BET wrongly accussed of creating gangs in Monroe

There is no end to the things that I don't like about Black Entertainment Television. The music videos, the quality of most of the films shown on the cable network, the lack of news, the ghettofication (yes I just made that word up) of entertainment. The list goes on and on.

But there are some things that I'm not sure you can blame on BET. Just because Viacom is commoditizing Black culture does not mean that every wrong in the Black community is tied to them. That's something that needs to be proven because just making the statement is like throwing around the word racist (which is a popular thing to do these days).

The Monroe Free Press really needs to think about this. Today they published an article that blames BET for the increase in violence and gangs in their area. The article is More Shootouts as teens fight for "Respect" and Headlines. Obviously this article delves into the question of what is motivating teens to join gangs and kill each other.

It's not stated who wrote the piece, but I think they were seriously reaching when they decided to pick on BET. In fact I bet they were just looking to get more coverage, which they did succeed in doing.

The article states immediately

"They are young and out of control, but the arrests keep coming as neighborhood gangs bent on being famous like BET’s American Gangster, fight each other for what one has called “My Respect.”

“American Gangster” is a weekly television program on Black Entertainment Television which profiles gangs in the black community since the 1950’s with photos and storylines that lift the criminals to legendary status."

Now I have no argument that shows like American Gangster and Gangland glorify the criminal and mindless activities the dregs of society have chosen. I agree that such programs are counter-productive in a society that thinks everyone should have a Jackass or American Idol moment. The various Youtube videos of various people breaking the law (like giving babies drugs, or setting up fights to be taped) shows how stupid some can be, and how desperate some are for attention they don't deserve.

But to directly state that the gangs in Monroe are growing simply because of the actions of just this one show on BET is anything but a given. Which is proven by the fact that the article goes on to stop mentioning BET while discussing the problem with teen gang shootings. There is no proof that the BET show encouraged the gangs. There is nothing that connects the recent shootings in Monroe, or the gang growth, to BET.

Problems cannot be fixed by just scapegoating an individual or institution. The very argument that modern television and aspects of the internet promote the worst behavior in teens and some adults is weakened by such a baseless claim. Not once was there even so much as a quote by an accused shooter or gang member about BET. There wasn't even a made up stat or poll or reasonable connection.

Do I think the programming on BET is worthwhile, positive, or beneficial to the Black Community? No. I've stated that many times. I think that Sumner Redstone and the execs at Viacom are too busy cashing in on the commoditization of Black culture to care what they put on or what potential effect it may have. Until all of their kids act out and reference BET, or the other equally horrid programming featuring African Americans on other Viacom channels, they won't even notice.

Still my opinion, and my direct references to shows on BET and their link to stereotypes and negative connotations of African Americans, are not the same as trying to vaguely connect BET to crimes being actively committed. A publication that purports itself as a member of the press needs to have higher standards. Being a publication catering to African Americans does not mean standards are removed or lowered.

Can BET be improved? Only in as much as I am sure the sun will rise tomorrow. But is BET contributing to the rise in gang violence in Monroe? There is no way to be sure, especially considering the "reporting" by the Monroe Free Press. And the readers of Monroe, and the internet, deserve better. Even BET for all its faults deserves better than that.

Roots - the lost mini-series

On a separate note, derived from my thoughts about the Dr. Martin Luther King biopic, I wondered about something else.

When was the last time you saw Roots?

I imagine that most people in America under the age of 35 have never seen it. I bet they don’t even now what this amazing television mini-series was. They have never heard of it, nor seen it.

To my knowledge it’s been on television once, in the 1970’s. It hasn’t been on BET to my knowledge. Ever. It hasn’t been replayed on broadcast television though it was one of the most watched programs ever, each night it was on (it was several parts long). It doesn’t even get mentioned in February.

Talk about a failure to move forward. No one complains that it does not appear on television anymore. I have yet to hear of others balk at the difficulty to find the series on DVD or VHS. I have noted how even a station proposing to be Black Entertainment can ignore such a groundbreaking program through it’s entire existence.

Again I am led to a thought I have spoken about before. The entertainment media does not want to move forward. They want to talk about it, but not act. They want to promote gangsta rap, but not political rap. They want to fill airwaves with depictions of African Americans as hustlers, pimps, drug dealers, and hoes but not leaders. Unless you consider bouncing a near naked ass next to a crome and gold covered man holding malt liquor and an illegal drug while speaking to a beat as success and leadership.

Roots, like the true message of Dr. King, speaks against the commercialization of being Black in America. Black culture is more than trendy clothes, silly adornments, and a minstrel show. These are not the things people died for during the Civil Rights Movement. This is not the life that the freed slaves prayed for.

Roots should be back on television. Because I think we all need a jolt to remind us of just those very facts.

Rappers beware Senegal

Gangsta rappers in the U.S. should be happy that world tours don't normally include Senegal, nor any nations similar to it. As tough as they would like to say they are, and a few are indeed all the criminal low-life they propose to be, I imagine most would look quite bad skittering across the stage.

Now the reason I say this is because in Senegal a man of 70 decided to let a group of rappers performing on stage know how he felt about the lyrics they were spewing. He did so with a rifle. Suffice to say they stopped performing.

The reason for this incident was because the elderly man was offended by the lyrics of a particular rap. It dealt with a "cranky old man". The 70 yr old felt it was a disrespect to him, I am lead to believe. When the performers would not abandon the song, he opened fire.

I do not advocate the use of a weapon on entertainers. Not even for rappers that I personally find to be lower than scum for their admitted (and potentially over-glorified) role in dispersing poison (in the form of drugs) to communities. Not even for a horrendous performance. But I can see how the man could have been so enraged.

As I am aware, Senegal is not the most progressive nation in the world. I could be wrong as I have not been there and base this on the news I have seen. So that is a factor. But I have to wonder what would happen in the U.S. if parents and adults took a non-violent yet similar stance to rappers.

What if parents refused to allow their kids to buy the albums that contain offensive lyrics, or watch videos with allusions of drug-fueled grandeur? What if entire communities protested when admitted drug criminals performed in their area? What if felons of violent crimes and drug charges were shouted down when they get on stage and begin songs that promote the death of children by imitating or glorifying their illegal path?

Or on a more personal level what if parents stopped buying the records, and provocative clothing? Blocked the BET's from their cable channels, and monitored the songs their kids listen to? Wouldn't that be something.

Yes kids would still be able to listen to songs and rappers when they are out of the home. But that is a limited time. Unless you allow the child to roam the streets, even after 11pm at 12 years old, as I have seen in some places. Because parents have the power.

A child has no money of their own. They don't work. So either you are buying the trash for them or you aren't paying attention on what they are doing. Because if they have a new pair of stupidly expensive jeans that don't fit and sneakers that cost over $100 and you didn't pay for it you should ask questions and get involved.

But my main point is this. While the Senegalese man was over the top in his reaction, he had a reaction. In the face of apparent disrespect and dismissal of his complaint he did something. The wrong thing, but something. How many parents in America have done something? As I mentioned, by the number of kids roaming streets far beyond any reason, the number of those that dropout of high school, become single parents, get addicted to drugs, and die before the age of 25 they are not doing much.

Gangsta rap is a business like any other. Were it the equivalent of a pharmaceutical company it would have been recalled and banned due to its negative side-effects a decade ago or more. But this is the music industry, and unlike in Senegal many just accept the insults, profanity, degradation, and promotion of illicit drug use because 'it's just music'.

Rappers, like all artists, have the freedom of speech. I respect their right to perform as they choose. But that does not mandate an obligation on my part to listen nor provide them a financial incentive to continue. Even if they are Black or Latino. Call that my non-violent Senegal-style gunshot to the gangsta rappers.

Bob Johnson is at it again

Bob Johnson. The only Black male billionaire in the United States. The man that created Black Entertainment Television (no relation to this blog).

Bob Johnson is getting back to his roots. That is he is proposing a new Black-oriented television network to compete with his former BET and TV One. And I would equate that to a crack dealer finding religion and then going back out to sell more crack. If that doesn’t sound complementary, it isn’t meant to be.

Bob Johnson’s BET has more than a few comparisons for drug dealing. Its main adiction it sold were music videos so repulsive in the style and message that no other cable channel would dare play them. Not even the once rebellious MTV. These images of belittling women, and glorification of violence were not the initial programming but the end result. The big pay off. And he sold this to Black audiences because their only choice was to drink sand.

Bob Johnson had the opportunity to present an image of African Americans to the world that is not seen in other media. He could have emphasized the businesses we run, the educations we gain, the success we derive out of difficult and unbalanced situations. He could have promoted the achievements we make in the arts, and the advances we tread in politics. Instead he made a lot of money on the backs of the people he proposed to serve.

And now he plans to do it again.

According to an Ion and RLJ joint statement, the proposed share-time arrangement would allow Urban Television to operate “a continuous television program service aimed at serving the needs and interests of urban viewers and traditionally underserved minority communities. Urban Television will be a new addition to the current broadcast channel lineup, and Ion Media Networks will continue to operate its own broadcast networks.”

