Lately black men have been the topic of many headlines. Unfortunately such exposure has shown them in a very unfavorable light. The biggest news stories tend to be the most salacious ones, which speak to the negative situations that many of our black male icons find themselves in. Clearly, the questionable actions of a few should not be be considered representative of every African-American male out there; though in many ways this is still how our society functions, and we are all held accountable for each other’s actions.
In the case of the black male icon, this is particularly true. Many of our biggest stars are idolized in the media and accordingly, their indiscretions have a colossal effect on the way black men are seen. Huge sports titans like Shaq and Tiger who are lauded for their extraordinary abilities are placed atop pedestals that make them appear to be gods. Unfortunately, as the rest of us, they are in fact merely human, and mistakes, no matter how terrible are therefore inevitable. Such figures are given the responsibility of acting as representatives for their entire race, and accordingly their downfalls speak false volumes about the rest of us.
Pop culture icons like Lil’ Wayne who has as many legal troubles as baby mamas, and TI who is currently incarcerated for an incident involving the purchasing of illegal firearms, have huge influence on the way society sees the African-American male. Having our biggest icons locked up, cheating, having multiple babies (and baby mamas) in just a year, driving while intoxicated, getting caught with narcotics and a host of other negatives is debilitating to the overall image of the black male.
To the icons of our time, you have the burden of representing your race whether or not you want it. That said, please consider being a little more careful with the responsibility. Often times, it is because of you that black men get stuck with a less than desirable reputation.
Check out some of the year’s most popular stories below:
“Why Are Women Hating On Amber Rose’s Butt?”
“Ne-Yo Breaks Down On Stage; Could THIS Be Why He’s Crying?”
“EXCLUSIVE: Atlanta Housewife Kandi Burruss Speaks On Death Of Fiance, A.J.”
“Rumor: Nivea Pregnant By Lil’ Wayne, Will She Marry Him?”
“Father of MJ’s Kids Revealed – It’s His Dermatologist!”













