I will tell you why Jay-Z, Beyoncé, Will Smith, Kerry Washington and other black megastars have not spoken out on the matters of #Ferguson. And that is because they rely on white money for their income. They did not become multimillionaires off the dollars in the black community alone (PUHlease!!!) They have no loyalty to the black community. So, to speak out on such controversial and racial polarizing issues like #Ferguson could mean a loss of income for them (through brand endorsements, renegotiating of contract and deals etc). Much like the black lash Penelope Cruz & Javier Bardem have received for speaking out about the Israeli attacks on Gaza. Many producers have stated that they are either reconsidering working with them, or will never work with them again. Ive given this much thought because I questioned it too. NOW! Thats not to say that some of these people are not emotionally hurt by whats going on in America. Its not to say that they dont worry about their own children or families. Its not to say that they dont think thats whats happening is inherently wrong. However, I believe that their choice to remain silent is being dictated by managers and lawyers who have warned them about losing relationships that could mean a virtual blacklist in the entertainment industry. What cause is important enough for you to risk losing your job over? For many of us although we are sickened by whats happening in #Ferguson certainly arent quitting out day jobs to go out there and protest or even bring needed supplies to protesters. So what does that make us?! With that said, this is STILL a critique of black megastars because unlike us, many have access to a financial portfolio that easily could carry them into retirement even if they never made another penny. Also, they have a much wider audience and greater influence than any single average citizen does. If I post something it may reach 3,500 people. If Beyoncé posts something it could reach 15 million people. THATS the difference. During the civil rights movement many black stars understood the importance of participating in the movement. They knew it was critical to making change in this country and thats why you always see the word activist listed among credits for stars like Harry Belafonte, Paul Robeson, Ruby Dee, Josephine Baker, Sammy Davis Jr etc. you seldom see the word activist attached to a black entertainers name today. #YeahISaidIt
Posted on: Fri, 22 Aug 2014 10:24:51 +0000
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