[southernelle25]

Originally posted by The Cushite
After watching the Boondocks TV show on Comedy Central, and talking to some of my friends, I get a split of 50-50 on whether or not Aaron McGruder is airing dirty laundry or actually dissing black folks with the show. Some people comment that he is presenting a harsh reality and frustration with the black community for not accepting responsibility and progressing more as a people (i.e. the justified use of the N-word, the embracing of R. Kelly and fake thug rappers). Others seem to think that he focuses too much on the ills of the black community and not enough political critique is coming from the Huey character (some say that the Huey character in the strip is more critical of the white establishment while the character in the show is more frustrated with black folks).

I believe he is completely frustrated with aspects of the black community, and that feeling is shared by many. As for his focus, the show is still brand new. I would like to see a few more episodes before making the call. It is refreshing to see someone who isn't spending all his time blaming someone else for our problems.

Questions-

How can someone be critical of contemporay black culture and still be apologetic of it (Huey says at the end of one episode- "They are still black folks, you have to love them regardless")?

Well, you can love your family and still be critical of the behavior of certain members.

When does the use of the N-word become excessive (I think that I can get his point about it without it being used so much)?

When it is no longer used as frequently in real life as it is in the show. Interestingly, he often uses the word in a derogatory fashion, unlike rap stars and others who have attempted to give it a positive spin.

What should be the goal of art and media when black folks have the opportunity to express themselves through them? Should we try to "keep it real" by showing the least common denominator of our culture (what I consider the exploited stereotypical imagery) or should we highlight the complexity and diversity (though less apparent) of our community?

I think being critical of the least "common denominator of our culture" is a positive goal. Honestly, the child has uttered words straight out of my mouth. That said, I completely understand where you are coming from. The problem is that SOMEONE has to call foolishness what it is - foolishness. Otherwise, all the positive, complex, and diverse images in the world aren't going to impact someone who thinks what foolishness he does is okay, because he doesn't have it like the Cosbys.

Do you think that we should just laugh at the Boondocks or leave motivated to change what we see in certain elements of our community?

I think we should leave motivated. The issues he raises are no laughing matter.