Racism exists and we all can choose to confront it in some way, every day. I have watched several in this series and it gives me hope. Thank you.
To recite the inequities that exist among races is constructive through encouraging discussion of these inequities aimed at reducing or eliminating them. However, listing all the inequities is relatively easy while doing something constructive about them requires factual analysis as to why they exist. It is somewhat like the old chicken-egg debate about which came first. Does racial bias come first out of the blue or does it come second because of very real but varied deficiencies that nearly all races possess? To what extent to all races contain qualities that are disliked by other races? How much responsibility for their disliked qualities lies with the disliked races themselves and how much lies with those that dislike them? In other words, merely reciting a list of unfair biases is not enough to automatically blame other races. The unfair biases may be based on very real undesirable qualities that exist in the disliked racial groups, and these undesirable qualities should be corrected along with correcting the undesirable biases that may exist in offended racial groups.
You can believe that systemic and interpersonal racism affect black people in very real ways and also believe in personal responsibility. These two ideas are not mutually exclusive. Most black people know this and preach this within their communities (communities plural because there isn't just one). Conservatives and liberals of other races seem to be unable to understand this concept. Conservatives talk only of personal responsibility and dismiss racism; liberals talk only of racism and have such low expectations of black people it's like they think blacks can't overcome circumstances and do better. The issue is more complicated than presented - but never forget that behavior stems from hopelessness grounded in a white supremacist society. That doesn't mean you ignore behavior - it means you say I know this is unfair and I will work to change it but in the meantime you must press on because nobody is coming to save you.
All that being said, these young men, and the majority of young black people around the country, have personal responsibility on lock. They are educated, well-spoken, exceptional young men. Not criminals. And yet, they are hurting. They experience racism. They have to deal with issues of self-doubt and vilification and a feeling of worthlessness. What do your statistics have to do with them? Almost none of these comments address that. They are not playing victims but they are victimized, and you are dismissive.
All that being said, these young men, and the majority of young black people around the country, have personal responsibility on lock. They are educated, well-spoken, exceptional young men. Not criminals. And yet, they are hurting. They experience racism. They have to deal with issues of self-doubt and vilification and a feeling of worthlessness. What do your statistics have to do with them? Almost none of these comments address that. They are not playing victims but they are victimized, and you are dismissive.
6
Powerful. Though black men should know, when a woman clutches her purse tighter, it has more, if not everything, to do with it being a male approaching rather than the color of his skin. A friend once told me it wasn't until he had daughters that he thought about what it must be like to have roughly 1/2 the population stronger than you. He said when approaching another man where there might be an issue, he would think, "Can I take this guy or not?" But with very few exceptions, that is not what a woman is thinking. It's not usually an option. And being armed is no guarantee you would be safer. Brute strength is brute strength. In fact, the weapon could be used against you. Having mace or a loud whistle or alarm might help, but it would depend on the situation. Maybe black men are more aware of women's reactions to their approach than white guys because they are on the lookout for all reactions. Anyway, my 2 cents, for what it is worth.
3
Wendy Radford, I'm a black female. When I was young, I experienced all that purse clutching and car door locking upon my approach so I disagree that the reaction is about being male rather than skin color.
3
@Ms. Creech,
Thank you. I've experienced that at least once, also and I'm a Black woman. A woman clutched her purse and looked at me. It was insulting. But, as I look back on it now, I find it oddly funny and sad. The woman's bag was ugly. Why would I steal it? Also, her fear was a testament of her bigotry, not of my character as a person of color.
Growing Up Black? Yeah, I can relate to these stories, being the only or nearly the only chocolate drop in the class, etc. We're supposed to be in this together.
3-8-16@11:53 am
Thank you. I've experienced that at least once, also and I'm a Black woman. A woman clutched her purse and looked at me. It was insulting. But, as I look back on it now, I find it oddly funny and sad. The woman's bag was ugly. Why would I steal it? Also, her fear was a testament of her bigotry, not of my character as a person of color.
Growing Up Black? Yeah, I can relate to these stories, being the only or nearly the only chocolate drop in the class, etc. We're supposed to be in this together.
3-8-16@11:53 am
3
GREAT KIDS! I found the young men in the video to be exemplary. They spoke beautifully and openly about their thoughts and feelings. They were proud of themselves and their families. The thought that such a group of fine young men would be hunted is anathema to me! The one consistent theme was not so much fear of Caucasian Americans, but fear of the police. We've got to put more emphasis on the model of community policing that is designed to engage based on cultural competence. I hope that all the young men will be able to fulfill their potential. But the fact is that they're going to have to be prepared to be cooperative with the police. No arguing. No hoodies. No toy guns. No running away. I'd like to hope that would be enough. But I don't know. I will say that the young men in the video came from highly educated backgrounds. In the inner city where I work often the families are not intact, the kids have been place in foster care because nobody in the family can provide adequate housing and parenting for them. So they're hurting and angry. But they're still kids. They respond to kindness and understanding. Not uniformly, though. Some of them have behavioral disorders because of stress, abuse and neglect. But they're reachable and can heal. I know that in my interactions with children, for the most part, they have not been afraid of me, no matter the background.
4
I cross the street when I see groups of young men, regardless of their race. Like many women, I see groups of men under 30 as potential threats. I have traveled all over the world as a single woman, and for the most part, the only thing that ever scares me is men.
Like most people, I am not afraid of a group of women (black, white, Latina, whatever) hanging out on the street.
Racism exists, we all know that. But how much of this is about gender and male violence?
Like most people, I am not afraid of a group of women (black, white, Latina, whatever) hanging out on the street.
Racism exists, we all know that. But how much of this is about gender and male violence?
4
There is a much broader series I would recommend - The Little Brother series: http://www.littlebrotherfilm.com/
1
The very saddest part is white parents Never have to have this conversation with their boys, or girls.
But to be completely honest if I were to see a group of black kids in my vicinity I will be apprehensive, it's a normality of life, and I can not be racist, but the bad kids like bad cops, can not be judged by appearance alone.
But to be completely honest if I were to see a group of black kids in my vicinity I will be apprehensive, it's a normality of life, and I can not be racist, but the bad kids like bad cops, can not be judged by appearance alone.
Please, please, just look into the eyes of these young men and children, and then put yourself in their places. You're intelligent, you're nice, you have good values--and every day you have people who don't know you assume the very opposite.
It's stupid to tell these young men to stop having children before marriage, to stop committing crimes...whatever. They are obviously not involved in any of these things.
Im white, and Im deeply embarrassed and ashamed of the blatant racism shown by so many commenters here.
It's stupid to tell these young men to stop having children before marriage, to stop committing crimes...whatever. They are obviously not involved in any of these things.
Im white, and Im deeply embarrassed and ashamed of the blatant racism shown by so many commenters here.
3
The ten year old boy, Maddox, who said, "I want everyone to know I won't hurt them." Pierces me with sadness.
4
Racism is an extremely important and relevant issue that needs to be discussed. However, what I find to be problematic about these short films is that they only feature on black males. If we want to have true racial equality and justice, it must be for everyone, regardless of gender.
1
As a fifty six year old white man, I admit I have a reflexive, almost subconscious wariness of young alpha-male blacks acting out violently, and so cultivate a general policy of giving them a wide berth. I realize these preconceptions qualify as a prejudice against black males, but how much is baseless fear and how much is evolutionarily installed self preservation?
This happened to me yesterday. I'm still sorting out the deeper meaning (if any). As I exited my local supermarket, I passed a car in a handicap space occupied by two young black males. As I went by, the passenger tossed a gnawed-on chicken leg out the window, over his shoulder, Henry VIII style, right in front of me. Putting aside my preconceptions and without thinking really, I said "Hey dude, you know there's a trashcan about ten feet from you?" He was out of the car in a flash saying "Yo, you got a problem?" This guy looked like he 'd just been released from the SHU at Pelican Bay; over six feet, 250 pounds plus, liberally tattooed all over, wife beater t-shirt, straight from central casting... and ready to throw down. Realizing I didn't want to be killed or injured over a chicken bone, I apologized and made it to my car and out of there.
Was I being stupid or just saying what I would have said to anyone by calling him on the littering, or did this confirm my preconceptions as having some basis in reality? I do think it points out one thing clearly....to get respect, you have to give respect.
This happened to me yesterday. I'm still sorting out the deeper meaning (if any). As I exited my local supermarket, I passed a car in a handicap space occupied by two young black males. As I went by, the passenger tossed a gnawed-on chicken leg out the window, over his shoulder, Henry VIII style, right in front of me. Putting aside my preconceptions and without thinking really, I said "Hey dude, you know there's a trashcan about ten feet from you?" He was out of the car in a flash saying "Yo, you got a problem?" This guy looked like he 'd just been released from the SHU at Pelican Bay; over six feet, 250 pounds plus, liberally tattooed all over, wife beater t-shirt, straight from central casting... and ready to throw down. Realizing I didn't want to be killed or injured over a chicken bone, I apologized and made it to my car and out of there.
Was I being stupid or just saying what I would have said to anyone by calling him on the littering, or did this confirm my preconceptions as having some basis in reality? I do think it points out one thing clearly....to get respect, you have to give respect.
3
To Thomas Field, Martin Luther King, Jr., wisely asked that we judge people by the content of their character, not the color of their skin. The guy you described behaved like an idiot not because he is black, but because he is an idiot. Idiots come in many shades and sizes. Please think of MLK the next time you consider that incident.
This may come as a shock to some, but this is the majority of young black males I know. They are NOT claiming to Be victims, they are just dealing with reality. Keep your heads up young men....we love you. Many commenters seemed surprised at how intelligent,thoughtful and articulate they are. Who REALLY has the problem, and what are you basing your stereotypes on. The Baltimore looters were repudiated by their own community, and they were NOT the majority. We are not all like that, (how many times do we need to say that!!!) if these young men had not opened their mouths, you would lump them in the same group. We don't judge you all on the white on white crime stats. Some want to justify behaviors based on Black in Black crime stats. That is a relatively new social phenomena, what about before then, I guess things were perfect?? The majority of YBMs in prison are due to drug offenses, not violence. The Times reported about the disappearance of the Black Male...where is he? He is in prison serving a much longer sentence than the white man with the same charges. There is a cause and effect in everything. America has done everything in her power to keep her foot in the neck of our Black men, but no one addresses that. Let me know when you want to have a REAL conversation, because White America's deflection to justify racism are tired and old.
9
Outstanding short film, thank you.
3
I am not white and I am not racist, but I feel some minorities especially Blacks and Mexicans in the US are using white racism as a shield to protect their failed cultural behavior from fair criticism.
2
It would be great if people who wanted to be safe only crossed the street to avoid groups with criminal records involving violence. Unfortunately, we don't have that data when we have to make that decision; the criminal records of people we encounter on the street are not available to us (is this a market opportunity for Google Glass). That leaves us to use the data that is available to make judgments based on assessments of probabilities -- the context (who else is is around), manner of dress, gender, demeanor and, yes, skin color. It would not be rational not to take into account the fact that the violent crime rate among young black men is high.
I am sorry that the boys shown in this video have to experience that behavior but I would argue that it is essentially victimless; nobody is denied anything if I choose not to walk next to them on an otherwise deserted urban street. It is no different from what I, as a large, upper middle age white man, occasionally experience when a woman avoids getting into an elevator in which I am the only other passenger. I am not a threat, but she doesn't know that.
I am sorry that the boys shown in this video have to experience that behavior but I would argue that it is essentially victimless; nobody is denied anything if I choose not to walk next to them on an otherwise deserted urban street. It is no different from what I, as a large, upper middle age white man, occasionally experience when a woman avoids getting into an elevator in which I am the only other passenger. I am not a threat, but she doesn't know that.
1
So honestly, I think it would depend on context. I think the main problem is, most people do not actually rely on context. If you are in a high crime area where the majority of the population is black, then by all means take special precautions. That to me makes logical sense. If you are not, but yet you avoid all groups of black men or all black men dressed in a certain way wherever you are, then you are not acting logically. You are being unfairly discriminatory. And that's what black people are talking about. Also, many people don't realize this but the media reporting of black crime is biased. You rarely, if ever, see reports of other races committing certain types of crime, and yet, black people do not commit 100% of crime. Why is that? Not saying their representation shouldn't be disproportionate but there's a difference between that and what we see in the media, which is over representation of over representation.
Also, I wouldn't call it victimless. It reinforces a narrative that these young men are worthless, and they know that. A man who is avoided by a woman is still a man in a patriarchal society. A black man avoided by anyone is still a black man in a racist society. Definitely not the same thing.
Also, I wouldn't call it victimless. It reinforces a narrative that these young men are worthless, and they know that. A man who is avoided by a woman is still a man in a patriarchal society. A black man avoided by anyone is still a black man in a racist society. Definitely not the same thing.
2
Imagine the perspective of an African living in the United States, and is forced on take on an image that he isn't necessarily familiar with--the stereotype of being "Black" in America. Growing up in Nigeria, I never saw myself as "Black". I identified myself by my ethnic group, my religion, being middle class, educated, etc., never black. In other words, I've actually had the experience of American "white privilege" or majority privilege living in a country where a majority of people look just like me. Being well-educated from a conventional middle class family, although born in this country and living in Nigeria for 10 years before returning to the U.S., it's interesting to notice the stark difference in the way I had to condition myself (like these children in the video were forced to condition themselves) to adapt to this society. Racism was a foreign concept to me until I came back to the U.S. I now know the feeling of being followed around in a store, of women clutching their purses, of a white girl in a club being horrified that her friend came up to dance with me while she begged a nearby white man (who coincidentally is my friend) to "grab her way from that black guy!" I could go on. I've never committed a crime in my life; I did very well in school and on track to having a lucrative and rewarding career. Yet it doesn't matter. I have to constantly prove myself to be accepted by society while less-accomplished white friends get free passes. C'est Incroyable!
8
I thought that was very moving and beautiful. I have more empathy for how it must feel to walk in their shoes, and frustration that there is little I can do to change these facets of American life. Thanks for creating this, to all involved.
4
This culture of victimhood has to stop. These young, bright, articulate black men in the video have a brilliant future ahead of them if they stop spending so much time focusing on small slights. The sad fact is that a larger proportion of black men than white men commit crimes so it is not surprising that white people will fear a black man walking down a dark street more than they will a white man. The truth hurts. Deal with it. Make the changes in your community and stop blaming white people and the government for all of your failures . Enough!
These great young men are NOT claiming to be victims.
3
I just read a story yesterday about a black man who grew up in the projects of Louisville. KY and ended up graduating from Harvard. He was busted with over 200 pounds of pot in a storage unit. And his attorney tried to blame it on on the white man. WOW.
So, let me ask you a question. What other group of people are required to rehabilitate the delinquent elements of their peers as a prerequisite for fair treatment? Until you get stopped by police without cause and treated rudely, and suffer a myriad of overt and covert offenses based on the ignorance of others, I can't respect your talk of a 'culture of victimhood' based on what you call 'small slights'. Besides, if you think that this is what this documentary is about, you've missed the point entirely, and is about as counterintuitive as those who believe exposing racism makes one a racist.
2
Absolutely, heartbreaking. Thank you for putting this video together. Everything they say is indeed true, and poignant. I am a white woman, and my best friend is a black woman. While there may be cultural differences that are obvious to both of us [that we talk about at times], we have an extremely close and caring relationship. True soul sisters - one white, one black. I am indeed blessed to have her in my life... her very presence and perspective on the world has taught me so much.
5
Try being a black female professor at a large predominately white university, and you will see racism at its "finest!" I cannot even begin to tell you the comments, complaints and criticisms I have received just for TWB (teaching while black), especially by my white male students. It bothers some of them to see a black, female and degreed professor have and hold authority the classroom and in assessing their work. You can tell that many of them are used to being spoiled, coddled, and treated as if their stuff don't stink. Then they enroll in my class and in the process of learning an academic lesson, they inevitably learn a life lesson. They can't stand the truth being revealed that they are not the smartest, most special little boy in the world; it makes them angry to discover that they are just as average and regular as any other person walking about on the planet. Shhhhhh . . . let's not tell them; we wouldn't want to destroy any longstanding illusions!
13
I have been a white man my whole life.
It's good to see these young guys groping their way to reality, piercing the propaganda. The reality is that black people in the US have a very bad problem: they're outnumbered. And they're outnumbered by American whites and we all know what they're like.
That's the reality and will be the reality. When you're in a rough environment and you can't change it, self-protection is key. Resistance is self-destructive.
What do you want to do? Stand up tall or survive? Your call.
It's good to see these young guys groping their way to reality, piercing the propaganda. The reality is that black people in the US have a very bad problem: they're outnumbered. And they're outnumbered by American whites and we all know what they're like.
That's the reality and will be the reality. When you're in a rough environment and you can't change it, self-protection is key. Resistance is self-destructive.
What do you want to do? Stand up tall or survive? Your call.
1
this is beautiful and so very needed - than you for bringing these faces and voices to us in such a simple manner... please keep going, don't stop now.
4
It is interesting and telling that another beautiful video of intelligent, thoughtful and sensitive young Black males brings a response of such transparent hostility from readers. If this doesn't clarify the dilemma for which they are completely innocent and yet totally trapped within... I don't know what does. Please New York Times, we obviously need more of these humanitarian videos to help us see, and acknowledge, what is in our mirror.
3
I shared this video with my kids, all competent, either college graduates or in college and African American. The thing that still bothers me and others like me is we've worked hard, done more things right than wrong, raised our kids to have strong values and goals and STILL someone will treat them like garbage. I have many stories from being chased at the age of 7 while going to school by a some teenagers in a car who threw bats at me in Queens, or the time I left the Palace Hotel in mid-town while waiting for a car in a pinstripe suit, rep tie and cashmere overcoat and some guy asks me to get his bags - until my hired car pulls up, or yesterday while standing in an elevator in Philadelphia a woman switched her purse to the other side of her body and again I'm wearing a suit and tie, etc. etc... To all that say we've "heard this enough", you're not listening. It's still reality for many boys and men of color in the US for simply their existence instead of their character and the content thereof.
4
Purses are heavy, maybe she just switched arms. You assuming she did it because she was afraid of you in your suit, based on her skin color is just as bad as the guy who asked you to get his bag as you stood in front of the hotel based on your skin color.
1
I just came back from lunch at Olive Garden. There were 3 young women dining at a table next to me. One of them white , a second one looked latina and third one a Somalian Muslim girl in Hijab and with a little baby. It was so heartening to watch these 3 loving friends having a good time and entertaining that little baby each taking turns carrying her around and feeding and comforting her. I was a young immigrant(dark skinned) in this country 20 years ago and was welcomed with open arms by an old Scandinavian couple into their home and into their extended family even traveling with them to visit their daughters who were living in other parts of the country. The reason why I bring up these are because for every incident of put down or let down another heartening thing happening elsewhere. I know plenty of white families with adopted children of many different races who always make it the central part of their lives to make sure their child grows up knowing and valuing his own racial and cultural heritage. None of this shows up in the news. There is so much negativity being spread in the news and this is only helping to create a chasm in our society. We shouldn't generalize people of any race this way or that way. Each individual is unique and has her own unique experience.
2
Oh heck -- try growing up white and female -- that's no picnic either -- and one has to play the sex card but not too much just enough because nature makes us want to mate.
Try growing up with a big nose and an odd sounding name and having people consider you Jewish? Italian?
Try growing up fat and or ugly?
Yes, the police brutality has got to stop period!! But the police are often no nicer to women then to black men. (Have killed a few who were insane and acting out.)
Try growing up with a big nose and an odd sounding name and having people consider you Jewish? Italian?
Try growing up fat and or ugly?
Yes, the police brutality has got to stop period!! But the police are often no nicer to women then to black men. (Have killed a few who were insane and acting out.)
The film series Little Brother is talking to young black boys around the country. It just completed its fifth of 10 chapters. It's purpose to share the hopes and dreams of young black boys and the realities they face, http://littlebrotherfilm.com/.
2
This video breaks my heart. I didn't cry until the 10 year-old promised that he would never hurt anyone. What have we done to this child that he sees the need to make such a promise at that age? Who are we? I am a 65 year-old openly gay African-American man, who had to develop a thick hide to succeed in this life as a telecommunications lawyer in a predominately white world. I have never been the victim of black crime. But in white America, in the private practice of law, I have known some of the filthiest and some of the vilest creatures on earth posing as fine upstanding members of the Bar who have all but tried to eviscerate me or other colleagues, regardless of color, over a dollar. Yet they smile and enjoy the highest social and political regard in this town. I have also come to learn that the most vicious white racists to my face in private are often the most passionate and eloquent spokespeople in public about bridging the racial divide -- and that includes some of the powerful members of the nation's clergy. I am thus not in the least swayed by protestations over black crime and looting of toilet paper and toothpaste.
5
I see black males every day who do not cause me a moment's notice. At the same time, I regularly see some who do. I am a white male, and the only people who have ever accosted me, threatened me, or made me feel for my safety were young black males. However, I interact with other black males all the time. So what is the difference? It is not skin color that is the issue, it is attitude, and reputation, and appearance. Young black males who dress like hip hop gangstas, use foul language, and give you a certain look that are the problem.
1
Thanks to the producers of this video. Such sweet boys and young men. Articulate and quite emotionally mature for their ages. They have had to grow up early to deal with the prejudice in our society. It sounds like their parents have done good jobs in helping them to confront the reality of our current situation.
My mother was racist, she would clutch her necklace and cross the street to avoid people she would insult with ugly language. She was ignorant and lived in fear.
I am fortunate to have realized at an early age that my mother was not smart enough to recognize her ignorance. I understood how wrong she was and have lived a different kind of life. I am saddened to read so many negative comments here that remind me of my mother, who lived and died still in ignorance...
My mother was racist, she would clutch her necklace and cross the street to avoid people she would insult with ugly language. She was ignorant and lived in fear.
I am fortunate to have realized at an early age that my mother was not smart enough to recognize her ignorance. I understood how wrong she was and have lived a different kind of life. I am saddened to read so many negative comments here that remind me of my mother, who lived and died still in ignorance...
