Commentary
Harry Belafonte Calls Out Jay-Z and Beyonce for Selfishness
by Dr. Boyce Watkins, KultureKritic.com
Harry Belafonte, who did a great deal of work for the black community during the Civil Rights Movement, is making no secret of the fact that he’s very disappointed in many young black celebrities when it comes to to social activism. Speaking this week with the Hollywood Reporter, Belafonte pointed out Jay-Z and Beyonce as prime examples of what he’s talking about.
THR: Back to the occasion of the award for your acting career. Are you happy with the image of members of minorities in Hollywood today?
Belafonte: Not at all. They have not told the history of our people, nothing of who we are. We are still looking. We are not determinated. We are not driven by some technology that says you can kill Afghanistans, the Iraquis or the Spanish. It is all – excuse my French – shit. It is sad. And I think one of the great abuses of this modern time is that we should have had such high-profile artists, powerful celebrities. But they have turned their back on social responsibility. That goes for Jay-Z and Beyoncé, for example. Give me Bruce Springsteen, and now you’re talking. I really think he is black.
My friend Alexis Stodghill at TheGrio makes the point (in a news piece where she carefully cites both sides of the issue) that perhaps Belafonte is off-base with his critique. She notes that Beyonce has spoken up for her fellow recording artist Frank Ocean when he admitted that he was gay, and that Jay-Z has chumed it up with President Obama during his presidential campaign and supported him on the issue of gay marriage.
We must note that Beyonce and Jay-Z speaking up on gay marriage and homosexuality is little more than a political decision designed to remain in alignment with the Obama presidency. If Barack had said nothing on the issue, Jay-Z would have said nothing. So, we have to be sure not to mistake meaningful advocacy for elitist political shoulder-rubbing (wealthy famous people tend to take care of one another).
But when you look at the black aristocracy that is known as Jay-Z and Beyonce, one form of activism that is missing is anything that involves the words “poor black people.” Also, when it comes to issues that affect the least of us, including poverty, mass incarceration, urban violence, unequal educational systems and the like, it’s easy to say that Jay-Z and Beyonce have been effectively missing in action, unless it’s time to show up and utilize this audience to sell albums.
One exception noted by Kirsten West Savali at NewsOne.com is the Shawn Carter foundation, created by Jay-Z and the people who work for him. According to the foundation’s website, “Since the Foundation’s inception, over 750 students have received awards totaling over $1.3 million dollars.”
Jay-Z should certainly be commended for doing something he didn’t have to do, but let’s really think about this for a second, shall we? First, most corporations have some kind of foundation. Even Wal-Mart can claim to have sent thousands of kids to college, as they simultaneously strip workers of their rights around the world, drive small companies out of business and refuse to pay a living wage to their employees. Secondly, if you divide the $1.3 million given away by the foundation by 750 scholarship recipients, that’s about $1,733 per child. Please tell me what college in America has a tuition bill of $1,733. Of course Jay-Z gives away more than most of us can afford, but even the local drug dealer can also afford to use heroin money give away turkeys at Chistmas. The point here is that if I pillage half a billion dollars from the black community over a 10-year period, it’s pretty easy for me to give back $1.3 million of it.
I noticed a line in Jay-Z’s song “Niggaz in Paris,” where he says, “Can you see the private jets flying over you?” This line is part of a consistent message of black elitism that has become all-too prevalent in the entertainment industry. It is a statement which says, “I’m better than you, and I am not one of you. Your job is to either worship me or hate on me, I don’t care which one.”
Beyond the “extensive” efforts of his foundation, Jay-Z is also the man who earned over $63 million dollars last year and only gave $6,000 to charity. Unfortunately, this has become par for the course in a world where poor black people are not nearly as fashionable of a cause as gay white kids from the suburbs. Poor black kids can’t buy your records, rendering them effectively useless.
So, while Beyonce and Jay-Z speaking up on marriage equality is a politely cute form of activism, you have to agree with Belafonte that today’s artists are taught not to care about anyone other than themselves. At best, we might get a photo op at a charity event, but the real pressure to sacrifice for those who are suffering is lost as millions of us forgive celebrities for being unwilling to use their power to make the world a better place. The rule is simple: If you’re rich, we love you. It doesn’t matter if you’re a former crack dealer (Jay-Z), brag about murdering women and children (Lil Wayne) or sleep with middle school kids on the weekends (R. Kelly). Money is used to wash away all sins, and people are quicker to disrespect an icon like Harry Belafonte than they are to challenge celebrities to do more than tweet pictures of their newborn baby.
By “social responsibility,” I don’t think that Belafonte is referring to charity concerts or speaking to Congress about saving dolphins. He’s talking about the kind of activism that requires testicular fortitude. He’s talking about the black men and women during the 1960s who used their voices loud and clear to state that things need to change in America soon, or else.
Those days are long gone. In the 1960s, oppression was much more rampant, so nearly every black person was banging on the door of equality. Today, those who’ve been allowed access to predominantly white institutions are asked to sign a “Good negro forever” card, and disavow any meaningful political stands that might get them into trouble with a corporate sponsor or record label. As a result, we have a group of celebrities who are very quick to build their brands off the “street cred” granted to them by impoverished African Americans, but don’t feel compelled to use those brands to become anything other than corporate-sponsored slumlords.
So, a “gangsta rapper” can speak all day about his time in prison, but he dare not say anything about the fact that the United States incarcerates more of its citizens than any country in the world, earning billions on the backs of black men and women, destroying millions of families in the process. He can rap all about “all his homies that done passed away,” but he’s better off staying away from a conversation about how gun violence is fueled by manufacturers who are happy to build profitable corporate tools to fund black male genocide.
It is the lack of acknowledgement of the deep and piercing artifacts of black oppression that bother Belafonte and others the most. It’s what bothers me too, for I’ve always been raised to believe that (to recite the words of Spiderman’s Uncle Ben) great power comes with great responsibility.
Perhaps when Jay-Z really understands what wealth is all about, he can take a note from Warren Buffett, Oprah and others, who’ve convinced several billionaires to give half of their wealth to charity when they die. A billion dollars is far more than enough for one family so why not use the rest of save 1,000 families? Is it nothing less than utterly shameful to have 10 houses, 15 cars, 200 expensive suits and several private planes? Maybe there is a point where such gluttony should not be celebrated by the rest of us, and instead be called out as pathetic in a world where millions of children are going to die this year from starvation.
Anyone who disagrees with me might want to consider the fact that there is nothing consistent with the teachings of Jesus about letting innocent people starve while you’re burning money in your basement. The principled stands by men like Muhammad Ali, who gave away nearly everything to stand up for his values, are virtually non-existence when our leading artists write songs about excessive materialism, getting high and drunk every day, killing other black men and unhealthy sexual promiscuity. Belafonte is right on point and we should look to our elders to remind us of what it means to live a purposeful and righteous life.
Harry Belafonte, by speaking up at the age of 85, is effectively asking that young people pick up the baton that he’s been running since Dr. King was a teenager. But instead of picking up the baton, we’ve thrown it at his feet and signed ourselves up for corporate slavery. I congratulate Harry for taking a stand on this important issue, and I am hopeful that his courage can spark the cultural revolution necessary to make our people stronger as a result.
Way to go Harry, I respect you.
Dr. Boyce Watkins is a professor at Syracuse University and founder of the Your Black World Coalition. To have Dr. Boyce commentary delivered to your email, please click here.
Jackie
August 8, 2018 at 6:14 pm
Can the church said AMEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
J.D. Hill
August 9, 2018 at 1:18 am
Question: Are Jay-Z, Beyonce, and other Black, super rich folk part of the church? Do they even CLAIM to be Christians or people of God? We can admonish Christians about the love of money and not helping those in need with their abundance. But to the rich and ungodly, it’s foolishness!
Warren Wortham
August 9, 2018 at 4:26 pm
Very True
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:08 pm
maybe they aren’t c hristians. but they are black.
Desmar
August 16, 2018 at 8:06 pm
great answer!
Darlene
September 2, 2018 at 1:20 pm
and……. a black crayon is black, some skillets are black, some dogs are black, let’s see……. Oh! fabric is black. Must I continue? So……..they are black! what’s the point?
BigWill
February 18, 2019 at 1:00 am
As long as non whites or so called minorities continue to pray to a caucasian man as god nothing will ever change.
Ukelu
April 30, 2021 at 8:47 am
I’m discovering just now that I’m not the only one thinking what you just said. Until black people return to the beliefs of their forefathers (labeled by racist whites as paganisl or animism), there will no moving forward, no liberty for them.
HeavenSent
May 11, 2021 at 4:32 pm
BigWill
who is this caucasian man that you speak of?
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:39 pm
FACTS: http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
tanesha
August 14, 2018 at 2:30 pm
you keep posting that same article and all its doing is further confirming the fact that he has given 1.4 million to 750 students since 2002. learn how to read fool
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:55 pm
Beyoncé was quiet, for instance, about the fact that after she visited Phoenix House, a drug and alcohol treatment center, as part of her research for 2008’s “Cadillac Records,” she donated her entire salary from the film to the organization.
