Via Shadow And Act
”When I see some black Americans I see the end of the world. Lil Wayne is a sign of the end of the world to me. Blacks here started as slaves, move to independence and success but now you’ve crossed the line. Obama killed rap. You don’t have a cause anymore. African Americans have no fight anymore. In the music videos, all you do is party. Everyone says they’re rich, in the club poppin’ bottles.”
That’s what writer and star Thomas Ngijol of the controversial French comedy Case Depart, a film we’ve covered extensively here on S&A, said to Chloe Hilliard for Loop21.com when asked what he thought of African Americans during an interview to promote the movie. The flick transports two modern day, half brothers back to the slave era. Fabrice Eboué , who co-stars as Ngijol’s brother, co-wrote the script as well.
Grossing more than $15 million already, it’s the number one comedy flick in France. Ngijol, who’s been a stand-up comedian and actor for the last ten years, makes it clear what the film is about saying it isn’t about slavery…”It’s about not very intelligent people with an identity problem. Black men who blame the system.”
Of course, it was only a matter of time that Ngijol made a request to clarify his above quote which I’m sure was due to all the backlash he received. He later stated…”First, I respect and love African-Americans. They inspire me in my work and I have nothing but love for people who fight for their rights.. I respect black culture but it’s just funny to see the evolution from slave to bling bling. Second, I love hip-hop and Lil Wayne but it’s just sad that the industry doesn’t have a lot of other alternatives in the spotlight. I came in peace so please spread that to your reader. Thanks.”
Read the full interview at loop21.com
I think Thomas Ngijol conclusions are right if he only consumes the daily images of African Americans you see on TV in Europe. On the TV, Black America is Hip Hop, basketball and crime mixed with urban culture. But as a Black man he knows that Black people are often misrepresented, so the only thing I can hold against him is that he should have been more reserved in his opinion.
See post on Afro-Europe: French comedy about slavery - “Case Départ” (“Where it begins”)
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteTruth2011, you're right about his attitude, but calling him monkey isn't necessary.
ReplyDeletetruth2010, you really do miss the point of this whole blog, it sounds as if you hate immigrants. Ngijol was born and raised in France, he has no where to go back to except his Paris suburb. You sound as if you'd agree that all Black French are actually not really French, all black athletes, singers, politicians, ... they are according to you not really French, should be thankful to have the right to live in France and shouldn't complain, otherwise they can just go 'home'. But home is France in this case!!! It's not some place in Africa where they never have been to, of which they don't peak the language and so on ... and I guess you will then blame the parents, ... but the 'damage' is then done, so what do we do with these black French kids??? When I read your comments Truth2010 you awfully sound like extreme right parties in Europe who do not differentiate the complexities resulting form colonialism and globalisation, two phenomenon that have been put into full effect by the Western countries.
ReplyDeleteIt seems to me that Black people outside of the United States generally have an awful lot to say about Black Americans in the United States --usually negative-- all while voraciously consuming our cultural exports in all of their forms. I say this from the perspective of a Black American woman who has lived and traveled outside of the United States in Europe, Asia, and the Caribbean.
ReplyDeleteOne of the problems is that just as most people have no idea about what life is really like in the U.S. in general until they come here and live and see that the streets are not paved with gold, black folks around the world only think they know what life is like for us here, that somehow things are easier for us than for them and that we squander much. People think this without knowing our reality so they make ignorant comments such as the ones this Thomas Ngijol has made. This man talks about rap ending with Obama, blacks going from slavery to success, and Lil Wayne as some cultural representation of American black folks. He is clearly out of touch and more that a little bit ignorant about who and what we are, like most blacks outside of the U.S., but you can bet the very things he's complaining about he also holds up in admiration, regardless of what he says.
People outside as well as those black folks who immigrate to the U.S. have contempt for American blacks not truly realizing all of the bullshit we have gone through and continue to go through here in the United States all while still dealing with the emotional, spiritual, and yes, physical wounds of enslavement that still linger. So many can sit back and make disparaging comments about American blacks but they should read a bit of our history and then realize that what plays out historically manifests itself differently than what one might expect.
Even more importantly, it might be a good idea to stop looking to American blacks as some beacon of hope or some example and then criticizing when we stumble or struggle with the good, bad, strong, and weak aspects of our nature as humans, that critical eye should be turned on their own communities and countries of national origins to figure out how they can be their own best examples. I do understand admiration for all that we have achieved and even disappointment with our failures as we are a dynamic and amazing people who have survived and forged a path for ourselves from nothing but we cannot be charged with being the role model, leader, keeper, nurturer, etc. every black person on the face of this earth. We're capable of great things but we are only human after all.
I apologize for using that word. He's a cretin, instead.
ReplyDeleteSeriously, who does he think he is? First a comedy about slavery (and he isn't even a descendant of slaves). And then making unsubstantiated comments about black Americans?
Thanks Rachel Finn for this nuanced, constructive and well argumented comment ... I can only say you're right. But some others here only know arrogance as a way to argue. I'm happy you show another way to converse.
