Tag Archives: Black Culture

Shad Moss (Bow Wow) Said What?!

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In our current social climate where everyone is just one “I wish somebody would” away from ranting, raving, or worse, harming someone about a socio-political topic, black folks have become immensely aroused (with good reason) with the current divide and conquer racial narrative propagated by the media. In essence, many black folks are looking to align themselves with so-called “black consciousness” thinking Negroes and looking to alienate or scrutinize others who either dare to tote the line of being “color-blind Negroes” or retorts the “new black” lingo. Such is the case for Shad “Bow Wow” Moss, hip-hop’s last adolescent act prodigy by way of So So Def legendary producer, Jermaine Dupri. Moss in a series of tweets lasting several hours, spoke on how nice the Trump Hotels were and how he’s not really into voting because he believes the system is controlled. This caused some of his followers to question his voting allegiance whether he was pro-Trump or pro-Hillary, due to him being enthralled with the Republican nominee’s hotels

 

Then Mr. Bow Wow received a guilt trip tweet about what our ancestors did so he could have the right to vote. Then, the 29-year-old entertainer responded in a series of tweets about his ‘mixed ancestry’ to the immediate disgust of the ever trolling ‘Black Twitter’ fanbase. This petulant situation continued to snowball out of control once Moss revealed a picture of his biological father—which further ignited a social media firestorm among the sensitive likes of Black Twitter and Instagram.

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Here’s my take on this insignificant matter: Shad Moss was basically talking about politics from his perspective while at the same time appreciating the hospitality, comfort, and luxuries of staying at a premiere Trump hotel. I actually agree with Shad’s position when it comes to voting because the candidates are in fact controlled (which is another word for selected). Even though I applaud people like Carmelo Anthony and others who are using their platforms to take a stance when it comes to social issues; however, we can’t expect ALL athletes and entertainers to be on one accord and Bow Wow is no exception. He gave his honest answer about politics and how he isn’t pro-Trump, yet you have Negroes fussing about him claiming his Cuban, White and Native roots?  I understand he’s cocky, arrogant, and continues to hit the reset button in his mind which keeps him “arrested” in the 2000’s era when his status was most potent as a child star. This is one of the main reasons why he receives a titanic load of hatred because Moss truly believes he’s attained the level of greatness which pencils him in with the upper echelon of hip-hops elites (feel free to laugh people). Based off the tweets I’ve seen, Moss should have of done a better job in explaining his “blackness” because once you declare yourself as a racial/ethnical “other” (when the visual doesn’t add up), be prepared for the ambush of Black Twitter to make you trend for all the wrong reasons. Peace and love y’all!

 

Black Death Grows in Its Capacity; but We’re Numb to Its Reality

Black America, Black Culture, Black Violence, Uncategorized, , , , ,

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I was recently having a sincere conversation with the “Mother of all Civilization,” (just kidding) my very own mother as she wanted to share with me a word or message she kept receiving in her spirit. “Black people are on the verge of extinction,” she lamented in a brittle voice. It was as if she had read my mind or the very auspices of my heart. I find it often difficult to share such grief with anyone of related melanin in fear of coming off as a cantankerous pessimist, or your message being compared to the guy who just got saved and wants to share his religion like my name was Sharif; and you’re trying to reach Negroes like O-Dog and Caine. They don’t want to hear it because they rather live in this strong delusional state of what Taleeb Starkes would call “niggertivity.” The only time we’re actually awaken [briefly] from our stupor, is if we’re gunned down by white cops or are angered by any black who speaks critically of us who you call quote on quote, “Uncle Toms.” Does it mean I condone unarmed black people being gunned down by potential rouge cops? No. But even the media’s over-sensationalizing of the term “unarmed” has been nothing bait used to rattle our frail emotions to even further demonstrate that some black people are still gullible to slave-like pathology. We’re still under the impression that our local police departments are in our neighborhoods to serve and protect us when in reality they are only there to police us. This is why when you go into a predominantly all-white neighborhood suburb, YOU are quickly spotted and monitored by casual residents and so-called neighborhood watchmen a la the Zimmerman’s of the world (or the ones who are classified as white) and soon enough your presence is known on a cop’s radar under suspicious activity. The new Ferguson, or Cleveland, is doing the same song and dance with its historically favorite dance partner: The white liberal. After the riots and protests that erupted in Baltimore after the death of Freddie Gray, Cleveland has been selected to potentially participate in the “riot lottery,” where criminals become martyrs by way of police brutality; meanwhile agent provocateurs infiltrate these marches in lieu to destroying a section of the city all in the name of “No Justice, No Peace.”

As I and many others have already stated before, black lives really don’t matter to black folks unless that life is taken by the quote on quote enemy called “the white man.” The ear ticking doctrine of victimization brought to you white liberals, black apologists posing as intellectuals, and race hustlers has made many Negroes obsessed with the rhetoric of white supremacy while conveniently ignoring the sheer violence that permeates our city streets. For example, in the month of May alone, the city of Baltimore had 38 homicides according to a recent article published by Fox News’ Perry Chiaramonte. Since Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake gave protesters carte blanche during the riots in April, local residents turned criminals have become embolden knowing the police are the last people to stand in their way.

“The criminals are taking advantage of the situation in Baltimore since the unrest,” Lt. Gene Ryan, President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 3, which represents officers in Baltimore, said in a statement provided to FoxNews.com. “Criminals feel empowered now. There is no respect. Police are under siege in every quarter. They are more afraid of going to jail for doing their jobs properly than they are of getting shot on duty.”

 As aforementioned above, the police’s main job in most of these modern urban cities of terror is to police you [us] however; if the police can’t perform they’re primary duty in neighborhoods filled with mothers like Toya Graham, who became mother of the year several months ago for “recusing” her son from participating in the Freddie Gray riots, the end result is more black on black crime equaling more black death. The mere mention of black crime is a big “no-no” in the black community not because of the actual tragic circumstances that stem from it; rather, it’s because other ethnicities—especially white people—do it too. They’ll tell you that whites commit crimes against whites and Asians commit crimes against other Asians etc. But I’m quick to tell them is that those other cultures don’t glorify, celebrate, or has a culture of violence aka “hood life” which is accompanied by rap lyrics that affirms them as being real niggas for committing such acts.

Speaking of rap lyrics and rappers, it seems to be a dangerously murderous trend for up in coming artist these days. Rappers Chinx and Young Pappi are the latest tragedies in a sub culture that has intoxicated the youth to embrace “savage life” through the popularity of “Drill Music” which many thought was a trend, has now become a staple in rap music no longer allowed to be bound to Chi-city. Unfortunately, it is this same city—Chicago—which continues to make headlines nearly every calendar holiday season due to its numerous shootings of the wounded and the deceased. This past Memorial Day, for example, Newsweek reported that at least 56 reported shot in Chicago’s violent Memorial Day Weekend. Bias is the African-American who can say their city is no different from any other city.

