When art sets racism in the past, no matter how good it is, it allows white people in the audience (and others) to say to themselves "Wow! That racism sure was bad way back then! " It's what happens when people go see 12 Years a Slave. My response is always, "Yeah, you wanna know another time when racism was bad? Earlier today. W. Kamau Bell
About This Quote

This quote is a jab at the idea that art is a way to ignore the past, and to allow us to pretend that there is no racism today. This becomes a problem when people try to use art as a way of dismissing things in the past. The idea of turning a blind eye to things that have been done in the past is not only disingenuous but disrespectful. It also sets up power dynamics that create a disconnect from reality. We can learn from history, and use it as a guide for better living in the future, but we cannot ignore it.

Source: The Awkward Thoughts Of W. Kamau Bell: Tales Of A 6 4, African American, Heterosexual, Cisgender, Leftleaning, Asthmatic, Black And Proud Blerd, Mamas Boy, Dad, And Standup Comedian

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