04 February 2009

A Sane Look at BHM

I’m a few days late to the beginning of Black History Month, but I feel it’s my civic duty to direct y’all to Ta-Nehisi Coates.

“I think people who want to get rid of Black History Month are only slightly less annoying than people who complain about Kwanzaa. Yes, it's true--Bob Johnson and Michael Jordan weren't what Carter G. Woodson had in mind. But the true mark of a movement's success is its descent into hackery.”

Consider myself a hearty co-signer onto the piece.

TNC is one of the best bloggers out there, coming strong with opinions on a seemingly hourly basis. I often disagree with the man, but his takes are solid. If we could swap him out for Al Sharpton and Roland Martin as Voice of All Blackdom, cable news would be a better place.

The best part though? TNC would refuse the position, since he’s bold enough to think that the Black community is far too multifaceted and nuanced as to have a “voice”.

And that’s why he’s great.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

why can't we just have a "make blacks history" month? the world would be a better place.

Snowden said...

Aww, come on, surely that wouldn't help the world as much as a "Make Cowardly-Racist-Asshats-Who-Post-Anonymously Angry" month.

Step to your game, dude. You want to put that "funny comment" out there, put your name to it.

Otherwise, grow up.

Anonymous said...

bring it chris. the thing is, there really is no such thing as freedom of speech. if i put my name to that and certain people found it, i'd never get a job. it doesn't matter how true it is.

Snowden said...

I'm not buying it. There's always a place for the truth, and there's always someone willing to support the guy who tell's the emperor he has no clothes. "The Job Defense" gets a FAIL! stamp.

But you're right: there doesn't seem to be much room for outlandish racism any more. It makes your initial comment even more cowardly that you know how bad it would be received and ya still made it.

Just step back and admit it was a poorly-made joke. I'm all for poor-taste humor, but there's still lines. You crossed one. Doesn't mean you can't try again -- just take your lumps.

Anonymous said...

it wasn't a joke.

and let's see you get brave and start trying to explain your views on the war of northern aggression to potential employers.