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Black Death has engulfed and subjugated our so-called black community into a plague that could only be reminiscent of the European Plague. Reminiscent because our loyalty to the criminal and the debaucher, the violent and unruly, the elongated sickness that plague the heights of our community commonly called the ghetto. It is here were black elitist rises to the supremacy of blackness under the heel of white folk, but psychologically, above the minimalistic cognitive attention span of the average Negro. Black Death has become in its earliest infantry, nothing more than artistic letters and colorful life-like pictures or photos of individual people with sketches designed on t-shirts; to now trendy hashtags on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. This plague has contaminated what most pro-blacks call “Mother Earth,” but that’s after the descension or the facilitated and orchestrated fall of the black man. The roles in traditional marriage and relationships have been reversed. Through social programming which produces socialist, communist even fascists thought; the black woman through her early foremothers siding with Marxists, feminist, welfare policies and values—aided by the failure of black fathers—created the epic anarchy which exist in your local black community.

What must be understood when trying to deal with the complexity of black Americans, is the dealing with this mentality of “being a real nigga” which permeated our local inner cities. For instance, we used to have ‘models’ of reverence and consistency. We had women and men, who we looked to as status quo or people we could resonate with. However, because the seed of ‘big momma’ was implanted in us like a seed, we have grown to nothing but the black woman running the family with the black man’s role being socially marginalized; and his authority practically obsolete. In 2015, you have black women being indoctrinated by the likes of Beyoncé, Nicki Minaj, and others, spouting this “You don’t need a man,” (which is actually anti-man) for nothing, overly ambitious to the level where you actually want to be A MAN—but not it knowingly consciously.

 

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There’s a prodigious issue with our black women because not only have they adopted the role of “provider” but they have become unofficial leaders which makes them unqualified affirmers when it comes to our children. Affirmation and character (truly) comes from a father who loves, disciplines and encourages their children. However, black women have eaten from the tree of forbidden fruit, and she has become a competitor—not a companion–to the black man, an adversary rather than an ally. Degrees, feminist theory, government assistance, child support, and minimal opulence have consumed the mind of those who dashiki-wearing Negroes render as “queens.”

As uncomfortable as white people are in discussing structural racism and white privilege; such is the same when discussing the contentious black crime argument with Negroes. Yes, contentious argument because many blacks will point to its oppressor due to the racism and systematic racial oppression. Just recently film director Spike Lee made a reference to black crime with CNN’s Anderson Cooper. One must speculate and ask are blacks upset with what Lee said, or is it because he said it on a public ‘white’ platform? The platform is often bastion of criticism due the inferiority factor and the left right paradigm in politics (politricks) where many blacks often prefer the canon of white liberal rhetoric of encapsulating hundreds of years of racism. Tavis Smiley used to hold a summit called State of the Black Union; where he enlisted notable African-American scholars, speakers, teachers, politicians and entertainers; to discuss black progress and sanctity or in other words, “what do we need to do next.” The Negro has yet to test this hypothesis of ‘what to do next’ because the next has falls squarely on the individual first; then the collective—without the assistance of white folk. So while intellectual misfits speak on the ills on slavery, Jim Crow, Black Codes, redlining, mass-incarceration through the prison-industrial complex, the War on Drugs, police supplying guns in poor neighborhoods, and on and on and on. The blame whitey card gets minimized when the name of Kendal Fenwick is echoed from a rotten grave.

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While many in black America rallied around a Missouri student who decided to starve himself because he and his peers felt they were ‘oppressed;’ the murder of Kendal Fenwick, gets swept under the rug. A known community activist, Fenwick died trying to protect his family of three; from the same ‘niggertivity’ most Negroes want to blame white folk for on a systematic premise. He was killed by drug dealers who were mad he built a fence to keep them away from him and his family. Brother Fenwick’s achievements and impact was reduced to a mere statistic as he became victim 295 of a 300 and counting murder rate this year in the city of Baltimore. I repeat; the same city that immortalized Freddie Gray as if he were Kendal Fenwick; is the same city that glorifies its petty hustlers. This nigga syndrome which has crippled the psychology of the American Negro mind; and has reproduced a legacy of excuses, victimization, self-hatred without self-actualization, from an oppressor whose shown his hand of supremacy by way of classicism; a weakened harnessed enemy who rather have a democratic liberal be its defense then going out on its own. Part two coming soon when I’ll deal with the new ‘Black Codes.’

 

Peace and Love y’all!

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“We Don’t Even Care About ‘US”

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Some of my best memories growing up as a kid in the 80’s were the times when I wanted to be like Michael Jackson. Unbeknownst to me, it was during the time when Michael Jackson was at the crown of his career having just released his album entitled; “Bad.” I would spent my time trying to imitate his dances moves, wore one glove pretending it was white; and finish every dance move mimicking Jackson’s patented sounds of “Hee-Hee and Aoww!” This was before hip-hop had my attention and when music was still good enough to listen to on the radio without having to explain why there are so many pauses in a record. Then fast-forward into the 90’s where my adolescence was ‘chin-checked’ if you will when I was told I had been “hoodwinked and bamboozled” from Spike Lee’s movie Malcolm X. I had started middle school and was introduced to high top fades, House Party films, Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg, Cross-Colours, Karl Kani, and of course: girls. While I was going through the stress of peer pressure and teenage puberty; my early childhood idol, Michael Jackson; was being investigated on child sexual abuse charges. Though such charges would haunt him for the rest of his career; Jackson maintained his innocence in a recorded interview and would later go on and settle with his accuser outside of court. Jackson would go on musically to record HIStory:  Past, Present, and Future, Book I, as a response to not only the accusations he endured; but to the mistreatment he received from the media. Regarded as Jackson’s most controversial album, Jackson again became the center of public scrutiny when one of the albums songs, “They Don’t Care About Us” was cited as having anti-Semitic lyrics. Despite Jackson’s pleas that the lyrics or his intent was not anti-Semitic; the commotion ended when Jackson re-recorded song removing the anti-Semitic slur. All controversy aside, the song “They Don’t Care About Us” was thought by many as having a hidden message and that maybe the singer was trying to tell us something—by us I mean African-Americans.