13
I am a white woman. I have never in my life feared another human because of the color of their skin. I have feared for my personal safety at times because of things such as attitude I perceived, mannerisms, manner of dress, words I heard, neighborhood I was in, being alone at night, being alone in an elevator or parking garage with a larger stranger, being alone in the subway, groups of male teens, extensive tattoos/piercings ... it has never been about the color of someone's skin.
10
This is how racism works.
2
Well said. By reminding Blacks,colored,Hispanics and other so called minorities that they pose a threat to so called white folk is to feed into into the propaganda of black leadership. As Deborah so aptly put it, most time it is not the color of skin, but the mannerisms of people Ease up my brothers, it is not as bad as you think. No Nazis pulling you off the streets yet and murdering you in mass.
What is the attitude you "perceived?"
What manner of dress would make you fear for your personal safety?
What neighborhood makes you afraid?
I'm sorry, but your statements still sound like you easily classify individuals based on external qualities.
What manner of dress would make you fear for your personal safety?
What neighborhood makes you afraid?
I'm sorry, but your statements still sound like you easily classify individuals based on external qualities.
1
I find that articles like these only support a more segregated society. Why point out specific races when the "goal" is for race to not be a factor. Like many others that have commented on this article have pointed out, the fear that people have is not due to the color of someone's skin skin but rather to social-economic status and/or party affiliation of the targeted person. If and American doesn't want to be targeted as a delinquent or have crowds running in the opposite direction then the should not try and be relatable to those groups. Dress and act the part of a socially accepted individual and one may be surprised at what follows. As far as these special articles that try to highlight differences of race are concerned, try publishing something that is targeting the root of this maltreatment like gangs being glorified or criminals getting put on pedestals.
11
What do you deem as socially acceptable?
What will follow?
If you personally have experiences of a dream society, where no one is singled out negatively, please share about that, instead.
What will follow?
If you personally have experiences of a dream society, where no one is singled out negatively, please share about that, instead.
These are not your average young men, no matter their race. From this short video, my impression is that I'd love to have any one of them as my son, cousin, brother, grandson, nephew, friend. I don't judge so quickly on dress, but most of these particular young folks seem to be dressed "normally". If young men like these get treated at times the ways that they describe, skin color simply has to be the reason.
We really need to listen and look: maybe listen first, with our eyes closed, and then look.
Maybe it's because I've been fortunate enough to have some close friendships with African-Americans, but I don't cross the street when I see a young black man coming along the sidewalk. I'm aware that he assumes that I see him as a threat, so I make eye contact from a distance, and if it's possible, I just say, "How are you doing," the way I would to anyone. Every now and then, I get a blank stare (which always happens when one says hello to a stranger): but much more often I get a smile and a nice response--as though the assumed assumptions have suddenly disappeared. It's like a big relax.
Believe me, I'm not naive about crime and demographics. But individual by individual, I don't make assumptions. At least I try not to, because I don't want my own life diminished in that way.
We really need to listen and look: maybe listen first, with our eyes closed, and then look.
Maybe it's because I've been fortunate enough to have some close friendships with African-Americans, but I don't cross the street when I see a young black man coming along the sidewalk. I'm aware that he assumes that I see him as a threat, so I make eye contact from a distance, and if it's possible, I just say, "How are you doing," the way I would to anyone. Every now and then, I get a blank stare (which always happens when one says hello to a stranger): but much more often I get a smile and a nice response--as though the assumed assumptions have suddenly disappeared. It's like a big relax.
Believe me, I'm not naive about crime and demographics. But individual by individual, I don't make assumptions. At least I try not to, because I don't want my own life diminished in that way.
4
Disruptive classroom behavior coupled with unplanned pregnancy are the plagues afflicting African Americans. I don't agree that the single parent or non married parents is the issue. The real issue is that too many people allow life to happen as opposed to planning.
The secret to succeeding is the following:
Go to school every day
Do your homework every day
Don't be disruptive in the classroom
You have to be present and consistent to succeed
If we peeled the onion to review why kids fail - you will see that consistency and behavior are the overwhelming trends. It not the teachers....part of it is the neighborhood and the overwhelming number of children who come from homes are that are simply not consistent. The charter school that succeed do not allow disruptive behavior. They demand work be completed, they demand attendance and for all those that comply there is a path forward.
You have to wait to begin a family - don't start without a committed partner, job skills and a stable environment. Show up to work every day, on time with a good attitude and communicate to assure a consistent performance.
Success cannot happen without consistency.
The secret to succeeding is the following:
Go to school every day
Do your homework every day
Don't be disruptive in the classroom
You have to be present and consistent to succeed
If we peeled the onion to review why kids fail - you will see that consistency and behavior are the overwhelming trends. It not the teachers....part of it is the neighborhood and the overwhelming number of children who come from homes are that are simply not consistent. The charter school that succeed do not allow disruptive behavior. They demand work be completed, they demand attendance and for all those that comply there is a path forward.
You have to wait to begin a family - don't start without a committed partner, job skills and a stable environment. Show up to work every day, on time with a good attitude and communicate to assure a consistent performance.
Success cannot happen without consistency.
6
African-American children are consistently held to different standards in schools than their fellow students. They are, consistently across the country, more frequently reprimanded and punished for behavior similar to their peers.
Their parents and grandparents were consistently discriminated against by the U.S. government in their efforts to obtain loans to buy a home, and as a result of this systematic discrimination were herded into poor communities with consistently less equity to hand down to their children.
We have succeeded, through our consistent efforts over generations, in keeping African-Americans in their place at the bottom of the social ladder.
Their parents and grandparents were consistently discriminated against by the U.S. government in their efforts to obtain loans to buy a home, and as a result of this systematic discrimination were herded into poor communities with consistently less equity to hand down to their children.
We have succeeded, through our consistent efforts over generations, in keeping African-Americans in their place at the bottom of the social ladder.
6
Golly Mom, thanks for the advice. We're simply too stupid to have thought of any of these things.
I'm not black, but my advice to you is to listen much more than tell. From going to homes of friends in tougher black neighborhoods, what I learned is that I need to listen more to have any hope of understanding.
I'm not black, but my advice to you is to listen much more than tell. From going to homes of friends in tougher black neighborhoods, what I learned is that I need to listen more to have any hope of understanding.
2
It seems to me that these men are successful and come from successful homes and still feel the burden of racism. That's what this video is about. While all that you say is true, it won't erase the racism that people experience. Why is it so difficult for people to acknowledge that, that there are systems outside of one's control?
Let's have a conversation about racism and invite only one race. Then let's do nothing to fix the problem but incite frustration and riot because 87% of the population cannot hear; speak; or participate in the solution for a problem blamed entirely on them. Google Beverly Hills Missouri and then any nation in Africa to get a real perspective of how people of the same race treat each other on a daily basis. If you still don't understand basic dog eat dog; law of the jungle; survival of the fittest human nature; then you are the problem not a part of the solution. The next time you want to study and talk about racial issues; begin by including all the races; along with those of mixed race and those who do not define themselves by race if you want to be taken seriously.
3
There are examples of fine young black people who come from strong families. However media (CNN) perpetuate the falsehood of rampant racism and are responsible for helping ignite the Baltimore and Ferguson riots. Intelligence dictates that the deceased engaged in criminal activity before their deaths. Brown strong arming the grocery clerk and Gray was arrested several times for drug dealing. Are these the flash points to consider the state of black people? Where's common sense? Maybe if they didn't engage in criminal acts they would be alive. The media should focus on those inconvenient truths instead of painting it as Selma. Is there a problem with blacks and policing? I'm not sure. In NYC, stop and frisk is controversial yet the tactic saved thousands. Education is key - Democrats claim to champion education but they've been hijacked by teachers' unions to further their own agenda and do not address the needs of inner city kids. Charter & Catholic schools have proven effective vs district schools with a history of failure...yet they keep throwing money at a public educational system that leads to the permanent . Time to privatize? Not every kid is wired for college-trades should be an option. Nothing wrong with being an electrician, plumber..opportunities for people to move up and out of the ghetto. No one will invest in communities with disorder and they must partner with police instead of focusing on historical injustices.
3
What causes racism?
1) It is difficult for people to accept their own failures and inadequacies. So they blame others, instead of addressing their own issues.
2) The "pack" mentality. I am proud because I am _____ (fill in your ethnic group here). Much easier to be proud of being in a group than actually having personal achievements/contributions.
3) Opportunists and lies. People believe what makes them feel comfortable and fits their preconceived notions. Some famous lies: Tawana Brawley, The Duke Scandal, The Ferguson "Hands Up", Freddie's Fashion Mart etc.
4) Finally, the whole concept of race is murky. Many African-Americans actually have white ancestors. Are Saudis black? Which genes determine your "race" anyway? Is it really helpful to judge people by a handful of genetic expressions? Or should we be evaluating people by their deeds?
Perhaps the most famous person to judge people by race was Adolf Hitler. While I would never accuse the NYTimes and its liberal-ideologue readers of anywhere near that level of atrocity, maybe its time to stop and think.
1) It is difficult for people to accept their own failures and inadequacies. So they blame others, instead of addressing their own issues.
2) The "pack" mentality. I am proud because I am _____ (fill in your ethnic group here). Much easier to be proud of being in a group than actually having personal achievements/contributions.
3) Opportunists and lies. People believe what makes them feel comfortable and fits their preconceived notions. Some famous lies: Tawana Brawley, The Duke Scandal, The Ferguson "Hands Up", Freddie's Fashion Mart etc.
4) Finally, the whole concept of race is murky. Many African-Americans actually have white ancestors. Are Saudis black? Which genes determine your "race" anyway? Is it really helpful to judge people by a handful of genetic expressions? Or should we be evaluating people by their deeds?
Perhaps the most famous person to judge people by race was Adolf Hitler. While I would never accuse the NYTimes and its liberal-ideologue readers of anywhere near that level of atrocity, maybe its time to stop and think.
1
Interesting that you bring up Adolf Hitler. After Jesse Owens' triumph at the Berlin Olympics in 1936, where he singlehandedly disproved Hitler's myth of the superiority, he returned to the discrimination of the U.S. When he arrived in New York for a ticker tape parade, he had to use the freight elevator to go to a reception in his honor in the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel.
"When I came back to my native country, after all the stories about Hitler, I couldn't ride in the front of the bus," Owens said. "I had to go to the back door. I couldn't live where I wanted. I wasn't invited to shake hands with Hitler, but I wasn't invited to the White House to shake hands with the President, either."
My African-American students would LOVE it if they weren't judged by their ethnic group. My African-American friends would LOVE it if they weren't constantly being pulled over for merely existing. Feel free to treat them the same way you treat your white friends -- they would LOVE that.
"When I came back to my native country, after all the stories about Hitler, I couldn't ride in the front of the bus," Owens said. "I had to go to the back door. I couldn't live where I wanted. I wasn't invited to shake hands with Hitler, but I wasn't invited to the White House to shake hands with the President, either."
My African-American students would LOVE it if they weren't judged by their ethnic group. My African-American friends would LOVE it if they weren't constantly being pulled over for merely existing. Feel free to treat them the same way you treat your white friends -- they would LOVE that.
14
I grew up in a typical racist white suburb of Chicago so I am not surprised by the generally negative comments - and the reaction to these thoughtful boys. Of course they are dismissed as completely atypical. White American society cannot accept that black men are anything other than "thugs" and therefore the racist treatment of these men is perfectly justified. So glad I am raising my adopted black son here in Canada where it is not as racist.
19
i just saw a comment where someone said "i am so tired of this subject." wow! must be nice to have that luxury. imagine having to live with it because it's real and yes, it's an old conversation, but until we don't need to have it anymore, i guess we'll just have to carry on this "tired" conversation.
24
The majority of white people who are not racist cannot do any more about those who are than the majority of black people who are not criminals or gangsters can do anything about those who are.
But I can guarantee that racist attitudes alone detached from actions cannot be compared to the reality of crime statistics and individual experience in this country. Even Jesse Jackson said he's crossed the street when seeing groups of young men who were black but not when they were white.
The argument that it is white people who are to blame for the failure of individual black people to act responsibly is what we are tired of. It is done. Over.
When you're ready to talk about the real real, we'll talk.
But I can guarantee that racist attitudes alone detached from actions cannot be compared to the reality of crime statistics and individual experience in this country. Even Jesse Jackson said he's crossed the street when seeing groups of young men who were black but not when they were white.
The argument that it is white people who are to blame for the failure of individual black people to act responsibly is what we are tired of. It is done. Over.
When you're ready to talk about the real real, we'll talk.
Very well said!
Perfect response
Could we have a video of "About Growing up Poor"? Race optional.
17
Yes, please! It's well past time to stop equating "poor" with black, or, even more carelessly, with "urban black." There are numerically more poor white families than black families in our nation.
Talk about invisible! How often do we hear any discussion at all of the problems of rural poverty? Or the critical needs of rural schools?
Talk about invisible! How often do we hear any discussion at all of the problems of rural poverty? Or the critical needs of rural schools?
9
I'm white, but I'm dismayed at how many of these comments try to ignore the obvious racism in our society--whatever the cause.
Please, please, just look into the eyes of these young men and children, and then put yourself in their places. You're intelligent, you're nice, you have good values--and every day you have people who don't know you assume the very opposite.
It's stupid to tell these young men to stop having children before marriage, to stop committing crimes...whatever. They are obviously not involved in any of these things.
Please, please, just look into the eyes of these young men and children, and then put yourself in their places. You're intelligent, you're nice, you have good values--and every day you have people who don't know you assume the very opposite.
It's stupid to tell these young men to stop having children before marriage, to stop committing crimes...whatever. They are obviously not involved in any of these things.
I find it interesting how many in this country embrace pay for and cheer on Black Athletes (football, boxing Hoops etc) yet in reality these same fans stray away from Inner city or rural black kids as if Black folks are beneath them and their time.
Yet in the same respect not only are black people the same as White Folks poor or rich but they also have the same body parts needs and wants of respect. And in the same respect how many white folks want to be black bronze or copper toned by tanning themselves in the sun, using tanning booths and even tanning dyes!
Yet in the same respect not only are black people the same as White Folks poor or rich but they also have the same body parts needs and wants of respect. And in the same respect how many white folks want to be black bronze or copper toned by tanning themselves in the sun, using tanning booths and even tanning dyes!
5
I am so tired of this subject.
But the way the video was put together is tremendous, insightful, artistic, helpful.
But the way the video was put together is tremendous, insightful, artistic, helpful.
you're tired of hearing about, reading about this topic? People are tired of living this topic.
26
I would expect so.
I once read a quote that states the cure to racism is to travel abroad and experience new cultures. However that is not always possible and the sad truth is that the only real "cure" is to let time pass and wait until all the racists die off. The one caveat to this is that quite often racism is passed down from generation to generation.
Many people do state that it is poor people doing bad things just to survive for they have no other means to do so. But guess what folks, the largest majority of poor people in the US are white, not black. Where are all the police shootings of poor white people? Not very many from what see in the news. Police killing black people is a racial issue, not an economic one.
The Internet is mankind's greatest invention/tool to spread knowledge, understanding, and hope for all of humanity. Spread love and tolerance, if someone cuts you off on the road, just pay if forward and let it go. If someone does something that you don't agree with just let it go and let's try to make the world a better place. Remember, it's tough to frown at someone who is smiling at you.
Many people do state that it is poor people doing bad things just to survive for they have no other means to do so. But guess what folks, the largest majority of poor people in the US are white, not black. Where are all the police shootings of poor white people? Not very many from what see in the news. Police killing black people is a racial issue, not an economic one.
The Internet is mankind's greatest invention/tool to spread knowledge, understanding, and hope for all of humanity. Spread love and tolerance, if someone cuts you off on the road, just pay if forward and let it go. If someone does something that you don't agree with just let it go and let's try to make the world a better place. Remember, it's tough to frown at someone who is smiling at you.
7
Yes, we shouldn't ignore the fact that there are many poor white people. But African Americans, Latinos and Native Americans are disproportionately poor. That is key. In America, race and economics have always been entangled. Slavery gradually became exclusively black and inheritable because it was economic calculation of racist white elites who decimated Native Americans populations. Today there remains a vast wealth gap between Blacks and whites, which only contributes to the cycle of anti-black racism and its many negative consequences. Until more Americans take seriously the need to redress the past--say, for starters, channeling the billions we waste on wars to free, public, top-notch schools, I am not optimistic about our collective future.
1
Each year, the police kill twice as many whites as blacks, but the media only shows concern when blacks are killed.
1
I love you too my brothers. I can assure you, your black sisters go through the same stuff...and then some.
17
I just want the hug every one of these young men and tell them they are loved. Tell them to not be broken by the ridiculousness they face and to never internalize the stereotypes that others want to place upon them. For all my African descended (including other young men of color), stay strong, keep going in the right direction and only seek to be with those who support you. Many of us out here love you and are rooting for you. Please ignore the comments and negative behaviors of if those who seek to oppress you.
19
'...Imagine strangers crossing the street to avoid you, imagine the police arbitrarily stopping you, imagine knowing people fear you because of the color of your skin...'
No one is crossing the street out of fear of black businessmen in suits. It is a fear of groups of rowdy teenager boys dressed in gang colors or rap star clothing that people find so frightening.
While many people might find groups of black teenager boys more frightening than those of other races, most people would cross the streets at the sight of *any* group of teenage boys, especially at night on an empty street.
Teenage boys can be dangerous, especially boys who grew up without a father in their lives. That truth knows no skin color.
No one is crossing the street out of fear of black businessmen in suits. It is a fear of groups of rowdy teenager boys dressed in gang colors or rap star clothing that people find so frightening.
While many people might find groups of black teenager boys more frightening than those of other races, most people would cross the streets at the sight of *any* group of teenage boys, especially at night on an empty street.
Teenage boys can be dangerous, especially boys who grew up without a father in their lives. That truth knows no skin color.
10
Many affluent black men, even noteable businessmen and politicians, are followed around high stores, and not so high end, on a regular basis. Wealthy black men are frequently apprehended because they look like someone else, namely being black.
13
SHaronC: True, but that has nothing to do with the issue I was addressing, which is that most people find groups of rowdy teenage boys frightening, no matter the color of their skin.
1
In the video, Miles says that the white girl he was with said, "Oh, let's cross the street, there's a group of black kids, I don't want to run into them." Not "there's a group of kids." And they had just gotten out of school, so I doubt that this was at night on an empty street. (Oh, and generally, no one is going to know who among any group of kids walking down the street did or didn't grow up without a father and might therefore be considered -- by some people, apparently-- "dangerous.")
1
The voting patterns here are telling. Has this comment section been brigaded or is the NYT audience even more racist in the "why can't all black people listen to Bill Cosby tell them that black people suck?" vein than I thought?
6
Is anyone noticing the 15,000 pound pink elephant int he American livingroom? No one?
We have a large section of our society who are giving birth to children with
two and a half strikes against them from the outset. Poor mothers birthing kids with neither the economic nor psychological ability to care for those children is a recipe for disaster that we've seen prepared millions of times over. No amount of social spending will improve the lot of these kids.
The lot of many if not most future African Americans babies would most certainly be improved if birth control was stressed for for folks not in a committed relationship (regardless of their marital status).
Am I the only one seeing this or am I hallucinating?
We have a large section of our society who are giving birth to children with
two and a half strikes against them from the outset. Poor mothers birthing kids with neither the economic nor psychological ability to care for those children is a recipe for disaster that we've seen prepared millions of times over. No amount of social spending will improve the lot of these kids.
The lot of many if not most future African Americans babies would most certainly be improved if birth control was stressed for for folks not in a committed relationship (regardless of their marital status).
Am I the only one seeing this or am I hallucinating?
9
I see it too! Hence you are Not Alone!
1
Are poor white mothers giving birth as well? They make up the majority of the welfare rolls.
Aren't poor white mothers giving birth as well? In fact they make up the largest percentage of welfare rolls. The racism that I am reading on this thread is astounding.
1
Only three percent of America's attorneys are American of Mexican extraction. Only 3.9% of America's attorneys are Black. Nearly 90% of America's attorneys are White. Medical school, lets don't even go there.
While the framers of the Constitution were creative in painting freedom and liberty, somehow Blacks were captured in Africa and brought to America and made slaves. Black American slaves were not considered sanctioned beings, rather they were considered property. American Blacks have been the target of White racist groups such as the KKK and the American Nazis. Racism and discrimination continues to be practiced by select American White citizens who do not belong to any hate group yet remain racists.
Most minority homes are composed of one mother with children, and no father. The answer is to start with an intact family holon comprised of a male father and a female mother, based in some family oriented religion. Low SES American kids end up in gangs, possess weapons, murder others, use and sell drugs, prostitute their sisters, end up in jail, and many die at a very young age.
The U.S. system was created to segregate American Blacks in Ghettos, Mexican Americans in Barrios, American Indians in Reservations, and American Orientals in China towns. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream.....is still just a dream in 2015. More than 240 years of bigotry and racism in America the beautiful.
While the framers of the Constitution were creative in painting freedom and liberty, somehow Blacks were captured in Africa and brought to America and made slaves. Black American slaves were not considered sanctioned beings, rather they were considered property. American Blacks have been the target of White racist groups such as the KKK and the American Nazis. Racism and discrimination continues to be practiced by select American White citizens who do not belong to any hate group yet remain racists.
Most minority homes are composed of one mother with children, and no father. The answer is to start with an intact family holon comprised of a male father and a female mother, based in some family oriented religion. Low SES American kids end up in gangs, possess weapons, murder others, use and sell drugs, prostitute their sisters, end up in jail, and many die at a very young age.
The U.S. system was created to segregate American Blacks in Ghettos, Mexican Americans in Barrios, American Indians in Reservations, and American Orientals in China towns. The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s dream.....is still just a dream in 2015. More than 240 years of bigotry and racism in America the beautiful.
5
According to the Centers for Disease Control, and Department of Health and Human Services, it is your children, and not those of the urban ghetto, who are most likely to use drugs. That's right: white high school students are seven times more likely than blacks to have used cocaine; eight times more likely to have smoked crack; ten times more likely to have used LSD and seven times more likely to have used heroin. In fact, there are more white high school students who have used crystal methamphetamine (the most addictive drug on the streets) than there are black students who smoke cigarettes.
