OLYMPIC BREAKDANCING; GIMME A BREAK
If you haven’t heard yet, 36-year-old Australian “breakdancer” Rachael Gunn, also known as “Raygun,” has created quite a buzz for her performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics breakdancing competition, where she placed last. Gunn, a white college professor holding a Ph.D. in Cultural Studies, wrote a 355-page thesis on Breakdancing, a noteworthy achievement. However, her subpar breakdancing skills have sparked a conversation about cultural appropriation and white academia’s audacity to claim expertise over Black culture. This phenomenon, known as “Columbus-ing,” particularly at the college level, has now made its way to the Olympics stage, shedding light on white supremacy’s influence. It’s important to note that this whitewashed interpretation of breakdancing won’t be a part of the 2028 LA Olympics.
BLACK REPUBLICANS, WHASSUP?
In the past, engaging in deep political discussions with a Black GOP friend was common for me. We often debated various issues, with me leaning towards progressive views and him advocating for the GOP’s fiscal conservatism and small-government ideology. Despite our disagreements, we united to advocate for Black liberation. However, today’s Black Republicans seem to have drifted into a different realm. Their rhetoric often revolves around urging Black individuals to break free from the “Democrat plantation.” Yet, the Republican Party remains predominantly white, raising questions about who is truly bound to a metaphorical plantation. Unlike historical Black Republicans who genuinely supported Black causes, today’s counterparts exhibit concerning behaviors. They oppose the nomination of Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court, promote racist narratives against figures like President Obama, advocate for voter suppression, and tout white supremacist ideologies. Their actions lack principled stances and align more with opportunism, as highlighted in media personality Clay Cane’s book, “The Grift.” The modern-day “skinfolk-not-kinfolk” appear more driven by anti-Black sentiments for personal gain than actual political principles.
IT’S NOT WHAT THEY CALL YOU THAT MATTERS
Donald Trump, a serial liar and controversial figure, has become notorious for his derogatory remarks towards individuals he feels threatened by. His demeaning nicknames and disrespectful comments have extended to prominent figures like Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he has publicly insulted with various derogatory terms. Despite these attacks, the prevailing wisdom reiterated by Black elders remains: “It’s not what they call you that matters; it’s what you answer to.” Trump’s attempts to diminish Harris hold no sway, as her resilience and dedication continue to shine through. As the upcoming elections approach, Harris is poised to assume the role of Madame President, transcending Trump’s divisive language and embodying true leadership.