ReplyDeleteThanks Truth2011
ReplyDeletei am black, american, and immigrant. while there are so many things i share with my African-American brothers and sisters here in US when it comes to the experience of slavery and segregation, the only comment i have is to say "thank you!" Most Afro-European as well as Afro-Immigrants seems to miss the point. it is the fight of US blacks that allowed us (blacks) to enjoy the freedom we have today, here in US or in Europe. As the same time the African American community continues to suffer from the aftermath of slavery. since we (afro-immigrants) were not there to fight the battle, surly we do not have any scars and wounds we need to heal, but we do have the responsibility to acknowledge the facts. i think, Instead of speaking negatively about an experience we have no clue of we have to join hand-in-hand to full recovery and reconstruction of the African community in US. Because Obama is a president it does not mean the race struggle stopped. I think this is where the European get it so wrong.
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for your comment TBayou. I share your views.
DeleteI think Thomas Ngijol's comments are extremely offensive. I get sick to the stomach when I hear about Blacks who go out there bashing other Blacks. He seems to only rely on what he gets from the Western Media which is not very friendly when it comes to the Black community. He should not make Lil Wayne a representative of Black Americans. They have a lot to deal with....from racial profiling, prejudiced justice system, etc.
It makes me sick to read his shallow generalization
Thomas makes a statement then he tries to clean it up. The sad part about reading this post is the fact that many Afro Europeans feel the same way. Not all but there are many that have this so called disconnect. Amazingly enough my friends that live in Europe, does not feel this way at all. As an African American, when I read his comment and said to myself…wow! I would expect this from a non Black person but from a Black man… What he does not understand is a Black person in America has to continue to fight for everything we have. We have to fight for anything that we may desire. What most don’t understand is our history and what we have overcome as Black people in America. I will say this …until you walk a mile in my shoes you have no clue what it is to be a Black American. And also for all the struggles that we have gone through many has profited from it. Meaning because of the things that we have overcome…the benefit was felt over in Europe as well. So don’t criticize Blacks over here because you have benefited from our struggles as well. Also racism in Europe is so much more insidious! It’s hidden and done behind your back. I would rather have it in my face so that I can deal with it head on. Than to have it done behind my back, and I have to figure out what is being done to me. Many Afro Europeans don’t rally they don’t come together for the betterment of Black people. I hear it from my friends that live in Europe all the time. And they say to me… I wish we had someone like Al Sharpton here.lol! They say some may criticize him…but at least he will bring awareness to an issue….and he will fight for the rights of Black people everywhere. To me it was just arrogance to make that kind of a statement. I understand why truth2011 was pissed and said what he did. Be he was also man enough to come back and apologize for his comment. It’s sad to read a comment from someone you would think would understand. But it is obvious that he does not. Let him come over here and try to become a successful actor…. Then ask him how he feels. I’m sure his response will be different. Idris Elba said before one reason he has been successful as Black actor here in the USA is because he understand the Black culture. And he understands Black people here. Yes he may be British….but he is Black as well and can relate. Tbayou you’re right. Rachel Finn…you said it so eloquently …thank you. I guess for me what is so disheartening is the fact that when I see Black people no matter if I’m here in the USA or in Europe I don’t feel disconnected. I feel a sense of pride…and yes we may have different cultures but still family. And that is why I’m always able to meet people no matter where I go and just talk and have a good time. And with that comes understanding and learning. I’m not so arrogant to think that everyone thinks like me or even believe in what I believe. But once we start talking…the sky is the limit!! We just need to stop separating ourselves and come together. Because when all is said and done we are all connected in some way. Yes we were taken from our home land. But it makes us no different than any other Black person per say. Exclusion should be out of our minds and inclusion should be the norm.
ReplyDeleteI've seen this inferiority complex coming from Africans living in Europe. This guy is a PURE CLOWN. How can you make a COMEDY about SLAVERY and then talk about black Americans?
ReplyDeleteHe's a fool who should go back to where he's from. Again, I'd rather be a black American than some son of immigrant living in someone else's land.
And... Thomas should read online about how well black Americans are treated in France and how poorly Africans are treated. Africans are treated as spectators there, not really "French." While the French seem to love the "artistic black Americans." Please read blogs, it's everywhere.
His problem is with the French, not black Americans. But his stupid self is too foolish to see this.
He should go back to where he's from. There should be no black American, black Brazilian, black Jamaican, black Canadian, black Venezuelan, black Cuban and more blacks in the "New World" defending this loser.
I think he's jealous because we actually belong to a country and aren't spectators. He can talk French all he want, but the whites in France treat him like an outsider. So, he takes his inferiority complex out on other people.
Negroarmor4u... do you know what the odd part is? From my experiences in Europe and blog postings all over Europe, the Americans AND Australia... the people HATE Africans. But black Americans are treated ten times better. I read countless blogs about black Americans' experiences in France, the Netherlands, Belgium (they HATE the Congolese there) and Australia. Black Americans are welcomed, not so much African refugees.
ReplyDeleteAnd yet this Thomas fool makes comments about black Americans? And he's an outsider in France. The French don't consider him French. Sarkozy called Africans "scum" and then kisses up to Obama, a black American. That's how little respect Africans have in France.
Josephine Baker, a black American, has a statue right near Napoleon and Charles De Gaulle on the Champs Elysee. How many Africans have statues in France near French heroes on the Champs Elysee? ZERO.
It must suck to live in a country where people don't respect your ethnicity.
Anonymous, you're right. Immigrants and sons and daughters of immigrants shouldn't complain if they're in another country. Especially if that other country is a better place to live than their homelands.
ReplyDeleteIf your friend invited you to his house, would you tell him his house needs cleaning and that the dishes need washing? Of course not. It's rude.
If he wants to complain, however, he should be complaining about how the French don't consider him French because he's too dark, has a wide nose and big lips. That's what he should be complaining about. Not black Americans.
once again, excuse my poor english.
ReplyDeleteThis article show me only one thing: there is lot of ignorance and division amongst us NO MATTER where we live. like many others, this guy makes public quick judgement from what they show him on tv. pure ignorance. he doesnt read or read the wrong stuffs, doesnt talk to people, doesnt travel,... and also he has that damnidentity issue as he absolutely wants to be considered as a french guy. this is inferiority complex indeed. but calling a black person a monkey when you're black yourself is also a sign of complex. it may be inferiority or superiority complex, it is still coming from an identity issue. being happy or feeling proud because european claim to like you more than other groups of blacks is also a sign of inferiority complex. i don't need the white master to tell me that i'm good or bad or better than my pairs. how can you care about what those shameless killers and supremacist think about you? see how they treat black Natives in Australia. see what they bombed Ivory Coast. See how they train orphans in Congo to make milices and keep their mines traffics going on. actually there is no pride to get from that especially when i think of people like Josephine Backer who got famous by showing her ass and playing cliché for the whole Paris.also she was bleaching her skin, exclusively dating white men and one of her white adopted child wrote a book about how insane she was...of course in a french perspective it sure all disserves a statue LOL. this is just the role they want a black woman to play: exotic sex object. don't get fooled by their hypocrisie, that's a speciality of those people. by the way it reminds me of a friend of mine who is living in europe and often tell me how whites show more respect to Africans migrants comparing to African Americans. i always tell her that i personally dont care about how whites perceive my people because we should not care about what others say about us. this is just like every community do! and also all those comments are another strategy to divide us. you can be sure that when it comes to do us wrong, they all come togheter and dont make any difference between us anymore! history has shown us i'm right. about telling to Africans who live in europe to go back to their country is a nonsense because 1) europe get all her wealth from africa 2) spents her time putting puppets to rule the africans governments, killing real leaders, and making up conflicts and wars 3)got her 1945 war's victory against imperialist germany thanks to her then african colonies 4)we were the first people in early europe so it is also our lands 5)europe doesnt make charity but needs her migrants because her countries has an old population and so she needs young workers and consumers 6)most young people didnt make the choice to come to europe, it was their parents choice so even if they wanted they couldn't go back in a day 7)etc. when whites went to colonize Africa, they didnt show their passport or ask authorization so they should just be happy to be in the dominants and make us respect their laws to get and live in'their' countries. so there is nothing to debate about that. I am myself a Congoles living in Belgium (my parents migrated when my mom was pregnant of me)and I will for sure go back to Africa but only when it will be convenient for me!thank you Negroarmor4u, TBayou and Rachel for not turning this discussion into an African American vs Africans debate. One Love
My dear African-Americans. This is personal because I am little bit disappointed by the comments made about Afro-Europeans.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all Thomas Ngijol doesn't represent the general attitude of black people in Europe towards African-Americans. And if you want to blame someone, blame the European and American mainstream media who shows us African-American as musical artist, athletes and criminals. I will give some personal experiences.
In what you call high school, a Dutch music teacher, who loved Black American music, said, and I remember it literally. "Black Americans make the music, but whites develop it further, they refine it. That's why they are more successful." He said it in front of an almost entirely white class, I was the only black kid. And how could not believe him. Luckily I learned the racist history later on, but only many many years later. So, should I be blamed for having stereotyped views about African-Americans in the past?
About the Cosby show I remember reading in the TV-guide."Cosby refers to Morehouse, a fictitious college." The writer apparently didn’t believe that Blacks Americans have their own colleges.
And negroamor4u, Blacks in Europe are not connected to African-Americans and immigrants don't know the struggle! My Surinamese and Caribbean grandparent and my parents saw on TV in The Netherlands how African-Americans were beaten in the South, they saw the hate and the dehumanising racism. They felt connected to Black Americans as Arabs feel connected to Palestinians. And yes, they felt the pain and humiliation as well, and it changed them and it influenced me. And they are not the only ones. But I agree that there are also Black immigrants who sometimes forget that Black Americans paved the way for them.
And the so called Black American "privilege" in Europe. African-Americans in Europe are not seen as Black Americans, but as Americans. That's the difference. When I am in Paris I am also treated different than a refugee, which is logical because I don't look like a refugee.
And Truth, please stop about Josephine Baker, she played some half naked tropical girl on stage. No European woman had to try what she did, but for a black woman it was seen as natural. But I respect her for all the other things she did. And please read about the history of Africa, Africans and Black people in Europe, because you are really missing the point. I think African-Americans and Caribbean people can learn from our fellow Africans, especially when it comes to drive and ambition. In stead of picking on each other, we should respect each other. I know it’s cliché, but that the real truth. So I totally agree with you Sanza.
My point is, don’t judge Black people in Europe to quick because one person said something ignorant about African-Americans.
Well, generally, in this country the Africans actually work really hard (especially the Sudanese). And we don't have politicians calling groups of people "scum" either like Sarkozy. And yet this fool (who probably has a white wife or white husband) makes unfounded comments about black Americans? For a PRESIDENT of a country to call a group of people "scum", it shows absolutely NO respect for the group and shows a society that is racist to permit such a statement.
ReplyDeleteAt least we're not in someone else's country. At least we're accepted in our own country.
Europeans are some of the most racist people too. Especially at football/soccer matches. Look at the way they treated Thierry Henry, for example. And yet this fool ignores racist Europeans?
And yes, Europeans make a BIG distinction between black Americans and Africans. I told this story about a Polish friend I visited in Warsaw that was talking about how dark Sudanese refugees are and when I told him that he was being stupid, he said "You're not really black!" He also said that there's no way he's racist because he likes rap music. I also told him that an Estonian couple was looking at me on a plane to China and I said it was as if "they've never seen a black person before." He responded again with, "You're not really black."
I just can't help but shake my head. He isn't accepted in France and yet he looks elsewhere to criticize people (black Americans) that would be far more accepting of him than the French people?
Well Afro-Europe, your Caribbean and Surinamese grandparents are descendants of slaves just like us black Americans. So, negroarmour4u wasn't really talking about you. I believe he was talking about Africans.
ReplyDeleteThe Africans in Europe that I met were just fine.
Do you know what the funny part is? White Americans on this link are criticizing this fool.
ReplyDeletehttp://loop21.com/content/lost-translation
AND French President Sarkozy called Africans "scum."
And this clown is worried about black Americans?
Now that's funny! A white American criticizing this fool for his racist comment who lives in a country with a president that thinks he's "scum."
All I can say is wow! I never thought for a moment I would read some of what I’m reading. But none the less I respect everyone’s thoughts and opinion. I just want to say as I said before, some Afro Europeans have the disconnect from African Americans but not all. I was just making a statement based on what I have seen in my travels threw out Europe. London is my favorite because the people there are mad cool! Now just so that we are clear…I’m in no way promoting separatism. As I have always said in most of my replies all Black people I consider my family. Now even if some don’t see me that way! Afro Europe the funny thing is ..is that most of my friends that live in Amsterdam are Surinamese. Only two are not and yes they do understand and can relate to me. If they couldn’t relate to me we wouldn’t be such great friends. For me I have much love for anyone who is Black. And I don’t hate others because they are not Black. But I am aware of things that do go on..and I don’t like it. And I am very outspoken about how I feel about others. My non Black friends are my friends and I have mad love for them as well. But I am very passionate about our people!! Always have been and always will be…just can’t help it.
ReplyDeleteOh Morehouse is not a fictitious college…it’s in Atlanta GA. I have a nephew attending the school and have been for 2 years. But I understand why you would think that. But Bill Cosby donated millions of dollars to that school…that is why you would always see him with a sweat shirt on during the show. He was promoting HBCU’s (Historically Black Colleges and University) When you’re a child you’re not responsible for what you learn. But when you become and adult that’s totally a different issue. But what baffles me is that people really believe what they see and hear on the t.v!!!! Wow! I see so much and read so much as well.. But I’m smart enough to know what I see and read is not the reality. You have to talk to the people to get a real assessment of what is the truth.
ReplyDeleteTruth2011 man you are on pure emotion!! And I get where all of it is coming from. And I understand.. But I do know what you said about the French. And I remember my friend that lives in France talking about the violence that was really huge a few years ago. And how the Blacks there are treated. And how they have the Blacks living far from the city…so they can’t get jobs and they live in extreme poverty.
Josephine Baker well someone said it.lol! But I as well respect what she did. Truth2011 you seem to have traveled many places as I have…how was it for you?
Now if I have offended you in anyway Afro Europe Please know that was never my intention. And I do apologize for it. I am not against anyone on this site…even if I don’t always agree with their views. What I like about this post is that I can learn from everyone. As Sanza said…ONE LOVE!!
Thank you my brothers.
ReplyDelete2011 is the worldwide year for afrodescendants. I hope it will make us more united.
makkeda04@yahoo.fr is my email address, i'm always happy to make new connections
let's keep on sharing knowledge and spreading love through our people!
Negroarmor4u: The ignorance is here too in regards to Morehouse. Employers think you're a militant if you go to Morehouse. My older brother was accepted into Morehouse's medical school but decided against going because he wanted to work in our home state, 99% white. He didn't want any conflicts.
ReplyDeleteThe European people I met were nice. Then again I'm a tourist so they just saw $$$.