Urban Television is Bob Johnson’s new brand of crack so to speak. The goals sound lofty, but so did those at BET. The plea to the Government to back his venture are the same he stated before. And you can see the result right now, you might even be in time to see the movie Soul Plane.

Whether or not Bob Johnson launches Urban Television, he’s rich. He might be feeling remorse for the accusations he leveled at Barack Obama during the Democratic Primaries. He might be trying to make amends for the damage that BET has done over the years. He could even make a quality station that really does promote an image of African Americans as anything besides minstrels and pitbulls.

But I for one do not trust his intentions. I do not forget the high ideals he issued before diving to the gutter. I recall all to well his sell-out and escape to the fast lane. I don’t begrudge his money, just the way he got it. And I won’t help him get more.

Black Entertainment Television loses Procter & Gamble, but is it enough?

Viacom must be proud. I really have to believe that they are in a great mood today. If they aren’t all the better because I feel better. Why? Because Procter & Gamble and GM have pulled their ads from the network – specifically those found on Rap City and 106 & Park.

Both of these cable network programs are found on the infamous Black Entertainment Television (BET) [No relation], created by Bob Johnson based on the same theory as that of Marie Antoinette. But whereas Marie Antoinette was beheaded by the starving masses, the intellectually starving made Bob Johnson a billionaire. And Viacom was more than happy to jump on the bandwagon that Johnson started.

If television can be called the opiate of the masses, then gangsta rap and hip hop music videos are its crack. Bob Johnson figured out the formula and how to spread sales when he started his infamous late-night music video line-up. Viacom simply figured out how to sell this crack to schoolchildren during the day. Reginald Hudlin must be proud, because Sumner Redstone surely is.

But many others in the Black community, and those concerned about the welfare of children, were not pleased. Thus when the later re-named Hot Ghetto Mess was first imagined, we spoke out. While the changes were minor (program title was quickly altered, and some of the content it’s rumored) advertisers acted lest they stir the ire of the $1 trillion African American community. And again the voices were raised and that attention has caused action.

As most would agree, it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to realize that Rap City and 106&Park promoted videos to kids just out of school that focused on sex, violence and profane language. But for those, like the advertising executives at GM and Procter & Gamble, that obviously never actually watch the program an April Parent Television Council study found the following:

“…among other things, that Rap City featured on average 31.6 instances of sex, 25.3 instances of explicit language and 11.7 instances of violence per hour.”

And Bob Johnson had the balls to allege that Senator Obama was a drug dealer.

Don’t get too happy though. While these 2 companies are in the top 5 of advertisers in the nation they have not made the impact that really would have made a difference to Viacom. GM did take their ads from these BET programs, but it moved them to other programs on this troubled network. Thus the financial slap in the face has become a tap on the wrists and BET continues in silence.

And what about the advertisers that have not changed their position? That would be McDonald’s, YUM! Brands (ie. KFC, Pizza Hut, Taco Bell, and A&W root beer), and Verizon. Not one of these companies seems to be fazed by children being spoon-fed sex and violence. Yet not one of these companies would dare advertise on a program targeting White children with the same reported numbers. Obviously their opinion matches that of Sumner Redstone and Viacom. What great company to associate with.

And the Black community must be admonished for supporting these kinds of actions. With so much money being spent on keeping up with the Jones’, so much importance placed on style over substance we effectively beg for more intellectual crack and they whip it up on demand.

But until we act in the same manner as the poor French with Marie Antoinette, expect to eat more cake and have children more damaged every year. I have to wonder how well Debra Lee, Reginald Hudlin, and Bob Johnson sleep? I’d guess as well as the crack dealer on the corner.

Moment in time 40 years after Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - 4.4.2008.1

Today, 40 years after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and 2 days before my birthday I pause to reflect on what has happened and what could have.

I’ve read a lot on Dr. King in the recent days, far more than what was written during this past Black History Month. And I’m reminded of comments made by Jeff Johnson when I saw him at Ithaca College this year. I consider what Dr. King was moving forward to do at the time he was killed, and how he has been frozen in time. I look at the society of America and of African Americans.

I am a child of the Civil Rights era. I have benefited in numerous ways from the struggles and strife made by those before me. And there are numerous things today that have gone backwards in time or have wasted the efforts made. Those children beyond my generation have no idea of what has changed, and seemingly few have an appreciation that they don’t know things have changed only recently.

If Dr. King had not been killed 40 years ago, do you think there would be a BET today? Perhaps there would be, and a TV One as well – but not the only 2 and not in the manner that we see now on Black Entertainment Television I imagine. I doubt that Bob Johnson would have been the first with a national cable channel, and it would not have been built upon the back of scantily clad Black women gyrating to lyrics promoting drugs and violence.

If Dr. King had lived, he honestly would have diminished in some of his stature – as all great leaders do as they age. Yet his voice would hold more power than all the so called Black leaders of today combined and then some. He would long ago have questioned the infusion of drugs into our communities, the ridiculous face value actions of “Just say no”, and the promotion of money over education values that have integrated into our communities via music videos, video games, and other genres.

If Dr. King had lived, there would be a voice to speak with fanatical Muslim extremists. Perhaps there would never have been a 9/11, nor a war in Kuwait, nor a bombing in Lebanon. And even if these events did happen, there might have been a voice to provide an alternative just a step short of war.

If Dr. King had lived unions would be far different than they are now. There would have been a powerful voice questioning America’s involvement in Viet Nam, and questioning how the Government ran the war.

I imagine that television networks and movie studios would have rushed to integrate the big and small screens for fear of boycotts. Today there would not be worlds of imagination segregated to a virtually uniform racial make up of the world. There would not be just 2% of the entertainment industry representing every person of color combined. Spike Lee would not have to be heralded as a unique and groundbreaking director (based on his color), but just a great director among others.

I imagine that the African American middle class would not be a ghost, but a viable and growing community. I imagine that I would not have been able to get through high school with a college preparatory physics class textbook that was 3 years older than me. I imagine that a better alternative to Affirmative Action may have been found.

I would hope that had Dr. King lived, America would have come to terms with the need to apologize for slavery, something that I think still festers in the background causing separation and ill-will. I would hope that America could realize that reparations are part of that contrition and the fact that every American today benefits from the 246 years of work that built the foundations of everything that exists today. I would hope that we all would further realize that another 100+ years of segregation and prejudice were instead built upon the back of slavery with Jim Crow laws and that the cycle of judgment based on skin color needed to be broken.

I believe that as some of these things came to pass the history of the nation, the full history, would be revealed. Men like the Tuskegee Airmen and every other African American that has fought in every war America has ever had would not be new revelations to our children today. That the innovations and inventions that make life modern would be attributed to the Blacks that created them. That no person in America would wish to use a word like the N-word because it had no relevance and its meaning is too vile to repeat.

I believe that there would be no need to be distinguished by skin color when being described as an American. I would not need to be African American or Mexican American and so on. We could simply be Americans, one and all.

I believe that the Tuskegee Experiment would not have lasted until 1972, and that the Government would have been smitten for such actions. That there would not need to be a question of whether the government had made AIDS and brought it into communities of people of color because we could be sure they would never act in such a manner again.

I believe that Dr. King would never have become a politician, but other people of color would have been inspired, supported and welcomed as such. That there would be no place in America that could still herald the fact an African American ran for or was elected to a political office. That the first viable Black Presidential candidate would have ran, and possibly been elected long before the 21st century – 388 years after the first recorded slave was sold, 235 years after creating America, 142 years after abolishing slavery, 85 years after lynchings became a crime, 42 years after Jim Crow and segregation laws were declared illegal, 23 years after the first Black Miss America, 8 years after the first Black Secretary of State, 7 years after the first African American President of an Ivy League College and first Black billionaire, and 1 year after the first Black American (and youngest person) that flew around the world solo [which went virtually unreported].

There are many things I think that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. could have done had he lived, and others that he would have influenced that would have benefited America. But I am left with one other thought.

Why haven’t these things happened even without him?

Eugene Oregon can't speak to African Americans - 3.27.2008.1

If anyone from Eugene Oregon is reading my blogs, I hope that you have a dictionary handy. If not I suppose you can ask a White person from at least 110 countries around the world what my blogs say. I mention this because I just learned that for some reason the city does not seem to know how to speak to Black people.

Seriously. On Fox News at approximately 6:35pm, Dan Springer made a report about the City mandating training to be able to speak with African Americans. Somehow the less than 2% of the population that is Black seems to speak some language that the Americans in Eugene Oregon cannot comprehend.

Ok, I can’t hold it back. You dumb bas****s.

I can believe the insult. Somehow officials there think that English is not enough to allow for communication between Americans in America? Is it because the White Americans in Eugene failed to get an education of any kind? I doubt that. To my knowledge there was no transplanting of an African nation into the town. I am unaware of a Zulu tribe doing a mass immigration into the area. So what is the problem?

I am left with the thought that some White elitist pseudo-intellectual liberal with more money than brains decided that African Americans in the town were being treated unfairly, and the cause was that the White population didn’t know how to speak to them. Were some person to come up to me, and ask ‘How should I speak to you. Do you understand English?’ I would hit them.