Such a song could be the impetus turned into a chorus sung by countless African-American voices as the year nears its end. We’re just barely four weeks removed from the decision by a grand jury which chose not to indict NYPD Officer Daniel Pantaleo in the death of Eric Garner. Garner, who was a father of six, was accosted by police for allegedly selling loosies’ cigarettes was taken down by an illegal chokehold by Pantaleo while America gasped when hearing Garner reply; “I can’t breathe.” Unlike the Michael Brown scenario involving Officer Darren Wilson; this case had visual evidence of an Officer using not just excessive force but an illegal take down method and Garner’s cause of death was ruled a homicide. But of course you had people apologizing for the officer saying “This isn’t about race and he [Garner] was resisting arrest.” Even Garner’s widow mentioned this isn’t about race in an interview with Rush Limbaugh, (of all people) and her husband was known by the officers for selling illegal cigarettes. I get the resisted part to some degree; however, are we then to conveniently forget about Officer’s Pantaleo’s checkered past?  The New York Daily News reports back in April of 2012, two men, (both who are black males) Darren Collins and Tommy Rice; alleged that Pantaleo pulled the men’s pants down and slapped their genitals during a traffic stop. Criminal charges against the two men were dropped according the reports and each received $15,000 each in a settlement. There is other cases against Officer Pantaleo (including one still pending) but my point is the guy clearly has a history of unfair treatment towards blacks so why was he even on the force?  Before I could even answer that question, I was aghast to find out that the Staten Island borough where Garner was killed has the highest number of most-sued NYPD officers the Daily News reports.   No, no, no. Maybe it has to do with Pantaleo’s Sergeant, Kizzy Adoni, who failed to intercede or break up the encounter so the grand jury had to rule in Officer’s Pantaleo’s favor, right? And just for the record; Sergeant Adoni is a black woman. As thousands rushed the streets nationwide to protest (and rightly so) after the decision was made; there was still a part of me that was hesitant in giving my full support. Of course it would be easy for me to put my pro-black militant hat on and talk about institutionalized racism and yell “white supremacy is alive and active!” It would also stick to my initial social-political narrative with the Jackson song of, “They Don’t Care About Us.” But that would be too easy.

I want to be very, very, clear in this article before I move on because initially I did not want to write it. I didn’t want to be considered a race-baiting; the white man is keeping us down, quoting liberal; or a personal responsibility, American flag wearing, blame the poor, high-horse conservative. I have no political affiliation whatsoever. I say this because anytime someone black gives an honest, constructive criticism of the black community they are immediately labeled as Toms and Coons. They say this because in some way shape or form, you sound like your repeating white supremacist rhetoric talking points. Although I disagree with that assumption; however, I will say there are some black conservatives out there who never seem to defend anything black or African-American. In fact, many of them would be insulted if you were to call them an African-American; or say they represent the black community! I can assure you I am not one of those type of guys. Likewise, in regards to the liberal argument which ignores or better yet makes excuses for everything wrong with black people. Their end all solution is to NOT fix or improve the black family; but to subsidize it with the government’s supervision. Please understand my intent isn’t to belittle or berate the black community; but it is always from my conviction which leads me to write about various topics that affect us as black people. This is why although I know white supremacy does exist; however, I do NOT spend a whole lot of time addressing it because most of our issues WE should be able to work on constructively and collectively. Just like when I hear people get mad at rich upper class African-Americans for not giving back to the black community. I used to be one of those cantankerous people myself until I understood that those rich blacks are bought off and controlled by sponsors and corporations. Moreover, the only time I personally see fit to call out those black elites is when they’re involved with a product, advertisement, or a movement that is at the detriment, decadence, and the destruction of black people. Something I like to call the 3-D’s effect.

This leads me to the monotonous protesters or creators of the “Black Lives Matter” movement which will be soon hijacked by whatever minority group associated with them who feels they’re just as important as well. So according to their website blacklivesmatter.com, the movement began back in 2012 after George Zimmerman was acquitted in the murder of 17 year-old Trayvon Martin. Since then the group has been actively involved in organizing several marches, rallies, and protest. They have become virtually the crest of the movement, led by “Black Lives Matter” originators: Alicia Garza, Patrisse Cullors, and Opal Tometi. They have garnered national media attention and social media notoriety most notably after the death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Mo. After I browsed through their website to see what they ultimately stood for; I was not surprised that “Black Lives Matter” isn’t just about black lives dying at the hands police and vigilantes. Here’s a quote from blacklivesmatter.com:

“It goes beyond the narrow nationalism that can be prevalent within Black communities, which merely call on Black people to love Black, live Black and buy Black, keeping straight cis Black men in the front of the movement while our sisters, queer and trans and disabled folk take up roles in the background or not at all.  Black Lives Matter affirms the lives of Black queer and trans folks, disabled folks, black-undocumented folks, folks with records, women and all Black lives along the gender spectrum.  It centers those that have been marginalized within Black liberation movements.  It is a tactic to (re)build the Black liberation movement.”

**Sigh**I couldn’t help to notice that something was glaringly missing from this movement’s website. You guessed it—black on black violence. I know, I know, I KNOW; what I just said could get me put on some fictitious Coon Train; but the greatest threat to black male’s lives; is other black males. I get this stems from various socio-economic factors such as concentrated perpetual poverty, drugs, mass incarceration, lack of jobs/unemployment, the practice of hood culture (and the media’s promotion of it through music and images), fatherless homes; I could go on. I myself understand that there’s always been this pervasive predatory target placed upon black men in America. However, the explanation of being a product of your own environment should be just as irritating of hearing me and others talk about “black on black crime.” The difference between me and the political bigot; is that I am genuinely concerned for the black community just like a prisoner doing 20 to life. What do I mean? This same prisoner if he had the chance (and was remorseful for his crime) who would tell you not only don’t make the same mistakes which landed him in jail; but you have a choice to do something different. That’s code for take responsibility. That’s right. Also, since we are talking about black lives and all; I would be remissed if I didn’t bring up the lives which begin at conception. I understand this might stir up a hornet’s nest by addressing a woman’s right to choose; but abortion continues to be a problem in the African-American community. Yes the abortion rates (nationwide) have dropped considerably within the last decade; unfortunately, black women are still five times more likely to abort than white women and two times more than Latina women according to the  Center for Disease Control and Prevention. There are other groups in which the “Black Lives Matter” movement is also engaged in but of these groups’ transsexuals [gays], feminism, and illegals; already have a national platform and political support. So while I applaud “Black Lives Matter” and the thousands of protesters nationwide; this isn’t really about black males being killed. It’s about having a face—rather a black face— to push their own politicalized agenda’s for their own personal gain. I could be wrong but hey that’s ‘politricks.’