What's more, white youth ages 12-17 are more likely to sell drugs: 34% more likely, in fact than their black counterparts. And it is white youth who are twice as likely to binge drink, and nearly twice as likely as blacks to drive drunk. And white males are twice as likely to bring a weapon to school as are black males. And yet I would bet a valued body part that there aren't 100 white people in Santee, California, or most any other "nice" community who have ever heard a single one of the statistics above, even though they were collected by government agencies using these folks' tax money for the purpose. Why? Because the media doesn't report on white dysfunction.
From - "School Shootings and White Denial" by Tim Wise.
What's more, white youth ages 12-17 are more likely to sell drugs: 34% more likely, in fact than their black counterparts. And it is white youth who are twice as likely to binge drink, and nearly twice as likely as blacks to drive drunk. And white males are twice as likely to bring a weapon to school as are black males. And yet I would bet a valued body part that there aren't 100 white people in Santee, California, or most any other "nice" community who have ever heard a single one of the statistics above, even though they were collected by government agencies using these folks' tax money for the purpose. Why? Because the media doesn't report on white dysfunction.
From - "School Shootings and White Denial" by Tim Wise.
22
Here is a link to some of the data you referenced. You are incorrect about illicit drug use. It appears that the department of human services survey showed blacks had higher rates than whites, and Hawaiin/Pacific islanders had the highest.
http://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUHresultsPDFWHTML2013/...
"Race/Ethnicity
• In 2013, among persons aged 12 or older, the rate of current illicit drug use was 3.1 percent among Asians, 8.8 percent among Hispanics, 9.5 percent among whites, 10.5 percent among blacks, 12.3 percent among American Indians or Alaska Natives, 14.0 percent among Native Hawaiians or Other Pacific Islanders, and 17.4 percent among persons reporting two or more races.
• There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of current illicit drug use between 2012 and 2013 for any of the racial/ethnic groups. Between 2002 and 2013, the rate of current illicit drug use increased from 8.5 to 9.5 percent for whites. Among blacks, the rate increased from 8.7 percent in 2003 and 2004 to 10.5 percent in 2013 (Figure 2.12)."
I did not look up the other citations. Maybe you ought to before referencing it again.
http://www.samhsa.gov/data/sites/default/files/NSDUHresultsPDFWHTML2013/...
"Race/Ethnicity
• In 2013, among persons aged 12 or older, the rate of current illicit drug use was 3.1 percent among Asians, 8.8 percent among Hispanics, 9.5 percent among whites, 10.5 percent among blacks, 12.3 percent among American Indians or Alaska Natives, 14.0 percent among Native Hawaiians or Other Pacific Islanders, and 17.4 percent among persons reporting two or more races.
• There were no statistically significant differences in the rates of current illicit drug use between 2012 and 2013 for any of the racial/ethnic groups. Between 2002 and 2013, the rate of current illicit drug use increased from 8.5 to 9.5 percent for whites. Among blacks, the rate increased from 8.7 percent in 2003 and 2004 to 10.5 percent in 2013 (Figure 2.12)."
I did not look up the other citations. Maybe you ought to before referencing it again.
Very lame stories all around. I could write a lengthy analysis of what's wrong with their thinking, but I am afraid it would not be posted. Instead, I'll say what is right. The kids come from families with parents who love them, from schools that they attend with white students, and from communities where white girls are allowed to walk with black boys.
Additionally, they come from a country that has elected an African American to the highest and most powerful political office on the face of the earth, twice. The black man who accomplished this astounding feat was supported by tens of millions upon tens of millions of white Americans. There is no limit to the achievement potential and upward mobility of these young people, Barack Obama is evidence of that.
Additionally, they come from a country that has elected an African American to the highest and most powerful political office on the face of the earth, twice. The black man who accomplished this astounding feat was supported by tens of millions upon tens of millions of white Americans. There is no limit to the achievement potential and upward mobility of these young people, Barack Obama is evidence of that.
7
Obama was the first elected half black president. One of his parents was white. He will soon start blaming his failures on his white parent so as not to diminish the PC aspect of his black half. The price of continually duping the public is the necessity of always being vigilant to keep the story on the tracks.
He is running out of time and excuses.
He is running out of time and excuses.
So because things are better than they were everything is alright?
I wish the parents could tell their children ...... Not all whites are
Like that! ..... I cannot stand the fact that this kind of hatred exists
But I don't have to be part of it..... To me it's not human..
Like that! ..... I cannot stand the fact that this kind of hatred exists
But I don't have to be part of it..... To me it's not human..
13
I hate racism. I have gone to poor black neighborhoods and was lucky that a few thugs protected me from those who wanted to rape me. It is best to make friends with people who scare you...then you will realize how silly it is to be a racist. I went to a mostly white school and there was one black boy in the special ed class for students with learning disabilities. The boys ignored him and I could see he was lonely at recess. I went over to him sitting by the side of the basketball court and I introduced myself. I found out his name. I began to throw the basketball and could not get it through the hoop. I asked him to help me and when the other boys watched him try to teach me, and saw that he never missed a shot, they suddenly began to invite him to join in the basketball games. Everyone wanted his learning disabled black kid on their basketball team.
This does not mean that I feel safe in a poor black neighborhood. My car has been broken into, my purse stolen, and I encountered many black criminals. In truth, I do not fear black people, I fear poor people of any race. Rich people don't grab your purse. They bribe legislators and commit fraud and embezzlement...they don't carjack you.
If being black is so hard, what issues does a black homosexual man face in life? I cannot imagine the horrors they encounter.
This does not mean that I feel safe in a poor black neighborhood. My car has been broken into, my purse stolen, and I encountered many black criminals. In truth, I do not fear black people, I fear poor people of any race. Rich people don't grab your purse. They bribe legislators and commit fraud and embezzlement...they don't carjack you.
If being black is so hard, what issues does a black homosexual man face in life? I cannot imagine the horrors they encounter.
17
I'm weeping as I watch this. I have a 19 year old son. We're Caucasian. I cannot imagine the stress, the fear, and the unfairness of it all. For all our sons, we need to value and nurture them.
13
Thank you for displaying true humanity. THIS is what people should take from the video. Nothing else.
6
Don't forget to toughen them up with a very wide eye open look at the reality of 2 way racism in America. Riots are just a small example of the chickens coming home to roost from all the lib-socialist promises that are impossible to fill.
Excellent, poignant video. I see the next topic is a conversation with white people about racism. I expect nothing but platitudes and nonsense about not seeing race. The normal stuff that privilege folks are inclined to say. We will see if I am wrong.
However reading the comments, which I don't know why I do this to myself. I could not help but notice the tone from white people. Every time race comes up and their obvious guilt is looming over the conversation, whites try to pivot the conversation to black on black crimes or single mothers. Because hey white people never commit crimes or all white babies are borne in the sanctity of the holiest of marriages. It is sickening.
And those were the comments chosen as NY Times Picks!
However reading the comments, which I don't know why I do this to myself. I could not help but notice the tone from white people. Every time race comes up and their obvious guilt is looming over the conversation, whites try to pivot the conversation to black on black crimes or single mothers. Because hey white people never commit crimes or all white babies are borne in the sanctity of the holiest of marriages. It is sickening.
And those were the comments chosen as NY Times Picks!
11
I wish nothing but good things for all people. I wish every person could live their lives in peace and happiness.
That being said, "white" people make comments about black crime or unwed mothers because we are addressing an article that deals with the woes of the black community. I'm sure if you perused other NYT articles on different topics you would see white people comment on Chinese folks, Indian folks and even white folks.
Your comment is endemic amongst "black folk" when it comes to the discussion of race relations in the USA. Most blacks see racism when non blacks place some of the blame for the woes of the black community on blacks themselves. As such, most non-blacks are cowed into not engaging in meaningful discussions about race.
That being said, "white" people make comments about black crime or unwed mothers because we are addressing an article that deals with the woes of the black community. I'm sure if you perused other NYT articles on different topics you would see white people comment on Chinese folks, Indian folks and even white folks.
Your comment is endemic amongst "black folk" when it comes to the discussion of race relations in the USA. Most blacks see racism when non blacks place some of the blame for the woes of the black community on blacks themselves. As such, most non-blacks are cowed into not engaging in meaningful discussions about race.
2
'...white babies are borne in the sanctity of the holiest of marriages...'
Many white children, especially boys, born to poor single mothers have the same issues. It is just that a much higher percentage of poor black women are single mothers and as the percentage has risen, so have the problems.
Many white children, especially boys, born to poor single mothers have the same issues. It is just that a much higher percentage of poor black women are single mothers and as the percentage has risen, so have the problems.
1
Not trying to troll, but you've chosen young men who are articulate and obviously intelligent. These men and boys will do well in school and in college/job interviews. Anyone would hire them and love to have them onboard. There are more ways than skin color to mark what group you belong to, and what you sound like is high on the list.
And yet, I guarantee you that many in their community will accuse them of selling out and of sounding "white." Betraying their people, etc...calling them Uncle Toms because they play by the rules and work hard and try to better themselves.
I would like to see the media address that issue, that being successful, educated, articulate, and playing by the rules somehow marks you as a traitor.
And yet, I guarantee you that many in their community will accuse them of selling out and of sounding "white." Betraying their people, etc...calling them Uncle Toms because they play by the rules and work hard and try to better themselves.
I would like to see the media address that issue, that being successful, educated, articulate, and playing by the rules somehow marks you as a traitor.
12
These young men are not an anomaly in the black community.
2
When will we stop avoiding the real conversation about racism in America?
The article states that the young black men "speak openly about what it means to be a young black man in a racially charged world" and "in a world that is too often unfair and biased." Tell the truth. It is not a " racially charged world", it is a complexly racist American society. It is not "a world that is too often unfair and biased." It is an American society that is deeply and historically invested in racism. Stop excusing it in soft language that obtusely hides the truth.
Racism pays in America. It has for most of its existence. It still does. The media reports such as this one, excuses embedded, overt racist attitudes, beliefs and behaviors by descriptions that make racist behavior seem as normal as natural as the rain falling or the sun shining. It excuses the actual perpetrators of American style racism, that does not have a face. We choose to demonize individual racist actions, at the same time that we indemnify society against racist attitudes and behavior. Until we name it for what it is, face it, and work to address it. Racism will continue to be profitable and necessary in a racist system. Like a drunk who refuses to admit it, white Americans still say, "What racism?" When asked to stop imbibing the poisonous brew of American racism, at the same time that they drink and benefit from racism. America will destroy racism, or racism will destroy America.
The article states that the young black men "speak openly about what it means to be a young black man in a racially charged world" and "in a world that is too often unfair and biased." Tell the truth. It is not a " racially charged world", it is a complexly racist American society. It is not "a world that is too often unfair and biased." It is an American society that is deeply and historically invested in racism. Stop excusing it in soft language that obtusely hides the truth.
Racism pays in America. It has for most of its existence. It still does. The media reports such as this one, excuses embedded, overt racist attitudes, beliefs and behaviors by descriptions that make racist behavior seem as normal as natural as the rain falling or the sun shining. It excuses the actual perpetrators of American style racism, that does not have a face. We choose to demonize individual racist actions, at the same time that we indemnify society against racist attitudes and behavior. Until we name it for what it is, face it, and work to address it. Racism will continue to be profitable and necessary in a racist system. Like a drunk who refuses to admit it, white Americans still say, "What racism?" When asked to stop imbibing the poisonous brew of American racism, at the same time that they drink and benefit from racism. America will destroy racism, or racism will destroy America.
8
Ho much money has he average working white American taxpayer profited from racism?? You seem to have very specific and detailed knowledge, or is it just opinion, about all the aspects of getting rich from racism. How about all the riches gathered by liberals from their racism against whites??? Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson et al.... they would starve without their race baiting tactics and inflammatory riots.
2
not one single tangible fact in this diatribe.
After $15 trillion spent on poverty programs, countless efforts to eliminate the stress of inner cities, its still not enough?
3
That's because almost every Republican politician and racists of all stripes have thrown road BLOCK after road BLOCK at every program meant to help the poor.
6
Yet such implies fr White Folks too living in tour Ghettos! And usually the black kids are more respectable then the white ones!
2
I was born and raised and grew up black and poor on the South Side of Chicago. But I have white European American heritage dating back to 1640, black African American free person of color heritage since 1790 and slave heritage since 1835 and brown native American since 14, 000 BCE.
In a perfect world I grew up as a person as part of the one and only biological evolutionary human race. But we do not live in a perfect world nor an exceptional nation when it comes to the frenzied frequently colored fictions regarding race.
In a perfect world I grew up as a person as part of the one and only biological evolutionary human race. But we do not live in a perfect world nor an exceptional nation when it comes to the frenzied frequently colored fictions regarding race.
10
We were the first black family to move on to two South Side Chicago streets. My father and his brother, both World War II U.S. Army veterans and USPS employees, took turns standing armed guard over our home from 1950-1953.
When we moved in 1953 we were the first on another street. But the threats were verbal or an occasional rock. In 1955, a neighborhood boy Emmitt Louis Till, was murdered in Money, MS. at the age of 14. My family members went to his wake and funeral. I was never allowed to go South to Georgia and South Carolina to visit family because of what happened to him. In Chicago at that time blacks lived north of 71st street and whites lived south of 71st street.
The South Side of Chicago is the oldest and largest contiguous community in America. I grew up in Little Africa. I went to Mamie Till Mobley's funeral. See May 6-12 issue of the Chicago Defender cover story "Strange Fruit" CHICAGODEFENDER.COM
When we moved in 1953 we were the first on another street. But the threats were verbal or an occasional rock. In 1955, a neighborhood boy Emmitt Louis Till, was murdered in Money, MS. at the age of 14. My family members went to his wake and funeral. I was never allowed to go South to Georgia and South Carolina to visit family because of what happened to him. In Chicago at that time blacks lived north of 71st street and whites lived south of 71st street.
The South Side of Chicago is the oldest and largest contiguous community in America. I grew up in Little Africa. I went to Mamie Till Mobley's funeral. See May 6-12 issue of the Chicago Defender cover story "Strange Fruit" CHICAGODEFENDER.COM
1
Please create a documentary about the stigmas and barriers that African American women face. Assumptions of criminality, hypersexuality, and aggression, to name only a few stereotypes, impact their life chances, too. Black women have also been subjected to police brutality--in the past and present. They live in the same impoverished communities as the men whose names and faces have become familiar to us in the past year. As a loyal reader of The Times, I would like to see more coverage of black women's experiences with the intersections of racism and sexism, including intra-racial sexism.
Gender is not a shield.
Gender is not a shield.
13
Life is very difficult. Life is unfair and many times you will be disappointed. Danger in the form of sickness and violence lurks everywhere. Yet however much you are struggling be assured that there is someone else on this planet who is facing much greater challenges. In the end the only thing that any of is control is whether we deal with our challenges with dignity and with kindness to our fellow humans. Live responsibly, no excuses.
4
Let's have a conversation about nuclear families. You know, the kind that have a father, grandfathers and uncles. All of whom serve as role models as well as enforcers. And let's have a talk about black hatred, the type which consumed Africa when neighbors were sold into slavery, first amongst themselves, then to the Middle East and of late to the "new world" where most were actually shipped to the southern continent. Let's be honest with ourselves ...
2
Was Jessie Jackson being a Racist when he expressed his relief in seeing that the footsteps he could hear belonged to a White person? The Black community itself is afraid of young Black men who are the main source of crime in their communities.
5
I think for black people growing up in high-crime black communities, it makes sense that black people would fear other black people. As with white people, most crimes are committed intraracially. However, it then doesn't track that white people, who do not frequent these neighborhoods and who have never experienced black crime, are afraid in the same way.
Watching this brought tears to my eyes. Such fine young men, excluded from the central fabric of our society.
7
Ben Carson grew up black. He had a different outcome. I wonder why....
3
He is just pretending to be black.. He got through med school on a free quota ride and never did an operation without the help of Al Sharpton.
1
He had a different outcome than these boys? Seems to me their outcome will be the same. There are many many many successful black people who identify on a deep level with these young men - me and my Harvard-educated father included.
Have americans made any study about who the racist people are? Maybe they are not the most intelligent. Check on that, because racism doens't really make sense.
3
And President Obama was criticized when he spoke about being on a street corner, white folks pulling up in a car, and then hearing the locks on the car doors go "click".
9
It is strange that on the same day an Indian Newspaper "the Hindu" came up with problems faced by the so called untouchables or Dalits in India based on man made caste in which they were born Here in America where the society is most advanced and civilized , black people remain Afro- American for ever while an Europeam immigrant becomes a full fledged American and not an Euro-American. Thia is also happening in the United Kingdom , where a coloured immigrant is for ever an Asian or Caribbean while a white Italian or other European immigrant becomes a full fledged English or British within one or two generations. This is the fact of life. Man made Caste can be eradicated but the colour cannot. It is the mind change especially in the police force that will solve but not eliminate.
6
This article/video was filled with bright, articulate, well groomed African American males, and I was proud of them all. However, they were not the type of African American males I frequently encounter, I am an educator, and taught in New York City for years. I sometimes became afraid when I was
teaching. Many of the students I taught were mean, bullies, angry, and took pride in saying and acting in negative ways. I am an African American woman, and I frequently became tense and anxious when I saw and had to walk pass/by a group of young Black males, especially when I lived in New York City, where I am from. Black on Black crime was and is still a problems. Now, I drive almost everywhere and I do not have the opportunity to come into contact with young, black, males frequently. Sometimes, I question and examine my feelings. I miss the intercity relationships, the urban excitement, but not the violence and the tension. Now, I feel a bit safer, I walk out late at night, no one breaks into my cars and I don't worry about getting my handbag ripped off my shoulder and are attacked.
teaching. Many of the students I taught were mean, bullies, angry, and took pride in saying and acting in negative ways. I am an African American woman, and I frequently became tense and anxious when I saw and had to walk pass/by a group of young Black males, especially when I lived in New York City, where I am from. Black on Black crime was and is still a problems. Now, I drive almost everywhere and I do not have the opportunity to come into contact with young, black, males frequently. Sometimes, I question and examine my feelings. I miss the intercity relationships, the urban excitement, but not the violence and the tension. Now, I feel a bit safer, I walk out late at night, no one breaks into my cars and I don't worry about getting my handbag ripped off my shoulder and are attacked.
19
I am black also. These are the type of black young men who I frequently encounter.
1
Maybe you should come back for a visit. I walk around Harlem everyday and eat frequently I. The evenings on Restaurant Row (Frederick Douglas Blvd) Brooklyn every once in a while, I don't see, nor do I feel like that.
1
Fort Totten. I didn't even remember it happened until much later in life. Class trip, I had to be under 10, at least. We drove from Brooklyn all the way upstate. It was a long drive, we were all excited to be out of the city. We were supposed to hang out with a group of firemen/police officers. We get there.....they are not nice or responsive to us, really don't talk to us. I remember the HUGE blond man looking down on me and wondering why he wouldn't smile back. They take us for a walk, we're in a field with with the puffy white flowers that look like dandelions - the kind you would blow in the wind. They give us bags and tell us we can pick it. The teachers find us and so soon, the trip is OVER. It wasn't until years later when this memory BUGGED ME SO MUCH I realized it's because they had us emulating picking cotton. This was in the late 80s in NYC. This memory is my first experience with racism. And it was with an authority figure.
15
What a powerful video. Yet some of these comments are really sad. To those spewing hate, good job on illustrating why these young men would be afraid to grow up in this country. It seems that some have not read up on American history and certainly not the history of African Americans in the US. Centuries of legal systematic oppression and many forms of bias still exist. It's well documented in numerous studies that blacks are less likely to be approved for home loans, receive competent healthcare, be hired for jobs. The list goes on and on. And I should mention that these studies control for education, income, even looks. One study shows that when applying for jobs, black applicants are half as likely as equally qualified whites to receive a callback or job offer and black applicants with clean backgrounds fare no better than white applicants just released from prison (http://asr.sagepub.com/content/74/5/777.short)
And I think some of you are genuinely okay with this because deep down, you believe blacks are inferior. They need to "pull themselves up by the bootstraps" right? Please check your privilege and read up. Also, for those of you that are sobbing about being robbed or bullied by black folks, I have been verbally attacked, bullied, chased, and robbed: all times by white males. Yet I don't stereotype all white men as bad or criminals. Please get out of your bubbles and have some compassion. If not, things will never change. But maybe, then again you don't want them to?
And I think some of you are genuinely okay with this because deep down, you believe blacks are inferior. They need to "pull themselves up by the bootstraps" right? Please check your privilege and read up. Also, for those of you that are sobbing about being robbed or bullied by black folks, I have been verbally attacked, bullied, chased, and robbed: all times by white males. Yet I don't stereotype all white men as bad or criminals. Please get out of your bubbles and have some compassion. If not, things will never change. But maybe, then again you don't want them to?
11
Tip-top piece of high-tier public-relations propaganda. Completely sentimental. The people who made this imagine that they are 'helping' but in fact, and in a certain way, they are lying and contributing to dishonestly. THOSE are not the folks that people are (legitimately) afraid of when they cross the street. To change the image of how young Blacks are perceived in this country, will demand a remodel of Black image and attitude and will have to come from that community. The ones that people are afraid of are those one can see rioting, beating, hurting and destroying out on the streets of Baltimore. (Well, how'd I do NYT censor?)
4
And yet - they and many of my Ivy-league educated friends have recounted stories of people being afraid of them and of cops stopping them. There are stories like that on this thread. You are purposely ignoring the stories in this video and all around you because it doesn't gel with your narrative.
If we just realized that race (like time, age, distance), is just a measurement of something that isn't there in the first place, but something we use to quantify the amount of pigment in someone's skin, we will be good.
Unfortunately, years and years of division has created a world in which some are more disadvantaged than others. I hate it when white people say that blaming them directly or indirectly won't help, when they are really the holders of power in this society. Everyone has power, but it seems that white peoples' word and influence goes a much longer way, because that's how things have been set up, people of all races accept this. Black men need to be validated and respected, not prejudged when they are simply walking on the street. Everyone/every human being deserves to be treated fairly. This goes for every other issue too - we'd all get along better if we would drop all of our judgment, forget what we've been taught about "other" people, and experience them first-hand for ourselves and just like everyone for who they actually are (which I believe to be a spirit living in a body that wasn't chosen).
