I Really Mean It
Veteran
When white or Asian or Latino creatives and entrepreneurs unveil a new venture, support from within their community is abundant, from word of mouth that travels along the social media circuit to consumption of the product that was released. Whether it’s food or clothing or music or art, those communities support their own, even when the product might not be up to par. They remain on code and try to show support because of an almost familial obligation to do so.
But, black people? There’s rarely any love or appreciation for what a brother or sister is grinding towards. If it’s not unfounded skepticism in the quality of the product - dubiously highlighted “issues” found in even the most exemplary presentation - it’s outright disdain for that person having the gall to think they could create something for public consumption.
But, as is always the case, there’s an exception.When a non-black community shows interest in that individual’s creation, be it a writeup in a newspaper or cosign by an influencer, black people start to take notice and begin treating that person like they’re legitimate.
How sad is it that we are loathe to support our own unless someone who isn’t black says they like what that person is doing?
But, black people? There’s rarely any love or appreciation for what a brother or sister is grinding towards. If it’s not unfounded skepticism in the quality of the product - dubiously highlighted “issues” found in even the most exemplary presentation - it’s outright disdain for that person having the gall to think they could create something for public consumption.
But, as is always the case, there’s an exception.When a non-black community shows interest in that individual’s creation, be it a writeup in a newspaper or cosign by an influencer, black people start to take notice and begin treating that person like they’re legitimate.
How sad is it that we are loathe to support our own unless someone who isn’t black says they like what that person is doing?
