Monday, Nov 19, 2007
I recently picked up the latest issue of Essence magazine with Sanaa Lathan, Nia Long, and Gabrielle Union gracing the cover. All three actresses are very beautiful and talented. Unfortunately, the interview began with Sanaa mentioning how she was so happy to have gotten a job this year as in its hard to find work. Nia then mentions that with being an actress there is no security. This discussion isn't unusual. A lot of African American actors and actresses claim to have trouble finding work and often complain that there isn't an equal and fair representation of African American actors and actresses on the screen.
I think that African Americans need to stop complaining so much and waiting on someone else to hand them something. Instead of waiting to be handed a job how about creating a job. In order for us to be represented more frequently and equally we're going to first have to be behind the camera instead of in front of the camera. I'll use Tyler Perry for instance, he started out as a playwright and theater actor and now he's directing his own films and has a choice in who he wants to be featured in them. His latest film, Why Did I Get Married is a perfect example. The cast was clearly all African American. It depicted African Americans as educated and in a light of professionalism.
Not to mention, when Tyler Perry became popular many A-list actors and actresses ridiculed him and called his work "bafoonery" instead of recognizing the opportunity and potential and congratulating the brother on his success. We all have to start somewhere and sometimes small. If that means starting out writing and directing plays that are sold mostly on "bootleg" then so be it because it might create an opportunity for you to be behind the camera and contribute to a much greater cause.
