for Black Entertainment USA, and writes posts from time to time. In addition she is working on a book that will be published soonI have been disappointed to say the least over BET programming not just recently but over the past few years. It started with the cancellation or removal of the news from its regular programming. What’s the assumption- that African- Americans do not have a need to be informed of current events? In addition the shows that are aired do not provide a balance. The majority of programs either portrays African –Americans in a stereotypical manner or shows those who fit the stereotype. Why are there so many shows that portray our girls and women as “houchie mamas and ghetto queens?” Even the video’s frequently show females in inappropriate attire and places the emphasis on their physical attributes and not their mental capabilities.
Out ancestors endured too much and struggled too long to give us the freedom we have today. With that comes the responsibility of up-holding and not degrading our people. It hurts to see our young ladies portrayed in such a degrading manner. BET should refuse to play these videos. And I know that we are in an era of reality show mania, but must we continually be exposed to the drama- girls cursing each other out and fighting over a man?
BET is in a position to be a powerful medium to reach the world. With much power, comes great responsibility. I hope that the executives and decision-makers take that responsibility more seriously. This would, in my opinion, be demonstrated by providing a balance in programming. The news should become a daily program. If you want to use reality shows, highlight the problems that our people deal with on a daily basis, unemployment, homelessness, lack of access to healthcare, health disparities, the need to adopt children of color, etc. I’m not suggesting that all reality shows should be doom and gloom, but a balance would be a good thing. I have not given up hope on BET. I think if enough people keep talking about it, maybe someone will hear. BET executives, you can make a change and make a difference.
No comments:
Post a Comment