I have to believe that the same liberal mentioned above has watched too much BET (Black Entertainment Television) – the music videos, saw Soul Plane once to often, and recently saw Birth of a Nation. Somehow that same person came to understand that Snoop Dogg was the representative of all Black people. I would guess that the same person also probably has never lived in a bigger city nor ever actually been around Black people.

If Savannah Georgia, or Houston Texas, or New York City decided to create a program to teach non-Whites to speak to Whites there would be a riot. The concept is ludicrous it would be claimed. It would be called insulting and stupid. The fact that everyone speaks (or should at least passingly understand) English makes the thought incomprehensible. Equally the converse is true. Except in Eugene.

Somehow my writing, which is actually less evocative than my speaking, is an alien language in Eugene Oregon. Or so their program indicates.

I have to wonder what happened when Senator Obama was speaking in the town. When he spoke about

“The Oregon election is a chance to make change a reality, Obama says. A police officer with a shaved head nearby me nods his head in approval. Come to mention it, there are a lot of cops standing around.”

Did the rest of those at McAuthur court understand? Was the officer nodding his head to stay awake, did he think he was watching some kind of new rap group?

When Senator Obama said

“Obama says he wants a head of the Environmental Agency to actually protect the environment, including Oregon rivers, oceans, forests and skies.”

Did the reportedly massive crowd know he wasn’t speaking about EPMD or did his White heritage somehow provide a encryption key for their ears?

Well let me tell those that find this program neccesary a little secret that only the entire nation should know, and the rest of the world (at least those from the 110 countries that view this blog each month) seems to understand, and every English speaking human being I have ever met understands – even those that I spoke Russian with. You speak to African Americans like a person with respect and you will get respect and a conversation. Speak to us like some dimwitted creature that can’t understand it’s native language and I assure you that you won’t like the results. Especially if you are in arms reach of me.

College students of color talk with Michael Vass - 2.28.2008.1

Do you know who Jeff Johnson is? Some may think of BET (Black Entertainment Television – no relation to this site) upon hearing the name. Others will have completely no idea whatsoever. To both I would say, you need to hear him in person.

On February 27th 2008 Jeff Johnson spoke at Ithaca College at Phillips Hall. This announced speech drew a mixed crowd of students that ranged from freshmen to seniors, male and female, and of all races. One commonality I noticed was the fact that they all were interested in becoming more involved in politics and active in issues important to them.

I had the chance, before Mr. Johnson spoke to talk with a few of these students. Initially I was speaking with 3 students, 2 guys and 1 woman with ages between 19 to almost 21. One of the most outspoken was Chinedum Nnodum, a 20 year old 1st generation son of Nigerian parents who grew up in the Bronx (not too far from where I grew up I later learned) and then in Connecticut.

Some of the questions I wanted to hear their opinions on are the same ones that are often spoken about at each Primary and Caucus that has occurred this year. When I asked how long they have all followed politics, and what interested them about this Presidential race I was told that they followed politics infrequently. That the big interest and draw was the fact that there was new blood in the candidates in the forms of Senator Clinton and Senator Obama.

When I asked if their preference was limited solely to Democrats and if so why I was told yes, partially because of the focus of the media and news feeds focused on them and the historic nature of their potential candidacy. Not to be left out was the fact that there is an ”emphasis on change.” Added to that was the fact that they felt the Democrats sounded more authentic in what they had to say.

Some of their concerns about this current Presidential race covered both political parties though. They all felt that there needs to be more of an emphasis on education. That this subject was being ignored due to the Iraq war and oil prices. For them it is a key issue, not only because it will affect the interest rates they will pay for their college loans but also – as one pointed out – what kind of opportunity will be provided to the younger brother of one of the students who is in middle school and will be coming to college as well soon.

They also felt that things were already changing, just by virtue of the fact that a woman and African American were potential nominees. Because of their involvement, and the fact that either way a minority potentially could be President, issues are being raised and addressed in a manner not seen before.

Considering the question about raising issues I then wanted to see how students in the Northeast, in college, felt about the emerging trend of school shootings like Virginia Tech and others. Their response was sober and immediate. The major media was not helping the situation.

“Tragedies do happen, but the timeframe seems to be promoted by media attention, making copycats.”

Because of the media attention, other disturbed individuals were gaining an impetus and validation for committing these heinous acts. It’s a view that I think has solid ground, and the major media should pay attention to. Suffice to say, it’s an issue that is prevalent in their minds, yet not preventing them from gaining the educations they have striven for.

Changing gears I wanted to ask about rap and hip hop, one of the issues Jeff Johnson was known for speaking about. In particular I wanted to know how they defined the difference between hip hop and rap. The answer was that the initial rap music, which I grew up listening to, was really hip hop. While there was a lot of entertainment in the initial songs, the overall theme of the industry also included culture and the people of the time.

Hip Hop today continues in that theme with artists like Gym Class Heroes (currently defined as an indie hip hop group). Their description of the band seemed like R.E.M. to me, back when they were just on college radio. They agreed in that groups like this have thought provoking songs like Cupids Chokehold which are not in the mainstream.

Modern day rap (which is what those in my age group would consider by the sub-genre title of gangsta rap) was simply about money. That artists like 50 cent was only in this for the money and had sold-out to get it. And that they felt this was reflected in the songs artists like this made.

While I spoke to just a small group of these students at the event, I can say that I was really pleased to learn of their interest in the future of America, their own educations, and the culture around them. They renewed my hope that, much to the chagrin of record company executives, many in the African American and minority communities are not buying into the images that are purported to represent them. And I have to believe that if even a small portion of students of color hold similar motivation and energy as the outspoken and determined Mr. Nnodum and the others I spoke with, the polispeak and much heralded change Presidential candidates are bandying about will be positive and real in the near term.

I would have asked further questions of these students in Ithaca College, but at that point, Jeff Johnson was about to be introduced. My thoughts on his speech will follow shortly.

Bob Johnson of BET and Clinton supporter apologizes to Senator Obama - 1.17.2008.1

So Bob Johnson has apologized to Senator Barack Obama for attacking the Democratic Presidential candidates past, for the express benefit of Senator Hillary Clinton. Isn’t that nice.

I have no doubt that virtually everyone has heard the comments made on Sunday, but if for some reason you missed it here it is:

[NOTE - This video contains material that young readers should not see. It is the very same material that Bob Johnson promoted on BET daily.]



That’s what Bob Johnson said. The implication was clear and his denials were disingenuous. And as has been done repeatedly by the Clinton campaign, it was an attack on Senator Obama with several desired results.

It was meant to insist the thought and stereotype that Black men are drug users. That we are untrustworthy and dangerous. These themes are not new to Bob Johnson as he was critical in placing that portrayal front and center on national cable via Black Entertainment Television.

The second thought was to split Whites from Blacks in their voting. It was a direct play on the race card, issued by the Clinton campaign. He was speaking on her behalf, and given the Clinton’s penchant for micromanagement of every aspect of the campaign I would have to believe it was cleared before Johnson spoke. It was meant as a means to imply that White America should avoid an African American.

Third it was meant as a means to divert attention from any positive message Senator Obama might have and any new support he might have gained from Iowa. It was meant to distract from the fact that 40% of Michigan voters came out to vote with only one goal, to deny Hillary Clinton a sweeping unchallenged win. The implication being that she is weak and disliked.

It has succeeded in each point.

But I must ask, how important is it that a man responsible for damaging the image of Black men, and the value of Black women wants to attack an African American that has spent decades serving the public and has voluntarily admitted his own failures long before he ever had an aspiration for the Presidency.

Obviously very little since Bob Johnson has now apologized, though far less publicly, and in a vague manner.



At least he admits the attack was uncalled for and underhanded. Similar to the music videos that degraded Black women, especially popular at BET when Bob Johnson was at the helm. Similar to the Clinton staffer that was promoting a false and derogatory email about Obama being Islamic and an undercover terrorist. A dirty political attack that the Clinton campaign loves to use. Or so it would seem as the do this constantly.

Johnson goes on to mention that the comments were ‘inappropriate’. I disagree, they were perfect to weaken the chances of the first viable Black Presidential candidate. They were timed and planned, and he knew it. His apology, after the effect has taken hold, is hollow and pitiful.

But I expect no more from a man that has proliferated the worst images and commentary on African Americans in decades. He sought out music videos and programming, that no other cable network would dare play. And the reason he got away with it was because he is Black.

And his legacy continues to insult and inflame millions of African Americans. Hot Ghetto Mess (or whatever name has been given to it now), College Hill, Read-A-Book, and so much more are still spewing forth. This has even lead to equally offensive material like the various Flava of Love television shows and spin-offs. All justified by what Bob Johnson created and promoted.

I don’t know which is worse. The fact that the Clinton campaign must resort to personal attacks and lies, or that Bob Johnson would dare to try to take a moral stance above anyone.

So I say to Bob Johnson, your apology is as without merit as Read-A-Book was without class, good taste, or a message.

