Celebrating Black Television
As a white woman, I have to say that I really enjoy Black television. As a young girl, Redd Foxx was a hilarious old man. Good Times left a lasting impression to this day. I watched these as reruns as I was a bit too young to remember their first airings. In the 80’s, The Cosby Show was everything to me and I could not wait for each episode. The 90’s brought me A Different World, Fresh Prince of Bel Air, Living Single, and In Living Color. I dreamed of being a Fly Girl one day… except I had white girl moves. Key & Peele also drew me in quickly and has a special place in my heart.
To this day, I still watch these shows. Yes, even The Cosby Show. They bring a sense of nostalgia into my crazy little world. I feel comfortable amidst the craziness. It also reminds me of their struggles. I have to admit that I prefer movies to television and Jordan Peele has left an indelible mark in the movie world. And can we talk about how gangster a kitty and George Michael could be in the world of Key & Peele?
So why is this so important to a white woman like me? It has defied what I have been taught about people of color. Society has been demonizing them for years and continues to do so. With Black television, it combats that ugliness. I am still surprised when people act surprised that I will watch a show or movie with an all-black cast. People...have you not watched Girl’s Trip? HILARIOUS! Not only do these entertainers tell a story in their own way, they do it unapologetically. They expose that inner parts of ourselves that the White Patriarchy has deemed unacceptable. They don’t hold back or hide their feelings. They don’t behave completely two-faced, they lay it all out on the table and expose it. As a woman who was raised to not express emotion safely, I am jealous of the fearlessness.
I continue to be inspired by Black entertainers and will actively seek out their work. I am forever thankful for their hard work and boldness. They are an inspiration in my life and a source to better myself and recognize when I am falling into the systemic racist trap.
