America's Got Talent host Terry Crews sent a controversial tweet on Sunday about "black supremacy." It was the latest in celebrities sharing messages that probably could have used some extra thought before spreading to the world.
America's Got Talent has recently returned to television, providing an escape during what has been, thus far, an unimaginably difficult 2020. The concern about the coronavirus pandemic has given way to a much-needed discussion about a more pernicious virus: racism. In the wake of the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, it's become painfully apparent that we can't rely on some of our favorite television stars to provide us with the comfort and blueprint to mobilization many of us so desperately need. Each day, it seems, another celebrity sends something over social media that goes viral if only for its ignorance. On Saturday, it was JK Rowling, taking an ill-timed shot at the transgender community. On Sunday, Terry Crews decided it was his turn.
Crews tweeted on Sunday the following message: "Defeating White supremacy without White people creates Black supremacy. Equality is the truth." He added, "Like it or not, we are all in this together." There are many ways to fight racism. You can donate to bail reform funds, educate yourself on black history, have difficult discussions with your family and friends. Warning everyone about black supremacy is pretty low on that list.
This tweet is just another reminder that, while it is a great time to listen to prominent black voices for guidance on how to take the steps toward ending systematic racism, not everyone is saying the right thing. There is, of course, no scare of black supremacy on the horizon. Crews' tweet plays into the dangerous and false narrative that black rioting has gotten out of control. In fact, any violence that has ensued from the black community is a result of a police force rooted in racism that is desperately in need of immediate reform, if not defunding.
The truth is that peaceful protests are taking place around the world, already leading to incremental changes despite continued police brutality. What we're witnessing in America is both painful and inspiring at the same time. Crews has been spot on in some of his previous messages, reaching out to Gabrielle Union and calling the NFL racist. But his latest tweet shows that we shouldn't blindly listen to all black voices to check our privilege. We should make sure that the reality stars who are speaking out are educated on the issue as well.
Source: Terry Crews