Of the millions of ideas that crossed my mind to write about today, the one that concerned me the most spawned from a question that I posed to myself after spending hours scouring YouTube. (By the way, if you don't randomly search YouTube just to "see" if they have an old music video or news clip do not start. THIS IS AN ADDICTION). The question was; Why does Fox News constantly consult Black comedians for Black social commentary? For example what's wrong with this picture? Don Imus calls Rutgers women's basketball team "Nappy Headed Ho's". The guests on Hannity and Combs were, Dr. Marc Lamont Hill, of Temple Univ., Armstrong Williams, right wing conservative, and Patrice Oneal (Comedian). Who doesn't belong?!?!? I don't understand his role in social commentary.
Don't get me wrong, the history of the comedian in the Black community has long been an instrument of pain relief. The art of a Black comedian is a tool for Blacks to take a look at ourselves and in the comfort of "our company" be able to laugh at our issues and our problems. In decades past, comedians and actors were the most vocal in their commentary on society. For example there are legends like Dick Gregory, Bill Cosby, Paul Mooney and Richard Pryor. Even today, there are brilliant artists such as Dave Chappelle, Steve Harvey and Dick Gregory (yes, he's still alive). The problem with Fox News is that comedians such as Patrece Oneal and Damon Wayans are not commentators on Social Issues because their routines are not politically charged. When these Black Comedians are invited on to discuss serious political issues, I believe they are being used just to make light of serious situations.
"Fair and Balanced"
No comments:
Post a Comment