Posted by
Shogrensus on Wednesday, April 11, 2007 1:49:52 PM
April 11, 2007
More on the Imus fallout:
As the women go on about Imus, the discussion veered towards the notion that a white guy can’t use racially charged terms but the black youth of the inner city can and in fact need to use these terms in their art, as though it is cathartic.
Only Elisabeth seems to understand that any use of these terms belittles the women of color regularly slurred in the art of this culture. She quotes lyrics from the current number 1 and 2 Rap songs that include the “n” word, the “b” word, the “ho” word… Throughout the conversations of past two days, Elisabeth has clearly stated her belief that the Imus suspension is more like a vacation. She has also articulated her position that no one should be using these terms because it is irresponsible.
Rosie, who doesn’t appear to listen to anyone else throws in her two sense about why these artists do what they do:
“There is something different about young black artists living their reality and using the clay of their life to form the art that becomes their vessel.”
The clay of their life… wow, now that is really profound.
Here’s the problem, Rosie: Young black men and women don’t only use this language in their “art” they use this language in their everyday interactions with each other. Anyone who spends any time with the under privileged youth of today would have to honestly admit that the language of these children is horrifying. The use of derogatory, pejorative language in everyday life not only reflects upon their so-called reality, it reinforces it. It makes young Black girls and Black women seem less valued. It demeans young Black men.
This language and these attitudes are glorified by the children and teenagers in the inner cities, and increasingly in the suburbs. 99% of these kids will never have the opportunity to live like the rappers or hip hoppers they idolize. They will remain trapped in horrible situations feeling like there is no way out. Art should inspire people to try to make the world better not retreat into weak acceptance of current hopelessness.
Maybe some of these artists should focus on using the clay that reflects their successful lives rather than focusing on the clay of hatred and dismay.
Maybe people like Rosie should stop buying into this idiocy that justifies the behavior of thugs and instead begin promoting those people of color who strive to be positive role models for the kids that so desperately want to believe there is a way out.