Victor
August 10, 2018 at 10:48 am
This post misses one of the major points of the article. Not only is he critiquing the fact that they could give more but don’t, he’s critiquing that they don’t use their positions of great influence to engage in advocacy. People get too caught up in sending money that they forget about advocacy. For example, every southern town during the Jim Crow era had a White “ladies auxillary” or something of the sort that would give charity to Blacks. But, these same people did nothing and even supported when these same people were robbed, raped and lynched. It’s not just about giving money, you have to actually work against oppression, but this requires risking something.
Ken
August 11, 2018 at 7:30 am
Victor my thoughts exactly, and its not just about these two its about us as a whole. I see very few people willing to put skin in the game, from celebrities to people on the south side of Chicago afraid to snitch.
Unfortunately the common belief is that we have arrived and life is a constant struggle you never arrive
Nees
August 11, 2018 at 3:24 pm
Jayz talks about it in music, Him and Beyonce built pipelines in Africa, and the new Nets stadium is putting jobs in the black community; he’s the only one sticking to his word too. Everybody else who got space downtown Brooklyn went back on their word on affordable housing.
Carolyn Askew
August 13, 2018 at 2:38 am
Very well said. Instead of writing that one time check, put some skin in the game. Not to make light of Beyonce donating her salary. But where is the real involvement? What about getting her other well to do friends to be charitiable to the cause? What about a yearly luncheon with procedes going to the rehab? Put some skin in the game. And those jobs in downtown BK, other than the front office and high paid ballplayers there will be SEASONAL just above minium wage ticket takers, janitors and other low paying jobs. The concession stands lease their space they are not paid employees. Jay-z should put some money into rehab after all thats how he made his money in the begining isn’t it? Selling drugs?
Those scholarships are a joke right? Your kidding right? He spends more than that on gasoline for his cars, yaught and planes. 750 people? You must of meant 75 people right? Thats all I need to hear. Enough said. They are just plain selfish.
Tony Cox
August 16, 2018 at 8:37 pm
Well said
Glass
August 29, 2018 at 10:08 pm
Great explaination Victor, that is exactlly what i think he was saying
JAMES JOHNSON
August 24, 2018 at 9:25 am
Good to know
carole harris
August 10, 2018 at 1:33 pm
Please don’t make the assumption that people who do not believe in God are uncharitable. One has nothing to do with the other. It has to do with character, and upbring.
elizabeth
August 18, 2018 at 1:57 pm
I’m with you Carol. THanks for bringing that up
david
August 11, 2018 at 2:27 pm
boyce, in your pimping of the black community, so how much did you to charity last year?
Benz
August 15, 2018 at 9:51 pm
Yes boyce how much did you give to charity???
marred graves
August 22, 2018 at 3:05 am
college teaching doesn’t pay like the music industry, david. why’d you use the insulting word “pimping”? are you in the running for a republican seat in congress or just trying on some “manly” phrases? if you actually believe mr. boyce is pimping with his writing, then you must see yourself as a john when you read his words — if they get you off, what are you paying for the pleasure? or are you into finding insights wherever you can find them on the cheap? (we don’t have to buy anything to read here, kinda like getting free presents from a Macy’s Santa, only cleaner — so i don’t get why you leapt at chance to use sleazy attack mode when you’re getting a gift just participating in this conversation???)
Angela Beasley
August 14, 2018 at 12:50 am
Being religious has nothing to do with helping people.
BigWill
February 18, 2019 at 12:58 am
As long as non whites- so called minorities continue to pray to a caucasian man as god nothing will ever change.
kevin
March 9, 2019 at 12:59 am
@JD, you are so correct. I’ve never heard Jay-Z or Beyonce claim christianity and I doubt they will anytime soon. I don’t see much of Gods spirit in either while their on top of the entertainment world.
Doctor Boyce has a thing against R Kelly because of sexual sins he may have committed many many years ago.
Dr. Boyce, are you saying once a person has sex with someone not his spouse, that person can’t Repent and be the best person they can be from then on?
That is what I gather from your continuous attacks on R Kelley.
DR MARCIA ANN MIMS COPPERTINO
August 9, 2018 at 1:21 am
AND I WILL SECOND THAT AMEN BEFORE THEY HAVE TO END UP THROWING ALL THE SILVER AND GOLD INTO THE VERY STREETS…ACCORDING TO THE OLD PROPHET!
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:38 pm
We are so quick to believe negative that it’s blinding. FACTS: http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:15 pm
you know what’s really blinded? you! Boyce has, in the span of this great article, highlighted the very things that are and have been plaguing the black community for so long~ he has specifically and adroitly tapped into the sources of the sickness that rampage our communities. this article on it’s own could get a Pultizer, in my oppinion.
Debra Murphy
August 9, 2018 at 2:22 am
“Amen” People, please wake up!
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 8:44 am
I certainly can. Amen! I said I was not going to respond to site anymore because of my disappointment with Dr. Watkins. But, this is important. If we can’t chastise our clueless super stars and change their behavior, we can certainly change ours.
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:41 pm
Boyce didn’t do any research to see if the was accurate. This blog is all about making money for him via advertisements. #ByAnyMeansNecessary
FACTS: http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
Pechda Niph
August 10, 2018 at 2:55 am
Kia,
I think we get that Jay-Z sponsored two concerts and raised $1million. I think we are able to understand that he established and funded a foundation that gave up to $2K to college bound students. When I look at what Oprah did Before she became even a multi-millionaire to house and educate so many people – from her personal funds – Jay-Zs efforts are commendable but pale in comparison to what he actually *could* do. When you buy a $2.5million vehicle to give away as a birthday present for a person who could buy it for herself, I am not impressed. To whom much is given, much is required – Believer or not. Using one’s station and position in life to help those, who ostensibly helped you, is simply not only the right thing to do but, the right example to set. Sometimes it is good for those who have risen above their former station in life to understand that it does not have to be about them all of the time. Sometimes it is about *Us*.
ThaBizness
August 14, 2018 at 9:45 am
……(((clapping!))) @Pechda Niph!! 😀 YOU hit the nail right in the middle of it’s pointy head!! Kia seems to be one of those Bey & Jay staunch supporters who overlooks the fact that they (B&J) do not use their wealth & status powers *for good*…and regardless of what she (ie; Kia) thinks SHE too, would be overlooked and pushed to the side, without so much as a 2nd glance, if she were in need of that very same help. @ Kia, Bey & Jay are not YOUR friends. They are pompus, arrogant show offs who care nothing of the race that they come from, nor do they care anything about anyone to whom they do not see as their equals. “Wake Up” Sista!!…
Smither1
August 11, 2018 at 11:01 am
On that same article to the link you posted here; I just read but I’m more in favor of the guy who posted this:
“I’m not sure how to put this. If you make $50 million a year, and you want recognition for your foundation that has given out $1.4 million over 9-10 years, you ought to be ashamed of yourself. Instead, he gets Carnegie Hall to show off his philanthropy, while the folks who pay for the tickets will be the real philanthropists on that night. This smells as bad as him making profits off of fake “Occupy” shirts. A clear cut case where philanthropy, like charity, begins at home. Yeah, “This is so awesome.” NOT.”
fay_jay
August 13, 2018 at 11:55 pm
Yip dee doo. Jay Z donated his TIME. WE should all be so grateful. We get it. Do you? I think the article is not saying that they don’t do anything, but that they don’t do anything difficult or gutsy. Yes, they take chances when it comes to their careers, but what about finding a cause and using your celebrity to bring awareness. Not this cute stuff, but to stuff that may be unpopular. There are issues that they could use their positions to tackle, but they don’t. A man who won’t stand for something will fall for anything. Is there a cause for which they would give everything? These are the chances the celebs of yesteryear took. Even if it wasn’t feasible for them to be vocal all the time, they financed movements and sacrificed greatly for their causes.
Total Guerra
August 11, 2018 at 6:44 pm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mD2eJqs7sJQ
Tupac owned him before!
“it’s about niggers and bitches, power and money, riders and punks. Which side are you on?”
Shelia Johnson Porte
August 13, 2018 at 6:15 pm
I totally agree!
janice
September 10, 2018 at 4:09 pm
It has always been in the back of my mind about this matter – and it’s still puzzling to me when Beyonce makes statement like I’ve never been and I was not trying to get out of the projects so, when I have to play a part beneath me I have to do research. Janet Jackson says it better when she said Beyonce needs to grow up and shut up. I better quit now because it hurts to even think about the bull. I love everyone else’s comment.
nene
September 11, 2018 at 7:11 pm
amen 🙂
Katie
September 27, 2018 at 5:27 am
Amen! Check out the lives of men and women who get out of prison and the many ways they are used by different organizations that need to survive.
Mz
August 8, 2018 at 6:27 pm
I can’t understand for the life of me why we pick and choose who gets a pass on giving back and who gets called out. Jay Z is an ignorant Nig er and so is his wife! Before you get upset let’s remember that it was ok for his White Hollywood pal Gwen Paltrow to say it so I will too. But I digress. Not even a day ago the President flat out told us he owes nothing to us-hes everyone’s President and so many were ok with it. Now, its wrong for two Entertainers to do the same? No Black person has a right to walk away and not look back, NO ONE!
