*This is how the organization sees itself, not how I may assume or romanticize its mission statement.
Accordingly, if we can agree this is how the NAACP Image Awards bills itself, then we should be in agreement that on these merits it should be judged and measured.
In 1942, NAACP Executive Director, Walter White, worked with politicians and studio executives to establish an ad hoc committee with the major studios to monitor the image and portrayal of African Americans on the screen. In 1955, the Mississippi Branch of the NAACP, led by Medgar Evers, filed a complaint with the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) that the local television affiliate, WLBT, presented the local news in a racially biased manner that did not serve the public interest.
Finally in 1969, the FCC revoked WLBT’s broadcast license. This, after years of litigation, marked the only time in FCC history that a television station’s license was revoked because of racial bias in programming. This sent a powerful reminder to the rest of the television industry – that we as citizens own the public airwaves.
In1966, under consistent legal pressure from the NAACP, “The Amos & Andy Show” was taken off the air, and a year later the NAACP Hollywood Branch created the NAACP Image Awards. Now a primetime live special, the NAACP Image Awards is the nation’s premier event celebrating the outstanding achievements and performances of people of color in the arts, as well as those individuals or groups who promote social justice through their creative endeavors.”
– From the NAACP Image Awards website
The latest slate of nominees includes 4 for singer Robin Thicke. That would be the VMAs Miley Cyrus booty-grinding Robin Thicke of falsetto fame, just in case you were unclear.
Outstanding Male Artist
Outstanding Duo, Group or Collaboration – “Blurred Lines”
Outstanding Song – “Blurred Lines”
Outstanding Album – “Blurred Lines”
In truth, there is only question to be asked (and answered). What message are you trying to send us, NAACP Image Awards? That’s the question at the heart of the matter, though I have other questions on my mind.
Given the recent announcement of a settlement being reached between Sony and family members of Marvin Gaye, it is anything but “settled” that Thicke did not cross the music interpolation line, hijacking the musical legacy of Marvin Gaye.
How should I or anyone else familiar with the stated mandate of the NAACP Image Awards look upon these 4 nominations for Robin Thicke, all directly connected to the song, Blurred Lines?
Get the rest of this editorial/essay at Mr. Mo’Kelly.
SOURCE: EURweb.com
Article and Pictures Courtesy of EUR Web
DISCUSSION: Should Robin Thicke Even Be Nominated for The NAACP Image Awards? was originally published on wzakcleveland.com
