Every once in a while, I stumble across a gem in the midst of viral videos of black people embarrassing themselves in news clips on this thing called the world wide web. One of these gems was Issa Rae’s web show, The Misadventures of Awkward Black Girl, a show I began watching in 2011. There was just something that the eighth grade clumsy version of myself fell in love with. The show was insanely hilarious and portrayed a side of the black women that isn’t typically seen on the screen or desktop for that matter, and that is the visualization of a black woman who isn’t super cool and isn’t trying to be living their awkward day to day life. Life is awkward and that is statement that I can attest to, so when I see art that depicts that, I naturally gravitate and celebrate.

Not soon after I was introduced to Akward Black Girl, the world discovered Rae’s genius, and she became an internet sensation. After taking the world by storm, she wrote a book, introduced the world to more incredible black art through her platform, and expanded her brand. Now, she has her own show on HBO.

Insecure, premiered on October 9, and is another sapphire in Issa Rae’s collection. The show is dramatic comedy that follows the life of 29 year old, Issa Dee as she goes through ups and downs in relationships, friendships, and work. The show is more of a depiction of the contemporary black women experience in a genuine and fresh way. The reason I have so much respect for her is for her honesty, and the comedic eloquence she possesses in addressing uncomfortable and realistic experiences like racism and dating. I commend her and am proud of her respect but she represents what happens when someone stands in their light. So watch Insecure and then go back on watch Awkward Black Girl and then go read Awkward Black Girl.

The Trailer for Insecure