I hope some of this resonates with at least someone (I'll admit I've had a couple glasses of wine). But let's try to make friends with everyone and not have their pigmentation turn us off/treat them differently.
Unfortunately, years and years of division has created a world in which some are more disadvantaged than others. I hate it when white people say that blaming them directly or indirectly won't help, when they are really the holders of power in this society. Everyone has power, but it seems that white peoples' word and influence goes a much longer way, because that's how things have been set up, people of all races accept this. Black men need to be validated and respected, not prejudged when they are simply walking on the street. Everyone/every human being deserves to be treated fairly. This goes for every other issue too - we'd all get along better if we would drop all of our judgment, forget what we've been taught about "other" people, and experience them first-hand for ourselves and just like everyone for who they actually are (which I believe to be a spirit living in a body that wasn't chosen).
I hope some of this resonates with at least someone (I'll admit I've had a couple glasses of wine). But let's try to make friends with everyone and not have their pigmentation turn us off/treat them differently.
3
All these recent events unfolding only reinforces that racism is an extremely real and relevant problem in America. But what concerns me about this video and this series of short films is that they only feature black men. There are no women or other genders represented here. If we want to achieve racial equality and justice, we need to achieve it for everyone, inclusive of all genders.
2
In watching the video and reading the posts, the message is that there are many black people in America who come from good families, believe in education, follow the law and resent being treated otherwise. While this is certainly fair, It belies expectations that others may have simply as a result of empirical data and limited interaction.
As an example, towards the end of the video, two men thanked their parents for raising them well. They clearly used the plural (2 parents) despite the fact that 70% of black children are born to single mothers. Finding such reference to 2 parents surprising is only biased in the sense that we all form expectations as a result of what we see and learn. Likewise, blacks simply commit crime in much higher proportion than whites. As an example. the Dept of Justice (under Obama) showed that blacks commit murder at a rate of 8x what whites do.
Obviously, it would be better to get to know people before making an impression, but when you are deciding whether or not to cross a street when seeing some black youths, you don't always have that chance. While this is politically incorrect, such rational beliefs explain why institutional representatives such as police or teachers may treat blacks differently simply because the data suggests that such assumptions are warranted (though they may be wrong for individual blacks). The only way to change these rational expectations is for blacks to change the numbers (crime, family, education).
As an example, towards the end of the video, two men thanked their parents for raising them well. They clearly used the plural (2 parents) despite the fact that 70% of black children are born to single mothers. Finding such reference to 2 parents surprising is only biased in the sense that we all form expectations as a result of what we see and learn. Likewise, blacks simply commit crime in much higher proportion than whites. As an example. the Dept of Justice (under Obama) showed that blacks commit murder at a rate of 8x what whites do.
Obviously, it would be better to get to know people before making an impression, but when you are deciding whether or not to cross a street when seeing some black youths, you don't always have that chance. While this is politically incorrect, such rational beliefs explain why institutional representatives such as police or teachers may treat blacks differently simply because the data suggests that such assumptions are warranted (though they may be wrong for individual blacks). The only way to change these rational expectations is for blacks to change the numbers (crime, family, education).
6
Most blacks would do just that if they believed it was possible and they deserved it. is it comforting to think that they actually have a choice? That they actually have confidence and opportunity?
Being born to a single mother DOES NOT mean that you do not have 2 parents. There are studies that show that the majority of black children grow up with 2 parents, and that the majority of black children live with their fathers, regardless of if their parents are married are not.
Also, the beliefs are not rational when 1) most crime for all races is intraracial, and 2) the crime is often limited to certain areas. If you are in a high-crime all-black neighborhood, then by all means take certain precautions. If you are not, but yet you shimmy away from any black male you see, any groups of black males you see, or any black male dressed a certain way, and do not do the same for the white male who based on statistics is more likely to hurt you (if you are white) - then you are not acting rationally.
Also, the beliefs are not rational when 1) most crime for all races is intraracial, and 2) the crime is often limited to certain areas. If you are in a high-crime all-black neighborhood, then by all means take certain precautions. If you are not, but yet you shimmy away from any black male you see, any groups of black males you see, or any black male dressed a certain way, and do not do the same for the white male who based on statistics is more likely to hurt you (if you are white) - then you are not acting rationally.
All true for this generation and pass generations of Blackmen. You can imagine that a living under constant stress . . . ensures you will not live as long as other races in America. "You cannot pursue happiness if your life's full of fear."
10
The monstrosity of blackness, particularly as it relates to the black male body, no matter how young, is woven into the fabric of America.
This centuries old white creation was used to justify the enslavement of Black people, to justify brutal lynchings, and it is still used today to invoke white fear and anxiety and serves to justify the killing of unarmed black boys and men by the police.
Despite being smart, articulate, and law abiding, these young boys and men, like many across America, will never escape the white gaze that associates their blackness with monstrosity.
This centuries old white creation was used to justify the enslavement of Black people, to justify brutal lynchings, and it is still used today to invoke white fear and anxiety and serves to justify the killing of unarmed black boys and men by the police.
Despite being smart, articulate, and law abiding, these young boys and men, like many across America, will never escape the white gaze that associates their blackness with monstrosity.
14
These boys and young adult men remind me of Martese Johnson, the UVA honors student who was battered by ABC officers while using legal id to get into a bar on or near the campus. He did everything *right,* yet was violently arrested because of his blackness.
2
Nothing new here: the sad realities that these young black folks speak of have been voiced before and will be voiced in the future as long as many in the black community blame everything and everybody around them for their plight and as long as they do not address the problems besetting them.
In a clip, a black person says that women clutch their purses tight when they go past him. My question is, how'd you know that she is clutching at the purse unless you were eyeing the purse? In the Gray incident in Baltimore, even assuming that the knife Gray had on his person was legal in the state and in the city, why was he carrying a knife in a public place if not to cut the straps of a purse, snatch it, and run away with it?
Deal with the problems of drug use, broken families, lack of role models in the afflicted communities rather than look for scapegoats. That sill be a good start toward progress.
In a clip, a black person says that women clutch their purses tight when they go past him. My question is, how'd you know that she is clutching at the purse unless you were eyeing the purse? In the Gray incident in Baltimore, even assuming that the knife Gray had on his person was legal in the state and in the city, why was he carrying a knife in a public place if not to cut the straps of a purse, snatch it, and run away with it?
Deal with the problems of drug use, broken families, lack of role models in the afflicted communities rather than look for scapegoats. That sill be a good start toward progress.
11
Did you even hear what the young men had to say? They come from family units with role models, etc. yet, you still respond to them as if they're criminals. That's the problem - too many like you who are outside of the black community find the most negative aspects and paint the whole demographic with one broad stroke. That's how unnecessary police harassment and brutality is directed to young men like these so often. There are plenty of young white men who are criminals, but they get a pass - there is hesitation before pulling the trigger. This behavior is rooted in an unjust bias. Fixing that would be a better start toward progress.
7
Are yous serious? Blaming these CHILDREN for the racist actions of other? You're the problem.
6
"...even assuming that the knife Gray had on his person was legal in the state and in the city, why was he carrying a knife in a public place if not to cut the straps of a purse, snatch it, and run away with it? "
That is pure crap and hostile nonsense!!!! The writer is projecting his prejudices on something that is unknowable, Gray's state of mind, --that is unless the writer is a mind reader. There is nothing wrong with a pocket knife---maybe Gray wanted to trim his fingernails and open letters--that's what I do with my pocket knife----all of this is just blaming the victim.
That is pure crap and hostile nonsense!!!! The writer is projecting his prejudices on something that is unknowable, Gray's state of mind, --that is unless the writer is a mind reader. There is nothing wrong with a pocket knife---maybe Gray wanted to trim his fingernails and open letters--that's what I do with my pocket knife----all of this is just blaming the victim.
4
I have been lucky enough to only have one bad experience with a police officer. My friend and I were walking into town when we were stopped and questioned about a robbery. It turns out the witness saw two African American men in their late 20's. We were 16 and my friend's dad happened to be the mayor in the city. I am sure it was an honest mistake.
7
"This constant narrative of black men being victimized needs to stop. There are countless black men doing great things out there focus on that."
Congratulations on all your success, Ed. I must say that I find it odd that you view the "narrative" as more of a problem than the actual deaths of what you claim to be your fellow African American men.
Congratulations on all your success, Ed. I must say that I find it odd that you view the "narrative" as more of a problem than the actual deaths of what you claim to be your fellow African American men.
13
I am shocked by a lot of things in this conversation, like generalities, callousness - I could go on.
7
I like the idea of this discussion, but I didn't like the end of the piece. It was too close to the border of almost sanctioning the racism people often unconsciously portray towards black people in our society....it was like, "hey white america, don't be afraid of me, I'm not actually scary - my parents taught me real good to act appropriately!" Not trying to discount that they have great, admirable, strong families ...but seems to miss the point.
3
That's why I didn't post nor tweet it. The end undermines the narrative.
However, documentaries like this one or "Black Panthers Revisited" have the potential to reach and educate a wider audience.
Our goal is to establish justice, reduce inequality to a minimum, and build equity. We won't win until this battle becomes a national priority. These visual pieces have the potential to just do that. Educate and rally the rest of the nation to our cause.
We need to continue sharing our stories, using multiple media, and supporting those who are attempting to join us. We can't do this alone.
However, documentaries like this one or "Black Panthers Revisited" have the potential to reach and educate a wider audience.
Our goal is to establish justice, reduce inequality to a minimum, and build equity. We won't win until this battle becomes a national priority. These visual pieces have the potential to just do that. Educate and rally the rest of the nation to our cause.
We need to continue sharing our stories, using multiple media, and supporting those who are attempting to join us. We can't do this alone.
1
The comments about stereotypes we have of black men and the examples of people experiencing life altering violence at the hands of blacks are preciesly what is missing in the discussion. I grew up white in a black community in Detroit. I or other members of my family were frequently physically assaulted, sometimes without warning. Today I would never let my child go to school in a majority black school. Not that I don't acknowledge that blacks are treated differently by police. I used to shoot my bb gun in the alley and once a neighbor called the police on us while my friend, Alvin, who was black, and I were plinking away at cans. Half a dozen white officer came in with weapons drawn but when they saw me they put them away, took my gun and gave me a lecture. When they were gone, Alvin said, " I'm just glad it was you were holding the gun. "
So why are white people, especially white cops, so afraid of blacks? Why do we constantly hear the same story of whites crossing the street or clutching their bags and how black men must live with this microaggression? Are we white people just awful and mean-spirited? Are we lacking a humanity gene, as I read at one black blog? Or is the persistent fear driven by high rates of black crime? The truth here matters. Because if black crime is the driver of this phenomenon, then it will never go away until black crime rates are about the same as white.
Alvin, by the way, was later shot to death in a drug deal gone bad.
So why are white people, especially white cops, so afraid of blacks? Why do we constantly hear the same story of whites crossing the street or clutching their bags and how black men must live with this microaggression? Are we white people just awful and mean-spirited? Are we lacking a humanity gene, as I read at one black blog? Or is the persistent fear driven by high rates of black crime? The truth here matters. Because if black crime is the driver of this phenomenon, then it will never go away until black crime rates are about the same as white.
Alvin, by the way, was later shot to death in a drug deal gone bad.
14
I too lived in Detroit after getting out of college. On what I thought was a nice street. My room mate and tried often to talk with neighbors, but only got sneers. Sad, but I figured the result of racism over the years - it takes a while to overcome, I thought. The kids used to throw rocks at my garden, then I used the rocks for the garden. They came over and took them all, right in front of me. I tried to speak to their parents (adults in the house, but not parents - uncles? Then my room mate and I came home to find our flat robbed, sugar, flour strewn about the floor, jewlery gone, TV, stereo, everything, gone.
Went over to ask neighbors and they saw nothing. But I saw my TV through the window! The police said they could do nothing and that robberys were not a priority as it was more likely to get robbed than not. MORE likely to get robbed than not?!! Moved within a week, and will never move into a black neighborhood again.
Blacks have experienced racism, the worst of it during the 50s and 60s. But the rise in crime and militant racism on the part of some blacks towards whites is as appalling as the racism that some whites have towards blacks. That conversation isn't taking place, but it is a two sided street.
Went over to ask neighbors and they saw nothing. But I saw my TV through the window! The police said they could do nothing and that robberys were not a priority as it was more likely to get robbed than not. MORE likely to get robbed than not?!! Moved within a week, and will never move into a black neighborhood again.
Blacks have experienced racism, the worst of it during the 50s and 60s. But the rise in crime and militant racism on the part of some blacks towards whites is as appalling as the racism that some whites have towards blacks. That conversation isn't taking place, but it is a two sided street.
1
Cops are on alert around young black men. If they are in white areas. they seem out of place. In black areas, they may be gang members, drug dealers, or both. When you're a black male, police suspicion should not be surprising. But there are ways to defuse the tension. Respect the police, show no hostility, and go about your business. You can resent the cops' disparate attitude or you can make it clear you're no threat. We all alter our behavior when we see a cop. Blacks would do well to acknowledge that this is just part of life.
7
Yes, white fear and racism is part of black life. So, they should just "suck it up"? Especially, since it has no impact on their collective health, safety or material success. That sort of sounds ridiculous.
2
And you know this because of your YEARS of experience in dealing w/ the Police as a black man? I can tell you, unequivocally, that you're wrong. When the police see you as a target, no amount of "respectability" will counter that.
2
As distasteful as it is that these young men share these experiences because of something as superficial as the color of one's skin, I found something beautiful in the way they spoke about the lessons learned from their parents on how to navigate the racism they face.
It reminded me of the lessons my African American mother passed on to me growing up as a mixed kid in an affluent, white suburb: That despite being biracial (white father), I should just consider myself black, because that will be how others view and treat me. To be wary of all police (her distrust of police was more based on her career as a public defender and criminal attorney than anything else), and that I need to behave better & be smarter than my peers to be considered near-equal because people will think less of me based on the color of my skin.
Somehow, my mom's lessons made it easier to digest the odd racial incidents I experienced growing up: a small restaurant owner breaking our glasses after we stopped to get a drink (they couldn't refuse us service, but they let us know we weren't welcomed), being followed in stores by workers to see if I was going to shoplift, responding to calls from the police in our town asking if our luxury car had been stolen. (No, it was just my brother driving.)
Thanks to my mom, I'll be prepared to pass these lessons onto my son when he's older. But for now, I'll relish the magical toddler/preschool years where race is treated as it should be - as a non issue.
It reminded me of the lessons my African American mother passed on to me growing up as a mixed kid in an affluent, white suburb: That despite being biracial (white father), I should just consider myself black, because that will be how others view and treat me. To be wary of all police (her distrust of police was more based on her career as a public defender and criminal attorney than anything else), and that I need to behave better & be smarter than my peers to be considered near-equal because people will think less of me based on the color of my skin.
Somehow, my mom's lessons made it easier to digest the odd racial incidents I experienced growing up: a small restaurant owner breaking our glasses after we stopped to get a drink (they couldn't refuse us service, but they let us know we weren't welcomed), being followed in stores by workers to see if I was going to shoplift, responding to calls from the police in our town asking if our luxury car had been stolen. (No, it was just my brother driving.)
Thanks to my mom, I'll be prepared to pass these lessons onto my son when he's older. But for now, I'll relish the magical toddler/preschool years where race is treated as it should be - as a non issue.
12
I was struck by the level of acceptance of "this is what you have to do" to survive in American society -- it made me very sad.
15
The first slaves arrived in America in 1619. This is almost 400 years of racism and at present there is no sign that it will end anytime soon.
There are some truths that are so painful that people either decide not to listen to, deny or ignore them.
I believe every American should be forced to commiserate with people from other countries while they are growing up. Only when I talked to people from outside my borders did I realize how insanely myopic the entire establishment of the U.S. is.
Allowing white people to continue to ignore their own biases prevents a frank examination of the larger systems and powers accountable for enshrining the dehumanization of and discrimination against Blacks and people of color is not acceptable. The problem is evil , just incredible, earth-shattering, incalculable, painfully entrenched ignorance and racism.
There are some truths that are so painful that people either decide not to listen to, deny or ignore them.
I believe every American should be forced to commiserate with people from other countries while they are growing up. Only when I talked to people from outside my borders did I realize how insanely myopic the entire establishment of the U.S. is.
Allowing white people to continue to ignore their own biases prevents a frank examination of the larger systems and powers accountable for enshrining the dehumanization of and discrimination against Blacks and people of color is not acceptable. The problem is evil , just incredible, earth-shattering, incalculable, painfully entrenched ignorance and racism.
13
Well, the reality is, among the many privileges of white skin, is the choice to not even think about how you make the lives of others difficult.
2
Cherry picking. These kids and young adults do not represent African-American youth accurately; at least the youth I've gotten to know here in the Bronx over the past five years of working with them daily. Police brutality is wrong; racism is wrong. But directly or indirectly blaming white people for the plight of black youth will get us nowhere. The solutions are at the roots of these problems: family and parenting, education (in and out of school), and employment.
24
What do you think is an more accurate representation of African-American youth... pray tell?
7
I would love to refer you to some studies that indicate the true root of the problem. Systemized legal oppression.There have been centuries of social policies that have successfully oppressed black people in this country. An example? Legal segregation. That limits access to good schools, jobs, even fresh and healthy food options. You can say that segregation ended 50 years ago? Think again my friend. Implicit bias still runs rampant and Black people are less likely to be approved for home loans than people of any other race/ethnicity, despite education and income levels. Look up something called red lining. This is just one minor example of the unequal playing field that black people in this country face. And people want to blame black people for their plight? After centuries of systematic oppression that still occurs. Please read history and some scientific studies. They'll tell you all you need to know. However, I don't blame white individuals.I blame biased policies and systems. Good night.
1
Your comments appear to reflect the attitude that Black parents are incapable of parenting. All Black children, as obvious from the video, do not have parents who fail to raise them, educate them, provide for them.
1
Imagine strangers crossing the street to beat you. Imagine calling the police for protection and they don't appear. Imagine people sticking a gun in your stomach because of the color of your skin. Many young white men and boys living in majority black communities don't have to imagine. Growing up in Detroit taught me these things.
39
Well as the white mother of black children I also lived in Detroit for decades and learned that racism goes all ways . Perhaps if some of us put their resentments and misunderstandings and apprehensions aside, we could make some progress, but many of us are rooted in the old traditions....: A black person may automatically think that a white person never has good intentions towards them, but a white person thinks exactly the same thing... Is not it time to start a proper dialogues everywhere
4
I'm so sorry you went through that. It sounds rough. Yet it is unfair to categorize all black people as heathens or criminals, as many people are doing in this comments section. I was robbed, verbally attacked on countless occasions, chased down the street, and bullied by white men. Yet I don't think they're all the same. I guess white men are afforded that luxury and black men are not.
1
I learned the same thing working in Liberty City in Miami over 40 years ago. I was mugged on 22nd Avenue in Opa Locka walking home from Jr High school because I'd missed the bus. Working a two man district in the Bronx was the same. The company provided me with a locker and I was advised to take only my drivers license, company ID and a few dollars with me and leave the rest in my locker. Ironically the company had fought against having two men in every truck until the Federal mediator who had come to negotiate between the union and the company was mugged in the South Bronx.
I am a 26 years old white man and here in Brazil it is not so different. The discrimination is so strong and somtimes it is passed from father to son. I remebmber my childhood we are 3 freinds, and one of us black. The other white kid bought a pool and only invited me to go there. When we are there i ask him why he didn´t invited our other friend. He told me that her father said that our black friend left some smell in the house because of his color and he wasn´t welcome home and nobody else of his family. Nowadays, I was thinking how idiot and dangerous was the father of childhood friend. Create thiskind of caracter on his own kid is a shame.
13
Good for you Andre, for recognizing racism for what it was, and presumably not perpetuating the cycle with your own kids.
2
Everyone needs to watch this. It brought me to tears.
6
These kids don't seem defeatist to me or self-pitying or even assuming they are victims.
If anything they are bewildered and exasperated without the full maturity package yet to fully make sense out of why they have to endure the treatment they encounter just by being themselves.
The vast majority of people in poverty would like to live decent lives and they want to improve their lives.
The misfortune of being born into poverty and harsh neighborhoods makes that very hard.
Society needs to reclaim such neighborhoods with security enhancements (with neighborhood buy in), economic opportunity, (the more secure a neighborhood is the more this can happen) and incentives for keeping a stable, manageable two child family (policy needs to incentivize such stable families).
Solutions are doable.
Every human problem has a human solution.
If humans have compassion and will and don't simply wave hands in disgust.
Before anything, check in with your heart and see that still works.
If it doesn't then please just get out of the way while good people seek solutions.
If anything they are bewildered and exasperated without the full maturity package yet to fully make sense out of why they have to endure the treatment they encounter just by being themselves.
The vast majority of people in poverty would like to live decent lives and they want to improve their lives.
The misfortune of being born into poverty and harsh neighborhoods makes that very hard.
Society needs to reclaim such neighborhoods with security enhancements (with neighborhood buy in), economic opportunity, (the more secure a neighborhood is the more this can happen) and incentives for keeping a stable, manageable two child family (policy needs to incentivize such stable families).
Solutions are doable.
Every human problem has a human solution.
If humans have compassion and will and don't simply wave hands in disgust.
Before anything, check in with your heart and see that still works.
If it doesn't then please just get out of the way while good people seek solutions.
7
The primarily negative comments here poignantly capture the depth of the problem. Not for one moment were most of you adults able to put down your statistics or theories or just strongly-held opinions to notice this: these kids are in pain.
Start there. Part of the evil of one’s embrace of racism is not only that one is unwilling to acknowledge that we all want to be free from harm and from suffering; it is also that one often gets quite a bit of pleasure from defending racism and inflicting the pain that racism causes. Make no mistake about it: the virulence with which many here have quoted statistics or pointed to some study or just pronounced the “truth” of black life betrays pure pleasure and glee. And it is this pleasure that makes racism and racist practices so difficult to end.
Start there. Part of the evil of one’s embrace of racism is not only that one is unwilling to acknowledge that we all want to be free from harm and from suffering; it is also that one often gets quite a bit of pleasure from defending racism and inflicting the pain that racism causes. Make no mistake about it: the virulence with which many here have quoted statistics or pointed to some study or just pronounced the “truth” of black life betrays pure pleasure and glee. And it is this pleasure that makes racism and racist practices so difficult to end.
