'Dear White People' Is For Black People
Start writing a post
Entertainment

'Dear White People' Is For Black People

It isn't actually about you.

25
'Dear White People' Is For Black People
Filmophilee

Dear White People, if you are offended by the supposed 'platform' you have deemed the new show is taking on, perhaps you should watch it.

Okay, Okay, yes I know-- I am LATE to the party, but finals just ended so I have finally had time to binge and assess. Yes, I finally got around to watching 'Dear White People' and it is everything I hoped it would be and more. But I didn't watch in peace; timelines and feeds across every app in my mobile phone read a common distaste for Netflix's newest original.

"Could you imagine if the roles were reversed? There would be outrage."

"Yet another show for black people. But of course we could never have something like that, there would be riots in the street."

These are just a few examples of statements that clouded every social media platform as far as the eye could see. Instinctively, I want to remind these people that every other show is cast in the white majority and that all of these could be seen as a show for those in the majority. I want to bring attention to the fact that movies like the Wolf of Wallstreet and shows like Full House among almost every other, is not exactly telling of the black American narrative. But instead, I will enlighten everyone of the true intention of this satirical form of attention-seeking.

See the secret is, that much like the party planned by Sam in the show, the creators of the show want that reaction.

What better way to exemplify modern day ignorance than to create a title and watch the madness begin. Clearly those upset about this show haven't taken the time to watch it, because if they had they would realize the purpose of the show is to do exactly the opposite of focusing on white people in America; and rather to shed light of the strife of the POCs who are still today being affected by systemic racism.

Dear White People calls attention to some serious truths in not only the way black people are being oppressed, but also in the ways black people are in turn using these traits we have been taught to marginalize each other. From colorism to hair texture, this show gives insight on the ways in which we place validity on who's black enough.

This is a show by black people, for the world. Because sometimes racism isn't as blatant as black face, and simply put: some people will never know the terror of a campus security guard. The lightness or darkness of complexion isn't divisive of all groups of races and you do see color. There is something to be said that even in this context, deep seeded issues must be masked with humor to avoid being waved off as another "angry black person".

This show reminds us that the barrel of a gun in the hands of authority seems to be all too fond of a little extra melanin.

We are reminded that we have long way to go in the face of something deeply systemic, and that much can be said about an issue that can only be swallowed satirically.

This show reminds us that these are the "truths" we hold to be self evident.

Dear White People: maybe the issue is that you assumed, yet again, that this was all about you.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

41663
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

26127
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less
Adulting

Unlocking Lake People's Secrets: 15 Must-Knows!

There's no other place you'd rather be in the summer.

951405
Group of joyful friends sitting in a boat
Haley Harvey

The people that spend their summers at the lake are a unique group of people.

Whether you grew up going to the lake, have only recently started going, or have only been once or twice, you know it takes a certain kind of person to be a lake person. To the long-time lake people, the lake holds a special place in your heart, no matter how dirty the water may look.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Top 10 Reasons My School Rocks!

Why I Chose a Small School Over a Big University.

135261
man in black long sleeve shirt and black pants walking on white concrete pathway

I was asked so many times why I wanted to go to a small school when a big university is so much better. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure a big university is great but I absolutely love going to a small school. I know that I miss out on big sporting events and having people actually know where it is. I can't even count how many times I've been asked where it is and I know they won't know so I just say "somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin." But, I get to know most people at my school and I know my professors very well. Not to mention, being able to walk to the other side of campus in 5 minutes at a casual walking pace. I am so happy I made the decision to go to school where I did. I love my school and these are just a few reasons why.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments