We are not to take the words, actions and deeds of comedians as sacred. Nor are we to get upset each and every time they say something controversial in their acts. However, did Steve Harvey go to far by saying his favorite line in a discussion of the past is, “I don’t give a damn about slavery”?
While fielding a question on his Steve Harvey talk show, the outspoken host instructed a white woman to questions from a history buff about the past by just saying “I don’t care for slavery”, then turning and walking off.
The audience laughed, the questioner smiled and nodded her head, and all of this just fueled Harvey to continue with his comments. He talked about being a room full of socialites and the conversation turning to the past, Christopher Columbus, important treaties or anything regarding slavery and giving his response before walking off.
I’m often talking about the visual we give and the social setting for our comments. This one here doesn’t sit well with many in the black community because Harvey is pandering to an all white audience, answering the question of a white woman and giving this dismissive position of lack of knowledge validation during black history month.
I’m often talking about the visual we give and the social setting for our comments. This one here doesn’t sit well with many in the black community because Harvey is pandering to an all white audience, answering the question of a white woman and giving this dismissive position of lack of knowledge validation during black history month.
Maybe it is just a joke. Maybe it is funny in that context, but it is dangerous to encourage ignorance. Each conversation we engage where the other people involved might have more depth, knowledge and insight into a subject shouldn’t be greeted with “I don’t give a damn about (the subject)” before walking off.
This will never lead to any insight, understanding and growth opportunities for the person, but you watch the video clip and tell us what you think.
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