24
All races of people have good and bad. It is the color of a person's attitude that matters.
I support the eradication of racism. But, I won't support a movement that gives real criminals a pretense to commit crimes with impunity.
I support the eradication of racism. But, I won't support a movement that gives real criminals a pretense to commit crimes with impunity.
9
Does that mean you don't support cops?
3
Fishy - what did any of the young men in this video do or say that made you mention criminals?? Oh, maybe just because they are black, that made you think of criminals? Seems to me that is the problem.
The point is these kids sometime get treated like they are dangerous just because they look like someone "we" perceive as dangerous.
The point is these kids sometime get treated like they are dangerous just because they look like someone "we" perceive as dangerous.
3
Where is that movement? Given that the US has the highest rate of incarceration per capita in the world, and given that it has been documented again and again that blacks are more likely to be arrested, more likely to be jailed, more likely to receive longer and harsher sentences for the same crimes as whites, there does not seem to be any risk that "real criminals" get away with it. Racism, on the other hand, is real and documented. So let's focus on the world as it is and its problems, and leave aside worries about non existing threats that have no likelihood whatsoever to materialize?
3
I think this piece would have been much more effective if it included a broader range of voices and experiences. While racism pervades across class and economic lines, these young men all seem to be on track and thriving. The closing snapshots of parents clearly suggests the vital importance of family stability.
But what about the many, many young men who fell off the track, or never even had access to it? It seems we could learn more about this complicated, hugely important issue -- and begin to have a meaningful conversation -- by hearing from the too-many young black men who feel disenfranchised and left behind.
But what about the many, many young men who fell off the track, or never even had access to it? It seems we could learn more about this complicated, hugely important issue -- and begin to have a meaningful conversation -- by hearing from the too-many young black men who feel disenfranchised and left behind.
13
Shmulie - I think you are missing the point of this video - even the black kids who grew up in good families who are middle class (or rich) are being treated like disenfranchised kids from the ghetto - or like criminals - just because of the color of their skin.
We always hear about the black kids who are not doing well. We need to remember there are many black kids who have all the advantages of a middle class family; except for having a skin color that sadly makes police or old ladies assume they are not as safe and honest and well brought as other kids from similar homes - with different skin color.
Some day we may be able to have the image of this video of these nice young men - and in that day this could/should be the image of what all Black Americans are like - just like we have the image that all White Americans are well brought up. And then whenever that day comes, the few kids (Black and White) who don't live up to that image will be the exception not the rule.
We always hear about the black kids who are not doing well. We need to remember there are many black kids who have all the advantages of a middle class family; except for having a skin color that sadly makes police or old ladies assume they are not as safe and honest and well brought as other kids from similar homes - with different skin color.
Some day we may be able to have the image of this video of these nice young men - and in that day this could/should be the image of what all Black Americans are like - just like we have the image that all White Americans are well brought up. And then whenever that day comes, the few kids (Black and White) who don't live up to that image will be the exception not the rule.
3
I've been carjacked and I've been robbed, both times by black men. The second one smiled at me before he pulled the gun, so I thought he was friendly. My friend was also assaulted, also by a black man. There was a series of robberies in my neighborhood and a woman opening the coffee store on my corner was held at gunpoint and raped by a black man.
So yes, if I am walking alone, I'm going to cross the street if I see a black man or a group of black men. But we're not allowed to point those issues out. Of course the police shouldn't brutalize black men - or anyone. Of course black children should have the same educational opportunities as others.
I'd sure like to hear more from the black community about being family focused, and education-driven. There is a lot of complaining about the way things are and little productive action in working to make things better.
So yes, if I am walking alone, I'm going to cross the street if I see a black man or a group of black men. But we're not allowed to point those issues out. Of course the police shouldn't brutalize black men - or anyone. Of course black children should have the same educational opportunities as others.
I'd sure like to hear more from the black community about being family focused, and education-driven. There is a lot of complaining about the way things are and little productive action in working to make things better.
50
"There is a lot of complaining about the way things are and little productive action in working to make things better."
Little productive action where? Are you in black homes to know what lessons are being imparted there? Or do you just assume that because you don't read or hear about more success stories on TV that these stories don't exist?
Little productive action where? Are you in black homes to know what lessons are being imparted there? Or do you just assume that because you don't read or hear about more success stories on TV that these stories don't exist?
6
So in your mind all black men are going to hurt you? So I should think all white people are evil and racist, just because of an incident here and there. You have become the problem, not the solution. How does that help you, me or anyone move beyond this stereotyping.
6
I'm sorry that was your experience, but imagine if I (a successful Black man earning more than six figures) used that same logic because of the historical treatment of Black people by the majority in this country. Oh wait, you can't imagine that because you've never stopped to think about this logically.
1
Some years ago I was in Washington, D.C. on business and stopped at a drugstore to get some aspirin. A black woman came up to me and said "You are not safe here. Make your purchase and leave this neighborhood as soon as you can." I am blond, blue-eyed and fair skinned. It was my introduction to how I imagine black people may feel when they are in an area where there are white people eyeing them in a critical manner.
23
But do black people fear they are not safe in a drugstore in a white neighborhood?
That is the real question.
That is the real question.
Yes. There are many neighborhoods, particularly in the South, that black people will not drive through because of fear.
This reminds me of when I was young and should have been rather unaware of the prejudice/stereotyping of African Americans. I was raised in the North by very intelligent parents. I was privledged, and my parents were wealthy. But what I had, which I am so grateful for now because it made me think, was a mother who was raised in Texas and was so prejudiced, not only regarding African Americans, but about everything else you can imagine, that I learned early that it was insane. I challenged my mother all the time about why she had these prejudices. Now, do not get me wrong I loved and admired my mother, but one day after I had pestered her to death, she gave me the answer. It sounds so simple, but it was right on the nail. In exasperation she said, "that's just the way it was". We are all, I believe, survivors by nature. It takes extraordinary courage to buck the system.
22
I'm surprised at the tenor of many postings in the Comments I read here. My reaction was tears in response to the poignancy of what these beautiful young men are telling us. Maybe that also speaks to the point.
1
I am biracial black/white, 50. Graduate of Williams College. UCI College of Medicine. I am by all accounts by conservatives a Horatio Algers success. I grew up in foster care and group homes as a kid. I was helped by the white establishment to succeed by given access to private elite schools and admission to Williams. Currently, Despite being a professional and Ivy education I do experience the same crossing of the street/clutch the pocketbook racism on a daily basis even at age 50. It comes from all races, not just whites. (Asians and Latinos are even more skittish of black men).
I experienced a reprieve from such racism when I lived in Berlin in the 1990's. I got to sense what it is like to be judged by my abilities and character rather than by prejudice only when at Williams and when I lived in Europe. Socially, Europe, Russia is the only place where I felt judged as a full human.
Even at Williams, despite outperforming white classmates in class and athletic fields, many still held themselves above me - they would leave when you sat next to them in cafeteria.
The benefit that American whites have is that if they are given negative social feedback, they pretty much know it's because of their behavior. However, when you are black, it is difficult to know if you truly are at fault or if you are being singled out because of your race. You tend to extremes : either internalize everything, or not accept any criticism at all.
I experienced a reprieve from such racism when I lived in Berlin in the 1990's. I got to sense what it is like to be judged by my abilities and character rather than by prejudice only when at Williams and when I lived in Europe. Socially, Europe, Russia is the only place where I felt judged as a full human.
Even at Williams, despite outperforming white classmates in class and athletic fields, many still held themselves above me - they would leave when you sat next to them in cafeteria.
The benefit that American whites have is that if they are given negative social feedback, they pretty much know it's because of their behavior. However, when you are black, it is difficult to know if you truly are at fault or if you are being singled out because of your race. You tend to extremes : either internalize everything, or not accept any criticism at all.
65
"However, when you are black, it is difficult to know if you truly are at fault or if you are being singled out because of your race. You tend to extremes : either internalize everything, or not accept any criticism at all." - You're closing statement is everything! That tension is what i struggle with daily - trying to figure out what criticism is being applied to me as an individual and what is a result of perceptions of me as a black individual.
1
You let the federal government raise your children after their fathers were pushed out of government housing. The government failed, and now you want me to raise your kids. I have my own kids to raise.
2
What you are you talking about? Most people of color that I know raise their own children.
3
Also, these kids in this video are clearly being raised by their parents. If these were white kids talking, would you randomly start talking about some kids that had nothing to do with the video?
1
Dear watchers, i appreciate your feelings toward this video. However, here where I live, black people and white people get along just fine. In fact, growing up i was bullied because of my turban. So I know how you feel.
6
As a young Black man this video reminds me of the Sisyphean task I have to give back and help Black youth. On the one hand I have a life of blessings, mentors and great choices that have led me to where I am today that would be a great example to the younger generation. On the other hand Black youth are a smartphone away from the negative stereotypes that undo any hopes of progress.
If we as the Black community were serious about changing the racial dynamic in America and healing a lot of the sins of the past, Al Sharpton would not be on television, or in the White House. Barack Obama would not be on late night comedy shows "slow jamming the news" and we would hold every member of the Congressional Black Caucus responsible for their failures at the ballot box instead of voting for the status quo just because they share our skin color.
We have to get our of our own way on many of the issues that continue to hold too many in America hostage to racism and prejudice.
If we as the Black community were serious about changing the racial dynamic in America and healing a lot of the sins of the past, Al Sharpton would not be on television, or in the White House. Barack Obama would not be on late night comedy shows "slow jamming the news" and we would hold every member of the Congressional Black Caucus responsible for their failures at the ballot box instead of voting for the status quo just because they share our skin color.
We have to get our of our own way on many of the issues that continue to hold too many in America hostage to racism and prejudice.
10
White people are often in the way, the system is in the way,- but these outside oppositions have also bred an internalized view of ourselves. What "acting Black" should look like, what kind of style/speech/career/consumer choices/self expression has the tacit approval of the community at large and which don't. We have to be ourselves as human beings and that is a life long discipline. The majority of people, White, Black, Asian or other, seem to live out their destiny as a caricature of their racial designation, and orthodoxy rules the day. The boys in this video are very touching, trying to navigate the awful conventions of our time.
3
Based on what I saw as a high school teacher in inner-city Philadelphia from 1974-78, and again in a black suburban HS in NJ, and then (year 2000) in a Hispanic high school in Salinas, Calif.
It all starts going sideways for the non-Asian minorities by 5th grade from sassing the teacher, mocking homework assignments, and starting to be an "OG." Not a darn thing has changed, while the Liberal Insanity is to keep doing the same subsidy-rich noblesse oblige over and over, and expecting a different result. "The emperor has NO clothes."
It all starts going sideways for the non-Asian minorities by 5th grade from sassing the teacher, mocking homework assignments, and starting to be an "OG." Not a darn thing has changed, while the Liberal Insanity is to keep doing the same subsidy-rich noblesse oblige over and over, and expecting a different result. "The emperor has NO clothes."
7
Amazing that so many readers are blaming these earnest, articulate, young men for the readers' racism and fears of black people.
12
Raise your hand all white people if you would change your skin color and switch places with these kids or any average black American.
I'm white and my hand is not up.
Because I can see reality.
This video is so basic.
What has been your experience?
Tell us. So we can get a better understanding.
Emotionally it floored me.
We need to self examine and learn and do better.
I'm white and my hand is not up.
Because I can see reality.
This video is so basic.
What has been your experience?
Tell us. So we can get a better understanding.
Emotionally it floored me.
We need to self examine and learn and do better.
17
My takeaway from this video: we are creating a culture of victimization around black male youth that is unhealthy; that is, any experience they have is seen through the lens of racisim. For example, one youth in the doc characterizes as racist that the media references the criminal record of a black man in (I assume, it's not clear from the video) after being shot by police. Well, mention of previous criminal record is pretty common in such instances regardless of the race of the individual. Unfortunately, these young men are not being taught critical thinking.
13
A reply to asdf in Chicago.
I am, myself, an African immigrant. My experience and the experiences of the groups you mentioned are starkly different from "native" blacks.
We come from countries where we were in the majority. Moreover, we did not grow up bombarded with negative portraits of us; we were not made to sit in the back of buses, nor were we refused service at lunch counters; we were not lynched; police dogs were not unleashed on us; we were not sprayed with water hoses or subjected to a myriad of other indignities!
Our parents always stressed the importance of education. We attended integrated schools and proved ourselves to be just as smart as our white class-mates.
We grew up to be proud and confident adults. The result is that, when we come up against racists, we are able to see them for what they are...Blissfully ignorant people.
And, asdf in Chicago, the article is not about racism in the world, it is about racism in America!
I am, myself, an African immigrant. My experience and the experiences of the groups you mentioned are starkly different from "native" blacks.
We come from countries where we were in the majority. Moreover, we did not grow up bombarded with negative portraits of us; we were not made to sit in the back of buses, nor were we refused service at lunch counters; we were not lynched; police dogs were not unleashed on us; we were not sprayed with water hoses or subjected to a myriad of other indignities!
Our parents always stressed the importance of education. We attended integrated schools and proved ourselves to be just as smart as our white class-mates.
We grew up to be proud and confident adults. The result is that, when we come up against racists, we are able to see them for what they are...Blissfully ignorant people.
And, asdf in Chicago, the article is not about racism in the world, it is about racism in America!
37
Thank you Kutif!!! Right on.
All i know is that if I walk through many or most black neighborhoods - I am in more danger of assault than in white, or Asian areas.
Now, you can supply whatever 'theory' you want to justify or excuse or apologize for this, but it seems to me that blaming crime on everything but the criminals is a recipe for completely failing to solve the problem.
But then, the Left mostly operates by perpetually reminding the world how morally superior they are. Actually addressing the root of the problem is not generally something the Left has bothered with.
How many more trillions must be spent on the 'war on poverty' before progressives *begin* to wonder if their statism and racialist double standards are not helping?
http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2014/09/the-war-on-poverty-afte...
How long before some plucky Harvard sociologist dares ask why Asians, also a minority, do so much better academically and commit such a smaller amount of violent crime. Is it that "Whitey" is less racist toward Asians?
Or do they study more and maintain stable families?
Now, you can supply whatever 'theory' you want to justify or excuse or apologize for this, but it seems to me that blaming crime on everything but the criminals is a recipe for completely failing to solve the problem.
But then, the Left mostly operates by perpetually reminding the world how morally superior they are. Actually addressing the root of the problem is not generally something the Left has bothered with.
How many more trillions must be spent on the 'war on poverty' before progressives *begin* to wonder if their statism and racialist double standards are not helping?
http://www.heritage.org/research/reports/2014/09/the-war-on-poverty-afte...
How long before some plucky Harvard sociologist dares ask why Asians, also a minority, do so much better academically and commit such a smaller amount of violent crime. Is it that "Whitey" is less racist toward Asians?
Or do they study more and maintain stable families?
11
Young African Americans, have to stop making excuses. They need to stay in school, and stop killing each other.
12
Do you hear these young men making excuses? They seem educated and "well-behaved" to me. Do you dismiss their stories because they don't fit your narrative? They are hurting yet they are doing everything right.
How come there are no girls in this video? Is the next "conversation" going to be about sexism? http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2015/02/13/black-womens-lives-matter-polic...
3
Just read this in the NYTimes last week, from Diane von Furstenberg:
"My mother was a Holocaust survivor and, having survived 13 months in the concentration camps, she taught me that fear is not an option. And no matter what happens, never be a victim. Life is a journey, and when you face obstacles the only thing you can do is accept them and embrace the reality. Very often, with things that are bad or not what you wanted, it’s your job to turn them into something positive."
I think it's important to look at problems in life as obstacles that we as a society can turn into a positive. How do we build a better future?
"My mother was a Holocaust survivor and, having survived 13 months in the concentration camps, she taught me that fear is not an option. And no matter what happens, never be a victim. Life is a journey, and when you face obstacles the only thing you can do is accept them and embrace the reality. Very often, with things that are bad or not what you wanted, it’s your job to turn them into something positive."
I think it's important to look at problems in life as obstacles that we as a society can turn into a positive. How do we build a better future?
2
I suggest that blacks are no less concerned than whites as to their safety when approached by a group of young black males.
Would that it were otherwise!
Would that it were otherwise!
4
I cannot remember the exact details (Fellow NYT readers please help me out) but recently a prominent black person (it could have been Jesse Jackson) said in a NYT piece that one night he was walking along a street late at night and heard footsteps behind him, he was anxious, and turned around, and he admitted he thought to himself "Oh, its OK, its a group of white people".
How sorry is that. We need to include these details when having the "conversation".
How sorry is that. We need to include these details when having the "conversation".
1
The inconvenient truth is this article should be entitled "A Conversation About Growing Up Black Without a Father or Any Male Role Models."
4
Have you noticed that most of these young men are talking about their parents - parents plural!
2
Why aren't there women included in this video? I've noticed in many of these conversations, black women's voices are left out.
4
People cross the street when seeing a Black male approach because they know from crime statistics that Black males are more likely to mug them then any other male ethnic group member. In NY we call that being street-savy.
For Blacks to ignore that simple fact it's called in NY, denial.
For Blacks to ignore that simple fact it's called in NY, denial.
10
I don't cross the street, I say hello and ask how that group of kids (of color) are doing. In fact, saying I am standing in for their mother, I have called out dangerous or smart-ass behavior in young men of color as I would for my own (who I'm sure can be idiots) the funny thing is, I have done this long before having children myself. ("Your mother is not here and so, I'm telling you stop that--it's not safe, or it's rude." Spoken with firm affection. ) I have politely asked a Gang member, tattoos and all, to stop smoking on the subway, and was mouthed off but certainly not assaulted. The next day, I said hello, and was greeted by the same guy with affection. After that, he made sure to greet me with a smile every day.
We have no idea of the strength that comes from treating people like they are part of them community, of which we all are--head slap--a part.
We have no idea of the strength that comes from treating people like they are part of them community, of which we all are--head slap--a part.
14
Blacks are overrepresented among those arrested for crimes, but that does not mean that they represent most of the criminals. According to the FBI, about 2/3 of rapes, aggravated assaults, burglaries, larceny thefts and motor vehicle thefts are committed by whites. 90% of white murder victims are killed by whites. Nationally, about 2/3 of white victims of robbery identify their robber as white. Oh and of course, there's the fact that whites in NYC are incredibly safe, as blacks and hispanics represent the overwhelming majority of victims of any crime.
Being street-savy means avoiding empty or badly lit places, dangerous neighbourhoods (which in NYC definitely includes a disproportinate number of majority minority neighbourhoods), people displaying erratical behaviours, looking drunk or high; it means displaying confidence and assertiveness without looking either agressive or lost, and it may even mean avoiding small groups of male teenagers, whatever the race. And of course understanding that nobody can guarantee that you will always be 100% safe in a multi million city. Fearing or avoiding a third of the city's male population is not being street-savy, it's being racist (and frankly, I'd like to know how you would manage to cross the street every time you see a black male in NYC).
Being street-savy means avoiding empty or badly lit places, dangerous neighbourhoods (which in NYC definitely includes a disproportinate number of majority minority neighbourhoods), people displaying erratical behaviours, looking drunk or high; it means displaying confidence and assertiveness without looking either agressive or lost, and it may even mean avoiding small groups of male teenagers, whatever the race. And of course understanding that nobody can guarantee that you will always be 100% safe in a multi million city. Fearing or avoiding a third of the city's male population is not being street-savy, it's being racist (and frankly, I'd like to know how you would manage to cross the street every time you see a black male in NYC).
3
I am offended that I am somehow to blame for crossing the street to avoid a group of men. As a woman, I have only moments to assess the conditions around me as I walk down the street. I am taking it all in at once. I wouldn't cross the street to avoid a group of black men dressed in suits, but I sure would avoid a group of black teenagers or young adults. Why? Because more times than I care to remember I've been the object of lewd remarks and aggressive jeering. I would do the same thing with a group of white teenagers, but that is not generally who you see on the streets in New York. I have been physically assaulted three times--twice by white men, once by a small group of black men. If I make a mistake and accidentally peg someone as a potential threat, I'm sorry, but I will continue to use a lifetime's worth of experience to keep myself safe.
20
This made me cry. I am glad that you posted it. This should be on every TV station in America, where most people would see it. Very important piece. Get it out there.
9
Teach children just a few things: do not resist arrest, do not run from the police, do not wave what looks like a gun around. If you just do this, you will be fine.
4
The experience of blacks shows that is not true.
2
clueless
4
Trayvon Martin did none of these things and he is dead, Yusuf Hawkins, same thing, Amadou Diallo, Jonathan Ferrell... the list is too long to mention. But thanks for dismissing the very real points revealed (to most discerning adults) in the documentary.
5
Bravo.
1
Black kids, like white kids, fail when they neglect their studies and behave badly. Plenty of impoverished kids have made a good life; and so these stories coming from kids complaining about law enforcement, seriously undereducated parents, and tough neighborhoods is just so much bs. Plenty of white guys have been stopped by the cops for dubious reasons. So many blacks are so bogus.
3
The problem with cliches and stereotypes is that they all start out as the truth.
3
We look forward to seeing each race and ethnicity represented in these Conversations. We also look forward to seeing women's stories told, and the stories of the elderly. All of us must be represented here, otherwise it becomes more and more obvious that only one group of people matters to the current crop of NY Times editors. Remember its "All the news that's fit to print" and not "we only care about one group."
8
Some of these things aren't even particular to black men and boys. They can (and do) happen to anybody. Another problem in this country is that many kids living in black neighborhoods grow up thinking that white America is basically what's shown on tv... which tends to be wealthy white America, not average white America. 'Friends', 'Modern Family', and any number of other shows don't depict what it's like for most. So when a black kid goes into a fancy store and complains about how the salesperson looked at him funny, my response it that they look at everybody funny. Most people out there have it rough. Old ladies are scared of big, strong kids no matter what their race is.
5
I truly believe, in many instances, Blacks are afforded more opportunities and latitude than whites. If they do just OK in school, there are full-ride scholarships available and a host of educational programs. If they are stopped by law enforcement, the police will give them a wide berth so as not to be accused of any impropriety. The fact is Blacks commit a higher percentage of crime per capita than Whites. And I agree with other comments here that Blacks need to get over the victim mind-set.
