By Gerald Early
Dave Chappelle and the Slaying of American Taboos
The attack on Dave Chappelle demonstrates that taboo-slaying is a bit more complicated process in this country than some might think, and who is on whose side might be murkier than some had hoped.
Remembering Director Jules Dassin Who Died on March 31, 2008
Well into my adulthood I thought film director Jules Dassin was a European. It was not unusual for me to think this. My interest in film for many years was merely casual, even now; so, I did not pay close attention to the people who made movies.
The Slap Heard Round the World, or What is the Sound of One Hand Clapping?
The Oscars have figured out how to make this long, boring show interesting: Have the participants assault each other.
Black History Month: An Origin Story
This was a hard lesson. But I was not traumatized by it. I had learned enough from Negro History Week to know that there were Black people who had it a lot tougher and had learned harder lessons in a harder way. They soldiered on. I would not be much of a Black person if I let something like this really get me down.
Whoopi Goldberg and Why Blacks See Jews in the Way They Do
Goldberg's views about Jews and race have nothing to do with the Holocaust or Nazi Germany and everything to do with Blacks and Jews in the United States.
Fifty Songs Featuring Cities and Urban Life
For almost every metropolis—and even a few towns—with streets, neighborhoods, and businesses there is a song with melody, harmony, and a beat.
Fifty Songs Featuring Cities and Urban Life
For almost every metropolis—and even a few towns—with streets, neighborhoods, and businesses there is a song with melody, harmony, and a beat.
Ninety-eight Years Ago on January 27, India’s Most Famous Film Star Was Born
His screen tests bowled over Korda, Flaherty, and everyone connected with the film. He was absolutely the most winning child they had ever encountered. He was, well, utterly gorgeous, not just his looks, but his manner, his air, his aura. Selar Shalik, who would come to be known simply as "Sabu," did not speak a word of English.