I said it before, and I've read it on blogs from black Americans, you question your "blackness" after you travel to Europe. You don't share Africans' language, customs and don't look like them. Plus, Europeans make a difference that you never have living in America. The Africans selling souvenirs by the Eiffle Tower were treated like garbage. It looks like a 3rd world country in the poor parts of Paris. They clean the Champs Elysee; why not do the same where Africans and Arabs live?
George Bush was a lot of things. But he'd NEVER call a group of people "scum" and expect to be reelected as president like France's Sarkozy. There's just no respect for Africans in France. And yet, this loser, jughead, is worried and critical about black Americans?
negroamor4u, I am not offended at all and I know your passionate about black people. So I have to apologise to you if I made you feel you needed to apologise to me. And please be outspoken! So apologies not accepted. And yes I know Morehouse exits, but it was the writer of the article who thought it was fictitious.
ReplyDeleteAnd Truth2011, I have been called not Black by whites and Asian so many times, because I don't fit the profile of what they perceive as Black. But what they think is irrelevant, I want to have to freedom to define myself. And by learning more about other Black people and cultures I learn more about myself and about the definition of what being Black stands for.
Actually this whole blog is about self-definition; what is an Afro-European.
And Sanza, yes one love.
Afro-Europe: I just saw your comment. I'm not judging Africans. Hell, I know whites in Europe are good enough at that. I don't need to add my voice.
ReplyDeleteBut at the same time, this clown deserves to be criticized. I'd rather be a black American any day over a recent immigrant in a foreign land like him. Especially a racist country. Outside of Spain and Austria, I can't think of a more racist European country than France.
Truth2011 my experience while in Europe was really great! I had no major issues…but I didn’t like how some people were treated. When I was in Paris as you said the Black were treated harshly. I only bought things from them. And when I did buy something from them…the look that I was given by others was amazing. But me being who I am…just gave them a look…like …what!!! The people I met were amazing but it is as you say I’m American so I was treated nicely. But people can only play that game so long until the real them come out.
ReplyDeleteI’m also sorry to read that your older brother decided not the go to Morehouse because he didn’t want the conflict. Only because why should there be a conflict. Yes I do understand what you said…but I just don’t like that. We always feel like we have to do what others will feel more acceptable. And I would also ask why anyone would want to live anywhere where there is 99% white!!! And I’m sure that means there are less than 3% people who look like you. Well each to his own.. I’m just one of those who can’t compromise on some things. Weather it is for me to make it in this world or not. I’m just so sick and tired of hearing how Blacks are always giving white’s power over ever decision they make in this life. But that’s just how I feel…people do what they do for their own reasons. I guess it's easier to conform than to fight!!!
Afro Europe I feel you and please keep the great articles coming. For me it was just sad the read another Black man saying this. I expect this from white people..so when i read this...it pricked my soul!!! We should be as one but it is so obvious that we are so divided. But on a different note criticism is good....
Oh turth2011 Australia was my worst experience only because the way they made fun of the Black people there pissed me off. And what really pissed me off was the fact that they thought they could do it in my face!!! Saying well you’re not really Black like them…Lets just say I almost hard to fight!!! But very harsh words were used…but they got out of my face… as SANZA SAID ONE LOVE!!
If that fool came to the states with that bogus mentality of AA's he would be chewed up and spat out for that ignorance.If he's going to joke about us, he should have his facts together which he evidently don't.
ReplyDeleteJust tonight, I've just heard( as well as you guys) about the injustice that Troy Davis was given. If that idiot was here in the states and in Georgia, the next time he goes talking about our gloating about the justice system, I would want to ask him this: Will his impending death is just another "complaint" that AA's or do he understand our history? There are to many people like him who think he knows us,but don't. He should keep his trap shut.
Someone should tell Nigjol that when AA's "gloat" about the past, it's not about living in it,but we're talking about the injustices that continues in 2011 and most likely will continue in the future. He must get that, the past can dictate your present in this case,it does other wise, we wouldn't need groups like the NAACP or Color of Change to exist.
Too many people who are not AA's will make it seem that we always have a chip on our shoulder,but it isn't the case,but people like Nigjol are people who think AA's have no reason to be that way. I'd bet if that fool lived over long enough and experience the injustices he won't talk all of that smack about them and for his info, video don't depict real life.He needs AA's in person before he judges them. Most of the AA's that I come across are hardworking law abiding guys. He shouldn't get his ideas about us from TV. These are the same people that will say that all Blacks are criminals( don't matter where they from), White people are serial killer, Asians are docile or sexless or Arabs are terrorists.
He gives props to many AA comedians,but he should know that if it wasn't for them, eh wouldn't exist. AA's fought for every Black person and others to be that. If he would have came to America in the past, he would be relegated to sub treatment.
Truth,
A couple of my doctors came from the Morehouse School Of Mediciene. I also know a lot of Doctors that cam from there. Most that I know work in White hospitals and their White clients don't seem to have a problems with with. My doctor is one of them. He has Black and White patients. MSM is a respected by both races,just like Emory University.
Negroarmor4u: Robin Williams called Australians "British rednecks." I can't speak on this.
ReplyDeleteThe Australians I met have been pretty nice. I met tons of them at the Vietnam War Memorial on the outskirts of Ho Chi Minh (or Saigo). What's funny is that they knew I was American. They just started talking.