Juke booty
August 8, 2018 at 8:29 pm
What have these individuals, Kobe Bryant, and many others done to assist the Black community. It’s good to see that other blacks besides Obama is being body slammed. Jay Z and Beyonce as well as others care only about themselves. Of course, if black folks didn’t buy their music, they wouldn’t be shit. So, I blame y’all too. I don’t buy any of their music. Jay Z is from Brooklyn (I think) and maybe he forgot that. These black entertainers could pool their monies together and build an empire in this nation. I’d like to see more banks, hospitals, other medical facilities, schools, etc. built by black money. Obviously, none of these celebrities gives a hoot what we think of them. Their nig —ish attitude is similar to a lot of affluent pastors and bishops. We got ours, now you gotta git yours LOL They’ve been talked about so much that they probably sit back and laugh, while their pockets grow and grow. Again, I fault y’all for having patronized them for all these years. Y’all are the dummies. Let the white folks buy their music and and see how far they get.
Common Sense
August 9, 2018 at 1:01 am
For the record most music is brought by non blacks, mostly whites! So how can you blame blacks who do not paid for their music?
Dick Peery
August 9, 2018 at 10:30 am
Most of Harry Belafonte’s music was always bought by whites from his beginning as a folk singer in the 1950s and throughout his lengthy career that included stretches heading the Billboard charts and star status in Europe and Las Vegas when black patrons were virtually nonexistent. That did not preclude his outspoken commitment to civil and human rights and peace, financial support for Martin Luther King and physical appearance on dangerous picket lines.
Franklin R.
August 9, 2018 at 11:59 am
For the record our people (blacks) are also spending millions on these people’s records and going to their shows as well as whites but most of us that do that are just as blind as they are so we follow them into the ditch singing and dancing and paising the almighty (dollar god) and those who have it.
Smither1
August 11, 2018 at 11:07 am
More like the blind leading the blind…and the root of it all spells evil….just my opinion. Do most his fans even know what the pyramidical hand symbol represents or are they just following a leader? But it is sad that some wouldn’t know the truth even if it slapped them in the face.
LeoStare
August 9, 2018 at 2:34 pm
I agree black folk will download it for free before buying any album. So that’s a highly false statement!
linda bronson
August 10, 2018 at 4:19 am
EGGGGGG-actly!
Disgusted
August 9, 2018 at 8:19 am
Honestly, I can’t believe anyone listens to rap. It’s more like noise than music, but hey, to each his/her own. We are all guilty of making all these celebrities rich, be they music “artists” (using the term loosely), actors/actresses and now, these nobodies they call “reality stars.” If we stop consuming, they stop selling. Guess what happens then? They become one of us. I revere no one, especially not someone who makes money by being half naked (we used to call them prostitutes where I came from) or someone who talks to music. Whatever. They ALL disgust me….
5% of rap is AWESOME
August 10, 2018 at 2:51 pm
I bet you havent heard of any of these “rap” artists: The Grouch, Aesop Rock, Gangstarr, LMNO, Busdriver, Del the Funky Homosapien, Eligh, Subtitle, Chuck D., Scarub, GZA, Thavius Beck, Q-Tip, Mr. Lif… i can name more, but all of them make quality rap music that is actually thought out well and none of them are sell outs like the popular rappers you are used to hearing about… i have disliked pop rap for the last 12 years and have done a lot of searching… if you are open minded enough you can find there is some good stuff out there…
Precious
August 11, 2018 at 1:58 am
We must remember, people like Jay and Beyonce’ are hyped up and popular for a reason – they promote nonsense for the sole purpose dummying down the real message and keeping masses ignorant. We really can’t blame them for being swept up for they are just as ignorant and dummied down themselve. We must blame ourselves for not railing against the system that insists on putting such garbage out there. Jay spouts hatred and disdain while his wife flaunts and disrepects her body with her ton of weave to look like white women and skimpy body suits. What can you really expect from either of them but to brag on expensive cars and private jets.
VAS
August 11, 2018 at 9:01 pm
Don’t forget gospel/christian rap!
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 8:45 am
Can I say amen?
Charles W.
August 9, 2018 at 9:40 am
We make up about 9-11% of the population. They will be just fine as far as selling their records. 80% of their sales are to the white consumer. I don’t think that would be an effective message. Even if we didn’t show up to their concerts, the message would still get drowned out on that front. I believe we truly have to abandon the idea of “looking to see who is helping us first, then what can I do for myself” approach that is prevalent. Moral convictions vary and can’t be cast on everyone. Maybe Jay-Z’s entire family all live in apartments downtown with fully stocked fridges and luxury cars in their driveways. His nieces and nephews all have their college tuitions paid for with an inheritance waiting on them. Maybe Beyonce’s staff is made up of people she grew up with or their relatives. Does that not count? Charity isn’t confined to public charitable causes. Jay-Z has a water charity in Africa (In order to help produce clean water sources).
The point isn’t about defending them. It’s about changing the lens we look through. If the President authorizes the release of a couple hundred billion dollars to low income families or areas; there will not be a “this is for black people” alert that goes out. Guess what? We, by default (a large percentage of our families and communities) fall into that category. Again, we make up 9-11% of the population. We may be responsible for certain portions of the electoral maps or segments; but we are not the reason he is President. It’s actually because of the majority in our country (White people and other racial segments). We put icing on the cake. He’s doing things that we can’t even see that benefit us because we didn’t get a “Black People Look” newsflash.
Looking around to blame is over. Bootstraps. Lace ’em up. Tight and high. Go get re-trained or trained and certified. Why look to collect a LINK card or SNAP check, when billions have been allocated for college training, craft training, licensing and certifications? Free money..just go apply like one would for those gov’t checks. How about go get that money? Leave your comfort zone of “my mom stays down the street” and “I’ve never been outside my city.” Many jobs and career fields exist that don’t care about how old you are. But, we don’t want to do “that kind of work” or “sit in some classroom all day.” Nobody is going to save us. Nobody. So, go get it.
BTW: Born and raised south-side englewood, Chicago. Single parent household, food stamps, no dad, 2 younger sisters. Had a baby when I was 17=Today: Nuclear Chemistry Instructor, CEO of own business.
I’m telling you…go get it.
Faye
August 9, 2018 at 10:59 am
I concur. Go get it! “It” being something that will benefit you and your family. Charity starts at home. If we can’t take care of our own and deal with them first as Jay does, even in the vein of providing water to villages in Africa, much less providing for and employing his family members.
Seriously, I wonder if the people judging others have ever volunteered their time and money to a soup kitchen or fed/clothed someone who was hungry or in need. It doesn’t matter who you are or how much money you have or don’t, WE need to take of OURSELVES better. There used to be a time when churches were the center of a community and they used their resources to empower the people who served and lived in the community now with the mega churches and the greed, even this is falling away…. WE have to do better.
Charles Oglesby
August 9, 2018 at 1:27 pm
I couldn’t have said it better myself. More people need to read and digest what you just wrote.
signed: no kids out of wedlock, college educated, 2L law student, investment professional.
Amy
August 9, 2018 at 3:00 pm
@Charles W: The-most intelligent productive enlightened response to this article and comments made on this post EVER! I have seen the Belafonte’s interview article up and down the internet, with most folks agreeing automatically with Mr. Belafonte as if he is ominously aware of every detail in the lives of famous, rich Black celebs. Mucho respect to Mr. Belafonte and all the work he’s done crusading for the Cause, that he did it his way. But please don’t look down from your well-earned pedestal and smite all that haven’t done exactly as you’ve done. People are already bringing up the charity and causes that JayZ and other Black celebs have contributed to and are involved in outside of the critical public eye. And lastly, to all you Good Christian Folks lining up Black celebrities to burn at the stake…”Judge not, least YOU be judged!”
Jalen
August 9, 2018 at 5:42 pm
The most important question is why is someone like Jay-Z a celebrity and even in the public discourse to begin with?
He is an admitted drug-dealing, criminal that has pimped and sold out his community and is now heralded as a “black musical genius” on the level of many of the greats that have not taken his precarious path to wealth.
That is one of the major problems with some of us black folks; anyone can be elevated to hero and worship status even when they are deleterious to the health and well-being of the black community and particularly not a quintessential role model for black young people.
Ever listened to even a snippet of this man’s lyrics laced in the “N” and “B” words accompanied by a hefty dose of profanity. And, we are proud of this rebrobate? Why?
Yet when an article was posted about pioneering neurosurgeon, Dr. Benjamin Carson, of Johns Hopkins in Baltimore MD and his criticism of Obama’s Health Care policies, people were attacking and disrespecting this great man as if he was a child molester!!!
My point is that we sometimes pick the wrong people to annoint as “heroes” or “spokespersons” and that just leads to more chaos and dysfunction in our community.
Many posters on this site are extremely articulate and well-educated with multiple degrees, but are unemployed or underemployed and these morons are walking around with sagging pants, ostentatious displays of wealth, spewing profane language, uttering nonsense and displaying egregious disrespect for themselves, women and black people and their concerts are sold out worldwide and attended by people of all races and ethnicities?!!!!!
And, we wonder why we are in such a conundrum? Go figure.
Chris S.
August 9, 2018 at 5:56 pm
I echo your sentiments 100%. Just as I was about to pour my heart out on this thread, I found your response that summed up all of my thoughts! Gratitude… By the way, I am too from Chicago and from the same socioeconomic background. I went to Lindblom H.S in Englewood. People too often worried about what is being done FOR them, rather than worrying about what they can do for themselves. However, i also think that a lot of people may have take Mr. Belafonte’s comments out of context as well. He spoke about the social and civic responsibility that contemporary artists have. Back in his day we were going through the Civil rights movement and most famous people knew that they had the responsibility of educating and uplifting their fan-base due to the adverse times.
