So, here we are. 2018—you would think that in this day and age our society would consist of total equality across all races, genders, sexuality, and so on; however, that is most definitely not the case. As a millennial, it’s almost impossible to not come across absurd stories making headlines.

Wait, let me rephrase that—as a young African American millennial it’s almost impossible to not come across stories making national news, posted on Social Media sites, and things of the like targeted solely at the Black Community. Given our nation’s history and how far one would think we’ve come, it’s unfortunate to say but racism is still very much apparent in the Black Community.

And what’s really disappointing to me is that it’s almost frowned upon whenever someone tries to use their voice to speak on wrong from right, be an advocate for injustices that still exist, or even pushing that we get the same respect as others.

But no, instead we live in a day and age where we’re mocked intentionally and indirectly, by some well-known and trusted popular companies in fact, because of who we are. These companies may not see the harm their causing by putting out something that poses as “racially offensive” but it definitely serves as a wake-up call to those who are in denial or oblivious to such matters. And for those of us that are always aware, well it’s just a reminder that we obviously are fully accepted as a race. When will we ever be?

I will not be silenced. I will speak out on any matter I feel strongly about. Wrong is wrong and right is right, and we as people should always be able to decipher between the two, however that’s not always the case. Well, at least it wasn’t for the following companies and the “racially insensitive” ads they put out.

1. Intel

Back in 2007 the computer company presented the world with an ad with intentions stated to “convey the performance capabilities of their processors through the visual metaphor of a sprinter” ; although the intentions seemed to be in the right place, in regards to how fast the performance of the current processor was, it turned out to be a flop and had people raising their eyebrows.

Here’s a quick analysis of the ad: a white man standing over a group of black men as they’re crouched in a sprinter-like stance at his feet. Yeah, I hate to be one to pull the “race card” here but the concept from the picture definitely sends out the wrong message. It is almost as if the white man is showing some type of dominance over the black men due to his body language—almost as if he posing as this “master-like character” while the black men are bowing, “servant-like”, at his feet. #IntelFail

2. Sony

The popular gaming company, Sony, released a Billboard prior to its launch of the ceramic white PSP; however, the message the billboard gave off had many shaking their heads in disbelief that the company could do something so absurd. The image pictured on the Billboard showcase two models: a white one and a black one.

To many people's disappointment the black model is made barely visible and is even being forcefully grabbed at the mouth by the white model who is staring viciously at the black model—as I look at this picture myself I get this kind of “white vs. black” vibe, and at that, the white model overpowering the black model which screams all kinds of volumes given the history of slavery. Sony definitely could’ve taken another route while promoting its new portable gaming device.

3. Nivea

“White is Purity”. Um, excuse me? The skincare brand quickly received excessive backlash after a deodorant ad gone awry. The advertisement, of course, showcased a white woman and it read “Keep it clean, keep it bright. Don’t let anything ruin it.” Of course, it’s supposed to be referring to the deodorant but as a society looking at what’s beneath the surface, it’s easy to pinpoint the insensitivity behind it.

This quote wasn’t something well-though i.e. the massive uproar it caused in terms of “race.” Was the company trying to implement the idea that a more "white" society is more preferred and idealistic?

4. Dove

Back in October of last year, Dove launched a 3 second GIF featuring a Black woman removing her shirt only to reveal a White woman underneath—the intention for the ad has been stated that it was supposed to “celebrate diversity” but instead the company missed that mark entirely. First off, the GIF transcends the idea that black women/people are “dirty” and on the opposing end, white people are cleaner.

Something that was probably set out to be innocent actually resulted in something totally cruel and hurtful as many took to social media to express their utter disgust at this ad. It's quite discerning seeing a company that's supposed to be an advocate for beauty take such a low blow at one particular like this, but is it something to be surprised at? What do you think?

5.H&M

I've saved the absolute best for last, considering this is one of the most recent racially offensive matters that has taken the internet by storm and all in just a matter of a few days; as most of you should already know, and for those of you still living under a rock and completely out of the loop with what's going on in the world today, the major clothing brand has been under fire after a photo featuring a young African American boy wearing a hoodie entitled "Coolest Monkey in the Jungle" surfaced and broke the internet.

Let me say this, being an African American you should know your roots and if you do, you'd understand 100% why this photo has angered many, not just within the black community, but across all.

One word that was used in years past, and probably still today by some, that was used to mock black people for their physical traits being advertised on something worn by young a child who doesn't know any better is the ultimate slap in the face---just to note how serious this matter is, celebrities like The Weekend and G-Eazy who had partnerships with the brand took to social media to announce their distaste at the tactless photo and ultimately the end of any collaboration with the company. This was definitely not a smart move to make H&M, please do better.

Given the mistakes these companies have made, I would hope that there wouldn't be any more of this foolishness to come. Why can't we all just live in perfect harmony? Nope, unfortunately, that's just not the world we live in.