And I have to question Senator Clinton. If your campaign has taken for granted the support of Blacks, and neither you nor your husband can point to any actual law (that I can recall or an aware of) that directly and specifically benefited African Americans, what would make you think that gaining the support of the man responsible for more negative imagery and content against Blacks would improve your support? Perhaps this person, and his obvious venom-spitting proves one thing, that you may not have the best interest of African Americans in mind.

At least that is what I conclude, how about you?

Congress discusses gangsta rap music - 9.26.2007.3

So what else have you not heard about? What might the major news media, particularly the cable news networks, have considered less than newsworthy? We know that the news about Ms. Megan Williams of West Virginia barely deserved 3 minutes, that OJ Simpson demanded 4 days of virtual non-stop coverage, and the 13 year old in Virginia has garnered 2 days of college so far. But what is too mundane to be covered?

How about the Congressional hearings on the language and images used in gangsta rap music. Did you know that on the 25th the House was holding hearings? I bet most didn’t.

The discussion included present and former rappers, music industry executives, and of course our friend Philippe Dauman of Viacom (which owns MTV, VH1, and Black Entertainment Television). The various personalities discussed their views and in some cases justification for gangsta rap.

Rapper Levell Crump, known as David Banner – who ever that is, defended his use of foul language

“I'm like Stephen King: horror music is what I do…Change the situation in my neighborhood and maybe I'll get better.”

Well isn’t that special. Gansta rap is horror music. I couldn’t agree more. But at least there are choices and varying degrees of horror in movies and books. More importantly rap music should not be defined in such a narrow and limited manner.

Rap started as an expression of fun and having a party. It evolved to include personal views on life, and political statements. It wasn’t until 1992 that music companies started to promote, virtually exclusively, the current concept of what rap is. It just happens to also be the most profitable form of rap music for corporations, luckily for the single-mindedness of their choice for promotion.

And then there is the desire for someone, other than Crump, to fix his neighborhood. What a cop out. If he wants a better neighborhood, he can stand up and fix it. Asking someone else to change the situation is no different than asking the government (whom I presume he was inferring) to provide individuals with welfare so they can languish both socially and economically, I feel. It’s a poor justification for taking advantage of other African Americans. I find it no different than the excuse that someone will sell drugs because if they don’t someone else will.

On the other end was rapper Master P, Percy Miller. He provided an apology to women for his songs and lyrics. He noted that he wouldn’t let his own kids listen to the work he had done previously. I’m not surprised. I’ve heard that many rappers and executives in the music industry would never allow the use of words and references they use in their songs to be used or applied in their homes or to their families. Kind of like the old saying among drug dealers, ‘Don’t get high on your own supply.’

Continued in Part 2...

Why hasn't Al Sharpton gone to West Virginia

Post written by guest blogger CMiller

I am going to have to say that it is a shame upon the Black community when the Reverend Al Sharpton and Reverend Jessie Jackson have not even shown up to champion the Black woman who was brutalized by 6 white people that consisted of 2 white females and 4 white males. My gosh even the Federal government has abandoned this poor woman by not calling this a hate crime. If it was not a crime that consisted of major amounts of hate then what would you call it. Why in the world would 2 women be involved in such a crime being committed against another woman? Could it be because she is a black woman? I believe the possibility is more than present in this case.

But again I must ask, where is the Black community’s voice on this matter. Its as if everyone thinks its ok for such a heinous crime to be committed against a Black woman and that the reaction should be next to invisible to the American public. Why in the world would the major news media not be interested in such a story. One would think that the way they latch on to bad news within the Black community that for once they could come to the aid of one of us.

It would seem that no one is interested in helping this poor woman not even spiritually it would seem, do to the lack of even the ambulance chasers being at her side.

I say this would be such a blight on the Black community if this one slips between the cracks. Are we not sick to death of what happens to Blacks, for the love of pete its 2007 and we are still being made victims by the major news media. I expected BET to have something to say about this but I was wrong. I hope for the sake of this woman that the Black bloggers out there in the world come together and help this woman so that she will not be forgotten. That for once justice will be done and served to the fullest extent of the law.

Should this woman be forgotten, everyone of us should stop and think how they would feel if that woman was their mother, sister, daughter, aunt or cousin. Would it be so easy to forget then or would a cry of outrage erupt from your soul for what horror she had to endure at the hands of 6 hateful white people.

Regardless of the color of this woman’s skin, no person should go through what she had to endure. All women are sisters and should stand together and support one of our own. I am saddened that in America people can turn a blind eye and a deaf ear to the plight of one of its own.

Our community needs to pull together and support this poor woman in her time of need. Respect her privacy but don’t’ forget her. She after all is one of us.

Do your kids understand Bid Em In? - 9.6.2007.1

I just heard something rather troubling. This is in regards to the Bid Em In video. A friend just mentioned that two of her children recently saw a video and captured nothing from it. Let me be clear, one child is 22 the other is 16. They have no concept of slavery. One referred to the video as "selling hoes" and the other thought it was an auction of people. There was no mention of that the people were Black or that this was during colonial times. There was no anger over the video, or any emotional connection. This is opposed to the very emotional and angry response to the Read-a-book BET public service announcement.

In speaking with a friend the conclusion seems to be that kids today have no connection to slavery. The concept just does not come to mind. It's almost as if to them it never happened, which is somewhat understandable since it’s never spoken about. I have no kids so this is a matter I wouldn't readily expect, nor conceive of. But a great point was made and it deals with Black history month. For all of the Leave No Child Behind rhetoric and all of the increased curriculums, there is nothing mentioned about slavery itself. When was the last time you recall seeing Roots on TV or heard that it is available on DVD? [Hey BET; think you could run this sometime?]

There been many studies about the Holocaust to remind children in the world of the atrocities that happened some 60 years ago. Yet there are no equivalent programs at high schools and in many colleges to address slavery in America, to my knowledge. As a nation we discuss taking the land from the Indians, the Japanese internment, the Holocaust in Germany, the killing fields in Southeast Asia. Even most recently the problems in Bosnia, but it is verboten should we speak about slavery in America. And the result is that young adults, African-American young adults, can watch a powerful statement about their ancestors, and neither raise an emotional response nor contextual one. That seems wrong to me.

My friend’s children are intelligent, the 22-year-old having gone to college. These are not gang-bangers, drug addicts, criminals, or wanna-be-felons (in other words, rappers). I am amazed. So I ask you to help me out in understanding something. Let's call it an informal survey, a fact-finding mission, or just bloody curiosity. Those of you who have children or grandchildren, who have not yet seen the video, take an opportunity and show them this. After they've seen it, asked them what they've seen. Don't tell them beforehand anything about the video, and then asked them their response. And then please come back, and send me an e-mail or make a comment and let's see what the general sentiment is out there.

If the generations coming up now have no concept of their past then they will be doomed to repeat the hardships that occurred then. They will have the American Dream in reverse. As it has been constantly said ‘history repeats itself, if we do not learn from the lessons of history.’ I for one will not sit idly by and allow my nephew (or other young adults) to have to experience the same things my grandmother and great-grandmother and fathers experienced.

This is what I would do you think?

** I first posted this video in A bit on my Labor Day - 9.3.2007.1 but I will repost it here for ease.**

Viacom just doesn't stop Part 3 - 8.21.2007.4

Concluded from Viacom just doesn't stop Part 2...

Many wish to target the parts of the Viacom machine. It is a good concept and effective to a degree. Change of one portion of their multiple arms does have an effect. Yet serious change to all the parts might only be possible in addressing the most important part of the corporation, its shareholders.

If you are tired of your mother, sister, girlfriend, wife and/or daughter being equated to a drug-addled, stupid, lump of flesh place on the earth for the mere pleasuring of any guy with money in his pocket, you might want to check your 401k and stock investments. If you are more than the potential subject of a police line-up, are only connected to Grand Theft Auto by the video game, can spell the word investment and know what it means, have meaningful relationships, all without the aid of a government handout you also might want to check with your stockbroker. Pull all of your shares and any mutual fund that owns Viacom except one share.

The reason to keep one share of Viacom, or a reason to buy one, is so you can go to the annual shareholder meeting and bring up a referendum on why the management has such disrespect for African Americans. Done with a letter signed by each shareholder that agrees with this question and a copy of this question and the signed letter of those asking going to each advertiser of VH-1, MTV, and BET. That can get Viacom to change regardless of the direction Redstone and Dauman seem to continue to take.

In the meantime, I see less and less of a reason to watch the programming of the Viacom company. It’s beyond insensitivity, as the post from Miss J states. This is active stereotyping and exploitation in my view. I cannot support such actions by lending my viewership. Can you?

This is what I think, what do you think?

Viacom just doesn't stop Part 2 - 8.21.2007.3

Continued from Viacom just doesn't stop Part 1...

In looking at, and not watching, a rap video we see the violence, drugs and abuse of women that is being promoted. Many have mentioned that. And each of the channels that are abovementioned dedicate time to promote the most sexual and derogative videos, even if they claim that the programming places the worst of it after 10pm or it is focused on the one channel targeted solely to Black people. What is also being promoted is criminal activity (can you name all the rappers and hip hop artists that have not been arrested on drug, gun, or violence related charges? Are there any?) lack of education (name any current rapper that has graduated college? Gone to college? Graduated high school?) and base materialism (unless you can explain a need for spinning rims and platinum teeth beyond wasting money).