Today’s generation has seemingly forgotten the struggle of our people and lack familiarity of even our most prominent African-American leaders (e.g. Malcolm X, Medgar Evers, Ida B. Wells, Shirley Chisholm etc.). They may know the faces, but many cant even begin to articulate the accomplishments of these individuals. Many of MLK’s Dreams have come to fruition. The question is, what percentage of the Black Population is actually taking advantage of the liberties that he paid for with his life??
Maryland Girl, Educated and Reciprocated
August 13, 2018 at 1:45 pm
Very well organized and thoughtful statement- impressive! May I note, however, that the charitable causes Jay-Z and Beyonce take up are quite different from advocacy? Advocacy…a very different and powerful way to make a difference. Who are we judge how and how much one is to contribute positively towards society? Valid question. Anyone can donate money to help them sleep at night. It takes real backbone to verbalize a belief and to make it a reality. The reason why many people do not know of Jay’s contributions to Africa? Because it’s quietly done. That, and it’s not entertaining enough for the hungry media wolves and their babies (consumers)..but that’s another animal altogether.
Chris
August 14, 2018 at 9:26 am
I support that!
william f collins
August 11, 2021 at 5:31 pm
BTW,
Charles W Black folk comprise 13-14% of the USA ‘s population. Check out the US Census latest publication/pamphlet entitled The Black Population, 2010 or any of the annual updates.
thomas
October 4, 2021 at 3:08 am
you are a very accomplished woman, and i love it , BUT most people are ordinary folks and there is a systemic and cultural hurdle that is very hard if not impossible for ordinary folks to leap.
we do need to emphasis READING to our children because that is the key to THINKING, THE EXPOSURE TO IDEAS AND INFORMATION.
brenda felix
August 9, 2018 at 2:32 pm
it was time someone expose these people for what they are each and everyone of them have to die and they not going with nothing be their kids family there are so many kids out there in need not only thanksgiving and they still have the poor man struggling to buy their music and have no respect for people because they have money oh please i will never buy their music watch his wife show off her ass to make money in music what’s about all the people he sell drugs to allready and happy to brag his mouth about it now because he have money these are devil worshipers they have no power God has the last say the all has a price to pay watch them in the days to comecome..
a
marty
August 9, 2018 at 3:29 pm
white folks buy over 70 percent of black music!
Tonisocool
August 10, 2018 at 4:45 pm
I agree. I don’t buy any of their music, or go to their concerts. I also hate that these artists, still with money they make for themselves only, continue to wear their pants on the ground, sorry, but as if they are still in prison waiting to get fucked up the azz, sorry but that is what I see and will continue to see, they will never never grow up they only care about money, individuality, it’s all about them, themselves and no one else, hmmm let’s see how they come up with that, oh wait that is how whites are all about them, they help their own and no one else, and that is what these artists today are doing. Can’t stand hearing songs about their hey day in drug dealing, prostitutions, gun violence, pedofile, I just can’t stand them or their music. I’m old skool and listen to good music, music now especially by them, sorry, but I can’t stand it, to me it’s not music it is only for them to make more money, that is what the white industry wants, so be it, but I will never support them at all.
SUPER RIGHTS
August 11, 2018 at 8:07 pm
FIRST OF ALL,99% PERCENT OF WHITES BUY JZ MUSIC,
AND A WHITE MAN SIGHNS KOBE CHECK,AND KOBE IS FROM FRANCE,AND DIDINOT LIVE THE AMERICAN
BLACK EXPERIENCE,REMEMBER HIS DAD WAS AN NBA PLAYER,ALSO REMEMBER THAT JZ CONCERTS ARE FULL
OF WHITE PEOPLE,NOT BLACK.THESE ARE THE FACTS
AND YOUR RIGHT ABOUT YOUR OTHER SENTIMENTS.
cheche
September 3, 2018 at 10:36 pm
Amern now I don’t have to repeat what you said.
Greg
August 8, 2018 at 9:41 pm
I agree with you except on the part that no Black person has a right to walk away and not look back, NO ONE!
I have the right. I wouldn’t exactly do it. But I can walk away without any problems. I know how to do it. I know why to do it. I have earned the right to do it. One of the big prolblems with us is that we think we owe each other something. No one owes you a damn thing. It is no different with us. We only owe each other a general infrastructure and how to contribute to it like other people. Personally, I could give a damn less about black people. It is only an infrastructure thing with me. It is not any persons or people.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 8:55 am
Brother, brother, brother, perhaps you don’t owe any blacks living (as a group) anything, but you do owe the ancestors. Black people have been in a struggle for survival for 2000 years. Your recent history of Africans trapped in slavery for 246 years should give you pause. And even the more recent history of your own disenfranchisement should give you pause that just maybe all of these tall buildings SOME hiding institutions, institutions arrayed against you, might make you think that just maybe we need some of those institutions.
I know how lonely the road can be to bring about change in the black community, but I know we, who are conscious, must keep on with the struggle. All of us have a responsibility and when we realize that responsibility we will start healing.
L W O
August 9, 2018 at 8:30 pm
Greg, you’re right-you don’t OWE anyone anything. But you do need to read the history of the Black man in America. When I was 14 years old in Jackson, MS, I marched, protested, and went to jail two times so we could be free and have the same rights afforded to white people in this country. I also endured threats of being clubbed with nightsticks, being attacked by police dogs, and subject to being drenched with water from fire hoses. The Mayor at the time, Allen C. Thompson, issued an order of shoot to KILL all niggers who refused to obey orders and vacate downtown. He even provided his officers a tank dubbed “Thompson’s Tank,” so his officers wouldn’t have to fear reprisals from us non-violent protesters. I didn’t have a problem risking my life because I felt I was doing it for the good of my people. I am very saddened by the actions of our younger generations because they have no knowledge of the struggle that has afforded them the privileges they enjoy today. I also fought for the right to vote for Blacks. And I must tell you this was a very dangerous thing to do. Please do yourself a favor and read some books on Negro history and enlighten yourself.
CeCe
August 9, 2018 at 2:01 am
Okay…first of all. I don’t care which white girl thought that it was okay to use the word “nigger” that doesn’t mean that you should follow in the same dumb ass path. She was stupid and ignorant for saying that, and guess what, you are too. That was just stupid. You can call Jay Z and Beyonce ignorant all day long, doesn’t bother me a bit. They’re not paying my mortgage or car note. But when you use such a degrading word, that’s when I feel like I need to say something, because the bottom line is, neither you OR Gwyneth Paltrow has the balls to say that within 20 feet of a black person because you WILL get your ass beat! And you know it. That’s why you TYPED it instead of being in a black person’s face and SAYING it. You are no better than the ignorance that is Jay Z and Beyonce. Congratulations. You’ve made it to the ignorance circle. Idiot
Charles Oglesby
August 9, 2018 at 1:30 pm
The fact that black people use the n word all day and expect other people to accept that they cannot use it, is ignorant in itself. Socially accepting a word that was used to degrade you and then condemning those that use it is a mentality that keeps us where we are and will likely always be.
Stephanie Lipscomb
August 9, 2018 at 9:56 pm
Actually the fact that black people have reclaimed the n word as a part of out culture is not stupid. And yes, it is ok for us to define what goes on with that word culturally because it is OUR culture. If black people feel like when someone calls them “their nigga” who is also black, that its something culturally they understand, then that should be ok in their cultural context. There is no reason that white people or other races should ever feel the need to use it anyway. It’s not their culture or their business.
VAS
August 11, 2018 at 11:04 pm
Nigger is a word used in the dictionary to describe an ignorant person, regardless of race or ethnicity. Whites coined this negative connotation for blacks during slavery — when we were vulnerable and defenseless — and had no choice but to accept it. It is very sad to see how so many black people today want to perpetuate this aspect of our past! Where is your dignity? Study your history. Share with your children our numerous and great accomplishments. If we don’t respect ourselves, no one else will — and they shouldn’t.
thomas
October 4, 2021 at 3:12 am
I VEHEMENTLY DISAGREE, all the attempts to decouple that word from the social connection cannot work. it is the repressed self hate that has developed in us , especially the lower lass Blacks
sknyjohn
August 10, 2018 at 2:43 pm
The decision of African People as to whether or not to use the n-word, right or wrong, is theirs & theirs alone, & their decision as to whether it’s ok for us non-Africans to use the n-word is also their decision & no one else’s, because the n-word refers specifically to them & no one else, &, if they have determined that it is the worst thing or at least a very disrespectful thing that we non-Africans can call an African Person, then they & only they are authorized to determine that, & we non-Africans have no choice but to respect their decision & to not refer to them with such language.
Melanie
August 9, 2018 at 1:37 pm
Uhh, Gweneth was next to Bey when she was tweeting it…didn’t ypu see the photos??
Wanda c
August 9, 2018 at 8:59 am
I like to address your comment the President said he is everyone’s President is correct. Why do African-Americans think President Obama should do something special for them he is the President of all people not just African-Americans. Jay Z and Beyoncé are all about themselves for a couple to make as much money and Jay Z only give 6000 to charity is a disgrace By the way I am an African-American.
John C.