4
Your beliefs are wrong. The idea that "police will give [blacks] a wide berth" is ludicrous if you've been paying any attention at all to the news; police feel free to mistreat and harass minorities with impunity.
2
This comment section is basically only reiterating the stereotypes and prejudices these young men must encounter simply in being black. Nice job, everyone, of proving this piece's very sad and disturbing point.
15
Blame LBJ and the rest of the bleeding heart liberals.
50 years of welfare, food stamps, destigmatizing unwed motherhood. lenient sentencing has created a large under / criminal class. Of course liberals who live in the UES, Pacific Heights, River Oaks, Shaker Heights, Chevy Chase, Georgetown, etc.. don't have to live with mess they created.
50 years of welfare, food stamps, destigmatizing unwed motherhood. lenient sentencing has created a large under / criminal class. Of course liberals who live in the UES, Pacific Heights, River Oaks, Shaker Heights, Chevy Chase, Georgetown, etc.. don't have to live with mess they created.
7
"Lenient sentencing"? So you think what we need is to put more people in jail?
And also, apparently, people were better off starving.
And also, apparently, people were better off starving.
1
Lenient sentencing? The US has the largest prison population in the world, and the 2nd largest per capita prison rate (behind only the Seychelles). There are plenty of societies (e.g. most countries in Western Europe) which are more 'liberal' but have arguably fewer issues with race. This line of thinking is tired and not supported by facts.
2
I have had two experiences with cops in widely different parts of the country Seattle and Niagara falls that tells me that a) Cops are not trained to be polite, b) assume guilt unless proven innocent and c) are willing to bend the rules and throw their weight around to make a point. And I am not even a black young kid. I am a person from India who moved here 30 years ago and am not exactly young.
6
I am not going to comment on racism, drivel, victimization, success, whatever is exercising everyone else about this documentary. I just will say that these young men, adolescents, boys are bright, articulate, sincere, sweet, aspiring and I wish them all the best in the world. I'd be proud to call them my sons. For the record I am a white, 69 year old female.
10
"Black on black crime" is one of the excuses comfortable white Americans use to blame police brutality on its black victims. A comprehensive analysis needing more than a sentence or two to present, here is a link to one of many articles I hope apologists for police violence in black communities will read:
http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/28559-the-distorted-exaggeration-of-b...
People in general commit crimes in the neighborhoods where they live and against the people that they know. Thus, black people generally commit crimes against black people and white people commit crimes against white people.
Another excuse apologists for police violence use is "fatherless" black families. I realize that reading an entire scholarly work on race relations in the USA is more than most complacent white Americans would bother doing, but for the few who are actually interested in learning about the world as it is rather than to parrot the usual shibboleths, "The New Jim Crow," by Michelle Alexander, is required reading.
"Fatherless" black families are a result of the so-called War on Drugs, which essentially boils down to a war on black people. Whites and blacks use drugs at about the same rate, but blacks are prosecuted in enormous numbers while whites are not. Once jailed, black fathers on release are barred from living with their families in subsidized housing, as well as barred from college, public assist ... I am out of space.
http://www.truth-out.org/news/item/28559-the-distorted-exaggeration-of-b...
People in general commit crimes in the neighborhoods where they live and against the people that they know. Thus, black people generally commit crimes against black people and white people commit crimes against white people.
Another excuse apologists for police violence use is "fatherless" black families. I realize that reading an entire scholarly work on race relations in the USA is more than most complacent white Americans would bother doing, but for the few who are actually interested in learning about the world as it is rather than to parrot the usual shibboleths, "The New Jim Crow," by Michelle Alexander, is required reading.
"Fatherless" black families are a result of the so-called War on Drugs, which essentially boils down to a war on black people. Whites and blacks use drugs at about the same rate, but blacks are prosecuted in enormous numbers while whites are not. Once jailed, black fathers on release are barred from living with their families in subsidized housing, as well as barred from college, public assist ... I am out of space.
18
I've read "The New Jim Crow" by Michelle Alexander. It's an agenda filled hack piece. Her conclusions are thin and methods are juvenile. Her analysis of the statistics regarding race are laughable. You have lost all credibility by trumpeting her as a valid resource.
1
Ryan,
Reading the write-up on Wikipedia is not the same as having read the book. Check a copy out of your local library. You will learn a lot.
Reading the write-up on Wikipedia is not the same as having read the book. Check a copy out of your local library. You will learn a lot.
I'm sure New York's precipitous drop of 85 percent in murders from 1990 to 2014 is probably just a coincidence.
1
As an American of Afro-Caribbean descent (my parents immigrated here), we are subjected to same racism and experiences expressed in this video. Claims that Afro-Caribbeans do not experience racism is completely absurd. The simple fact is the police don't see my PhD when they decide to stop me and check me for warrants, they only see my skin color. This is a story heard from countless people of African descent.
In the United States, skin color remains a factor for advancement and achievement in our society. People of African descent are disproportionately mistreated, regardless of whether they claim to be victims of racism or not.
In the United States, skin color remains a factor for advancement and achievement in our society. People of African descent are disproportionately mistreated, regardless of whether they claim to be victims of racism or not.
22
This is a profoundly moving and thought-provoking series of interviews. I would ask all Americans to think about what these young men have to say and consider what it means to live in a true democracy. What can each of us do to reach out to our fellow citizens and stop the fear and violence that threatens to destroy the principles which our country stands.
13
A video such as this one doesn't provide answers but the reactions to it do show us a set of significant problems. Much as I hate to use the term, there is an overwhelming sense of white privilege that stands in the way of truly hearing these young men. There is a panoply of social ills and pathologies that are being used as evidence against these kids. There aren't simple answers, to be sure, but at least ask the right questions. Why are so many of these responses defensive? Why blame individuals for deeply entrenched problems that have existed for generations? What can be done to produce an environment in this country in which the primary maker of one's identity is skin pigmentation?
17
I'm afraid what this video does not do, is delve deeper into the complicated societal problems of how blacks are pitted against other blacks. All this video is promoting is how blacks see themselves viewed by a white, privileged society. But what this video fails to do is to show the outcome of the entire economic disenfranchisement of black people, which in turn, pits blacks against other blacks. In addition, this video does not address another "white privilege" perspective and that is the use of the N word. I hear the N word used on a daily basis on the bus I take going to work from young black teens. They use the N word to describe themselves and other African-Americans with such great frequency that in a strange way, they have indeed taken back the N word and integrated it into black culture.
Ultimately, while as a white man I can’t use the N word when describing an African-American for fear of being labeled a racist, I actually think their attempt at taking back the N word has succeeded. I speak as an outsider, of course. But the use of the N word remains troubling to me. I believe the economic disenfranchisement of many black Americans remains a disturbing development that caters to the use of the N word and as long as this problem persists, the use of the N word will never disappear.
Ultimately, while as a white man I can’t use the N word when describing an African-American for fear of being labeled a racist, I actually think their attempt at taking back the N word has succeeded. I speak as an outsider, of course. But the use of the N word remains troubling to me. I believe the economic disenfranchisement of many black Americans remains a disturbing development that caters to the use of the N word and as long as this problem persists, the use of the N word will never disappear.
3
The problem is where are their parents? More specifically, where are their fathers? The mother caught on national TV telling her son to go home and not to become another Gray in Baltimore has 5 other kids at home -- where's the father? If you can't handle the responsibility of having children as parents than don't have kids. It's that simple. They have to take responsibility for their actions and it starts in the home. Stop relying on the gov't to step in and fix the problem. Having kids out of wedlock is too high in the Black community.
24
Did you actually WATCH the video? I wonder if you did.
At the end these young black males are all holding up photographs of their parents and acknowledging the good parenting they had. Throughout the film they all address the positive impact their parents had on them.
At the end these young black males are all holding up photographs of their parents and acknowledging the good parenting they had. Throughout the film they all address the positive impact their parents had on them.
2
I bet you're also opposed to government-backed birth control and family planning services.
1
There are about 1.5 million young black men that are either dead or in prison, and large numbers of those in prison are their for non-violent or victimless crimes or for crimes that would have been forgiven in someone with either the money to afford good representation or a racial profile that encouraged more empathy on the part of police or the courts. At the same time, all over the United States we have large groups working to make abortion unaccessible for the poor and prevent birth control and education about health and sexuality in schools. Perhaps we need to be a little more understanding of why kids are born "out of wedlock". Further, the experience of racism and mistreatment is shared among black kids, and especially black males, regardless of family status. Are you suggesting that because many black teens are in single parent families it is OK for police and white society to target them?
1
The most important message here is that family matters. These men clearly attribute their strength to their solid upbringing. Coincidentally my college freshman daughter texted a picture of her boyfriend to my wife the other day... and he is black. She is a white Jew from Basalt, CO. I feel this is testament I have done my job as a parent. Have you done yours?
11
I reject the notion that somehow all these kids have been brainwashed into thinking like victims --as a strong theme in these comments suggest. Until white people start to really hear the voices of young black men and understand the limits that are put on the majority of them by a system that starts treating them as second class citizens from the moment they are born, we will never undo the shame of our racist history. Anecdotes of black success are beside the point. Attacks on poor parents or lack of parenting are scapegoats for a system of privilege that uses law enforcement and incarceration for dealing with its own guilt.
44
Lack of parenting skills is why black kids end up in prison or worse. "Attacks on poor parents or lack of parenting are scapegoats for a system of privilege that uses law enforcement and incarceration for dealing with its own guilt" This comment makes no sense.
What treacle. Show me a human being on the planet earth and I can write a wonderfully sympathetic "Just imagine" lede. Life's tough all over. The winners surmount.
15
I'm not really sure what your point is here? Just because life is tough all over we shouldn't talk about one part of people's life that is tough? Your comment is dismissive and honestly tiring. Same old "pull yourselves up by the bootstraps" boondoggle.
2
Treacle: cloying sentimentality.
Can't have that where other's situations are concerned now can we. Heck that would make us almost - gulp - human!
How's life in your emotional cave John D?
And that goes for the five people who recommended your nonsense.
Last thing to all of you--
Yes or no, would you be willing to wake up tomorrow and you're black.
No? Why? No difference in your life right?
Ha.
Can't have that where other's situations are concerned now can we. Heck that would make us almost - gulp - human!
How's life in your emotional cave John D?
And that goes for the five people who recommended your nonsense.
Last thing to all of you--
Yes or no, would you be willing to wake up tomorrow and you're black.
No? Why? No difference in your life right?
Ha.
2
John, life is NOT "tough all over", and it's much tougher for people of color. This is the insidious legacy of slavery, alive and well in America. Your comment, 'the winners surmount", neatly sidesteps the foundation of systemic entitlement that come with being born white in America.
1
Thank you for posting this video. It belongs right where it is, on the front page of the digital Times. These young men/children are talking from the heart and intelligence of their experience. Listen.
33
I am a 78 year old white Mother and Grandmother. i found this video so sad and so appropriate for people to see over and over again at this time. When I was a young girl I lived in the Bronx and had a black neighborhood as part of my neighborhood. We were all friends. My best friend in first grade was a black girl. Nobody was stopped in my neighborhood in those days. However, when I went away for the summer with my family we vacationed in Heightstown, New Jersey which was rich in migrant workers from the south to work the fields in the farms where I lived. There segregation was in force - movies were segregated, restaurants were segregated and as a young child I couldn't understand this. Why was I allowed to have a black friend and go wherever we wanted to together and now in NewJersey I could not have this same feeling. I guess we did not make enough progress in all these years. I raised my three children in one of the most affluent neighborhoods in the States, Larchment, Westchester, New York. Because of my liberal attitude they too had among their friends, black friends and you know what, when they were with their black friends, they invariably were stopped. When will this end. More people must watch your video. Get it out there. Let's hear from more black people and how they feel about being black. jerie bl
35
whites are making a rational choice based upon statistics and experience that requires they act in their own self interest as all people do.
perhaps a better series of questions to be asked are:
why do so many young black people have no father in the home.
why are so many black children born outside of a stable marriage.
why do young black men commit crime 4 times the rate of white youth.
why do black men attack whites at six times the rate of whites attacking blacks.
while racism is still a definite problem and a real issue the main concern should be how did the black culture get to where it's at.
the problem is easily identifiable but not in the debate and that is that policies pushed by Democratic leaders and black leaders have harmed the black population. it is the black youth who are being punished by this social experiment that has shown nothing but failure for almost 50 years.
And yes, it is the essential destruction of the black family that is largely responsible for the terrible environment that poor black youth are raised in and we shouldn't be surprised at what we find.
it is not black skin that concerns whites it is behavior by young black men principally that is the problem. perhaps the most important and interesting question is when will liberal leaders put black people first and politics second.
perhaps a better series of questions to be asked are:
why do so many young black people have no father in the home.
why are so many black children born outside of a stable marriage.
why do young black men commit crime 4 times the rate of white youth.
why do black men attack whites at six times the rate of whites attacking blacks.
while racism is still a definite problem and a real issue the main concern should be how did the black culture get to where it's at.
the problem is easily identifiable but not in the debate and that is that policies pushed by Democratic leaders and black leaders have harmed the black population. it is the black youth who are being punished by this social experiment that has shown nothing but failure for almost 50 years.
And yes, it is the essential destruction of the black family that is largely responsible for the terrible environment that poor black youth are raised in and we shouldn't be surprised at what we find.
it is not black skin that concerns whites it is behavior by young black men principally that is the problem. perhaps the most important and interesting question is when will liberal leaders put black people first and politics second.
21
We are told that there are no opportunities for african americans but then I am told there are millions of jobs that need to be filled via amnesty and an open door immigration policy? what is it? I am confused.
Did you feel the same revulsion for ALL white males when McVeigh blew up the Federal Bldg? Or when Eric Frein killed the cop? Or the Sandy Hook killers or the Aurora theater shooter? These were discrete acts of young white men behaving badly. Yet they don'the justify blaming every white male. Yet you're blaming all black males. Were I to follow your reasoning I should fear every white male.
5
steve, While I think there is some truth in what you say, you ignore or more likely just refuse to admit the other side of the equation. Yes, black families are largely missing their male role models and yes many of them have committed crimes. But it is clear that racial biases, inequitable sentencing and just outright bigotry has played a major role in removing black males from their families by putting them in jail. As a conservative you should know (and admit) that the modern Republican party was born of southern Democrats who fought for segregation, i.e. bigotry. You should also know and admit that segregation is largely proven to be at the heart of much of the racial inequities that persist today. So please, don't make unsubstantiated and groundless claims that liberal leaders should stop playing politics.
3
Quite striking that there is not one concrete example of racism and injustice cited throughout this video. The entire compilation is an emotional appeal. I feel so sorry for these kids, but for entirely different reasons than most liberals. I feel sorry for them in that they have been so thoroughly robbed of individual morale and common sense, and will thus handicapped in their ability to build lives of their own. The victim mentality and futility narrative that is pushed by race hustlers and our truth-stigmatizing news media is the real reason for continued disparities between blacks and whites, and only an ungrounded intellectual could convince herself otherwise...
48
Getting stopped by the police and questioned while your white classmates are not stopped is not an example of injustice to you? It's no wonder some people deny the existence of racism, they refuse to believe there's anything wrong with the police targeting black kids because of their skin color.
19
Philip, what your comment says to me is that you didn't even listen to what these young men had to say. It's as though to simply hear them would make your world fall apart. I promise you that it won't.
24
You don't think the police stops, the purse clutching or the friend telling her black friend that she wants to cross the street because of oncoming black students are concrete examples of racism? What, do tell, would be? I would highly suggest you take some time to learn about the history of this country and the institutionalization of racism. Some good places to start: The Warmth of Other Suns and the PBS Series "Race: The Power of an Illusion" and The Case for Reparations in the Atlantic. While you may dismiss this "liberal" outlets, the racist federal housing policy in place from WWII through the seventies that enabled all-white suburbs and created the ghettos is one of the primary reasons for the wealth gaps between whites and blacks in this country that exists today. I know I'm screaming into the wind here, but none of these kids seem to be robbed of morale and common sense.... though I think you are willfully walking around with blinders on.
5
Very interesting. However, knowing and seeing many other people from other races and in similar life situations, perhaps in your series, those groups should be afforded the same exclusive reporting. There are many other "unfortunate" groups of our citizens, and our nation should bear great shame for this.
7
Shame is not constructive, we need to be looking for solutions even if they are only micro-solutions. This does include all of us, white, black and everything in between.
The facts are:
1. Orders of magnitudes more black men are killed by other black men than by police. If black lives matter, do something about black on black crime.
2. People don't fear anyone because of the color of anyone's skin, they fear crime, and unfortunately and out of proportion number of young black males are engaging in criminal activity. If participation in gangs and such was significantly reduced, with time the fear would dissipate.
3. Not every police shooting of a black male is unjustified.
4. Police shoot members of other races too. In fact far more whites are killed by police annually according to the FBI.
5. The biggest problems facing the black community are fatherless homes and a failure to value education among many.
1. Orders of magnitudes more black men are killed by other black men than by police. If black lives matter, do something about black on black crime.
2. People don't fear anyone because of the color of anyone's skin, they fear crime, and unfortunately and out of proportion number of young black males are engaging in criminal activity. If participation in gangs and such was significantly reduced, with time the fear would dissipate.
3. Not every police shooting of a black male is unjustified.
4. Police shoot members of other races too. In fact far more whites are killed by police annually according to the FBI.
5. The biggest problems facing the black community are fatherless homes and a failure to value education among many.
72
Hey Dave. "People don't fear anyone because of the color of anyone's skin... (a badly written sentence, by the way)" What country do you live in? You're bending over backwards to point the finger of blame at black people. So far backwards, in fact, that it seems to have gotten stuck in an awkward place.
2
These are a mere collection of facts that simply bolster the narrative that you have decided is the right one. That is not to imply that your facts are wrong (although I would like to challenge a few) but to state plainly that your facts are incomplete. You are ignoring the fact that racism is systemic in this country. What about unemployment within minority communities, could this have a profound effect on crime and criminal activities within and around those communities? What about underperforming and underfunded public schools in minority communities? Could this have a profound effect on values like education and community stability as well as a general sense of opportunity and hard work paying off?
These are also facts that people choose to ignore because it requires looking closely and fearlessly at how we invest in each other as a society. I for one am ready to see this talk move from simplistic facts to one of building a stronger America. An America where everyone really does have the opportunity to thrive and succeed and be done with this condescending idea of "pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps".
These are also facts that people choose to ignore because it requires looking closely and fearlessly at how we invest in each other as a society. I for one am ready to see this talk move from simplistic facts to one of building a stronger America. An America where everyone really does have the opportunity to thrive and succeed and be done with this condescending idea of "pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps".
2
The idea that black people are not concerned about or doing anything about black on black crime emerges from knowing absolutely nothing about black community. There are literally millions of black people who are trying to keep their son, or cousin or nephew or uncle or father from committing black on black crime. There are tens of thousands of black community workers--teachers, librarians, after-school program leaders--working every day to address black on black crime. Go to any black community in the US and you will find elders wringing their hands, coming up with programs, devising initiatives to reduce black on black crime. This is all ignored by those who evoke the subterfuge of "black on black crime" when conversations of institutionalized racism crop up. People who think that black people don't make a big deal about black on black crime simply don't know anything about black people. Telling black people that they should mostly be concerned about black on black crime is like telling someone whose house is burning that they should be more concerned about fire. When my house is on fire, and the fire department throws gasoline on my house, I'm going to start complaining about the fire department.
6
I would be interested to hear about the experiences of Afro-Caribbean (like Colin Powell) and other African immigrants.
Afro-Caribbean immigrants obviously look black, so in theory they should be subject to the same racism as descendants of African American slaves. Yet, Afro-Caribbean immigrants have test scores and statistics that are near those of whites and Asians.
How is this possible if the world is so racist?
Afro-Caribbean immigrants obviously look black, so in theory they should be subject to the same racism as descendants of African American slaves. Yet, Afro-Caribbean immigrants have test scores and statistics that are near those of whites and Asians.
How is this possible if the world is so racist?
32
I am Afro-Carribean and I can assure you every Afro Carribean I know complain about the daily racism that we experience. The higher in economic class you go, the more you face racism and white privileges. We fight it by refusing to give in to tyranny.
13
Look up the word "socioeconomic." Then read any article about the racial distribution of the political economy based on race and nationality. You'll find your answer there.
3
You are making exceedingly valid point and I was just thinking about precisely that the other day.
When hundreds of Nigerian physicians are coming to the US to get their board exams, residency and start practicing they are filling up various racial quotas and set-asides as traditionally underepresented. protected racial minoritz, etc.
Yet, like their couterparts from India, Pakistan, etc. they are privileged, usuallz coming from upper classes, and using their professional degrees and training to become top 5 percent earnes in this country.
Above all: Mainstream population as well as businesses, luxury car dealerships, financial planners, real estate brokers, etc. are tripping over to have them as customers.
Color of their skin or their race is no detriment to both parties.
To close: Chinese, who were half-slavers when building Sacramento Valley agricultural infrastructure and Western rairoads as well as Japanese in 20th century were subject to rampant racism, all kind of discrimination, even confiscation of property and placement in concentration camps. Yet, look where they are now, including Vietnamese Boat People, Korean shop keepers, coming here with zero knowledge of English. They do so well that in riots their shops are targets of looters and generally despised for supposedly taking money from inner city population.
When hundreds of Nigerian physicians are coming to the US to get their board exams, residency and start practicing they are filling up various racial quotas and set-asides as traditionally underepresented. protected racial minoritz, etc.
Yet, like their couterparts from India, Pakistan, etc. they are privileged, usuallz coming from upper classes, and using their professional degrees and training to become top 5 percent earnes in this country.
Above all: Mainstream population as well as businesses, luxury car dealerships, financial planners, real estate brokers, etc. are tripping over to have them as customers.
Color of their skin or their race is no detriment to both parties.
To close: Chinese, who were half-slavers when building Sacramento Valley agricultural infrastructure and Western rairoads as well as Japanese in 20th century were subject to rampant racism, all kind of discrimination, even confiscation of property and placement in concentration camps. Yet, look where they are now, including Vietnamese Boat People, Korean shop keepers, coming here with zero knowledge of English. They do so well that in riots their shops are targets of looters and generally despised for supposedly taking money from inner city population.