What about the ever so educational Flava of Love programs, and its spin-off. Can anyone name the benefit of that program? Is there any reason that this has to be the only presentation of Black people to millions internationally?

How about the movies on these channels? When was the last time you saw a movie that starred an A-list Black actor? When was the last time that a film, made for more than 15 million, that did well in the movie theaters was on? Have you ever seen a single film starring Mr. Denzel Washington, or Mr. Lawrence Fishburne, or Mr. Wesley Snipes? Have you seen a single film that did not feature primarily Black-on-Black violence?

It seems quite obvious that Viacom believes that African Americans are mindless, poverty-stricken, fools that will accept drinking sand because that is what they are offering. Why else would a public service announcement be featured that is as vulgar, crass, and crude as the subjects it is supposed to be combating. (It even creates questions of issues I have never heard used against Blacks)

Given this, can anyone be surprised that a program that might feature Black women, or men, that have intelligence and successful careers would be cancelled? I’m surprised the concept was allowed to progress far enough that news about it could be written.

If Nike were to have an ad, with a bunch of Black guys playing basketball, with rap music in the background, and a hoochie with a baby in her hands and a stroller walks up to a drug dealer asking for crack offering a pair of new Nike sneakers as payment; there would be outrage. Yet Viacom does this same thing, just in separate parts and sometimes using separate channels.

I have mentioned my contempt for Viacom head Philippe Dauman, and real power Sumner Redstone. These 2 men control the publicly traded company. It is their vision that shapes the programming on their cable network, and motion picture empire. They ultimately determine what images of African Americans are broadcast to the world via their media.

Concluded in Part 3...

Further thoughts on the Black Entertainment Television PSA Part 3 - 8.13.2007.4

Submitted from Further thoughts on the Black Entertainment Television PSA Part 2...

I want to mention something for Mr. Williams, it’s an old saying. A mind that must use a vulgarity to express something where words are common and available is a small mind. Words are merely the vocalization of thought, and those small words reflect a small closed mind.

I would also like to remind Mr. Williams something else. Being a bit older than I think he is I actually remember what rap music was when it first started, when it first got placed on albums (vinyl not a CD or cassette tape), and when MTV created the concept of a music video. I can say based on growing up and watching the phases rap music has gone through, that Mr. Williams seems to have no idea what rap music intended or was capable of.

If you want to know what rap music was about, listen to Grand Master Flash and the Furious 5. If you want to know what rap music is capable of being, listen to Public Enemy or KRS-One. To say that the mindless, money-grubbing, record company driven, commoditized, lateral sales targeted, repetitive, lyrical vomit that is gansta rap (originally a mere sub-genre of rap pre-1992) today is all that rap can attain is both narrow-minded and insulting.

But staying focused on my original point, this Public Service Announcement that Black Entertainment Television has on its cable network airwaves sickens me.

Now I know some may read this and say, ‘well you just don’t get it. You aren’t Black enough. You are too busy trying to be White.’

Time to wake up and stop hiding from the truth. I was born in the Bronx with a tan that never fades, summer or winter, in the sun or not. My color of skin is dark enough to have gotten me lynched in the 1600’s, the 1800’s, and in 1965. I have been called N-word too many times to count, and as recently as 2 weeks ago. That wasn’t the rose colored glasses view of a salutation some hope it is, but meant as the word is defined.

I’m Black enough to have been denied jobs, and have women held their purses tight in an elevator. I’m Black enough to have police draw guns on me for a simple traffic stop. I’m Black enough to watch some people smirk and deny that I own a business, just because they don’t.

If the fact that I earned my education instead of buying the latest overpriced sneaker offends, be offended. If the fact that I have never been to jail and prefer to wear suits as opposed to platinum teeth intimidates weaker minds, be intimidated. If I use a vocabulary that doesn’t include words found on a rap album, don’t feel bad because they are the same words that the executives that own the record company you are funding use everyday.

So perhaps someone who has been around long enough to know what things were like before the internet, and gangsta rap, can be Black. And that same person can see when a television network is using the people it claims to serve. It’s not a unique vision. But as long as some cow-tow and praise actions that degrade the people it supposedly represents, things won’t get better.

Here is perhaps the most obvious point on how “classic” or “ironically positive” this PSA may be. Every other network, especially the national broadcast television networks, will not play this PSA. Viacom, which owns BET, won’t play this PSA on any of its other channels. This isn’t quiet because it won’t be played; it isn’t being played because of the embarrassment and insult it is.

If that isn’t an example of exploitation and insult, I can’t wait to hear what is.

This is what I think; I want to hear what you think.

Further thoughts on the Black Entertainment Television PSA Part 2 - 8.13.2007.3

Continued from Further thoughts on the Black Entertainment Television PSA Part 1...

I’m surprised it’s a PSA; it looked like a viral video people look up on the internet when they are bored. I’m not surprised it’s on BET, but it wouldn’t get on regular television. No network would clear it.

41 year old White male-

I’m outraged. It’s an insult to the Black culture. At first it starts and looks like it’s for kids and then BOOM! Holy cow.

You know if I said that… someone would shoot me.

They are taking the wrong direction. Saying all that vulgarity for kids is setting a bad example. This should be protested and BET should be banned.

It looks like it’s targeted to 11-14 year old mentality, but I’d never let my kids see it. There needs to be a broader reach, a wider span. I mean it can be done with more class.

I think those responses say a lot about this PSA that BET has place on its cable network channel. Many see no upside. No one I know thinks there is a positive to this. But there are those that do think this is great.

CDBaby states –

An instant crunk classic available exclusively on itunes. You’ve seen the video, make sure you request it on the radio. Taking southern hip-hop places you never thought it would go.

A commenter states –
Reviewer: Eugene Williams, Jr.

Mr. Armah has cleverly given black American youth the positive message they need without sounding corny or preachy. He is telling our young people what they need to hear. Quiet as it’s kept, Mr. Armah is simply telling us to do all the things that Bill Cosby is trying to tell us to do, only in a different more "hood-palatable" format. If our church and community leaders can get past the explicit language and take time to listen to the timely and ironically positive message, this song will do for the black community what rap was originally intended to do!!!!

I’m just too old to know, or want to know, what exactly ‘crunk’ is. I get the general impression though. So CDBaby seems to feel BET has made a classic. Yes that’s great, 50 years from now people will remember the day when the illiterate, dirty, alcoholic Black masses where shown the light to a better life when Viacom stepped in and helped them out of their miserable lives.

If you are wondering, that was exactly what was said by European explorers, and slavers, that went to Africa some 400 years ago. I’m so happy we have moved so far forward that some can quote those words today ands would like to have them said in the future.

As for Mr. Williams, I must presume that speaking to the youth of this nation – directly at only the African American youth – without using expletives is being “corny or preachy”. How time has changed, because I remember back when speaking to a person was about giving respect to get it. Maybe that is why there has been so much angst about the words of Dr. Bill Cosby, he just needs to curse out the youth and they will all get it.

Continued in Part 3...

Further thoughts on the Black Entertainment Television PSA - 8.13.2007.2

‘You are an ignorant, smelly, toothless, drunk, Black person that is incapable of caring for your children. Thank you. – This has been a Public Service Announcement from Black Entertainment Television, because we care.’

That is not an actual PSA, and I will remind readers I have nothing to do with BET. Yet that is the feeling I think BET is trying to convey with its recent PSA Read A Book. I have already commented on the initial reactions I had from viewing the PSA, and time for reflection has not improved my outlook.

But I decided that perhaps I was too old to understand the PSA. I wondered if my friend who saw the PSA when I did was perhaps viewing the video with eyes of nearly my same age and also a mother of 3 children. So I have sought out a couple of different individuals of different ages and sex. I even made sure to ask non-Black people to see their thoughts. In each case I got the first thoughts right after viewing the supposed PSA.

In order of age:

16 year old Black male –

I was very insulted, and it sucks. I think that most regular people already do these things, and it was towards the negative. I don’t like rap anyway, it’s useless and annoying. It’s all about drugs or having sex.

19 year old Black male –

Before I knew it was a PSA I thought it was unique, but I thought it sucks. For anyone that’s ghettofabulous and not intelligent – it may mean something to them. You just can’t tell them [a person into ghettofabulous lifestyle] something. If you said ‘read a book’, they would say ‘Stop being so White’.

The PSA is targeting inner city Black people it looks like. I wouldn’t let my kid watch that, the language. But I know people with kids that have grown up listening to [gangsta] rap all the time, all day. I can see them letting their kid hear it.

19 year old White female –

I want to kill someone. It’s ridiculous and racist. It’s horrible. The swearing is the worst part, all the N-word. I would never let my son see this.

Continued in part 2...