August 9, 2018 at 5:28 pm
The problem with black people in this country is that our logic is deranged and we are not connected as a society. We still have the same go for self mentality that was engrained in us since slavery.
Ask yourself, how many service industries do we own? How many resource plants do we have? How many supply chains do we own? This is what separates us from every other race and why we get shitted on time and time again. Nobody takes us seriously because we dont own anything. Last year we spent about a billion dollars during Christmas collectively, but were still the number 1 group when it comes to unemployment. Thats an issue.
Im not gonna march anymore im not gonna have a rally anymore because the fact of the matter is we rightfully do not have a say in anything that goes on in this country because we do not unify our dollars or invest them into ourselves so how can we have a stance on whether the president cares about us or not.
White people pass their money 17-18 times through their community before it leaves.
Asian people pass their money 14-15 times
Hispanic people 8-10 times
Black people 0
As soon as we get paid we spend our money in somebody else’s businesses and not our own. This is why were poor this is why we dont have a say in politics.
This is why the president supports gay marriage, because they gay community own and invests billions in their own interest. When a group is moving large sums of money and controlling the interest of certain industries, you pay attention to them. You do what they tell you to do.
Charlie Sheen came out and said those disparaging remarks about that jewish director and they almost killed his ass for it. Because the jewish community organizes and invests their money in themselves.
Blacks are the only group of people who tell their kids to go get an education so you can get a good job and work for someone else for the rest of their lives. Every other group comes over here picks up a trade and starts a business and keeps the money in their community.
You laugh at the asian lady with the nail salon meanwhile thats her S550 in the parking lot and her name is on the front of that salon. But you have a good job so thats all that matters to you.
You look down on the hispanic with the bodega unbeknownst to you he owns every bodega in your neighborhood and the apartment building you live in.
Every other group owns and supports the businesses in their own community. But we dont, we dont own a thing and buy from everyone else. How many white people you know wake up on a saturday morning and go down to the black bakery in the black neighborhood (if there is a black bakery….if there is a black community) But we go and spend all our money in their communities.
And this isnt racist whatsoever. They are doing exactly what they should be doing to build wealth in their communities to take care of things that are important to them. This is why zimmerman gets hundreds of thousands of dollars. Thats white people using their money to take care of things that matter to them. While I DO NOT AGREE WITH THAT, I understand hustle. Because they understand the power of money and how it influences decision. Obama could be green white purple or orange. The skin color of the man should not matter, what he does for you and your particular group should be the only reason you vote for him. If he isnt doing anything for you, you dont vote. Remember its not personal, its politics.
As far as Jay-z is concern I dont want him to give money to charity. Because having money isnt black folks problem, we have money, we dont have wealth, we dont have prosperous wealth building black communities and we dont have businesses that will allow us to control our stance in this country.
Jay z can take his money and build businesses that create resources (fishing, leather, wood, construction, natural gasses, electricity etc.) owned by black people controlled by black people and in black communities. We dont need a clothing line we dont need a sports bar. We need industries that generate true wealth and growth in our communities and we need to use and support these industries.
This is the quintisential definition of becoming the change we seek. If we did these things we wouldnt have to beg “our” president to do things for us because we would come to the table with power to make decisions. He already knows that you are gonna vote for him and he doesnt even need his vote. But imagine if we collectively had the money to invest in his campaign and refused to do so unless he promised to provide things exclusively for the black community. Imagine if we had the power to do that to every politician. Crime in Chicago wouldnt exist. Poverty for blacks in america wouldnt exist. Racial profiling wouldnt be a factor and our jails wouldnt be overpopulated by black men.
When you control industries and have actual wealth, people respect you and do what you tell them because you can disrupt their way of life at the flick of a wrist. But we dont and so there is no reason to care.
We gotta wake up, yes jay z should use his money to help black people but giving out cash isnt the answer, opening up a energy plant or a shipping harbor or a supply line for vegetables run owned and operated by blacks with an entire black board of directors is the answer. Every other race gets it but us and I respect them for it.
We must create our own industries until then were just spinning our wheels thinking someone should give a damn about us.
L W O
August 9, 2018 at 8:39 pm
Amen and well said. John C.
Ifa-El Akbar
August 10, 2018 at 12:12 am
John! Brotha! Money and wealth are not the same thank you for that. having money is a capitalist society s not that big of a deal really. Invent something or write a book and “bam” anything can happen. lol.
Water has always been water and has not changed its essence of what it is for billion of years. Our past means there will never be a cohesive Black community. Its not necessary either. Too much pain in the past separates people, even families. Another thing that cannot just happen is us building industries as if people will change their lifestyles to patronize what we create. It has to be “green” and on Wall Street. People build lifestyle around buying and do not vary greatly from it unless the “need” it. I was talking to my college mate and as usual we got on these types of topics. All the immigrants came with the freedom to dream of a future which set the tone for their future poor or not. Many had jewelry sewn into their clothes to sell to get here or to trade. Many were poor with ability to apply what they did know to what we call now industry. The industrial revolution got its thrust by the influx of the Immigrants poor or not they were free enough to apply sewing skills and bring fabric over t make clothes. Even if they did not bring it
they had a country to go back to or negotiate with in their native tongue to get it. That right there was a set-up for us depending on their clothes to stay warm.
You cannot undo that or replicate it in a few years. A new lifestyle must be developed around it. It cannot be clothes like you said. It has to be a necessity not an accessory. Its okay if all Black people never get it together, it’s a romantic notion, and makes slavery seem benign. Maybe there is still a Talented 10th out there? Last point about the power of cultural norms. Black people never had a cuisine to call their own and to make white people curious enough to eat it and crave it. We might cook soul food but that is a way of cooking, not a separate and unique to only us cuisine. We lose billions of dollars a day because we have nothing unique that all cultures see driving down main street or in the mall. I saw this white man in the country frying pig intestines in a cast iron skillet over fire the way his forefathers cooked it! We can even claim filthy chitlins and something to look at as ours.
Yuk!
We have communities here in Denver built around their cuisines. Some we cannot even read what it says on the restaurant signage, because they have their own language. That’s what keeps them together not will power, not smarts, just language, which we had taken on purpose to prevent the very thing we fight about and crave. Cohesion! Cuisine + language = more cohesion than trying hard to get it.
Thanks Brother!
linda bronson
August 10, 2018 at 4:35 am
Absolutely soooo true! Stop blaming others— What arrogannce-Harry Belafonte, should be talking about the positive and not the negative side of Jay Z a black man who married a black woman, who is raising a black child! So many, of us want to talk the talk but not walk the walk! Harry is 85–and has been married three times to white women! Is there a story about him saying he was not black enough or why did he not think a black woman was good enough to share a family with…Really Harry what were you doing at 40years old. Talk in private and not publicly humiliate young black entertainers. We are always pointing the finger, to raise a nation we need to stop blaming others and point the finger inward! Build a nation by controlling industries, and control mindsets, that believe being black may not be good enough, wise up and do the best with what you have!
NVB
August 10, 2018 at 3:02 pm
Linda…you’re ridiculous. You’ve completely missed the point. Who cares what colour women they married.?! So embarrassing
kmr
August 15, 2018 at 3:45 pm
Am I completely naive to think that the answer to our struggles lies in unity amongst the cultures and races that make up this country?
Yes, pain causes separation, but how strong is a family whose division is passed on from generation to generation? Purposefully placed divides cause weakness in the chain that is really the family of humanity.
I just think that until we can start thinking differently about race then nothing is ever going to change.
I am a white woman. I would not begin to claim that the scars of slavery are as damaging to my psyche as they are to those whose ancestors were treated so horrifyingly. Yet, I too am scarred. That past is also mine, as an American, and I am made to shoulder some of the blame because I am white. Because my people moved north out of Africa, I am seen as a cog in an evil machine.
When and how can we heal eachother from these mistakes made by others and move into a present and future where our human bonds are not broken?
If the weight of ‘being black is not good enough’ is what continues to sink people, perhaps we need to start releasing ourselves from these tags that bind us and find confidence in our roles as soulful human beings. Because a black man chooses to marry a white woman it somehow means he is rejecting black women as a whole? That is self-damaging thought. What about marrying someone for love, not just because they look like you or come from the same culture as you? If someone from New York marries a woman from LA, is he also an affront to all New York women?
Pop culture affects us all. If, as suggested, the majority of Jay-Z and Beyonce records are bought by white people, then there are numbers of white youth who also look to them as role models. The messages are damaging cross-culturally, as are those passed on by banal white pop artists. They are all a part of a money making machine that prefers its audience to be stupified.
The real battle of this century is one of class, not race. Yes, it is a class of white people who have domineered and ruled for too long. But there are plenty of us who are also fighting with what we have. It’s up to all of us soulful living humans to take that one step past the color line to see what each of us is fighting with, and to figure out how we can join forces and help eachother out. It calls for forgiveness, and for swallowing of pride, for letting go and releasing a lot of pain. It’s not making the past seem benign, it’s accepting the past in all its ugliness, kissing it goodnight, and moving forward. And moving forward together is the only way we will rise.