I was almost tempted to end this elongated article by saying “My fellow Americans,” as if I was giving a presidential address. Truth be told, as much as I care about black community and its overall all well-being; it seems like our future as a people is very grim. It’s like we deliberately ignore the seemingly obvious issue, which is the black family; and we focus on who we think is bothering us and become capricious with anyone who tells us otherwise. Racism and anything associated with it; isn’t our core problem. So how can we say “They Don’t Care About Us,” when ‘WE’ don’t even care about us. But nevertheless, those of you who wish not to be enlightened or flat out refuse to, will be the ones who will continue to rail, march, and bark at the moon. Just like those who went before you. Peace.

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“The Failure At Ferguson”

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Outrage In Missouri Town After Police Shooting Of 18-Yr-Old Man

I often wonder why when black people come together after an act of injustice it’s always based around the same political, racial narrative. You know the narrative that whenever someone who is opposite of African-American descent or let’s just be honest; “anyone classified as a white male” narrative. But it becomes another heightened level of scrutiny when the individual in question is a white male police officer. Such is the case we have in Ferguson, Mo over the weekend involving an officer shooting and killing an unarmed young adult, 18-year-old Michael Brown. Here is an excerpt from CNN.com from a witness who was with Brown at the time of the shooting:

Dorian Johnson, 22, told CNN that he and Brown were walking in the middle of the street when a white male officer pulled up and told them, “Get the f*** on the sidewalk.” The young men replied that they were “not but a minute away from our destination, and we would shortly be out of the street,” Johnson said.

The officer drove forward but stopped and backed up, almost hitting the pair, Johnson said.

“We were so close, almost inches away, that when he tried to open his door aggressively, the door ricocheted both off me and Big Mike’s body and closed back on the officer,” Johnson said.

Still in his car, the officer then grabbed Brown by his neck, Johnson said. Brown tried to pull away, but the officer kept pulling Brown toward him, he said.

The officer drew his weapon, and “he said, ‘I’ll shoot you’ or ‘I’m going to shoot’ ” and almost instantaneously fired his weapon, hitting Brown, Johnson said.

Johnson and a bloodied Brown took off running, and Johnson hid behind the first car he saw, he said. The officer got out of his car (http://www.cnn.com/2014/08/11/us/missouri-ferguson-michael-brown-what-we-know/).

Johnson continued to express that the officer followed Brown firing several more shots even after the victim tried to get away. The authorities, however, tell a different story in which Brown physically assaulted the police officer by pushing him into the officer’s vehicle; which at one point, lead to a struggle for the officer’s weapon. This would eventually lead to the officer retaliating by firing multiple shots at Brown killing him outside of an apartment complex this past Saturday. All of this “allegedly” was stemmed from the fact that Brown was a possible suspect from a shoplifting incident. Brown, who was slated to start college this week, was seen being cooperative with the authorities several eyewitnesses stated at the scene, but the police have yet to confirm these allegations. Later Sunday evening, a memorial and prayer vigil were held to honor and remember the slain young man and many in the neighborhood showed up to give their condolences. What took place immediately after the vigil; however, became what I call a “tragedy within itself.”

What began as a memorial and prayer vigil for yet another unarmed African-American male, turned not only the suburb of Ferguson upside down, but transfixed the eyes of America in the process. Citizens from Ferguson and neighboring communities took to the streets in what could only be reminiscent of the 92’ L.A. riots. Several stores became targets for looting and vandalism as citizens burglarized and took everything from beauty supplies, car rims, alcohol, to black America’s favorite shoes: Air Jordan’s. Hoards of young adults filled the streets as local law enforcement had to request back up from neighboring precincts. Angry protesters were met by police in full riot gear armed with everything from rifles, shields, gas masks and dogs. In all, 32 people were reported to be arrested and two officers were injured. History has always had a way of repeating itself; and 50 years later after the historic Civil Rights Act was signed into legislation, the American justice system has been any but “civil.”ferguson-QT

Now before you go dust off your “Straight Outta Compton” cd while chanting “No Justice, No Peace,” I must remind you that I said this is a tragedy within itself. Why does our act of civil disobedience have to result in stealing things that most African-American purchase and consume annually in the first place? Yes, the unidentified officer in my opinion was probably at fault and deserves to be punished to the fullest extent of the law. However, due to the rioting and looting which took place several days prior, the media and to some extent, African-Americans have turned this into a budding race war albeit a war our communities aren’t prepared for. Police brutality seems to be the “clarion call” for black America and further reinforces theories such as Joy DeGruy’s Post Traumatic Slave Disorder and victimology; while further perpetuating an ongoing trend that a black life in America only has value when it’s taken at the hands of someone who’s white. I understand this case has glaring similarities of another African-American male, Eric Gardner, who died (literally) in police custody by way of an illegal chokehold and unlawful force not even a month ago in Staten Island, NY. But I wouldn’t be fair, I wouldn’t be truthful, and most importantly; I wouldn’t be black if I didn’t mention, hell, demand this same type fervor and zeal to be reciprocated in our own communities. And if you’re saying to yourself “Why am I bringing this up?” Damn it because the only time black folks get bold about violence and want justice in our communities is when “The Man” bothers us. It’s dumbfounding to me how we demand answers and badge numbers, yet when it comes to us killing each other we facilitate the “No Snitching” policy. I’m sorry but black America, you can’t have it both ways!

Fortunately, there was one bright spot that has emerged from the protestors efforts with the help of social media. The “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot” is starting to catch steam across several cities in America (including my own) and has become more than just a trending topic on Twitter. What started as a hashtag to counter the media’s attempt to show the public demonizing photos of Michael Brown; has become the symbol of injustice and the mantra for change. Although I’m not particularly thrilled to know that Al Sharpton, the NAACP, some New Black Panther Party and the attorney who “allegedly” represented the Trayvon Martin family (while disappearing at the actual trial) Benjamin Crump has made their presence felt in an obvious attempt to incite racism. Nevertheless, there was something else far more egregious that as American citizens (and I use that term loosely) should all be concerned about: the dawn of an eminent, militarized police state. Jesse Jackson was quoted this week in the USA Today saying “There’s a Ferguson near you,” implying there’s tragedies just like this going on in a city near you. It was also another opportunity (as usual) to prioritize the race card and make this case about blacks versus white-cops. The implication that came to my mind wasn’t the issue of race; however, if Ferguson was a preview of how paramilitarized law enforcement reacts to local citizens as if they were in Afghanistan somewhere, what’s in store for the “Ferguson” city where I reside? In a span of a few days, protestors were bombarded with everything from militarized SWAT vehicles, rubber bullets and tear gas; to special operation forces with snipers taking aim at local residents. Local and national media and press reporters where given little to no video access of what became a full fledge paramilitary operation. Not trying to be overly conspiratorial, but under the banner of “Homeland Security,” lawmakers in Washington have shelled out some $34 billion over the past 10 years to state and local law enforcement. The grant money provides funds to build capabilities at the state and local levels while implementing the goals and objectives included in state homeland securities. Out of 14 categories ranging from Emergency Management Performance to Law Enforcement Terrorism; the program that receives the most funding is the Urban Areas Security Initiative.  This “initiative” is what Ferguson residents and many who viewed their televisions this week, found out what America has in store to impede any “acts” of terrorism.