The Black Entertainment Television PSA, insult or slap in the face - 8.13.2007.1

Some wondered why BET (Black Entertainment Television) caused so much animosity with the latest round of ‘original’ programming. Obviously the title of its headline program, Hot Ghetto Mess, was pretty bad. The content while less troubling than originally thought is no walk in sunshine either. But most expect nothing better from the executives, including Reginald Hudlin and Viacom head Philippe Dauman, as there is a consensus that they provide a program line-up that is less than positive towards African Americans.

Possibly proving this point is the recent addition to BET. It’s called a Public Service Announcement (PSA) though who it is serving, and how it’s a positive influence is beyond me. I will not say that this is a positive satire as I do not suffer from dementia. The concept is good on its surface, sadly the execution fails miserably. [I will not place this video on my site, but you can see it on YouTube.]

Of thee many things I could say about how insulting and wrong this supposed PSA is I will instead submit a conversation that I had with a friend on this subject. [Note that the conversation does include language that some will deem offensive. Curses are used occasionally, so children should not listen to this without a parent having first approved it. I am placing it here on the site because I feel that the language is not nearly as bad as most television programs or movies.]



I should also note that the video has one obvious omission. Did you notice that it says nothing about drugs? Was there no time left to say something about this? Was it more important to discuss hygiene (which I am unaware as being an issue) or to keep one more rousing chorus rendition?

I will add this. BET seems bent on providing programs that are as anti-African American as possible. The programs S.O.B. and We Got To Do Better are marginal in the quality and message they present. The caliber of movies found on this channel (such as Soul Plane – a bomb in the movie theaters and DVD markets) represent the best in bargain bin shopping, and virtually every other cable television network (not owned by Viacom) has numerous better quality films. The introduction of this PSA is not surprising, though it is sad.

We are not a mindless consumer that will accept anything thrown at us. Black culture is not a commodity up for sale to the highest bidder; no matter how sneaker, clothing, and who ever it is that creates the stupid money-wasting platinum teeth, companies try to make us believe we are for sale.

I don’t understand why any executive that has a concern about African Americans, beyond our available cashflow, would condone what this channel provides. Viacom does not understand its target audience, obviously. The degree to which it does not is amazing to me. I can’t wait until they pop up a PSA featuring a burning cross while a guy in a white hood raps about Blacks going to church and having a family with a mother and father.

BET, anything but black entertainment. And people say I’m a sellout because of the way I speak.

Oh, here are the lyrics (provided by Warner Todd Huston who also hated the PSA)

Read a book, read a book, read a motherf**kin’ book (pronounced mah f**kin' book in street fashion)

r-e-a-d-a-b-o–o-k

Not a sports page, not a magazine, but a book n*****, a f**kin’ book n*****

Read a book, read a book, read a motherf**kin’ book

r-e-a-d-a-b-o-o-k

Raise yo kids, raise yo kids, raise yo goddamn kids

Yo body needs water, so drink that shit

Buy some land, buy some land, what, f**k spinning rims

Brush yo teeth, brush yo teeth, brush yo goddamn teeth

Wear deodorant n*****, wear deodorant n*****

It’s called Speedstick, it’s not expensive

Read a book, read a book, read a motherf**kin’ book

r-e-a-d-a-b-o–o-k

This is what I think, what do you think?

State of the Black Union may be real black entertainment Part 2 - 8.8.2007.2

Continued from State of the Black Union may be real black entertainment Part 1...

I want to hear what this learned and respected gathering of minds will envision as an America without African Americans. Without the infrastructure that was built with the blood of our ancestors, without the agricultural dominance whipped backs provided. Without the segregated, discriminated, volunteers that fought in every war this nation has ever had that allowed the freedoms we hold dear to exist.

I want to see what we have given, collectively and continuously, to this nation that I love. And I want to hear men like Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson, Virginia delegate Frank Hargrove, and others who would deny us an apology or reparations deny these respected figures comments.

Perhaps I am not as learned as these commentators, and thus my desire for an apology and reparations are easier to dismiss. Yet, I cannot see how if such an esteemed group can make the claim it can be disregarded.

It’s a personal reason, of course. I have not seen a preview and it is still some time before it airs. I could be completely wrong in what will be said, but somehow I think not. And if I am right, I damn well would love to know why only one candidate would support, or even speak on the issue of reparations during a national debate, and still hold the opinion that Blacks are assured of voting for their parties’ candidate for President.

Just some food for though, and a reason to use the TIVO or VCR for a night. Or you could always just watch the other channel that claims and targets African Americans as its viewership base. You might get lucky and see some booty-shakin.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Comment on article by Victoria Tang at The Daily Californian - 7.26.2007.3

I want to reply to an opinion piece by Victoria Tang at The Daily Californian. Ms. Tang is commenting on the nature of the First Amendment and how the virus of political correctness (PC) has affected it. As many long-term readers of this site are aware, I am a strong supporter of the 1st Amendment. But the reason I wish to reply is that Ms. Tang is addressing the concerns I and many bloggers had on the We Got To Do Better (formerly Hot Ghetto Mess) program.

I, among others, strongly criticized Black Entertainment Television for the program prior to it’s airing on cable television. We were lead to believe, through the choice of logo, title, BET’s description, and lack of critical review or corporate reply to requests or previews that the program would not adhere to a standard worth of broadcasting. The program aired on cable television last night, and I subsequently replied about it, happily proven wrong in my criticism.

That is not to say that the attention placed on BET and Viacom was misplaced. Anyone who thinks that the program merely changed its title and logo does not understand the nature of film or television production. Many changes were occurring behind the scenes prior to the debut. The much heralded self-description of the program (since pulled of the BET website) was offensive, that was proven by the departure of 2 advertisers – State Farm and Home Depot. The focus of the program was stated to feature “booty-shakin” and “pimped-out high schoolers.” They were described as a “car wreck.” The actual program featured none of these in its video clips or show.

While few, even within BET, knew what the program was supposed to look like it is hardly difficult to understand that the make up of the program was changed. Why else would BET deny critics a chance to preview the program and dispel the bloggers that assailed the company? Why else were advertisers not shown the program to assuage their concerns?

And I will correct something that Ms. Tang stated.

“After a public relations squabble last Tuesday, Black Entertainment Television decided to scrap the original name “Hot Ghetto Mess” for a show depicting mostly young African Americans displaying what is deemed to be unpleasant behavior (mainly related to hip hop culture) less than 48 hours before its debut. What’s the new name? It’s called “We Got to Do Better.” Even gumdrops are less sugarcoated than that.”

The “public relations squabble” was started on July 4th for me and a day or so earlier at What About Our Daughters. This was not a sudden fly-by-night issue that caught on among bloggers, but a serious debate over concerns on how African Americans were being portrayed.

The title of the show is not so much “sugarcoated” as an accurate social commentary that is often stated in the Black community. Young or old, this has been said for a long time and it’s implication is far deeper than the words themselves. Ms. Tang is not African American so I can understand that she may not see the impact that this title means, but to call it sugarcoated is to belittle it’s meaning too much.

Continued in Part 2...

I was wrong about We Got To Do Better Part 3 - 7.26.2007.2

Concluded from I was wrong about We Got To Do Better Part 2...

Obviously there were changes made in the program before it aired in this form. Some we can see directly. The change in the logo graphic was a very obvious example that the program was revamped after the negative attention. The changes in content are unknown, but it is worth noting that the promised booty-shakin, and pimped-out high schoolers were not shown.

I will say to Jam Donaldson, you did better than I had expected. Your vision as it was presented does prove my suspicions wrong. Next time talk about it.

To Mr. Reginald Hudlin I state, while you have provided a good first program you could have done better of the show. Speaking to the media, as you have with all your other programs, helps you not hurts. I still believe you re-worked the program massively. That’s something I will never know.

But you should know that your commentary could have helped the show. Perhaps the negative publicity was intended to pump up rating, but it really cost you in advertisers. Out of 13 spots for commercials, you only had 3 advertisers. The main was for Whose Your Caddy? appearing 3 times, once per break. The other 2 were the American Red Cross and a local spot for Resort & Residence. You lost out horribly. Perhaps if you had provided advertisers and critics with an advanced view there would have been more and you wouldn’t have the need to plug your own programming 8 times.

Then again, perhaps if I and other, predominately Black, bloggers didn’t press you we would not have the final version we have.

I was wrong about We Got To Do Better - 7.25.2007.3

I stand corrected. I am man enough to admit when I am wrong. I am pleasantly surprised. Very pleasantly surprised.

I have harshly criticized Black Entertainment Television about what this program could be about. The lack of commentary by BET or it’s parent Viacom, coupled with the nature of the original name of the show and the logo for it led me to a very negative conclusion. Based on those facts, and the history of the programming found on BET, I and others sought to have the program removed.

I stand by my posts I have written since July 4th on this subject. Every attempt I made to investigate this issue was rebuffed. In a vacuum conclusions stand firm.

But I have always stated I hoped I would be wrong. In effect I am. As publicly and strongly as I commented on what I was lead to believe about this program, I will stand here and state that I had my wishes fulfilled.