VAS
August 12, 2018 at 1:28 am
Thanks John C. for being so real. Unfortunately for so many successful black entertainers and athletes, their first allegience is to career, fame and fortune, which lead to great material gain. However, “… we brought nothing into this world and we can take nothing out.” Even if they don’t have the business acumen to run a business, they can build schools that EMPLOY people to teach entreprenuership or buy acres of land and HIRE farmers to grow and sell crops in the marketplace. They can sponsor full scholorships to aspiring business students and on and on.
In the 1930s and 40s, A.G. Gaston was the first black millionaire in Birmingham, Alabama. His motto was to “find a need and fill it.” He started with little to nothing and expounded on this idea. He built a number of businesses, including an insurance company, a bank, a real estate investment firm, a school, a hotel, a nursing home, and contributed much time and money towards the civil rights movement. There are many others like him.
Jim Crow was at its peak during this era and we had little support to build economic growth in our communities. We had to depend on each other to acquire even basic necessities. There have been slave revolts, the Underground Railroad and the Civil Rights marches that brought African Americans together to fight for a common cause. We built AND supported our own businesses because WE HAD TO and have seen many great success stories.
If we had the same values today with a sense of community, we would have more than millionaires, but empires.
Marlena
August 15, 2018 at 12:02 am
I agree with your response completely. I also agree with John C. Millionaires may not know the business but they could invest and hire the best bonded people to run it in the community they came from. I was so very much awakened when John spoke of every race but the Blacks having a vein inwhich we can support. I recently went to my neighbor’s grandbaby’s bday party where they were serving tacos. They had three types to choose from. I asked about them and was told besides chicken,beef there was what was explained as part of the pig’s throat! It turns out it was hog mauls, part of the stomach! They were the best tacos I have ever tasted! Now it turns out Blacks can no longer claim ownership of the nasty parts of the pig!
These are Hispanics, I speak of who can make these parts very tasty! My Latina friend can also put shame on braids! This gives me pause. Who are the owners of the wig shops,hair supply everything! We know who are the biggest buyers,though, Blacks!
Why can’t we stand together for our community? Hire me I will work for anyone in need of an honest worker.
Tandem Solvo
August 16, 2018 at 11:36 pm
Well said Mr. C. I agree with everything you said after. “As soon as we get paid we spend our money in somebody else’s businesses and not our own. This is why were poor this is why we dont have a say in politics.”
Thank you for the post. As a recent African-American female college graduate, your statement has vindicated why I should seek my MBA.
Franklin R.
August 9, 2018 at 12:07 pm
The truth is Jay-Z and Beyonce are far from ignorant and the fact that you think that and desire to use the (Nigger) word speaks of your mental state. And as for President Obama, he has to stress that he is everybody’s president in order to be effective in doing anything for US or anybody else.
Ericka G
August 9, 2018 at 12:52 pm
Excuse me Franklin R., are you on The Carter’s damage control team? As far as the word Nigger- have you not seen or heard Niggas in Paris: http://vimeo.com/36496018
If this is not ignorant shuck and jive, steppin’ fetchus ignorance, then I don’t know what is!!!
jd
August 9, 2018 at 1:42 pm
While I agree with you regarding the celebrities, President Obama is correct in his assertion he is everyone’s PRESIDENT. However, this is a man who was a community organizer for low income residents, in Chicago, a civil right lawyer, and was director of Project vote (a non-prof directed at registering black voters). A man who was the first black editor the Harvard Review, yet did not go to work for some high-powered law firm. How can we say he has NOT given back to the Black Community? There is absolutely NO comparison between the 44th POTUS and Jay/Bey or Lil Wayne.
Loretta
August 9, 2018 at 3:01 pm
I understand what you are saying but it’s done every day. Look at the brothers and sister who graduate from college and move from the inner cities like somones chasing them and never look back. I currently live in Philly and trust me those that live around me, don’t work, have litters of children by different people. They are all tatted up, and weaved down. The men wearing there pants hanging low, women dressed like they are either just getting off of a stripper pole or about to go get on one. They sit outside all day and into the night on who’s ever front steps they choose to. They smoke dope and drink beer, and look at you like you’re crazy when you come home from work and they have to move so you can get in your own house. Yes celebraties could do more but do these people really want more.? One other thing, can we please stop using the N word when describing one another! It needs to stop no matter how angy you are!
...
August 9, 2018 at 8:01 pm
First and foremost, it will never be okay for anyone to call another human being a ‘nigger’. And Gweneth Paltrow was naming the title of a song it’s not like she was calling someone a nigga. Not to mention the song is called”Niggaz in Paris” not “Niggers in Paris”. Big difference in my opinion.
thomas
October 4, 2021 at 3:16 am
sorry i call bull shit, i hate jayz for this kind of legitimizing that awful word. he should be horse whipped and tarred for this
L
August 12, 2018 at 3:33 am
AMEN!!!! Did I say AMEN?!!!!!
Arike
August 23, 2018 at 10:27 pm
But the president walked the streets of Chicago and some of the worst projects which were full of “us” in order to effect change. He set an example by doing that. He wasn’t always the president. The bottome line is “give to the community”, become actively involved in the community, not just sit from on high throwing dollars around…I was so proud when the first family attended my church Allen Chapel AME in Washington, DC that first Easter. He said he chose the church because of all that it does for the community that shows positive results.
JEE
August 8, 2018 at 6:28 pm
So what. You use uour platform to promote gossip and ignorance. How are you any better? You attack the mother of a young Black girl who’s making history all for your own selfish revenge against your own baby mama. You were part of the Black media that placed a cloud on her victory and broke her concentration. You attack Obama with no plan of action. You put out crappy articles with only ocassional good ones. You tear down women. Who are you to talk about what anyone Black is doing or not doing!
david
August 11, 2018 at 2:02 pm
well said, thank you.
kathy arnold
August 8, 2018 at 6:31 pm
SO TRUE! SO TRUE! AND THAT GOES FOR ANY BLACK OF CO NSIDERAL MEANS ,TO GIVE! GIVE! BUY LESS STUFF!STUFF!STUFF! MR B. I AGREE!
Lady T
August 8, 2018 at 6:31 pm
Amen Mz!!
D.C.
August 8, 2018 at 6:32 pm
How dare you speak as if you know what Jay and B have done. These people today are the ones who are either talking about no one telling them how to live or they are crabs in a barrel and will pull anyone down who tried to help them. People of today are not like the people of Harry’s time. I was even raised by a man who would be 90 this year who could have cared less about others in his community. He drove a big and new car, we had our own house with carpeting and air conditioning. None of his siblings gave back or educated their children to the history or the struggle. My mother was different and help the community, helped the kids become employed and do what was right and my father heckled her. Pleople are so hateful and Harry’s comments and Boyces opinion of Jay and B are very telling as to who they think they are. Why is everyone watching J and B’s money anyway. They made it and can do what ever they want with it. Sheesh!
syrs842
August 8, 2018 at 10:57 pm
DC isn’t it kind of the same thing that everyone is complainng about with the President and Mitt Romney. It all comes down to the amount of moneis they make and how much money they give or don’t give. If in the event it is true the only amount the was $ 6,000.00 in donations out of $63 million wow. He is as bad as Mitt Romney. What happens is when these people are up amd coming they always say I won’t forget the little people but once the become who they are, yes indeed they forget the little people. I think Harry Belafonte, had a good point in saying that unless something is being said some of these younger stars are not going to stand up and work for their communities. I think that was the point. That’s what I got out of it.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 9:09 am
I got that too! Black celebs should have been taught in their homes and pitiful schools their responsibility to their own people, just like the schools taught them to be responsibility to whites culture. Sometimes that responsibility need not be money, but to act with dignity, tell the story of our successes, without all of that ‘downing’ of the culture in their so called artistry. Beyonce squatting in a ‘hoes’ stance with movements in front of millions of girls who will become teenage mothers, and we appreciate it, is beyond comprehension.
To top it off our first lady says in effect, if she could be born again she would want to be Beyonce. Incredible!
tashy
August 9, 2018 at 11:36 am
Belafonte: Not at all. They have not told the history of our people, nothing of who we are. We are still looking. We are not determinated. We are not driven by some technology that says you can kill Afghanistans, the Iraquis or the Spanish. It is all – excuse my French – shit. It is sad. And I think one of the great abuses of this modern time is that we should have had such high-profile artists, powerful celebrities. But they have turned their back on social responsibility. That goes for Jay-Z and Beyoncé, for example.
It is not about the $$ they have (or have not) given…..
Ceaser
August 8, 2018 at 6:40 pm
This is a good article. The ideals of capitalism and the notion of “getting rich” off the backs of others plays a major role in this. Being a capitalist means that you exploit others and things to obtain greater riches/ wealth. There is very little room for “giving” in a socially reponsible way unless to sustain the people or things being capitalized. J-Z and Beyonce are self made millionairs. Their parents did not give them millions. They used their talents wisely. Also I dont beleive that they were taught the values of social responsibility and black love and support for the community by their parents. Harry Belafonte needs to recognize the real effects in the break down of the African American value system especially after the murder of Malcolm and Martin.
Dave
August 8, 2018 at 6:56 pm
Bout time somebody put some light on this situation. How are our people supposed to get to the next place? The help of the fortunate and not just money. Having guts to challenge something. I wish everyone would see the documentary about Harry B. I expect no one to carry the load he did but gee wiz, carry something.