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After nearly a week of rallying, marching and pictured selfies of “No Justice, No Peace” signs, citizens of Ferguson and the rest of nation, finally received the answers they were looking for–or did they? The Ferguson Police Department released the name of the unidentified officer involved in the shooting; six-year police veteran, Darren Wilson. However, to the chagrin of family, friends and supporters, not only did they release a police report linking Brown to a convenience store robbery; but they also revealed surveillance footage of Brown committing the act. Many people are saying this is an attempt to “assassinate” his character the same way they did Treyvon Martin back in 2012. Again, my condolences to Michael Brown’s family, relatives, and friends for doing all they could to raise a son; and now having to deal with the grief of losing one.  

So why did I entitled this article “The Failure at Ferguson?” I could point to the militarized law enforcement and their handling of the protestors, media, and press. I could also point to the Ferguson Police Department for releasing the police report and surveillance video of Brown; which had nothing to do with why he was killed. I could and should point to the rioting and looting that took place nearly a week ago. All of these things, even the race hustlers and race agitators, I could irrefutably point to. Instead, I’m going to point to the fact that the African-American community is not only waking up; but we’re starting to come together. I’m going to point to the fact that despite another white on black tragedy; maybe this time our galvanizing efforts will filter down into our communities when it comes to violence in general. Perhaps this will finally allow us to practice group economics, own more businesses, even emphasizing the value of our children’s education. So what’s the failure in all of this? We won’t—and that’s the failure.

So black America, please prove this cynical, pessimistic blogger wrong. I’m rooting for you.

Sincerely Yours,img-holdingferguson_151519994466.jpg_article_singleimage

One of your own

The Black Male Flaw: How Black Men Use Women as a Barometer for Manhood.

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miamiheat0923939322

Allow me to reminisce for a second.

There was a time when I was in elementary school when me and other young black males would instigate or get into a fight about some of the most ridiculous of things. Yes, we would get upset or agitated over name calling or if we thought you were stupid; even if you wore clothes that were considered shabby. We pretty much got into rumblings over normal things kids would argue and scuffle over. Yet there was another level of stupidity we would contend for and it included a stick as a prop. So much so if the opponent knocked off the stick (which was placed on your shoulder by others), it was on! And what was this scenario that caused so much conflict and violence you ask?

“Yo Mama.”

This would go on to be the staple for many young black men and it would also become the black woman’s disrespect card that is often pulled. Brothers, tell me if this sounds familiar.

“You ain’t nothing but a Mama’s boy.”

Now with this being the premise, not just for me but other black men, it’s no wonder why we think being a ladies man, a player, or a down right (pseudo) pimp reigns supreme in the minds of many black men. Most of us were raised by single mothers and even if she got married or had so-called step-fathers(s) around; black boys always had the duty to defend their mother. Ironically, our fathers became the blaxploitation film stars, the rappers, the drug dealers and the hustlers. And what did they glamorize or was braggadocios about the most? How much women they had or conquered. Just ask yourself black men, do you or do you know someone you kick it with that always boasts about how many women they knocked off or how many they could pimp? I understand having this mentality when you’re a young man and all; but when you get to your 30’s, 40’s and 50’s are you still keeping up with so-called notches on your belt? If your theme song is “I Don’t Know What You Heard About Me…” from rapper 50 Cent or you still think you’re still Goldie from the movie “The Mack,” then women have epitomized your manhood.82aff94209fee9f1_tumblr_md1gyzBtJO1rkyhcbo1_500

I understand we as men are hunters and conquerors by nature; I get that. But for the most part, however, we have taken our twisted adoration about our Mothers (when used correctly can be healthy btw) and translated it into fighting and defending black women that we aren’t even married to. I myself have been guilty of this absurdity when I was younger defending black women when most of the times; they were in the wrong. Think about it. Most fights (especially in clubs) are over some scantily clad dressed black woman. Even in our relationships, I understand men should take up for a woman to a certain degree; however, it should never be to the extent where physical harm is involved unless she’s your wife. Black women also play a part in this because they often perpetuate these situations by testing our manhood. Again, see if this sounds familiar.

“Oh, so you gonna let him (or them) talk to me that way, for real though? What’s wrong with you? Oh, so you some kind of punk now?”

I kept it clean only because we know often times expletives are often used in the exchange of the word punk.

Black men must understand that some black women aren’t worth saving; (say it again) especially if she’s not your wife!! We put and importance on how many women we can sleep with (or at least lie about how many we sleep with) like it’s some badge of honor that makes us men. I personally know men who’s in their 50’s who still brag about their feminine “escapades” and would clown you if you don’t have something similar or give don’t props to it.

Some say this was something “conditioned” during slavery because the black male was used in breeding. I would agree, however, but that reasoning or theory is not complete. Black people have had a history of worshiping or exalting our reproductive organs and if you don’t believe me check out the story of Nimrod and a plethora of others. The Americanized black, however, has had this abnormal affair with idolizing our mothers and as a result; we define our manhood from the eyes of a woman. Think about it. How come black women can tell us what a “real” man is better than a black man? Furthermore, ask the average black man what a real man is? I will guarantee you it will sound like it’s from a black woman’s perspective or the stereotypes that’s permeated from the media, entertainment, and our community in general. I understand there are some literal deadbeats out there who have children for, whatever the reason, don’t want to be involved in their children’s lives. But to be honest, based off the over 70% black single parent homes, you can’t conclude that over 70% of black men are horrible Fathers (another story for another blog). Now I know if there’s a black man reading this he will probably ask, “Then why don’t you tell me what’s a real black man?” My brother, I could only give my honest opinion about what a real black man is. However, it’s not in conjunction with the aforementioned things I addressed earlier. Black men should prioritize on becoming a husband and a Father more than becoming your typical player. We as African–Americans love the church, but hate reading the bible; which would do us well especially when it comes to reading Proverbs 31. You know that chapter in the bible that makes black women feel good, yet many fail to live up too. Anyways, black men please stop letting “that thing, that thing, that thiiiing,” between a black woman’s legs define you. Maybe Lauryn Hill was trying to give a hidden message in her song Doo-Wop (That Thing).