I ended up going out with them for a couple of drinks later on.
How did they make fun of black people in Australia? I know a couple of years ago Harry Connick Jr got on their cases about doing black face routines on national TV. He needed security at the airport on his way out for calling that Australian TV station racist.
What I found is that white Americans defend blacks a lot, even if they're defending black Americans against foolish Africans like this guy. Seriously, check out the link that was posted. WHITE AMERICANS were chastising this FOOL.
Back to Australians: My brother's girlfriend's family hosted Australia foreign exchange students. They're Jamaican Americans with a lot of money. So, the two Aussies got a really nice view of black Americans! They have a huge home in Devon Gables and at the time they had several Ferraris and a Lamborghini. At least those Australians went home knowing that there are rich black Americans! (And my brother's girlfriend was the first black person both Australian girls have ever met!)
M: Yes, I know Morehouse has a good medical school. And the class is only like 15 students. My brother's med class was about 100!
ReplyDeleteWhile many of the comments I have read in response to this post, sound misinformed, ignorant, and absolutely foolish, I am glad I took the time to read the post and the comments. There is so much we (African-Americans) can learn from our Afro-European siblings and vice versa. Unfortunately, as an African-American we have to have a desire and make an effort to learn of what is going on with our fellow people of African descent in other parts of the world. Afro-European are bombarded with media about the lifestyle and culture of African-Americans, although it is often stereotyped and not a complete picture.
ReplyDeleteThis post has prompted me to seek out more information on the issues and concerns of my black brethren in other nations. I want to get an honest and accurate picture of what it is like to be black in England, France, the Netherlands, etc. As to my concerns in the U.S., I believe they are similar to many blacks in the U.S. While we have elected a black president, the fight for equality, justice, fairness is not! Last night, they executed a black man (Troy Davis) in the state of Georgia based on flimsy to non-existent evidence and the lies (the witnesses have admitted to lying)of witnesses'. Don't let the Lil' Wayne videos fool you; most blacks are not living that lifestyle. Many blacks don't want to live that lifestyle, but this is what the white controlled media wants everyone to believe; that blacks are only concerned with money, sex, and alcohol. They are brainwashing our youth, because at the end of the day, blacks are statistically and disproportianitly the biggest consumers and spenders of disposable income.
There is so much psychology behind how we think and act in our prospective countries based on slavery and colonialism. The negative images and stereotypes of all black people (because before you open your mouth all people know about you is your race)across the globe, must be combatted by us! We must work, globally, to kill the predominant negative images of our people through effective and responsible use of media, educating our black youth and modeling self-love and by simply living our lives knowing that everything we do (for the good or the bad)is informing peoples ideas of what and who black people are.
You're right Gen we must combat those negative stereotypes globally!
ReplyDeleteAnd yes, I read about the very sad story of Troy Davis. To be honest, I am still surprised that these still things happen in the US, sometimes America looks like Alabama in the sixties. But on the other hand you are a part of a country that moves forward faster then most other countries.
Gen321 Yes you are right we can learn a lot from our brothers and sisters in Europe. That is what I have been doing for the last 10 years. I traveled many places in Europe and have made some really close friends. Friends that live in Sweden,France,Germany,London,Amsterdam,Italy just to name a few. And believe it or not a lot of my experiences I have had…they had as well. But as I stated in an earlier post…racism in Europe is more insidious. It’s hidden it sometimes take some longer to realize what is going on. Yes there are some ignorant comments made here… Some are misinformed as well. But in order FOR you to be informed it will take more than just talking to people. You have to visit and see it for yourself. Not just one time but many times to really get the feeling of it all. Then you can be informed!
ReplyDeleteAmazingly enough people still like to blame how they were raised on their ignorance. And that’s fine to a point… But there comes a time when you should be able to make up your own mind. You should at some point develop as sense of self. You should desire to want to know more than what you were taught. I grew up watching reruns of Good Times…did I think everyone Black lived in the Projects…no! I don’t understand why we continue to make excuses for not being able to think for ourselves. What you see on the TV is not the reality of Black people. And I just find it so hard to believe that is everyone defense. You mean to tell me that most people minds are so small that they can’t think…. I think not!! People like being lead by what the media shows them. Because it is easier to be lead than to LEAD. When it comes to how you should dress…talk..walk…wear your hair… the list can go on. I have close friends in every place that I mentioned. I have been to see them and they have been here and stayed with me for weeks. That is when you really learn how someone really feels. When you sit down talk to them look at them …look in their eyes.
And surprisingly enough we really aren’t that different at all. We like some of the same things and want the same things as well. As for equality there will never be equality! There hasn’t been equality ever…and there will never be. Since the beginning of time this is how it has been…and it has not changed yet. And there is a purpose for that as well… We have a Beautiful BLACK PERSIDENT AND FIRST LADY. Did we really think things were going to change for Black people…HELL NO! And even the president knew things would be even harder because he is a Black man. And no one really thought he would win…and when he did…well let’s just say hatred reared its ugly head. He has been opposed at every corner.
