Tim Wise is a prominent speaker on the issue of race, class, & gender. He speaks truth and does it in a way many White's are able to digest. I've uploaded this video clip here to continue our ongoing discussion of race and ethnicity in America. After having heard many of the town hall meetings on health care, I've noticed that these meetings are having less to do about actual health care and more to do with race and ethnicity; it just get's coded in the subtext (you have to listen for it).

This clip, which was a 3 part series on BET, begins the necessary discussion on Hip Hop's connection to big bidness, sexuality and gender issues. These issues run deep in Hip Hop; especially in a time when Black women appear to be being used and abused by not just "White" record executes but by many men of color who use them to promote their agendas. Hip Hop is at a cross roads and America's issues with sexism and hyper masculinity are even more highlighted in Hip Hop culture.

This is a great example of why we need to work so hard to communicate...its hard stuff! In a very funny way, this video examines some of the basic mis-communication patterns which turn up in communication styles. Moreover, in that same context, so many mis-interpretations can be taken in and therefore an even greater mis-communication can happen....hmm, just something to think about as you're going about your day!!

******caution, some of the language might be considered offensive******

This is an excerpt from a documentary called American Drug War. It begins to uncover some of the deep issues that are cancerizing our 'hoods today. Take in the material before you cast judgment. There are some serious matters that we, as a faith body, must contend with.

This is a powerful video that illustrates the impact of the media on race/ ethnicity in this country. While we have made leaps and bounds in movements toward better race relations, things still seem to stay the same for many. Racial identity is more than just filling in a bubble on a census sheet, it is who you are and what you do; whether you realize that or not. The impact of negative stereotypes, images, and voices affect children, especially during developmental years. I do hope we can begin to move forward. My little girl is counting on it.

This video should get you thinking, in a comedic way of course, about the way we view technology and media. This is something that I think about a lot given my little girl is growing up in a world that:

1) Always had internet
2) Always had cell phone
3) Transcontinental flights are normal
4) High Speed is daily
5) Digital Cameras have always been here
6) Daddy & Mommy can talk on the computer face to face
7) Phone calls take minutes
8) Banking has always been done online
9) DVD's are now old & VHS is....well, its nonexistent
10) We've had a Black president that always used media

This video is just a deep example of the social, political, and cultural critique of the post-soul generation. Mos Def, Cornel West, and Bill Maher have an in depth discussion regarding race, politics, and cultural elements in American society. Again, it really illustrates the deep consciousness of the post-soulist.

***Caution**** there is the use of strong language in this clip.

This video clip, from the documentary by Byron Hurt, deals with some significant issues surrounding urban male masculinity which also connects to main stream contemporary issues of masculinity in America. Check it out, its some deep stuff!