Janice
August 8, 2018 at 7:01 pm
I can remember during the late 60’s & 70’s the proliferation of black entertainers standing tall for civil rights and equality for all. Unfortunately, entertainers of today are more concerned with is; are we buying their clothes, liquor, perfume or cosmetics, not what is going on in the country. There is a huge disconnect between them and us. How many are involved in the political process, besides going to the White House for photo-ops? I pray one day someone will understand what Harry Belafonte is talking about and decide to take action.
shirl
August 8, 2018 at 7:09 pm
I don’t care how far u go up you can come down!!
who bought the music they sold first.
You got to help others i don’t care who u are. Mr.B
was big time in his day and marched with MLK for
all of us. With out them Jayz and Beyonce couldn’t
have made it this far. Mr. Belefonte is a pioneer in the
entertainment world (movies and music). He is sick and
tired of these two who want to be rich and famouse
and be selfish about it. Look what happen to MJ he
had it all/but he didn’t live to be 60 years old. He was
one also in that class not giving back. .
t
Doc
August 9, 2018 at 8:48 am
Newsflash: Michael Jackson held and STILL holds the Guinness world record for the most money donated to charities by a pop artist (over $500 mil and over 39 charities). Mr. B didn’t mention MJ because he’s in a class by himself. Seems like some people on here are just blowing hot air…
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:18 am
DOC, I wonder how many were black charities, $500 million, huh? I’m going to look that up.
Sasd
August 9, 2018 at 3:44 pm
Wow, Michael Jackson was a true humanitarian indeed. I just researched those charities among which, a few were for African Americans, along with other very important causes and issues in this world. And Mr. Belafonte did not mention money, but needs celebrities with so many followers to just state what they stand for so that others stand too. People are sheep in a sense. Therefore if they artist sing about it or speak about it, they strive to live about it. That’s just the way it is, unfortunately. Personally I don’t see anything wrong with more donations if you have it. I’m sure you can do more financially for the public without being near broke. But to each his own. It’s just sad overall, that’s all.
David2001
August 8, 2018 at 7:28 pm
Rich black entertainers seem to be only good for selling despicable stereotypes and the word n*gg*r for profit. People like to excuse this sort of selfish behavior in wealthy blacks by saying “they made it (money) and can do what ever they want with it”. Before the civil rights movement rich white business owners were saying the same thing to justify discrimination against blacks. Many of us today who have jobs work for WHITES! Given a choice these same rich whites probably wouldn’t want to hire blacks because “they made it and can do what ever they want with it”. I wonder how we would react if rich whites said blacks who complain about lack of job opportunities were crabs in a barrel.
We continue to make excuses for our black wealthy class turning their backs on black people. I realize they probably make up approx 2% of our population. But we better start asking questions about why so few of our black wealthy class is not investing more in our black communities to create jobs and economic opportunities for blacks. IMO black people have the power to invest in and solve many of our problems today. But we continue to let those rich Negros who should lead the way off the hook.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 9:14 am
Well Said, David.
Sasd
August 9, 2018 at 3:47 pm
i agree.
Joan
August 8, 2018 at 7:29 pm
“…the black aristocracy that is known as Jay-Z and Beyonce…” If they are what is thought of as black aristocracy, we are in deeper trouble than I thought.
It is a sad fact, that as the older generation – those that lived through the periods before Civil Rights, and were part of or privy to all that entailed – dies off, the younger generations are not doing their part to keep our people moving forward. Maybe us old folks made life a bit too easy for these kids. They take our still-limited freedoms for granted. And if that’s the case, what does that mean for our grand and great-grand children and beyond. It’s sad and very scary.
Prodigal Sun
August 8, 2018 at 7:33 pm
While I agree that Mr. & Mrs. Carter could be more social cause aware and active, however, don’t dismiss or belittle support of equal marriage rights. There are gay people of every race, and income bracket, including poor black gays. It should not be a choice of either this cause or that cause… its about being active in more causes in addition to marriage equality.
John C.
August 9, 2018 at 5:35 pm
If youre black and gay and youre walking down the street. Whats the first thing people will identify you as?
Black or gay?
Thats how the rest of america sees you too.
We gotta focus on black problems first and getting the black community strong, then we can focus on gay rights in the black community because as far as im concerned your rights as a black man are in more danger than anything else. Ask all the brothers serving 10-15 on petty charges.
moonhead
August 8, 2018 at 7:37 pm
MZ, you are correct about Jayz, and Beyonce, they even consider themselves as niggers. But you are dead wrong about Obama, because he is the President of the entire country, and can not show any preference for any particular race. Do you actually think that Obama, could get elected as a dog catcher, if he showed a preference for black people? Also, lets get something straight. Black people, did not put Obama in the white house, They may have helped, but our people can’t even elect a black senator, and there is only one black governor. People like you are absolutely ignorant at how the government works in this country. Remember Jesse Jackson, when he twice ran for president, an how he lost badly? Well the same would happen to Obama, if he used your kind of thinking. You should stop looking for someone to give you a damn handout, and get your own damn money. Every other group of people that comes to this country, becomes successful, own their own businesses, and homes, while a large segment of our community, lays on their asses, won’t take advantage of the free educational opportunities that this country offers, and would rather remain in the ghettos, instead of searching for work in other states that have low unemployment, and are begging for workers. You don’t see the illegal immigrants, hanging on the corners, begging for change, or playing basketball all day. So get off your ass, and accomplish something for yourself, instead of waiting for others to do it for you.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:14 am
I was with you when you were talking about President Obama. These are not handouts we’re talking about. We are talking about building institutions and businesses that Africans were doing while other Africans were enslaved and other Africans walking out of slavery did with the small resources they had.
“Every other people that came to this country” did not come as slaves. Grouping blacks with lesser aggrieved groups, in effect, mutes and obscures the legitimate grievances of blacks,” Dr. Claud Anderson points out. So, it is disingenuous to equate black Americans’ condition with any other ethnic, religious or so-called disadvantaged minority. Blacks have a unique history in this country in that their status was predetermined by the dominant society’s national public policy on the use of black Americans.
Blacks Americans cannot emulate European, Asian and Hispanic ethnics, because social barriers have never permitted blacks to access the assimilation process, which is reserved for non-black ethnics.
How fair is it to ask blacks to emulate other groups when nearly 100 percent of blacks’ ancestors were in America before nearly 100 percent of the ancestors of today’s Jewish, Italian, German, French, Japanese, Chinese, Irish and Hispanics?
It is not possible for blacks to emulate immigrant groups because those groups have always had options to help them rise from one social class to another after they arrived inAmerica.
No African born in America should spend another day without reading “Black Labor..White Wealth”, by Claud Anderson. And please, read “The New Jim Crow” by Michelle Alexander both will seriously enlighten us.
John C.
August 9, 2018 at 5:42 pm
First of all I know youre not black, your a white person trolling. Second let me school you.
Immigrants (everyone who family came to this country that isnt black) have always been able to receive zero to low interest loans and benefits to buy homes and businesses that black people cannot get.
The majority of wealth other groups have accumulated over the years has been because of government subsidies and hand out.
Every single white woman with a family during WW2 received government subsidies(welfare) while their husbands were away and those kickbacks continued years after they returned.
The majority of the benefits that are given out to minorities are given to white women because they infact are considered minorities.
The number one group of people that are unemployed and on welfare are white people.
So go back to your stupid ass rant
MELISSA
August 8, 2018 at 7:39 pm
MR. & MRS. ILLUMINATI AIN’T DOIN NOTHING TO UPSET
THE “INDUSTRY”. THEY COULD CARE LESS ABOUT POOR BLACK
FOLKS SINCE THEY ARE PAID WELL TO SUPPORT THE
IDEALS THAT KEEP POOR BLACK FOLKS POOR. THEY ARE TOTAL
SELL OUTS THAT WILL LEAVE A VERY SAD LEGACY WHEN IT IS
ALL SAID AND DONE. RICH YES….BUT POOR LOSERS.
kia
August 8, 2018 at 7:57 pm
Dr. Boyce Why does every article on this site have to be controversial or negative? #AmbulanceChaser! Obviously your not as much of a scholar a you think…i see right through you!
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:20 am
HA!
Gwen
August 8, 2018 at 8:11 pm
First off i would like you to check your facts on Jay Z and how much he has given back there are positive things that has not been noted on, but yet all negative things are always revealed and front news. As far as Beyonce i could not speak on i haven’t heard anything on her yet but that don’t mean she hasn’t . Its kind of funny when it comes to our people giving back on a positive note we don’t get it on front page news you have to find out about it by word of mouth or the right person hears about it and writes about it. Let something negative or someone wants to talk down on them its for everybody to read about. So before we pass judgement on what you heard lets get the facts first.
Milk Chocolate
August 8, 2018 at 8:24 pm
I have to admire the ones who paved the way for those who are making it now. However, like someone said, it’s their money. Let them spend it any way they want to. Generosity has it’s own reward, and selfishness has it’s own penalty.
