we are viewed a specific way because of what is being fed through the media. It is important for us to take responsibility with regard to this.
Shonda Rhimes and Lee Daniels have taken some of this responsibility and boldly shared a narrative of our lives that is complex and interesting.
I don’t know about you, but I like to peel back the layers of who we are. It’s interesting and our experience extends past the history of slavery and civil rights.
We all have complexities and quirks. Just because I’m Black doesn’t mean I should have to watch “Eyes on the Prize” and “Hidden Colors” Vol 1, 2 and 3 all the time.
I like watching television with my 5K friends on Facebook and sharing reactions in my status. I don’t post “spoilers” contrary to what some people (my sister) may think. Wednesday and Thursday nights are cool. It gives us the opportunity to come together and share something, even if it’s just a television show.
What do you think about “Empire” and “Scandal”? Do you feel these shows are horrible or great? Let me know in the comments.
Eddy Precise Lamarre
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