7
Everyone seems to be jumping on the bandwagon on what you call "the nation's latest racial hot zone," but If you want to have an honest conversation, let's have one..let's talk about issues they can control such as high crime rates, high dropout rates, etc. And let's also talk about something else: Where are black parents? Kids aren't going to school, then why aren't they being disciplined? How are they going to succeed without an education, something most other poor and middle class citizens understand. In Baltimore for instance, the problem isn't poor schools, the problem is poor students and their parents.
43
Own up BB, let's talk about the issues WE can control, like targeting people of color by the police and the criminal justice system, like judgments based on skin color in all areas of our society. If these are addressed, you'll find that the "issues" you raise will fade away. We're not talking about forgiving criminal behavior perpetrated by blacks, we're talking about eliminating criminal behavior by police forces and institutional racism that targets people for exclusion and punishment simply because of skin color.
13
As a male, even when well in retirement age, I am being systematically profiled, looked at with suspicious eyes both by general public as well as police, checked up, etc. even when white and highly educated with professional appearance etc.
How it is so?
Because both the public, namely female, as well as law enforcement know that probability that I, as a male, might commit any kind of violent crime is about 11-times higher than when I would be a female.
So, unless I transition to female gender, I have to live, every second, every day, entire life when interacting or being close to the public or law enforcement with stereotype that they see me, a male, as potential threat and potential criminal. They cant ignore the statistics and probability. That would not be wise and responsible and I cant ask that from them or demand government or media to get it from their heads.
How it is so?
Because both the public, namely female, as well as law enforcement know that probability that I, as a male, might commit any kind of violent crime is about 11-times higher than when I would be a female.
So, unless I transition to female gender, I have to live, every second, every day, entire life when interacting or being close to the public or law enforcement with stereotype that they see me, a male, as potential threat and potential criminal. They cant ignore the statistics and probability. That would not be wise and responsible and I cant ask that from them or demand government or media to get it from their heads.
The police are the sole defense against the entire barbarization of American society. On that showing, I applaud the "brutality" of the police, which is far too occasional and mild in my estimation.
2
Sad that these articluate young men are treated disrepectfully.
However, as long as the majority of young black males have criminal records, whites will continue to be afraid of them. It's simple statistics. You dont see whites crossing the street to avoid elderly blacks, or black women of any age do you? No -- it's strictly a fear of crime. and young inner city black males commit a lot of them.
you can always find exceptions to the rule, but take a walk down pennsylvania avenue in Balto where the riots were and see how many impressive kids like these you find. I mentored in schools there that had metal dectectors 20 years ago, the guns and knives were so bad. there is not a lot of hope in these places, not a lot of parenting. and not a lot of teaching I would add as an aside (part of the balto problem)
please note how many of the people in this video referenced "solid upbringing". it's absent in most inner cities today. without a return to the concept of family and parenting, nothing postive will happen for black inner city people. and I dont think white people can make that happen, either.
However, as long as the majority of young black males have criminal records, whites will continue to be afraid of them. It's simple statistics. You dont see whites crossing the street to avoid elderly blacks, or black women of any age do you? No -- it's strictly a fear of crime. and young inner city black males commit a lot of them.
you can always find exceptions to the rule, but take a walk down pennsylvania avenue in Balto where the riots were and see how many impressive kids like these you find. I mentored in schools there that had metal dectectors 20 years ago, the guns and knives were so bad. there is not a lot of hope in these places, not a lot of parenting. and not a lot of teaching I would add as an aside (part of the balto problem)
please note how many of the people in this video referenced "solid upbringing". it's absent in most inner cities today. without a return to the concept of family and parenting, nothing postive will happen for black inner city people. and I dont think white people can make that happen, either.
65
I beg to differ. They grab their pocketbooks around me too and I am a middle-aged, black women in my 50's.
6
"THE MAJORITY"? SOURCE PLEASE. (Fox news doesn't count).
3
You have just made the assumption, as do many, with your statement "... However, as long as the majority of young black males have criminal records, whites will continue to be afraid of them..." the majority? Really? Statistics don't tell the whole story and can certainly be construed (or misconstrued) to justify or rationalize any point of view. Don't you find it rather suspicious to hear story after story, testimony after testimony of people of color being stopped, detained, frisked .... without cause or provocation? What do you ascribe this to? The common thread is skin color (race) ... not language, socioeconomic status, neighborhood, school, family upbringing, intelligence, political affiliation... the well-to-do-articulate-only-got-a-parking-ticket person of color has to walk the same color line as the low-income-underserved-spent-a-night-in-jail person of color. And this is 2015.
2
Well what do you do as a cop when someone you trying to arrest does not comply? perhaps the guy in Staten Island should have been tazed. If he was tazed and died as a result then we would be having the same conversation. So, as a black person what do you do when a person does not comply with the arresting cop?
10
DWB "driving while black" is not just an offense that blacks commit. In states like Arizonastan and Alabamastan, DWB is also "driving while brown."
7
DWB happens here in CT also.
We, white people, must acknowledge experiences of all people of color and recognize the limitations and bias of our own experience. Denial is not the answer. Susan from NY is WRONG.
11
NO, Susan from NY is CORRECT.
I am a white male, and this video reminded of an experience from back in the 1984 when on holiday with a black friend. A group of us were in college and got together on Cape Cod for the weekend. It was late, and we were eating at a buzzy pizza place. During the meal, we were taunted by a group at a different table because our friend was black. The white kids at our table had never experienced racism, and we ended up getting into a brawl. However, our black friend was not angry, and took the taunting in stride: he simply wanted to leave. Latter on, he told us that that events like this were common, so he did his best to simply ignore them.
54
In my 50 plus years I have never seen someone taunted for being black. So, the assertion that your friend is commonly taunted for being black sounds like a fabrication. Cape Cod is a liberal tolerant area. Yes, I am calling you a liar
10
Thank you, Racist! Oops, sorry, I meant Realist! You have provided the perfect example of white elitism for readers. YOU have not seen this element of racism, and therefore it does not exist. If we applied this to other realms, it sounds so ridiculous. i.e. I have never been to Mount Everest, so I know that it isn't there. In fact, that hiker is LYING! I have never studied astrophysics, so now I will lecture you on the topic of astrophysics. Etcetera.While your comment probably seems extreme and over the top to many readers the sad fact is that many of us are guilty of doing the same thing to different degrees: denying or downplaying the existence of problems that we have not experienced.
11
Realist, before you make from your singular experience a judgment about all humanity, please do more research.
6
Well it is not mentioned but these young men are victimized twice; by being stereotyped as criminals or lazy by the general culture and by their own culture which stigmatizes those who strive for success as "acting white." They run a double gauntlet of the white world where they are outsiders and the street culture where along with muggings and robberies to worry about, they have to worry about "disrespecting" other young men who may resort to aggression in their search for respect.
24
"By their own culture..."
What culture is that? Black culture in itself does not stigmatize other black people who strive for success. There may be subcultures that do - like if you are black and poor, but black culture in itself does not penalize other black people for being successful. I am black and successful and not a single black person I know has ever told me I was "acting white." Have I not experienced black culture?
Please, please, please do not equate black culture with the culture of poverty. It is not the same thing.
What culture is that? Black culture in itself does not stigmatize other black people who strive for success. There may be subcultures that do - like if you are black and poor, but black culture in itself does not penalize other black people for being successful. I am black and successful and not a single black person I know has ever told me I was "acting white." Have I not experienced black culture?
Please, please, please do not equate black culture with the culture of poverty. It is not the same thing.
Sounds pretty much what my parents told me at a young age growing up in lily white Minnesota. The young men in this documentary should have few problems in life.
3
And all the other kids conversations about growing up are less important?
11
Yes! For the five minutes that it took to watch the video, others kids' conversations are less important. Now try watching the latest Beyonce video on youtube. You may be disquieted to learn that, while you are watching that video, no other pop stars are featured; their voices, silenced. This is an injustice. We need every voice, all the time!
1
I would love to see documentaries from African American men who overcame the racism and other challenges African American men face. We need to have the boys hear the success stories, to see good role models who look like them, to see that, as bad as the challenges they face may seem to be, they can overcome.
President Obama, Herman Cain, Dick Parsons, Bill Cosby, Dr. Ben Carson, General Colin Powell, Stanley O'Neal, Senator Tim Scott, where are you? How did you overcome?
President Obama, Herman Cain, Dick Parsons, Bill Cosby, Dr. Ben Carson, General Colin Powell, Stanley O'Neal, Senator Tim Scott, where are you? How did you overcome?
6
I am almost 100% sure that each of the above has a story where they faced racism and other obstacles and they continued on despite. Just because you have overcome adversity and thrived does not mean that you are not affected. Why do we have to overcome should be your question?
4
While we are waiting around or trying to actively bring about a change in the way it now is, I would advise everyone to look at the success stories as a blueprint for overcoming their current reality. If you live your life as a struggle, it will be a struggle (I still can't find out who made that quote, but it rings quite true.)
Please don't use Ben Carson and Bill Cosby in the same sentence. Thank you
As long at 6.5% of the population commits half the murders in this country...
23
...you will continue to be racist?
1
84% of those murders are against each other - white racism is the mother of black's self- hatred.
1
This is to the NY TImes staff.
You have the email addresses and other contact info for all of the commenters here. Contact the people that are having trouble understanding the point of this video series for your next video/article... The very audience you are trying to instruct is having a very hard time understanding the point of this series. Reach out to them to get further comment and understanding, and then print their replies. Normally comment sections are a waste of time. But your audience is telling you they are confused, reach out and interview them.
You're welcome ;)
You have the email addresses and other contact info for all of the commenters here. Contact the people that are having trouble understanding the point of this video series for your next video/article... The very audience you are trying to instruct is having a very hard time understanding the point of this series. Reach out to them to get further comment and understanding, and then print their replies. Normally comment sections are a waste of time. But your audience is telling you they are confused, reach out and interview them.
You're welcome ;)
19
Sadly, it is you who have missed the point. the real issue is not articulate young man it is the ghetto culture that liberals have excused and facilitated for five decades now.
pick any large city in this country and whether you're black or white take a walk through the predominantly black part of that city and let us know how things go.
pick any large city in this country and whether you're black or white take a walk through the predominantly black part of that city and let us know how things go.
1
You believe it is the mission of a newspaper to instruct, and then test for mastery of the material? That is frightening.
1
Comment sections are rarely a waste of time, especially on this site. Rather, I find them quite illuminating.
1
Great kids and young men. Articulate. Sensitive. Respectful. Aware of the world around them. Aware that the world does not revolve around them.
The striking them about them, aside from their photogenic good looks, is they were articulate. They weren't speaking "white," they were articulate and not embarrassed about it. They have learned something from their parents and their schooling. They each give every impression that if they continue to develop as people, they will succeed. They should be confident about that.
So let me give you a conversation about growing up white in a majority black neighborhood where the dropout rate exceeds the attendance rate. Where the white kids need to be alert and ready to act when three or more black kids follow them into a school bathroom, or sit around them on a bus. Where when somebody bumps into you on the street, you better be prepared for that somebody to sucker punch you. Where your home has been broken into so many times you had the police on speed dial.
Stacking the deck in a short video is effective to make a simple emotional statement about a complex problem like race relations. It does nothing else.
The striking them about them, aside from their photogenic good looks, is they were articulate. They weren't speaking "white," they were articulate and not embarrassed about it. They have learned something from their parents and their schooling. They each give every impression that if they continue to develop as people, they will succeed. They should be confident about that.
So let me give you a conversation about growing up white in a majority black neighborhood where the dropout rate exceeds the attendance rate. Where the white kids need to be alert and ready to act when three or more black kids follow them into a school bathroom, or sit around them on a bus. Where when somebody bumps into you on the street, you better be prepared for that somebody to sucker punch you. Where your home has been broken into so many times you had the police on speed dial.
Stacking the deck in a short video is effective to make a simple emotional statement about a complex problem like race relations. It does nothing else.
75
Making this short statement is emotional, but it does do something else. (I've lived in black neighborhoods, though not through my school years: but I'm not completely naive.)
But the first thing most non-black Americans need to do is to look into the faces of some really great young black men and feel a human connection. This is what the video did for me.
So many non-black Americans, for many reasons, don't look fully into the face of black Americans. My own experience is that the more contact, the more comfortable; and the more comfortable one is, the less tension on the other side.
I met an older black guy a couple of weeks ago who had bright blue eyes. He told me that most people didn't seem to notice. What does that mean, I wonder? At any rate, I got to hear an amazing story about how his eyes changed color one night, and how both he and his wife were so surprised. Unless you meet him some day and actually look at him, and read him right and thus feel comfortable opening a conversation, I guess you'll never know what happened.
But the first thing most non-black Americans need to do is to look into the faces of some really great young black men and feel a human connection. This is what the video did for me.
So many non-black Americans, for many reasons, don't look fully into the face of black Americans. My own experience is that the more contact, the more comfortable; and the more comfortable one is, the less tension on the other side.
I met an older black guy a couple of weeks ago who had bright blue eyes. He told me that most people didn't seem to notice. What does that mean, I wonder? At any rate, I got to hear an amazing story about how his eyes changed color one night, and how both he and his wife were so surprised. Unless you meet him some day and actually look at him, and read him right and thus feel comfortable opening a conversation, I guess you'll never know what happened.
1
Given the publicity on police killings of young black men, I've recently been wondering about self-identity in young black males: how does the world around them shape how they feel about themselves? This piece deals directly with that and is very helpful.
I've long been aware that as a white female, I'm rarely or never perceived as threatening in regard to criminal activities or dangerousness. The only times I've had this experience were as a teenager when salespeople would follow me around stores (presumably concerned about shoplifting). Also, once I was threatened by a police officer during a traffic pullover when he mistook my nervous smile for disrespect. Both experiences were upsetting; the second was frightening. How much worse must this be when it's an everyday experience which starts in youth and involves far more danger?
I've long been aware that as a white female, I'm rarely or never perceived as threatening in regard to criminal activities or dangerousness. The only times I've had this experience were as a teenager when salespeople would follow me around stores (presumably concerned about shoplifting). Also, once I was threatened by a police officer during a traffic pullover when he mistook my nervous smile for disrespect. Both experiences were upsetting; the second was frightening. How much worse must this be when it's an everyday experience which starts in youth and involves far more danger?
38
As a male, white male at late 60s, of professional background and appearance, I am frequently - all the time? - perceived by members of the public, mainly women and girls as well as policemen as someone who might be possible threat.
The list of such daily situations is rather long.
Why it is so, even when I am white, elderly, professionally looking?
Because people, starting with female, all the way to law enforcement know that statistical probability that any male is likely to commit a violent crime is 11-times higher than female might do.
So, I cant and I dont blame them acting on such significant statistics and probability. Their supposed bias and stereotype thus their facial expression and defensive behavior make perfect, logical sense and cant be erased by any noble indoctrination.
The list of such daily situations is rather long.
Why it is so, even when I am white, elderly, professionally looking?
Because people, starting with female, all the way to law enforcement know that statistical probability that any male is likely to commit a violent crime is 11-times higher than female might do.
So, I cant and I dont blame them acting on such significant statistics and probability. Their supposed bias and stereotype thus their facial expression and defensive behavior make perfect, logical sense and cant be erased by any noble indoctrination.
Does any cross the street out of fear of middle aged black females coming home from work?
Are they perceived as 'threatening in regard to criminal activities or dangerousness'?
If not, why is that?
Are they perceived as 'threatening in regard to criminal activities or dangerousness'?
If not, why is that?
I can answer that first question for you as a 25 yr old black male. When you feel people devaluing and marginalizing you for so long, you tend to subconsciously latch on and actually believe the nonsense. Obviously this can pose a huge problem when you have had 300 years of being told you are worthless you start feeling that way.
Now obviously life isn't all bad for all black people. My parents were able to start from humble beginnings and end up as physicians with multiple advanced degrees. But it takes a lot of courage to overcome a financial rut while still facing these societal feelings of inferiority.
Now obviously life isn't all bad for all black people. My parents were able to start from humble beginnings and end up as physicians with multiple advanced degrees. But it takes a lot of courage to overcome a financial rut while still facing these societal feelings of inferiority.
2
There was NO police misconduct in Ferguson or Staten Island!!! Revise your article to properly reflect that the police officers in Staten Island and Ferguson did nothing wrong. STOP making excuses for violence. While I understand that I could never understand what it is like to be a young black man (I am a white woman) why don't we try and help young black men understand as best as they can what it is like to be a 25 year old police officer facing danger as well?
25
Police in Staten Island did nothing wrong? Really? Just because they weren't charged doesn't mean that they did the right thing, as almost anyone watching that video would agree.
17
.....interesting in that the police are supposed to be PUBLIC SERVANTS.....but they have a penchant to MISTREAT BLACK PEOPLE!! Remember: the police have the POWER to incarcerate and possibly KILL without any consequence.....ask Amadou Diallo, Oscar Grant, Tamir Rice.....
Like Richard Pryor said: "When you're looking for justice...that just what you find: JUST US!"
Like Richard Pryor said: "When you're looking for justice...that just what you find: JUST US!"
3
How can you not understand? Have you ever been a 25 year old police officer?
Got to admit, I am having trouble accepting some of the comments posted that seem to suggest that these young men have outdated views of the way things are, or that somehow they should realize that they need to simply work hard and not "blame America". Like any opinions, my guess is some of the views expressed by these incredibly articulate young men may have more grounding in reality than others, but I do not question for one second the sincerity of their beliefs. I feel incredibly sad that anyone would have to grow up feeling this way or having a mother who is afraid for her son every time he leaves the house because he might run into police.
Moreover, I so wish there was some way for me (a middle-aged white guy) to reach out more powerfully and let people of all colors know that not just myself but all people I call friends (white and otherwise) absolutely deplore racism, and we do get that the system is not quite right yet in terms of equality. This is more than white guilt, but real love, and I hope that this resonates with someone.
Moreover, I so wish there was some way for me (a middle-aged white guy) to reach out more powerfully and let people of all colors know that not just myself but all people I call friends (white and otherwise) absolutely deplore racism, and we do get that the system is not quite right yet in terms of equality. This is more than white guilt, but real love, and I hope that this resonates with someone.
79
You, my friend, are a rare find and your sentiments resonate with me. Thank you.
If a black mother is worried every time her son leaves the house because of police, she is worrying about the wrong group.
It resonates Doug, and thank you for sharing.
I really liked hearing what these kids had to say. But I'm surprised we didn't get to hear from any young black boys talking about the difficulties of being raised by young single mothers or grandparents and wondering what it's like for kids raised by married parents.
I realize, of course, this isn't the experience of all black kids, but it is of most, statistics say. And as a white guy raised by a single mother, I can tell you that not having a father around is huge.
I realize, of course, this isn't the experience of all black kids, but it is of most, statistics say. And as a white guy raised by a single mother, I can tell you that not having a father around is huge.
52
"I can tell you that not having a father around is huge."
This is the single most important issue for blackmales - not cop killings.
This is the single most important issue for blackmales - not cop killings.
9
And many black fathers are being removed from their communities en masse. Black man are incarcerated for very low-level, petty crimes at a right higher than their white petty-crime committing peers. Crimes that likely emerge from a variety of factors, including the desperation of poverty, having a less than optimal education, and a sense of powerlessness and anger that rises out of trying to live in a racist society. Or, crimes like marijuana possession where whites are rarely penalized for it. If you believe that one solution is to have black fathers around, then bring out your compassionate hearts and support black men. Listen to their experiences and ask them what do -they- need to become successful? Preaching about what black men should do or be is not going to help anyone.
1
I didnt mind growing up in a single parent household. My mother had it very hard at times but for the most part I was shielded from that. I graduated from college with an accounting degree and now I get to experience the racist professional world first hand. In school I was always at the top of my class and as a result got to skip grades. In the professional world there's a phobia of black men being in power.
3
Let me guess more victimhood drivel? I'm Black 37, with a MBA from a top school making decent money. Have I endured slights? You bet. Heck I've even endured them from other Black people at various times during my life for speaking white or merely being dark skin.
You know how I got my internship during business school? I got it from a Black executive at a Fortune 500 company.
These kids need to be empowered not to be made to feel that they are being persecuted. This constant narrative of black men being victimized needs to stop. There are countless black men doing great things out there focus on that.
You know how I got my internship during business school? I got it from a Black executive at a Fortune 500 company.
These kids need to be empowered not to be made to feel that they are being persecuted. This constant narrative of black men being victimized needs to stop. There are countless black men doing great things out there focus on that.
106
Good for you, Ed!! But these kids ARE being persecuted. Especially those whole live in the inner city. Not only that, they are being harassed and discriminated against. Just as one example of racism does not condemn a whole society, your example does not exonerate it either. But a pattern becomes undeniable.
18
Exactly. I am a dark skinned Asian woman. There are times when I feel being talked over, looked down, not valued etc. But I never think it is because something is wrong with me rather it is the ignorance of the person on the giving end. When I say this, I don't imply that I felt treated this way by white people. I have been treated this way by people of all races and colors at different times. I don't call it racism. It is just that people are predisposed to assume certain things about people based on how they look. Look comes first and then getting to know a person and understanding what someone is worth takes more time and effort. I agree, we shouldn't brainwash kids this way by telling them everyone is out there to discriminate against them. That affects their self esteem and confidence how they view the world. Keep your head up, do the right things, give your best and the rest will follow.
23
With respect, I don't think it's "drivel." Some of us are stronger and equipped with extra stamina than others. Some of us have an easier time just because of who were were born to, where, and when. I survived a dramatically bad childhood but not everyone facing similar odds does as well - not sure why, but I have lived long enough to realize that it's an internal gyroscope. I do agree that deducing people into a sense of victimhood is a negative. Never helps.
11
Well Gee who cares if folks walk on the other side of the street, look at you funny, or you get stopped. I live in the south and these things might happen in crime ridden areas but not in general. Just more excuses for not being a success. And foolish progressive biased reporting by this paper.
13
Yes, America. There is no racism and discrimination at all in this country. Why don't you pretend to be a Black man for one day in Tennessee and see what happens.
3
I would not term this "progressive" reporting. Rather, it is "politically correct" reporting. And, yes, it is biased.