We can’t blame Lil Wayne or anyone else for what our kids believe. To me that is where parenting comes in. You talk your kids and teach them. And for anyone to believe what they see lil wayne doing…well let’s just say sad. When will we Black People stop letting the media dictate how we should act and what we should believe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Ok when I was in London last year I was at 2 of the popular radio stations. I have friends that are presenters on those stations.. I was shown how the so called elite do it and I was shown how the everyday people do it. It was a great gulf in what I was shown…But it was so wonderful to see my so called rich Black friends be so interested in pulling other Black men and women up. They were aware of what it takes and how to do it. And you know what the only difference in us was the way we spoke… so to speak. I’m not interested in how other feel about Black people because you can never change anyone. If there is a change to be made…they will have to want it. I’m into stoking people to make them feel good about Black people!!! But I must say you had some really good points and I enjoyed what you had to say.
Afro-Europe, thank you. In my work I put lots of thought into this stuff. So I'm glad that came through. I do apologize for the length of the comment, though, probably could have said things a bit more succinctly.
ReplyDeleteI have to say that I always find this multi-faceted issue interesting. I also want to say that I believe that there should be a united front (inasmuch as possible) among afrodescendents in the Diaspora and I fear that my comment didn't read as such.
I believe that there is much folks don't/know or realize about Black Americans but there is certainly much Black Americans don't know about people in the broader African Diaspora. I am working to change that myself and I love that this site, brings to light issues that none of us might encounter without a whole lot of digging.
So thank you again, Afro-Europe for providing a much needed forum for us all!
Rachel thanks for compliment. I've also read your previous comment and I agree that most people have no idea about what life is really like in the U.S. Untill you hear what has happened to Troy Davis just recently.
ReplyDeleteLiked your site Roots Cuisine!
Rachel Finn - I LOVE your post and as an African American woman, I couldn't agree with you more.
ReplyDeleteWell, I had a lot to say, but most of the black Americans on here did a great job of summarizing my sentiments. This is some of the most ignorant BS I've read in a while. It's depressing how someone who knows so little about a group of people is allowed to write and star in a comedy about us. That should give you a good idea of how accurate the media is at portraying us. It's not easy being forced to fight all these negative stereotypes...especially when its coming from fellow black people. That alone is something worth fighting for.
ReplyDeleteHe's a pure clown. Like I said earlier, at least us, black Americans, are in our own country.
ReplyDeleteAnybody who has ever been to France can attest to how lowly the French think of Africans. And yet, this wants to talk about black Americans?
He's not even one of us and he's making a COMEDY about SLAVERY?
I hope some waiter spits in his coffee (it might have already happened knowing how racist the French are).
I really don't know who to tear into first,
ReplyDeleteYou know what "truth2011" how dare you come on this sight and run your goddamn mouth, have you no honor, pride or respect...Those comments about his facial features and his skin color, your really crossing the line buddy!! Seriously if Thomas feels like his country is France then goddamit his country is France who are you to tell him otherwise...You telling me that I'm not American I will laugh in your face..You are ignorant, and your really bordering stupidity...I can understand some of the problems going on in Europe can it change your right it can how will it? With people unlike you watching what they say and making sure that everything at least borders intelligent, you really got me freaking pissed off just reading your spew of garbage...
And this is directed to all..I'm freaking sick and tired of ppl using this sight to complain about their situations, we know the situations how about you grow a pair and change your situation,thats what I'm doing slowly but surely when ppl come in contact with me they will know that "RebelAmerican" is different what they see on T.V. and they should freaking respect him...
Negroamor4u..Great to chat again..
Afro-Europe-- Hope to chat more
Truth2011--Go kick rocks
To all if anybody wants to e-mail me--Here is my Military e-mail- Shakiem.Smith@afg.usmc.mil- I have nothing but time:Afghanistan..
"Live Fast, Die Young"- Rebel American (I bleed Red, White and Blue)
I spelled "site" wrong----Bummer
ReplyDeleteNow for Thomas I agree with Ashe it's people like him (Media) that pushes and emphasizes the stereotypes that we are trying to fight....I'm like seriously bro you have the resources to make a movie and you put this out in the world...Well "f@*^k me running", so now when somebody sees me after they see your movie I wonder what they are thinking...Let me tell you something "not anything good"...
ReplyDeleteWay to go Thomas your bullshit movie and your comments lets say pushed us back ummm a couple of years back...
Hi Rebel, thanks for your comments!
ReplyDeleteRebel American: You spelled "site" wrong, misused "you're" by typing in "your," and lastly, put commas in your writing. Commas were invented to separate ideas and to make your (that's how you use "your") reading more... readable.
ReplyDeleteSo, please, don't comment on someone's intelligence until after you passed high school English.
Truth2011...Noted..
ReplyDeleteI noticed you didn't comment on my response to you....No worries..
(I passed high school english, but I didn't get accepted into college yet I'm still fighting a war)
Thanks for the tips
Rebel, I hope you will get the change to go to college some day.
ReplyDeleteI did comment on your posts; I commented on your personal attacks. You and I are Americans. Our ancestors -- black slaves, whites (mostly Irish) and Native Americans -- built this country.