Lauryn-Hill

Maybe it didn’t just apply to the women fellas.

Peace and Love.


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Thug Lovin: “Black Women’s Undying Love For Thugs.”

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1000wIt’s no secret that black women or women in general, are attracted to a man with some kind of power or influence. Whether it’s your prestigious entrepreneur, entertainer, politician or congress men, even down to your local pastor; women love a man with a position of power. Kind of ironic those feminist women crave power disguised as equality; but then turn around and say they want a guy with some sort of “status?” But that’s another story for another day. What I want to deal with is the fascination that black women have for thugs. Even one of the most respected female emcees, MC Lyte, had to pay homage back in the day with the song, “Ruff Neck.” It actually happened to be one her biggest records by the way. However, what I want to do is to try to understand the psychology that women have when it comes to the coveted “bad boy” persona.

I’ve heard many black women say, “I need a guy who can handle me,” and when I was in my early 20’s I used to believe this nonsense. Yes, nonsense is what I call it now because after experiencing what most would call, the “typical black woman attitude,” I was often left feeling like I was the punk. And for any black woman who is reading this and saying to themselves, “He must of been messing with those ratchet hood chicks.” Well you’re correct, to a degree. I was just so intrigued with the Shaneeka’s, Lakeisha’s, and the Phaedra’s of the world, that they were of more of a challenge to me dating wise. My psyche was that if I could handle my next ‘EEKA,’ I could handle all black women.

Man was I wrong.

I eventually snapped out of liking those tough-talking, neck-moving, foul-mouthed, females. Like most men, I was drawn to these women because of their physical appearance, feistiness, and strength; also known as the “Strong Black Woman” mystique. So why am I being so retrospective in telling you this? Probably because when the black woman chooses the “thug,” she chooses them because of the look and the boldness. Funny how that happens, huh?tumblr_lkqyruvnBD1qdwh1so1_500

Black women choose the thug (or say they do) because they want security; they lust at the thugged-out appearance as a symbol of masculinity, and want to indulge in the often alluded stereotype that comes with bad boys: sexual gratification. This sexually based relationship (because that’s what it really is) ends up in the long run filled with multiple children, child support cases, parental (Father) abandonment, domestic violence, and worst death. From Yolanda to Senequa (yes, I know a woman by that name) time and time again, black women will go back to Daquan even after he’s done all kinds of evil to them. They actually believe the ‘thug’ represents the epitome of masculinity and power; the apex in their distorted, yet twisted “Knight in Shining Armor” mentality. Sadly, most of these women end up with the guy that I call the “Neo-thug.” The neo-thug doesn’t even have to prove or have street cred to be considered your typical thug anymore. He’s the guy who gets all of his thuggisms from movies and rap videos. He’ll make claims that he’s in a gang, but doesn’t have a set. He’s affiliated, but doesn’t participate in gang-related activities. He’s the guy who petty hustles, wants to be the next big rap star, tells a lot of “war stories” (which no one knows except him) and is allergic to a job application. Yet despite all of these traits; if he looks the part, black women will swoop him up even to the extent that she’ll let him live with her.

Another reason why black women are attracted to thugs is the element of control; and how they don’t have it over him. Black women will usually say “I don’t want no man I can control because I’ll walk all over him,” when in reality they do. In regards to the thug, however, they have both their fantasy and they have their challenge. They love the element of being put in check and wanting to have control at the same time! Unfortunately, with the thug you can never control him. You only get tired of him or exchange him for another one. Furthermore, the dilemma gets deeper when she attempts to make her thug into her own “science project.” Whether it’s the parolee straight from prison or the one who’s on his way there; black women will snatch him up out of curiosity or out of their desire to be nurturers. Unfortunately, most black women live off the exception not the rule, when it comes to dating the “bad boy.” And the rule is that many of these ‘boys’ do not change. Simply stated, if the school system, his parents, counseling, the juvenile and correctional facilities couldn’t rehabilitate him; neither can you.strong-black-beautiful-woman

The obsession many black women have with the street dude often creates a legacy of issues which has paralyzed the black community. As I’ve previously mentioned above, the fatherless-ness that is often created from dating the thug has more consequences than black women realize; especially when you start talking about it on a psychological level. Most of these “hood dudes” have behavioral issues and suffer from conduct (antisocial) disorders of which; are hardly ever resolved when they reach adulthood. Many have experienced some form of trauma; which can include verbal, mental, sexual and physical abuse. Once adults, they virtually carry on and become who their fathers were; even if the Father was never present in their lives. Likewise, the daughters also grow up and see their mothers date the same guys and often follow in their mother’s footsteps as well. As a matter of fact, some black women are now starting to emulate the very same thug they desire. Even though I used to be attracted to the “EEKA’S” of the world; these new thuggish-sounding, tatted up having, quick to fight anybody, type of female is just too much! I’m not even talking about the “studs” (another story for another blog) but these are black females who are attracted to black males.  Would I be wrong in saying let the battle of hyper-masculinity, begin?

In closing, I know some black women (and men) will read this post and will probably say “This ol’ lame @*% Negro…” and probably some other expletives and slurs; and will miss my point of this blog. It’s not just the hood chic that’s doing this, but it’s the career oriented, highly-educated and well-spoken ones too. I only wrote this blog because I’ve personally know women who are currently dating these men and think nothing of it. In an effort to be better people, we must first speak up on issues and past failures so we can grow as a people and not make the same mistakes. I’m not saying we are to totally turn our backs on black men who have experienced a trouble childhood or have a criminal past. However, black women must understand that the only way you can help a man like that is to let him help himself. Just remember black women the next thug you end up dealing with could very well spark another generation of convicts, absentee fathers, behaviorally challenged kids, and YOU living with the consequences and regrets. Don’t waist all of your good years seeking a thrill or chasing a fantasy. Because reality will hit you one day and you may not like what you see.240px-JaRuleThugLovin'Video

 

 


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“The Clippers & the Warriors Do Not Need to Play Tonight, Here’s Why..”

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0Black Americans have a chance to make history tonight. They have a chance to send to message not only to Donald Sterling, the NBA and its owners. They have a chance to make a social, political and historical STATEMENT to black people around the world. “White America, we DO MATTER.” We DO have not only an athletic skill, BUT A VOICE. I understand the NBA did what it was expected to do in disciplining Sterling. However, even if Sterling is banned from all things NBA, haven’t we seen a story like this before? From the Paula Dean’s and the Don Imus’s of the world? Sure they lose their jobs, sponsorship’s, even hold press conferences to express their apologies. We are used to seeing this time and time again. Everything will eventually go back to normal. The political race baiting pundits will continue to race bait. The NBA players and groups like the NAACP will receive little “trinkets” that will benefit certain minority programs and (sigh) America will no longer have to deal with its REAL problem: inherent white supremacy. 