I mentioned that there was no similarity between the message of the stated description of We Got To Do Better (formerly Hot Ghetto Mess) and the efforts of Dr. Bill Cosby. That is not entirely true. I also questioned the ability of Mr. Charlie Murphy to convey a more intellectual message than a comedic one. Mr. Murphy was critical in getting the correct message across and did so strongly at several points in the program.

The introduction was a solid description of how the program is meant to be social commentary AGAINST the images that were to be shown. Mr. Murphy made direct comments on improvement within the community such as his comment after the first set of video clips. I paraphrase

‘These people look like the ones that didn’t make it past the American Idol audition. And a good thing to. People, there are other professions out there besides being a singer or entertainer. Remember that, we got to do better.'

Well stated.

It was the commentary by Mr. Murphy that made the difference in the program. As I have commented previously, the context of this program was absolutely critical. Missed by even a little it fails to do what it was intended to do. Mr. Murphy did not miss a beat.

Further, I found the ‘Man on the Street’ portion of the show most telling and important. The questions asked of random people on the street were intelligent and critical to everyday life of African Americans.

I stand amazed at the number of people that thought Mr. Bill Gates was poorer than Jay-Z. Even scarier is that several of them felt that both men were so close as that if Jay-Z had one more successful albulm he could surpass Mr. Gates. The fact is that while Jay-Z is successful, he is merely a multi-millionaire. Mr. Gates is a multi-billioniare, larger than Jay-Z by a factor of roughly 10.

Continued in Part 2...

Does a name change make BET and Viacom good guys? Part 3 - 7.24.2007.3

Conclusion from Does a name change make BET and Viacom good guys? Part 2...

I hope, sincerely, to find that this entire post is moot. That the program does live up to the statements of Ms. Jam Donaldson and Mr. Reginald Hudlin. Improvement in the Black community is more than worthwhile, and my shoulders via this blog are wide enough to carry being wrong. But in my decades of life and many years in the stock market, I have learned to value something my father told me back when I was about 10.

“Believe half of what you see and nothing you hear.”

Those are sage words. So until I see We Got To Do Better, I will tend to remain fixed in my views gained by the run-a-round BET and Viacom lead me in on a 2 day attempt to gain a comment. I will brace myself, because the history of programming at BET includes Uncut and College Hill. I will trust my understanding of what BET, and Viacom, thought were acceptable statements and images to lure me into viewing their programming.

And I stand ready with a stick of my own, just in case my fears, BET’s history, the vacuous words and deafening silence are all justified, and African Americans are shown in a lite that a colleague and friend of mine mentioned today,

“A show like that, in the eyes of some people, justifies every negative thing said about Black people. I would never let a show like that be made about me. It’s bad and the world gets the wrong image.”

Mr. Dauman, Mr. Redstone, shareholders of Viacom, be alert. Bloggers pay attention to details, and people pay attention to us. We won’t drink sand because you give it to us, we can affect your profits. You want us to accept your services, and we want proper service. The scale must balance or there is hell to pay if they don’t.

This is what I think, what do you think?

Does a name change make BET and Viacom good guys? Part 2 - 7.24.2007.2

Continued from Does a name change make BET and Viacom good guys? Part 1...

While many believe the victory has been won, many more are still cautious and I count myself in that group. My misgivings were not based on the name of the program but it’s content. The description that I found troubling remains. Without the ability to review the program, just as all critics have been denied, I cannot say anything has changed. Almost.

Viacom knows one thing clearly. Black bloggers, and by extension all bloggers don’t play. There were plans for protests of every advertiser of the program, and regardless of the name, there still could be. Several blogs, including my own, featured information concerning the real decision makers at Black Entertainment Television, Viacom. Several detailed questions for the President of Viacom Mr. Philippe Dauman and majority shareholder Mr. Sumner Redstone, and addressed the means by which the rest of the shareholders of the public corporation could be called to task for the programming. The other hand of protests, addressing the shareholders and their profits, came to bear such that Viacom could not ignore the probable outcome.

They should keep that in mind. It can still happen.

I am unconvinced by the platitudes that have come from the corporate public relations machine of Viacom. This has not assuaged my fears. Changing 3 words to 5 does not change the meaning of the content, nor does it provide a new context for that content to be understood internationally. That takes real change, not a new coat of paint. I hope, as I always have, that such change has occurred. But I am leery.

The press release seeks to deflect attention from the real issues. Like the rare comment from Mr. Reginald Hudlin who sought to, in my opinion, poorly compare the stated description of this program to the efforts of Dr. Bill Cosby and others. While that sounds nice, examination of what was presented about this program failed to hold up such a comparison. For Viacom to imply that there were misconceptions on behalf of bloggers and myself is to blame a wall for being flat. You cannot fault a conclusion that is based on information you (VIACOM and BET) have provided the public, and denied all sources further details. When a snake rattles it’s tail you don’t assume it’s not poisonous because you can’t see the venom.

The further attempt by BET to show their open palm while hiding their closed fist are the statements made in the press release about the future programming BET states they will have. A carrot to the stick that Hot Ghetto Mess, or We Got To Do Better if you prefer, is does not change how it may strike you. Public relations statements are great tools of obfuscation at times, but for those skilled at reading them they are not as powerful.

Comncluded in Part 3...

Does a name change make BET and Viacom good guys? - 7.24.2007.1

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."
--From Romeo and Juliet (II, ii, 1-2)

Of course a mess might smell the same too. The news is out that Black Entertainment Television, and its Parent company Viacom, have reacted to the massive and growing negative attention that has come from, predominantly black, bloggers. The groundswell had grown to include several news media sources, each wondering why Viacom via BET would not reveal any information on the proposed Hot Ghetto Mess. As I had posted previously, even executives within the company had not seen the show, it was a dirty little secret, or so everyone was left to conclude.

But, like a thief in the night, BET changed things in a last minute attempt to salvage a quickly deteriorating situation. The title of the program has been changed to We Got To Do Better, and BET release the following information:

“This week, BET will be launching a new series called WE GOT TO DO BETTER, a half-hour video clip show that, at its core, is pure social commentary.

The show’s original title was HOT GHETTO MESS: WE GOT TO DO BETTER. We’ve decided to change the name because we want to highlight the show’s real intent, which is to offer social commentary in a context that sparks dialogue, debate, and most importantly, change.

Additionally, the early misperceptions about the show and its title were diverting attention from the overall original programming strategy we’ve begun implementing at BET Networks – which is to deliver smart, creative shows that explore the full range of the Black experience. Our 2007 slate is the most ambitious and diverse aggregation of Black programming in television history, and it features a wide range of genres – from inspirational shows like EXALTED!, to animated comedy shows like BUFU, to family entertainment like SUNDAY BEST. As we move into the fall season and 2008, you’ll continue to see the increase in the quality, quantity and breadth of shows that we have to offer at BET.”

If you look on the BET website, you won’t find any of the links to the show. Gone is the blackface character, and the page highlighting the new program. Looking at the schedule of BET, you will see that tomorrow at 10:30 the newly titled program is mentioned. The description of the program has not changed though. Other than replacing the title it remains the same.

So the question remains. Has BET been working furiously behind the scenes to revamp and change the nature of this program or is it still the same content with a new name and no conection to the insulting blackface. In about 24 hours, we will know.

Continued in Part 2...

Comment about Jam Donaldson's Note to Editor - 7.22.2007.2

This is written to Ms. Jam Donaldson in response to her Note from the Editor found on her site.

I find your words quite interesting. Sadly I do not share you vision on how to air the laundry, nor to improve the situation. The television show being prepared to be shown on Black Entertainment Television (BET) is hardly an uplifting or critical view of African Americans. That may have been your intention, but I think a lot was lost in the translation.

You are correct, I feel, that as the efforts of the Civil Rights Movement become less directly connected to each new generation, the standards are falling in our communities. The glorification of drugs, overall lack of strong fathers, dependence on “keeping up with the jones,” and lack of self-discipline have ravaged our community. We have collectively reinforced our negatives while mocking our positives. The result is the current state of things.

Addressing these issues is important, and needs to be discussed openly. We can no longer ignore the facts of what is happening every day. Ignoring the issues will not make them go away, and failing to educate ourselves on the solutions provides further downfalls.

That said, to promote a program that features the worst actions in our community can be a tool for change. But such a program must be carefully made and its tone extremely precise. The room for error is almost non-existent, as missing the mark only creates an impression (internationally and domestically) of foolishness, stupidity and mindlessness. In the worst cases, it can even lead to promoting the worst qualities as some would seek out the 5 minutes of fame this might provide, or take such a program as vindication of their actions.

Even more delicate is the issue of comedy to express these elements. Comedy is subjective at best, and when taken out of context completely lost. Comedy based on a specific community is a context that often eludes anyone outside of that community. It’s a narrow brush that cannot hope to cover a canvas.

It is for these reasons that I find issue with Hot Ghetto Mess, the television program. The description by BET, on their website, states clearly that something seems to have been lost in your translation. Every indication given leads to the conclusion that this program is exploitive and not in the best interest of the community. It’s emphasis on displaying “shaking booties, thug life, baby-mama drama and pimped-out high schoolers”, and being “like the traffic accident you can’t look away from” appears gratuitous at best.