ReplyDeleteI bet you this clown escaped to France as a refugee or his parents were refugees. It's a little too soon for him to be calling himself French and definitely too soon to be poking fun at black Americans to a white/French audience.
This Thomas fool is a disgrace of a person. If he really cares about his homeland like he says he does in the interview, he should be back to where he came from instead of making racist movies.
Listen bro why do you got to bash this guy I mean of course his movie is pretty lame and so forth. You are telling this man that he can't be French because he doesn't happen to look like the majority of the population "white". I mean if he doesn't feel at home in whatever country he is from, but he feels home is in France then so be it. By no means do I take his side but I do find an issue with where you think his home might be versus where he feels at home period. Although, I do agree on the first part and the "poking fun at Americans"
ReplyDelete"Rebels live forever"
This clown can feel comfortable in France all he wants. He ain't French. And the French will tell him that (if they haven't already).
ReplyDeleteThe French president called Africans "scum." The French president before the current president, Jacque Chirac, said Africans "smell." That's a country with no respect for Africans. Chirac is wildly popular despite a corruption case against him now. And Nicolas Sarkozy was elected president AFTER calling Africans "scum."
As bad was George Bush was, can you ever imagine him saying that any group of people smell or is scum? I can't. There's just no respect for Africans there. If you've been to France, you'll see this.
And do you know what the worst part is? Sarkozy kisses Obama's butt. Sarkozy's son idolizes black Americans; he's an aspiring rapper and producer. This clown, "Thomas", should worry about getting Africans respected in French society instead of this clown worrying about us, black Americans. He's not even one of us and he's making movies about us... racist movies.
This is how Africans are treated in France. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2096097/Le-scam-Sarkozy-accused-bussing-fake-black-workers-publicity-visit-building-site.html
ReplyDeleteThey're treated like children; they're supposed to be seen and not heard from. And, yet this clown, wants to make a comment about black Americans? Go ask any black American under 35 what they think of him. You'll hear a lot of "racist" words.
I wonder if Sarkozy is going to send this clown back to Africa?
ReplyDeletehttp://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-17280647
Truth, I wonder if Sarkozy will send his Hungarian family back to Hungary.
DeleteHe just might. He doesn't like immigrants and apparently a lot of the French don't either. I hear that they dislike Muslims. And the former president of France said that Africans "stink." Sarkozy called Africans and Arabs "scum," so I think that this racist sentiment is mainstream.
DeleteFor me, I don't really feel it's something to get hugely offended over. That's just his opinion and it is just very indicative that this man has no real idea about American life in general, other than what he's fed on TV.
ReplyDeleteAT THE SAME TIME, some of his critique has a certain validity to it. We do have a bit of an identity crisis and as much as Black Americans will resist even stepping outside the box to think about this for a moment; The fact are that we have well accomplished black people in the entertainment world calling themselves the N-word in 2012. No matter what the argument is, it's still not a representation of self-dignity. Then we as Black Americans are doing this childish and OUTLANDISH type of scolding of racist white people in the US for the racist poison they're spewing. While the racism is wrong, we still make ourselves look like idiots b/c but it's like Black American's are playing the role of the "alcoholic parent" telling it's kid: Don't you dare pick up a drink. We're calling ourselves the N-word: example: from the song N*iggas in Paris by JayZ and Kanye to Jesse Jackson, a man who walked beside Martin Luther King Jr; and has been at the fore-front of all civil rights movements - then turns around an calls President Obama the N-word?? Jesse Jackson USES the freaking N-WORD. What is that saying for a man who's seen MLK assassinated with his own eyes?? and a man who grew up experiencing Jim Crow? AND NO he is not every black person in this country but he's been LEADING us in a lot of ways.
Seriously Black people - aren't we a little disappointed in ourselves b/c we're bullshitting ourselves in 2012 a bit? Doesn't this man, Ngijol have a small point (though not 100% correct b/c he knows nothing of the complexities and intricacies of American life with relation to race.) But the outsider that he is he see a fair amount of Black ppl becoming successful. He's probably looking at LiL Wayne as a success story, as someone black who didn't have to go to college and be educated in order to become hugely successful and then you have Obama who's also highly educated, black and became president of the United States and the leader of the free world as they say. So you can kind of see why an outsider (if you will) would come to a conclusion like he did. He may not be fully right but he has a ring of validity here. And yes, there is a certain level of disdain you hear from this man Ngijol; but I would also take the liberty to suspect that since his heritage is from Africa, he damn for sure isn't going to hold the story of Black Americans story of "oh poor us" when we are in videos partying and throwing money at the camera while large amounts of black people in Africa are riddled with communities with a high AIDS populations, Malaria, Lack of clean water, poverty like one's never seen, lack of proper schools and books... So where do we snap out of it black America?? Stop playing at getting "OFFENDED" all the time. This man's actually doing us a favor as someone outside of our situation and waking us up to knowing we have more power over our lives than we realize. We have power... In loving toughness - twitter: @ohworldgirl
GIA: we're [Black Americans] are only kidding ourselves if we think that Lil' Wayne and other comedians that use the N word represent black Americans. They DON'T!
ReplyDelete