This is why it is important for these NBA players (really all of them) not to play tonight. They expect you to wear your black wrist bans, turn your jerseys inside out, you know, all the “safe things” because you’ll eventually play the game anyways. It will also break the stigma that’s placed on athletes who will HAVE A LOCK OUT ABOUT MONEY, but you can’t sit out for your self-respect? Just think of the transcending effect it will have on every single African-American, who can’t protest on their jobs because they’re the minority. Finally, on one of America’s biggest stages, The NBA Play-offs, during a time when the games have been very entertaining, PLAYERS CAN NOW SAY NO. My pride, dignity and self-respect is more important than your ratings, your awards AND YOUR CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY. See, just because you, scratch that, THE NBA COMMISSIONER & COMPANY took care of Sterling you can best believe there are other owners who are apart of the “Good Boy’s Club.” Besides, who’s to say even if Sterling gives up his ownership he wouldn’t keep it in the FAMILY.
Black people always want to talk about the problems or accuse you if you stand up by saying, “What are you doing for your community etc..” Most of the times  black people never get into a place of power, and if we do, we end up selling out and becoming one of those “pet Negros.” These players are in a huge position during an observed Confederate Memorial Month, 50 years removed from the so-called Civil Rights Act, to HAVE THIS CURRENT AND FUTURE GENERATION TO NO LONGER HAVE TO SING, “WE SHALL OVERCOME.”
We don’t need the SHARPTON’S OR THE JACKSON’S OF THE WORLD, ESPECIALLY SINCE THEY WERE NEVER FOR US ANYWAY!! This will be independent from them because even they DON’T EXPECT BLACK PEOPLE TO DO NOTHING! Even if the NBA agreed to give the Sterling’s franchise over to Magic Johnson or another influential wealthy black. They would still win because it will only be a drop in the bucket to white supremacist America. Sort of like “Give the Nigger something and he’ll shut up.” NO! BY THEM NOT PLAYING TONIGHT WILL LET THE NBA KNOW, AND AMERICA, WE AS A WHOLE ARE NOT PLAYING WITH RACISM TODAY AND TOMORROW.
Lastly, if these players do not do this I will no longer patronize the NBA anymore. See, the fans can’t take the place of the players, so by them (THE FANS) not showing up for tonight’s game means nothing. Only the players can have a MONUMENTAL effect on the fans because they are the reason they SUPPORT THE LEAGUE!! Again, if these guys don’t SEIZE this moment not only will it be a slap in the face to former players like Jim Brown, Muhammad Ali, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and others from yesteryear, it will prove black America stands for nothing because we have truly been bought with a price. And I’m not talking about what Apostle Paul said in Corinthians either.

“Not a Role Model?”

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Bill O vs BeyonceHave you noticed that some people in the public eye receive a higher level of accountability and responsibility, while others seemingly do not? A few weeks ago, Bill O’Reilly on his show The O’Reilly Factor, interviewed Co-Founder of Def Jam, Russell Simmons about a raunchy video made by R&B-Pop superstar Beyoncé called “Partition.” O’Reilly, who has made it known his disgust for Hip hop music, asked Simmons an assortment of questions about how explicit the video and the lyrics were to the song in lieu of the fact it can influence young girls to become promiscuous.  Simmons, who was trying to promote his book “Success Through Stillness,” was caught off guard by O’Reilly’s barrage of questions and pretty much defended Beyoncé’s actions as an artist. O’Reilly, as you can expect, was not pleased by Simmons response by implying “How can you call this art?” He later went on to say that artists have a moral responsibility to their fans about the content they put out, and I actually found my self agreeing with…..Bill O’Reilly? Everyone knows O’Reilly loves to play these blame game tactics (mainly because he’s a bigot), especially with the black community throwing around statistics as a way to antagonize African-Americans. Well, after this interview with Simmons, the media created a storm with everyone giving their two cents about O’Reilly’s tactics and basically defending Beyoncé. I decided to wait until this story die down a bit to give MY two cents, and my critique may or may not shock you.

Before I begin let me be perfectly clear, I, in NO WAY endorse Bill O’Reilly, his show, or Fox News, thank you. The Beyoncé situation has raised some pertinent questions about are entertainers really looked to as role models anymore? Well, we certainly know professional athletes are because as soon as they get into trouble with the law, their defense in court is “I’m so and so and I’m a pillar in my community, kids look up to me, I’m A ROLE MODEL, I volunteer to this organization etc..” So is being a role model only convenient when it applies to someone who is in trouble with the law? Or maybe, just maybe, it only applies to men? I guess the prestige of public image only applies to politicians and preachers? Correction, male politicians and preachers.

Whether its Beyoncé, Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Housewives of whoever, Love & Hip-Hop of whatever. Black women the writing is on the wall. The media have reincarnated old caricatures (Jezebel, Sapphire) stereotypes and have joined the two and what we have on television is the finished product. Sure we’ve had some African-American women write-up petitions involving certain television shows, such as Bravo’s Married to Medicine and Oxygen’s All My Babies Mama’s, which they claim depicted African-American women in a negative light. However, where’s the petitions or the outrage when it comes to your favorite performer, who hasn’t made a clear distinction between classy and ratchet. Don’t tell me ‘there’s many facets to a woman.’ I understand that. But does all facets need to be on display for all America to see?

I may never know what O’Reilly’s true intent was for calling out Beyoncé. Honestly, he could have invited her to his show and asked her the very questions he inquired from Simmons. With that being said, he was right because many young girls do look up to Beyoncé and others like her. However, what is hypocritical is that we as adults pick n choose who gets a pass for raunchiness and who doesn’t. It’s like saying what is”hood” versus what is “ghetto.” They both mean the same thing which is bad! Sadly, Beyoncé represents most African-American women because she is not held accountable because even in her “ratchetness,” there is no rebuke. There is no petitions. There is no outcry. Just shock value and gossip-and personal invites for birthday parties by Mrs. Obama herself. Society views the African-American family (unfortunately) through its Mother and if the Mother is ‘ratchet,’ then what can you expect from her children? Remember, you are what you eat, but you reproduce who you are. So when people ask is Beyoncé and people like her role models? I say no, because most of our parents aren’t role models anymore  either.

 

 

 

 

 

“The NFL can seek to ban the use of the “N” word, but Hip hop can’t?”

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“You never thought Hip Hop would take it this far..”-Notorious B.I.G.