The fact that BET, and it’s parent company Viacom, refuse to comment on the program and that they have denied all requests to review the program by critics and news organizations seems to suggest that exploitive and gratuitous may indeed be what the program is. The further fact that even mid- to high-level executives at BET have not seen the program (at least as of a week ago) implies that the program is less than beneficial. This feeling is further compounded by the programing BET has provided in the past (like College Hill and Uncut) and has removed (such as the news programming).

“Just because you are poor doesn’t mean you don’t have to support your children, respect women, live in a pig sty or you can have 5 kids by different fathers.”

This is true. It is also true that just because you have an opportunity to gain wealth, success, and fame it should be taken. Some things have a price that is too high. A controversial program that is hidden from critical review, on a subject matter that is sensitive and has potentially wide ramifications, that presents itself as exploitive in nature is too high a cost for me.

A program that features the quote I have included, in a comical and contextless manner, does not further the efforts of individuals like Dr. Bill Cosby. A program of that nature is validation of actions, much like we have seen recorded fights being shown on YouTube have validated and promoted such action in some uneducated minds.

“All we got is us people. We can’t afford to live like we’re living. From school, to clothing to music, to our children—where have our standards gone?”

Where are the standards indeed. Not only in the places you mentioned but also movies and television, and now the internet. In the mirror you are holding up, take a long look. Our community has problems, but in the manner it has been proposed and hidden to date, Hot Ghetto Mess appears to add to those problems and not detract from them.

Sincerely,

Michael Vass
President – M V Consulting, Inc.
Author – Black Entertainment USA
www.blackentertainmentblog.com

Even Bill O'Reilly hates Hot Ghetto Mess - 7.19.2007.3

I don’t know how many saw this yesterday, but at 8:51pm Mr. Bill O’Reilly took time on his show to highlight the BET Hot Ghetto Mess situation. While there was a guest (I forget her name but believe it was Mary Katherine Ham) that was trying to explain the position BET has taken, even Mr. O’Reilly realized that this was sensationalism and exploitation for the benefit of gaining money.

Even he was able to note that a television show of this nature was an “inner city freak show” on display. I’m sure some are too liberal to accept anything Mr. O’Reilly states, but I am not. And even if that is how you may feel, it has to make an extreme point when he sees what this show is.

The executives at Viacom should take note. Even conservative White Americans disagree with this proposed program. They can see the exploitive and greedy nature of this program. African Americans have seen this nature in the programming at BET for years.

It is a matter that will cost Viacom profit and shareholders. If nothing else will get their attention, not dozens of bloggers, huge amounts of negative internet attention, the loss of at least 2 advertisers (BET is keeping the name of the advertisers for this program quiet), and now a respected (mostly) television pundit with international reach, then it will have to be the shareholders. Loss of revenues from advertisers that WILL be protested will hit the bottom line in the next earnings release, and the one after that. A reduced earnings to price ratio drops a stock haeavily. Missing earnings forecasts will kill a stock.

Viacom executives be warned, this isn’t going away. This will affect more than just one division of your company. It will affect your stock and the shareholders. The best thing that can be done is to remove the program. There is no corner of America that I am aware of that agrees with you on this. That’s why no one, including television critics and advertisers, have been able to see the program. You know what will happen. Just be proactive and stop now.

E Entertainment joins in the negative portrayal of Blacks - 7.18.2007.3

Some might have missed this huge news, but I want to help those gangsta rap fans out there keep up to date with one of the ‘stars’ of that genre. E! Entertainment has confirmed that they will be doing an as-yet-unnamed reality television show. The joy must be overflowing.

My sheer enthusiasm is only outpaced by my desire to bludgeon myself with a hammer to my head.

I’ll tell you why. As long-time readers are aware, I think reality programming is the ultimate form of crack delivered of television. Reality television programs, all of them, take the now traditional role of shutting down brain cells and elevates it to the point of leaving viewers on the same level of a catatonic individual. Seriously, watch one of those shows and ask someone to question you on what you are watching during the commercial. I would bet that 95% of people couldn’t give an answer. [I will note that like all things in nature there is one exception. That was the Black.White. program that was created by Ice Cube. It was a rare gem in a sea of sewage.]

Beyond the loss of grey matter induced by reality tv, there is the added insult of Snoop Dogg, Calvin C. Broadus Jr. I mean this is a great example of African Americans and a music entertainer. Mr. Broadus came to fame in 1993, just as music executives decided that rap music was no longer a fad and that gangsta rap was the only format that needed to be on airwaves. The combination has made Mr. Broadus millions, and record industry companies billions.

Snoop Dogg is slightly more than just a lucky find in gangsta rap, depending on how you define more. He was a member of the Crips gang, know for its drive-by shootings and drug sales. Snoop was arrested on drug dealing charges during his high school years and spent 3 years in prison. Inspiring isn’t it. Also at the time of his rise to fame, he was charged with murder – which the great Mr. Johnny Cochrane was able to get him acquitted from. Since that time Snoop Dogg, Calvin Broadus Jr., has been accused of or charged with rape, violent disorderly conduct (fighting at an airport with police involved), 2 drug and firearm possession charges, a concealed weapons charge and has been banned from entering 2 countries. All before he has reached 36.

It gets better. Snoop is an entrepreneur. Not satisfied with just being a rapper he has produced 2 X-rated films and admitted to being a pimp (from 2003-2004) though he was married at the time to his wife for at least 3 years.

By the way, Snoop in 2002 swore off of drugs and women. So he has failed to live up to his word [A man’s word being the defining characteristic of how the world views a person – at least that is how I was raised] on both counts multiple times. And that says nothing to his deeply intellectual definition of who is and is not a ‘ho’.

I say all of this because we need to have a reality tv show featuring Snoop Dogg so he can represent the daily life of African Americans to the world. [That was sarcasm by the way.] Have no doubt, across the globe people base their opinion of American Blacks on the media we export. From Japanese commercials that include calling blacks the N-words, to Russia where African Americans are considered ignorant, violent criminals, the media we have is what the world assumes is true. Rap music, music videos, Flava Flav, BET, Hot Ghetto Mess, and now the daily life of a criminal, lying, porn producing, philandering, one time allegded rapist/murderer, chulo (or alfons if you prefer), dad and youth football founder will be seen. Aren’t you proud?

This is what I think, what do you think?

Mr. Reginald Hudlin of Black Entertainment Television speaks Part 2 - 7.17.2007.2

Continued from Mr. Reginald Hudlin of Black Entertainment Television speaks Part 1...

I submit that his television shows have been a constant statement on self-improvement and the rewards of education. In 1965 he was the FIRST Black actor to star in a dramatic series. His Cosby Show television program, that started in 1984 and lasted 8 years, was massively positive, well received, and a direct statement of success for Black families. Obviously the cartoon series Fat Albert has made a huge impact on generations of Americans, and children around the world. Non-violence, morality and humor featuring an All-Black cast that has lasted decades and was in first run production for roughly 15 years.

Mr. Hudlin would compare what BET describes as,

“…like the traffic accident you can’t look away from.”

I have never heard any television show or public speaking event that Mr. Cosby has appeared at given a similar description. I do not know Mr. Charlie Murphy, but I am not aware of his collegiate degrees, positive public comments on the Black community (outside of comedy). Neither am I aware of Mr. Murphy receiving a Presidential Medal. I am not putting down Mr. Murphy, just stating that there is little similarity between him and Mr. Cosby.

For Mr. Hudlin to compare the program to the social commentary of Mr. Bill Cosby there must be similarities. They don’t appear to be in the host, a basis in education, or breaking ground in television history.

The comparison of Mr. Cosby’s social commentary – stating don’t shake your booty for a camera, or be a pimped-out high schooler – seems diametrically opposed to videoclips of exactly that. Mr. Cosby’s comments to seek out education seem to not be conveyed, as I am befuddled how a car accident is educational. So I ask Mr. Reginald Hudlin, where is the connection?

Mr. Hudlin appears to be a good corporate leader. His comments are rare, brief and sound great as a soundbite. Sadly they have no substance. These are the kinds of comments that as a stockbroker listening to earnings reports for a decade, caused me to drop a stock – and caused financial institutions to lower ratings. The comments don’t hold up to review.

I pose the same questions I asked Mr. Sumner Redstone and Mr. Phillippe Dauman to Mr. Hudlin. Perhaps, if BET is as independent as is claimed, he can answer the questions that his bosses will not. I again invite Mr. Hudlin to explain why my conclusions based on his comments, and those on the BET website are “an erroneous presumption” or how they can be considered based on “absolutely zero information.”

I have not seen the show, but I can only hope that it will not be what has been promoted. But if it is, there will be a reaction and I guarantee I will hold Mr. Hudlin, Mr. Dauman, and Mr. Redstone accountable.

To these men, and you my readers, I state – even if the major news media refuses to comment or acknowledge this subject, the blogosphere is. We are more powerful than traditional media believe. We are a voice of the people, and our influence (via you our readers) is immense. To ignore us is to dabble with peril.

This is what I think, what do you think?