1
I grew up in a 1970s-1980s middle class/upper middle class suburb of Dayton, Ohio and the racism was relentless. I only wanted to attend school and to be treated as others, but that was never the case. I experienced nasty racists comments and actions from teachers, parents and friends. For example when I decided to quit high school football so that I could join the national forensics league (I wanted to become a writer); everyone from my football coach to my teachers ridiculed me. My high school gym instructor stopped my gym class to point out that I was leaving football. He said to the entire class, "You don't want to be like him a coward - he is so chicken that he turned from Black to White!" I was humiliated as everyone laughed at me. My best friend's father was a klansman and a severe racist. Remarkably my friend was not racist and was terribly embarrassed by his father. Until I was 22 years old I did not have any Black friends - my world was Lilly white. To this day I can count on one hand the friends who have not said or done something racist to me. It is sad because I am 52 years old with hundreds of White friends. What have done to confront these issues? I have decided to become expat. I am convinced that it will take hundreds of years to wrest the vile hatred and racism that has become a predominate feature of whites in America. I have given up hope that things will change and improve. There is no desire to be different or truthful. Shame.
38
You've decided to become an expat where? The USA is one of the least racist societies on the planet. Good luck wherever you decide to go.
6
Where did you relocate?
you say that hundreds of white friends have made racist comments or committed racist actions. Because they were friends (and not among the thousands of acquaintances), I imagine those doing it didn't even realize it.
Would you be willing to detail some of these actions that perhaps white reading this engage in?
Would you be willing to detail some of these actions that perhaps white reading this engage in?
An exceptionally heartwarming documentary that erases race as it speaks of it.
I too read "Huck Finn" within the last years and unfortunately the N word is now etched in my mind, but I know that that word was as much a noun as "Black" is now, or "negro" was in the past. I'm pained every time I think the N word and immediately think of regret at reading the book, but I quickly rationalize it as just a chronicle of those past times.
One day, all race qualifiers will be in the past and all people will truly be equal before each other.
I too read "Huck Finn" within the last years and unfortunately the N word is now etched in my mind, but I know that that word was as much a noun as "Black" is now, or "negro" was in the past. I'm pained every time I think the N word and immediately think of regret at reading the book, but I quickly rationalize it as just a chronicle of those past times.
One day, all race qualifiers will be in the past and all people will truly be equal before each other.
1
" I think the N word and immediately think of regret at reading the book"
This is patently absurd. Its a book. A work of fiction that reflected its time. You should be able to read it without freaking out. Take it as instructive for life in the 19th century.
This is patently absurd. Its a book. A work of fiction that reflected its time. You should be able to read it without freaking out. Take it as instructive for life in the 19th century.
2
Patrick, I'd strongly recommend that you re-read Huck Finn, as the book's message is essentially anti-racist.
7
Nobody freaked out but you Dave.
1
While I don't doubt the sad stories any of these young men tell, they're going to do just fine. They speak with intelligence, grace and humor. And for the most part, our society bends over backwards via affirmative action policies that will justly reward them for their efforts to overcome what most expect of them. They're smart, and they make us smarter. Kudos to them for not slipping into a trap of self-hatred and victimization.
But the fact is these men don't seem anything like Brown, Garner, Scott, or Gray. I doubt any of these men has ever committed a crime or would. Men like the above "martyrs" and many like them fuel the stereotypes these men fight against, and the stereotypes that keep many of us safer and more secure in our property. Those stereotypes exist for a reason.
Maybe the next series can feature interviews with young black criminals. Seriously - they're not an unsympathetic lot, and no one ever lets them speak for themselves. I bet their side of things would be more enlightening, too. All most of us racists will see with men and boys like these are darker and more admirable versions of ourselves, who face more obstacles with more grace.
Give the thugs a voice, and let's engage with them.
But the fact is these men don't seem anything like Brown, Garner, Scott, or Gray. I doubt any of these men has ever committed a crime or would. Men like the above "martyrs" and many like them fuel the stereotypes these men fight against, and the stereotypes that keep many of us safer and more secure in our property. Those stereotypes exist for a reason.
Maybe the next series can feature interviews with young black criminals. Seriously - they're not an unsympathetic lot, and no one ever lets them speak for themselves. I bet their side of things would be more enlightening, too. All most of us racists will see with men and boys like these are darker and more admirable versions of ourselves, who face more obstacles with more grace.
Give the thugs a voice, and let's engage with them.
13
I'm mixed up. Is this an ad campaign for the Democrat run DVFRCE Industry (Dependency, Victimhood, False Racism claims and Excuses for Everything)?
8
Hi Maxine,
Did we see the same video? None of these young men seemed like anything you listed but in fact the opposite. One of them said he will not live in fear, another said his mom told him to endure, another said that he will be fine by being articulate and aware. Please explain.
Did we see the same video? None of these young men seemed like anything you listed but in fact the opposite. One of them said he will not live in fear, another said his mom told him to endure, another said that he will be fine by being articulate and aware. Please explain.
9
Mixed up indeed. And tone deaf to boot.
7
How is it that this paper cares so much about the plight of African americans - but none at all for the much worse plight of the Plaestinians living under decades of Israeli occupation?
http://www.jonathan-cook.net/blog/2014-02-11/aussie-tv-dares-to-show-the...
Got hypocrisy?
http://www.jonathan-cook.net/blog/2014-02-11/aussie-tv-dares-to-show-the...
Got hypocrisy?
3
Hi Mike,
We should care about the plight of African Americans because they are Americans and if we can't treat our own fairly, how can we expect others to do the same?
We should care about the plight of African Americans because they are Americans and if we can't treat our own fairly, how can we expect others to do the same?
11
Getting our own house in order first is important so that we don't come off as hypocrites when we criticize other governments' treatment of their minority citizens.
5
As a white person who grew up in racially segregated Long Island and now lives in the much more diverse New York City, I consider myself experiencing a "lifetime of recovery" from the racism that was inbred in me growing up. The main source of that racism: the local television news which irresponsibly led off every evening broadcast with sensationalistic coverage of people of color being arrested for one crime or another, while completely underreporting the societal racism and neglect that was and is responsible for those very crimes! When such imagery is drilled into your head day in and day out, for years at a time, and it is virtually your only exposure to people of color because you live in a segregated society with segregated schools and other institutions, it takes years to overcome. I still experience racist emotional responses when I see people of color on the street walking towards me.
32
NYC has different local news than Long Island?
1
Stop it. Anyone can move anywhere they want if they can afford it.
If everything they say is true, how did Barack Obama every become 44th President of the United States?
I'd like to believe them, but Obama was elected and re-elected to the highest political office in the most powerful country on earth. If they can't succeed, don't blame America. We way ahead of everyone, including Europe, where blacks can't even be elected to local and regional offices.
I'd like to believe them, but Obama was elected and re-elected to the highest political office in the most powerful country on earth. If they can't succeed, don't blame America. We way ahead of everyone, including Europe, where blacks can't even be elected to local and regional offices.
9
And somehow being elected is a measure of success? Being educated, having a valuable job, and respecting the rule of law and our culture makes you a success. Many can do this, some never will.
1
Just because there are exceptions, doesn't mean there aren't rules. Most of us are rules.
10
By your logic since Andrew Carnegie became rich, why are we all not rich. Please attempt to use logic and facts. Those are what solve problems. Ignorance and bigotry create them.
8
Until the establishment realizes that young blacks have to have access to worthwhile jobs and education, they are going to be living in ghettos amid all the crime that is afoot there. And as long as all the drugs and crime exists in the ghettos, people generally are going to be watchful and fearful of young blacks because of their associations with the ghettos. So to give young blacks a more even playing field and get them out of the ghettos we must have jobs for them. That message has to somehow be received by the 1% enjoying their wonderful lives based on shipping jobs overseas and giving jobs to robots instead of human beings. We are going to have all the evils of the ghettos as long as we do nothing about the hopeless lives that jobless ghetto-ites are forced to face. How is it that the 1% with the 99% of our wealth, don't seem to have the wisdom to see that the ghettos have to go and the way to send them on their way is through a serious and comprehensive jobs program a la President Roosevelt.
7
Bill M - Never mind the 1% shipping jobs overseas let's look at the Democratic and Republican politicians in our midst who want to increase the amount of foreign nationals in the United States. Who do you think these foreign nationals will take entry level jobs from, young, black kids.
We already allow over one million LEGAL aliens to immigrate to the US each and every year. Now add to that number those with no respect for our laws that just come here illegally. When adults with families have to take entry level jobs what do you think is left for young black kids? It's so easy to blame the 1% but who is really calling the shots?
We already allow over one million LEGAL aliens to immigrate to the US each and every year. Now add to that number those with no respect for our laws that just come here illegally. When adults with families have to take entry level jobs what do you think is left for young black kids? It's so easy to blame the 1% but who is really calling the shots?
2
Hi Tired of Hypocrisy,
The 1%.
The 1%.
Young blacks do have access to education, but over 50% fail to graduate high school, and then wonder why they can't find a job. Next they blame society and scream discrimination.
1
Fantastic feature.
If this series succeeds, can NYT do the same with other minority children? Hispanic (now greater in number than blacks) and Asians.
They deserve a hearing, too, even if their persecution is more subtle than it is for blacks. It's high time to broaden the white-black conversation for the reality that is much more diverse in America.
If this series succeeds, can NYT do the same with other minority children? Hispanic (now greater in number than blacks) and Asians.
They deserve a hearing, too, even if their persecution is more subtle than it is for blacks. It's high time to broaden the white-black conversation for the reality that is much more diverse in America.
7
Hi C,
Huge numbers of African Americans were brought into this country as slaves. Though institutionalized slavery no longer exists in this country, the scars of this evil still exists. Many African American men make heroic efforts to break away from the cycle and become successful but if you listen to their stories, the damage slavery has done is not easily erased.
Huge numbers of African Americans were brought into this country as slaves. Though institutionalized slavery no longer exists in this country, the scars of this evil still exists. Many African American men make heroic efforts to break away from the cycle and become successful but if you listen to their stories, the damage slavery has done is not easily erased.
5
We Americans, by necessity, should look selfishly at eradicating racism as national preservation of our societal wellbeing.
It is for ourselves and posterity, that this issue should be dealt; I only foresee a gathering storm of calamity under status quo.
It is for ourselves and posterity, that this issue should be dealt; I only foresee a gathering storm of calamity under status quo.
4
Well Gee we have already eradicated racism to a very large extent. Try learning about the past and how different today is.
Why do strangers cross the street to avoid you?
When I was a small kid, I crossed the street to avoid teenagers, with good reason. This is not new.
When I was a small kid, I crossed the street to avoid teenagers, with good reason. This is not new.
20
Clearly you missed the entire point of the feature
8
This is a very good column. Will you do another one on what it is like to be an African American girl or young woman? Do they face challenges anything like their fathers and brothers?
21
These young men were beautiful, intelligent, well-spoken, and a tribute to their respective age-groups (if you expected me to write, "to their race," I'm not sorry to disappoint you); I am a white male, who after six decades of life has finally, truly been able to get past race to see these young men as terrific human beings What a bunch of class-acts. Bravo!
43
Utterly heartbreaking ...
11
Beautiful men who speak with intelligence and most of all, feelings that tell stories. What I heard and saw was what I thought was the most salient point and that was the difference the parents make in their lives.
If all black families took this message to heart, there would be less racism. Comportment makes amazing results and these young men are excellent at making that point. Thank you for this video - it is extremely important that it is viewed by as many people as possible.
If all black families took this message to heart, there would be less racism. Comportment makes amazing results and these young men are excellent at making that point. Thank you for this video - it is extremely important that it is viewed by as many people as possible.
3
Uh? What makes you think that black families are not involved in their lives. Good Lawd. What world do you live in? Trayvon Martin had both parents, Michael Brown had both parents, Tamir Rice had a strong family, Freddie Gray, both parents.
Where do you get this stuff? Just because the parents aren't under the same roof does that make them less parents? Or white parents separated by divorce don't count? White people raised by a single parent: Angelina Jolie, Lance Armstrong, Eric Clampton, Bill Clinton, Stephen Colbert, Orlando Bloom, Tom Cruise, Jody Foster, Cary Grant, Enrique Iglesias, Demi Moore, Clive Owen and I can go on but hopefully you get the picture.
Where do you get this stuff? Just because the parents aren't under the same roof does that make them less parents? Or white parents separated by divorce don't count? White people raised by a single parent: Angelina Jolie, Lance Armstrong, Eric Clampton, Bill Clinton, Stephen Colbert, Orlando Bloom, Tom Cruise, Jody Foster, Cary Grant, Enrique Iglesias, Demi Moore, Clive Owen and I can go on but hopefully you get the picture.
8
Really? As you have empirical evidence that all black families have strong ties even though all empirical evidence points to the lack of parental guidance and most of all, lack of community participation?
You are addressing someone who has been actively involved in civil rights since the 1950's and without a single bone of racism but concerned that you actually think that naming celebrities who are white, single parents can erase what I wrote? I was a single parent so that is definitely not the point. The point was the involvement of any parent, black, white, single, married, widowed that does not have the proper parental skills and not involved enough in their children's life. So, I don't get the picture and the picture needs unbiased opinions, not yours.
You are addressing someone who has been actively involved in civil rights since the 1950's and without a single bone of racism but concerned that you actually think that naming celebrities who are white, single parents can erase what I wrote? I was a single parent so that is definitely not the point. The point was the involvement of any parent, black, white, single, married, widowed that does not have the proper parental skills and not involved enough in their children's life. So, I don't get the picture and the picture needs unbiased opinions, not yours.
3
Racial prejudice exists, but so do a lot of other bad things. The challenge is to rise above the things we think hold us down. Racial bigotry is only one of these things, if we focus our energy on our victim status, we will have a hard time expressing our talents and developing the skills to reach our potential. There will always be hindrances to greatness, how we adapt to these inevitable obstacles will determine our fate. We are more than passive observers of our lives, what we think and what we try to do does make a difference. Is there a perfect world out there somewhere? Not yet, but each one of us can make small changes in our own lives to make our situation slightly better.
5
This film seems to have been very selectively cast.
7
Of course it was. This was to prove a point that the stories most often reported show black male youth as a singular type -- a stereotype. These youths are counterpoint. Are you shocked by them?
11
Or you may have a very selective bias.
4
I grew up with White and Asian people crossing the street to avoid being on the sidewalk with a Black person, heard my fair share of racial slurs, even nearly coming to blows during a HS football game when a fan from the opposing team yelled one to me as I walked off the field during halftime.
It angered and frustrated me, but I understand that a lot of the hostility, distrust and resentment I faced and many others face in this country is often self-inflicted.
As a result things are worse. Look no farther than the White House. I gasped a few weeks ago as I stood in the ballroom at the White House Correspondent's Dinner when Barack Obama arrogantly mocked efforts to hold him accountable or for him to work with the Republican Party, or anyone he disagrees with. "I don't have a bucket list." Mr. Obama said. "I have something that rhymes with bucket" as the weaklings we trust to give us news cheered and laughed. I didn't laugh and my reasons are in line with the race problems that persist today.
It is seen as "cool" for Black people to "act out" to be confrontational, bellicose and belligerent. That negative stereotype is championed in our culture and entertainers in my race who do it well are millionaires.
But coolness has a price. It gives those who resent Black people license to keep doing so, and it keeps us in a societal box, unable to aspire to authentic equality. So yes, growing up Black has its challenges, but sadly many of the difficulties are self inflicted.
It angered and frustrated me, but I understand that a lot of the hostility, distrust and resentment I faced and many others face in this country is often self-inflicted.
As a result things are worse. Look no farther than the White House. I gasped a few weeks ago as I stood in the ballroom at the White House Correspondent's Dinner when Barack Obama arrogantly mocked efforts to hold him accountable or for him to work with the Republican Party, or anyone he disagrees with. "I don't have a bucket list." Mr. Obama said. "I have something that rhymes with bucket" as the weaklings we trust to give us news cheered and laughed. I didn't laugh and my reasons are in line with the race problems that persist today.
It is seen as "cool" for Black people to "act out" to be confrontational, bellicose and belligerent. That negative stereotype is championed in our culture and entertainers in my race who do it well are millionaires.
But coolness has a price. It gives those who resent Black people license to keep doing so, and it keeps us in a societal box, unable to aspire to authentic equality. So yes, growing up Black has its challenges, but sadly many of the difficulties are self inflicted.
22
Oh please. Lighten up. The Correspondents Dinner is for self-disparaging humor. It is all in good fun. There is no need to worry about this president's dignity. In my lifetime - eleven presidents - there has never been a president or a family who has so impeccably upheld the dignity of the office and the country. None more serious and sober. Say what you want about his politics, but you can't fault the man's style.
90
DCBarrister@ "So yes, growing up Black has its challenges, but sadly many of the difficulties are self inflicted"
The triteness of that statement demonstrates how well whites elide historical significance and causation....
Typical
The triteness of that statement demonstrates how well whites elide historical significance and causation....
Typical
12
The White House Correspondents Dinner is all about skewering oneself and others. And even if it weren't, I think Obama is entitled to "arrogantly mock" others in view of the disrespect heaped upon him since 2008 by Republicans.
51
In order to have conversation you must first be willing to be honest. America has contrived its story, sanitized, polished ,and perpetuated it for generations. Misconceptions, fear, stereotypes, and contempt has been the attitude in general with white Americans.
The best thing to do is for whites to simply...listen.
The best thing to do is for whites to simply...listen.
36
Thank you. It is sometimes very difficult to get anyone to LISTEN, and not challenge your experience or call you hostile and with a chip on your shoulder.
And that is why, they lecture, you have problems.
Which is another form of racism unto itself: that there isn't anything a white person need be told by someone black, that a white person is obligated to respect or believe.
And that is why, they lecture, you have problems.
Which is another form of racism unto itself: that there isn't anything a white person need be told by someone black, that a white person is obligated to respect or believe.
5
A conversation also requires more then one voice. Especially if that one voice is itself racist, ill informed, unaccomplished and poorly educated in Democrat run schools.
1
And maybe black males need to stop committing crimes in numbers way out of proportion to the percentage in the population. Of course the men in the video are carefully chosen by the times to further their narrative. Those guys are fine - but the fact remains people do not fear anyone because of the color of their skin, its because of the prevalence of young black men in gangs and crime. If the black crime rate was severely curtailed, nobody would cross the street on the sight of a black man. Even Jesse Jackson said if he heard footsteps and turned around to see a white man he would be relieved.
The best thing for black males is to simply...go to school, study hard and play it straight.
The best thing for black males is to simply...go to school, study hard and play it straight.
1
I was about five years old and in the car with my father. The car was parked and we saw a black man being pushed out of a store after an argument with the owner. I asked why was the man (who was white) treating him that way? My father responded that it was because he was a Negro and that some people were just ignorant and you had to ignore them. Seeking to avoid that kind of treatment I recall saying that I didn't want to be a Negro, and of course a longer conversation ensued from that moment on.
At about age seven I remember heading south to visit my grand parents and having to change cars on the train in Cincinnati before the train crossed into Kentucky and Tennessee. No dinning car for Negros from that point on.
Confronting "racial issues" may be the wrong way to look at these aspects of my life. While there were singular incidents, racism was a presence in my life every day. It determined where I lived, where i went to school, who my friends were, what church I went to, which side of the park to play baseball on, what movie theaters to go to, what neighborhoods to shop in, or not shop in and what to think about when I went off to college. It meant constant vigilance when traveling in the 'white' world.
Racism remains a constant variable in my life, sometimes great, sometimes small, but always there. Even when i try to forget about it there's an almost sixth sense in the back of my mind always on guard. I wonder whether my grandchildren will live in a different world.
At about age seven I remember heading south to visit my grand parents and having to change cars on the train in Cincinnati before the train crossed into Kentucky and Tennessee. No dinning car for Negros from that point on.
Confronting "racial issues" may be the wrong way to look at these aspects of my life. While there were singular incidents, racism was a presence in my life every day. It determined where I lived, where i went to school, who my friends were, what church I went to, which side of the park to play baseball on, what movie theaters to go to, what neighborhoods to shop in, or not shop in and what to think about when I went off to college. It meant constant vigilance when traveling in the 'white' world.
Racism remains a constant variable in my life, sometimes great, sometimes small, but always there. Even when i try to forget about it there's an almost sixth sense in the back of my mind always on guard. I wonder whether my grandchildren will live in a different world.
67
These young Black men are indeed off-the-hook beautiful. Why? They all at some level speak to the power of love, Black love, if you will. I had a few tears in my eyes at the end of this video. God bless the producers of the video and the participants in it.
21
As young boys growing up in Massachusetts, my best friend and I were robbed of our fishing poles and tackle boxes one summer afternoon by three black boys, who were older and bigger than we. That was an experience I have never forgotten. Learning firsthand that I was vulnerable was a valuable lesson, and it would have been just as valuable had those boys been white or Hispanic. Did the experience affect the way I view black people? I am not aware that it did, but it may have. What happens to us when we are young and still quite innocent typically has a lasting impact. As adults, however, we have to try to put experiences like the one I describe in perspective. The young men in this video will have to try to do the same. Injustice is never easy to come to terms with; it can evade our best attempts to reconcile it with contrary experiences and impressions.
29
What wonderful kids; kind, thoughtful and articulate. It is a shame they are subjected to suspicion and danger from police and the public.
How do we break the cycle of prision and hopelessness for black youth? Minor offenses must not ruin the chances at a decent life.
How do we break the cycle of prision and hopelessness for black youth? Minor offenses must not ruin the chances at a decent life.
13
This is an excellent series, quite poignant, and many of us are looking forward to the "A Conversation with White People on Race" segment. Once again, though, we fear that the people who need to see these short films will miss seeing this or something similar to it as well. And there remains no easy answer to ensure that they do receive exposure to the realities faced by many in our society.
13
A couple of young black men crossed the street to greet my father who was getting off the Chene Street bus coming home from work. He was a laborer who never bothered anyone.
The young men assaulted him and as a result he was disabled. There were no arrests. There was no marching or picketing or looting or rock throwing.
My father should have walked the other way whey these young men crossed the street to greet him. But then those same young men would have been offended and outraged ... and on and on it goes, the liberal guilt perpetual motion machine.