Things has definitely gotten ‘juicy’ these days in the sports world as the verse above fromNFL 2 the entitled song called Juicy indicates. I know you maybe wondering, “What does hip hop have to do with this post?” The answer is everything. Unless you’ve lived under a rock or something, there were two stories that made national headlines involving the NFL and the issue of race. One, involving Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Riley Cooper, who was caught on video saying “I will fight every n*gger in here,” while attending a Kenny Chesney concert. Yea, I said the same thing. The the latter involved two Miami Dolphins offensive linemen, Richie Incognito and Johnathan Martin, where Incognito was accused of bullying tactics against Martin. Of these tactics, the most sinister included a voice mail message in which Incognito left racial slurs such as “Half n*gger piece of s**t.”  With the national press, sports and televised media pinning the NFL into a corner,  the usual question is always  asked “Is racism still alive in America?” Even though in the eyes of many is the negative narrative, (it’s not really an issue anymore) the media will still satiate at the chance to cover any story about race, even if it’s at the cost of cheap ratings. This why those who “race bait” for a living have a never-ending career as political media pundits.  Don’t believe me, just ask MSNBC.

NFLRecently, the NFL has decided that the use of the “N” word will fall under the”unsportsmanlike” conduct rule which usually results in a 15-yard penalty during an NFL  game. Richard Sherman, of the Seattle Seahawks, called such a rule “atrocious” and it’s often used in the locker room. Then Sherman went on to say “It’s almost racist, to me. It’s weird they’re targeting one specific word. Why wouldn’t all curse words be banned then?”(Espn.com) Although I agree with his statements, I personally commend the NFL for taking a stance against a known historically offensive word.  Yes, there are other words which are used in our society which are considered lewd, profane and even blasphemous. However, we’re dealing with more than just  a word, but a racial slur. A word, that when used by whites, would elicit intense rage due to its ominous past and how it was used towards blacks. By far, there is no other word in the English lexicon that breeds more contempt, hatred, discrimination, humiliation, degradation-yet many African-Americans, use this word as a term of endearment with each other. As posthumous rapper Tupac Shakur once said, “N*ggas are the ones with gold [chains] ropes, n*ggers where the ones hanging on the ropes [noose].” Interesting, Hip-hop’s most decorated and transcendent figures would make such a statement. But I’ll leave Tupac alone because you got people (just like Elvis) who still believe he’s alive, so I don’t want to catch the backlash after another album of his drops.

Hip hop originated over forty years ago in the South Bronx area of New York City. Some of its pioneers include: Grand Master Flash and the Furious Five, DJ Kool Herc, Afrika Bambaataa, and KRS-One. Hip hop derives its art form on the strength of four fundamental elements which include: rap music, (oral) turntablism, (aural) breaking (physical) and graffiti art (visual) (Wikipedia.com). Since its start, hip hop was primarily a form of escapism for inner city youth through music and dance held at local neighborhood block parties. As the momentum of this new genre began to spread, Hip hop became more than just fun party music, it also became a social and political voice for many young African-Americans. One significant song at the time was Grand Master Flash’s “The Message, ” which spoke on issues such as poverty, violence and the neglect for the lives of black youth. There would be other socially conscious political groups such as Public Enemy, but through the years Hip hop has always managed to balance itself between being socially conscious, and culturally relevant. Even if it’s at the displeasure of others; including itself.hip-hop-albums

Hip hop heads and black people in general, have always used the “N” word, however it’s usage and popularity wasn’t always commercialized and acceptable as it is today-at least not by black people. Prior to the 60’s,  African-Americans despised the word because of its negative connotation, and it served as a reminder of slavery, lynching, segregation and discrimination. In fact, some African-Americans didn’t even take kindly to the word negro, although it became a more accustomed name versus its earlier term, colored. Fast forward to 2014, the”N” word has become more ‘endearing,’ I mean popular, than ever. A word so repugnant,  yet so widely celebrated and embraced not only in Hip hop, but by many African-Americans. Again, I know hip hop, heck black people didn’t create the “N” word. However, we as black people have a responsibility in how we carry ourselves and how we are perceived.  It’s almost like hip-hoppers have become like the black Christian in a way. You know, the one that says “Don’t judge me, God knows my heart.” All while living a lifestyle that contradicts what the bible teaches entirely. Likewise, this is what the (black) rapper does when they make excuses for the usage of the word. Don’t get me wrong, even I used to use the word. When I say I used to use the “N” word, it was my favorite transitional word!! However, when I started hearing younger kids and females use the word openly in front of other non-black people, I thought to myself “Do we have no shame?” I implied ‘we’ because I was part of the problem-a problem which originated from my adherence to Hip hop music.

My point is this, if the NFL can take a stand against this socially deviant word at the price of protecting its business and image, why can’t Hip hop? This is not my attempt to be a reincarnation C. Delores Tucker or sound like those bought off so-called ‘black’ leaders. It just amazes me no other ethnic people group embraces or condones a racial slur as term of “endearment.” Even if other ethnic groups may call one another a slur, it doesn’t go outside of their community. Maybe that’s Hip hop’s, wait a minute, black America’s most troubling problem-the absence of community.  See, when one comes from a community, the people ‘police’ it’s own. They don’t allow what is frowned upon or something that brings shame to their people, be looked at as an overall representation of their culture. They don’t glorify ghetto behavior. In relation to Hip hop, most of its participants unfortunately, come from environments which lack a sense of family AND community.  Also, Hip hop in some peculiar way, became a Father figure to an otherwise fatherless generation. Now what does a natural Father demonstrate? They give structure, discipline, affirmation and most importantly, they teach honor. When you have no honor, you have no respect and rebellion becomes your alter-ego. Also, if we really look at Hip hop, you see many of its artists stuck in adolescence-arrested development I tend to call it. I could go deeper, but I’ll digress for now. In closing, I’m not saying you can change overnight in regards to using the “N” word. It has become a word that in all actuality, feels good to use (speaking from personal experience) but carries destructive results. I’ve heard black people from the preacher to educator, from the sweet old lady to the vile speaking thug.  Some African-Americans believe there are some ‘black folk’ who actually personify the very meaning of the word! (that’s another story for another day, ha ha.) I just wish the so-called ‘elders’ of this Hip hop culture would call out this type of language and make it a serious matter. They have the platform, the influence and (to some degree) the power to promote change. If Hip hop can inspire young people across the U.S. to “Vote or Die” for our President a few years ago, why can’t it lead the charge on something that directly affects Hip hop it’s self? Sometimes we can’t hear or see exactly what’s really going on. That is until the music stops.  ***drops the mic***