Mz
August 8, 2018 at 8:25 pm
@Moonhead
First of all, you’re the one whose ignorant! No one said once that Black people alone put Obama in the WhiteHouse, don’t get it twisted. I don’t need a crash course on politics as I have been voting since I was 18 years old and I promise you I don’t take time out of my day just to punch holes on a card. I have met the Obamas-I live down the street from them idiot-everyone who criticizes is not just reaching as a wild guess. You people seem to think that he is some sort of authority that will get you into Heaven and therefore is not to be challenged! Well, I have news for you you Sir, you are decieved! Sit on your black azz and keep believing that we are supposed to be the junk yard where everything that happens in life gets dumped on us. The Gays didn’t only put him in the WhiteHouse nor did WallStreet or the Banks -immigrants DEFINITELY didn’t but guess what ? They all got what they wanted! Its not wrong to have an explanation of someone who knocks on your door and promotes his agenda by using race and its not wrong to ask that he stand accountable. Drug laws haven’t even been repealed-1 million brothers in jail, sisters a close second. Do you realize how many children are parentless, living in poverty? He is no differrent than the Jayz and Beyonces of the land-we are all standing on the backs and benefiting from the blood of my parents grandparents and your ancestors as well. Get a clue!
No one has a right to rise above the community!
John C.
August 9, 2018 at 5:44 pm
cook!
jag68
August 8, 2018 at 8:27 pm
Thanks, Mr. Belafonte! You never pimped Black people to get where you are!!! Higth fives for telling it like it is!
chris
August 8, 2018 at 8:34 pm
The black community keeps expecting someone to come and help them. It is always about the money. You don’t know what jay-z and beyonce do with their money S̶̲̥̅Ơ̴̴̴̴̴̴͡ don’t sit there and talk shit just bcos they don’t publicize it. What exactly have you done for your own community. You expect 2 pple 2 pay for the college tution of a whole race? Fools. This is why black pple will never be great. You keep waiting for someone to help you. This is the same black community that was saying nonsense about beyonce’s pregnancy and you expect her to suddenly feel a sense of entiltlement to give back to some back stabbing race? They can do whatever they want with their money uf you don’t like them don’t buy their albums. Simple.
linda bronson
August 10, 2018 at 4:51 am
Agree! And what did you do with the money and why are you hating! Black man who married three caucasians–not prejudice at all. I just find it interesting that he is talking about the black movement!
Mz
August 8, 2018 at 8:40 pm
@ Moonhead
You’re an idiot. Simply because you wrote a book and then contradicted yourself. Let me tell you about my “way of thinking” I don’t give cool brother passes-either you’re wrong or you’re right-PERIOD. Just because many of you believe its a lack of understanding politics as to why we challenge Obama doesn’t mean that your understanding is correct. He is the freakn President! We voted- we want answers. Not a Rev. Al song! Gays didn’t put him in office alone either nor did WallStreet and immigrants COULDN”T but guess what? They all got what they wanted. No more working under the table they will get paid wages like the rest of us and gay people can boldly go anyplace and cry wolf and file suit-anything is ALWAYS better than Black. Thats te way its been and with your line of thinking thats the way it will always be. I challenge our people to stop being the junk yard where politicians and others just give us what they choose. When I say no one has a right to rise above the community Obama isnt exempt.
Contrary, to what many of you believe Black folks are SURVIVORS like no other and if Obama loses we will still continue on…
CB
August 8, 2018 at 8:56 pm
I TOTALLY agree with the comments of H.B. He is right on. What makes it so much more egregious with the rap artists…is that they give blacks a “bad RAP”. I don’t like Jay-z and I’m not fond of his wife. I think they are very selfish. I am from LeBrons city, and I SEE what he does. He gives back to this community in SO MANY WAYS. And he is no longer playing/living here. He has not forgotten his roots though. THAT”S what it’s all about. As far as POTUS BARACK…he is correct. He was not voted in JUST by the black population…it took all who want to see a better country.He cannot serve just half of the U.S. , he has to serve us all. If you think he’s so bad…vote Mitt in and then we’ll talk for REAL
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:23 am
Amen!
elrancho2
August 8, 2018 at 8:56 pm
I have so much respect for Harry Belefonte. He is one of the wisest & most honest people I have ever heard speak. As much as I want to like Jay-Z (I can’t help but like Beyonce) I find the level of their opulence hard to take. Perhaps they do good things we don’t know about and I don’t want to be judgemental, but I can’t help feeling that celebrities like them should know something about the real world, the hungry world and the unjust world. It’s probably not fair to expect more of black celebrities than white ones but I do because I feel they should be more conscious. Really, EVERYONE – not just black celebrities, but every extremely wealthy person should be giving it away. Yes – while there are still children dying for lack of clean water there is no excuse for anyone hoarding their millions and billions.
Soulwriter
August 8, 2018 at 9:01 pm
Shirl has her facts twisted, MJ was the most charitable. Entertainer. EVER. Google it or check the Guiness Book of World Records. #RIPToTheG.O.A.T.
Demetra
August 9, 2018 at 9:34 am
Thank you so much for setting the record straight about Michael Jackson how man concerts did that man put on where all prceeds went to feed hungry children in America and all over the world. The nerve of some ppl. Get your facts straight before you post disparaging remarks about a dead man. Have some respect you idiots!
Rachel Frink
August 8, 2018 at 9:08 pm
This article is on point and I thank the person who wrote it. I’ve been saying for a long time that our morality meter has up and gone. We don’t have principles anymore. There is no love for our fellow man.
Yes JayZ sold crack right here where I live. I know a number of people who bought from him. And when he stopped dealing, he still came through with a bag of coke, snatched up one of those light-skinned honeys to spend the night with. (from the section).
I don’t buy any music made by R Kelly even though his voice is nice, but I can’t get with the bothering little girls. So thank you for writing this article. It lets me know that some moral fiber is left in this world.
So
Alisha
August 8, 2018 at 9:19 pm
BOTTOM LINE: Don’t look at what the next person is or isn’t doing, look at what YOU are or are not doing… We all need to help the community no matter how much or how little it is… FUCK Jay Z and Beyonce…lets help each other! Amen 🙂
etreman
August 8, 2018 at 9:37 pm
Once again Shirl is spittin’ venom without knowing the facts! Take some time and read the official records as to MJ’s charitable contributions. That’s one of the main reasons he had financial troubles!!! He gave so much away. Don’t take my word for it. Check the records before you spout off!
Kenterose
August 8, 2018 at 9:50 pm
Ashay Belafonte……………….
Poor David
August 8, 2018 at 9:55 pm
Ahhh, the light given off by Black Stars! Black Stars truly shine so much brighter than all others and their light blinds the Black people whose favorite retort is ” who knows what they do with their money?”.
While this is true, it plainly shows that our shiny Black Stars have little or anything to do with building even a 500 sq/ft school for Beautiful Black you.
Encore!
Jean Brown
August 8, 2018 at 9:57 pm
Thank you Mr. Belafonte for saying something that a lot of folks think. Mr. Belafonte is a very respected personage and if it were not for all that he did, the doors would not be open for these selfish, priveleged, spoiled entertainers who believe that they deserve the opulence that is displayed all over the headlines. It is indeed shameful how folks who have do not understand the obligation to help those who do not have and to leave the world a better place. The rich are just demonstrating a mirror of society. It is all about money now. If you have millions, what does it take to use a couple of those millions to build homes, provide jobs, open banks, open decent grocery stores in improverished areas. Makes you wonder. Oh yeah, stop going to the concerts and buying their music, that will speak volumes. Sad commentary on where we are as a people.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:26 am
Real sad!
joSEPH
August 8, 2018 at 10:03 pm
YES DR. BOYCE YES IN CAPS…I HAVE BEEN SAYING THIS FOR YEARS…..IT TICKLES MY HEART YOU HAD THE HEART TO DISPLAY THIS ARTICLE…..
THANK YOU
THIS MESSAGE COMES FROM HEAVEN ITSELF……..
TO GOD BE THE GLORY ON THIS ONE..
DR. BOYCE I HOPE AND PRAY THAT YOU CONTINUE TO SPEAK OUT LIKE YOU SHOULD DO YOU HAVE A FACEBOOK PAGE I HAVE TO LOOK YOU UP AND LIKE YOUR PAGE AND BE A PART OF YOUR TEAM ON FB…..
I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS ONE I LIVE TO HELP OTHERS AND THIS ARTICLE GOING ON MY FB PAGE WITH OVER 3400 MEMBERS……WHOEVER READS MY STUFF WILL SEE THIS…….
THANK YOU AGAIN…I CAN’T STOP GUSHING OVER THIS ARTICLE RIGHT ON TIME……
GOD IS NEVER LATE…
H. Henry
August 8, 2018 at 10:08 pm
MZ,
The difference between JZ and his wife, and President Obama is: JZ and Beyounce are private citizens, like (say) Warren Buffet. President Barack Obama is an elected official, elected by the people of America. Not Black people, not White or Hispanic, or Asian people. By all Americans! So, without being partial or without trying to take sides, I can tell you that the job of a president is to serve “the” people, not “a” people. So he has a mandate to serve the general population of America. On the other hand, I would hope and pray that JZ and Beyounce both feel that they have an obligation (not a mandate) to help people who look like them. In other words, Black people.
VanessaL
August 8, 2018 at 10:10 pm
@ etreman: Thank You!
Shirl… Everyone are entitled to their own opinion. But PLEASE… Before you sprew on anyone else, do a little history checking, MJ gave in my opinion, to much away. But as etreman said, just don’t take our word for it. Just Google it, it’s there. He’s even listed in the guinness world records as the highest giving entertainer for giving to charity.
TheBaroness
August 8, 2018 at 10:12 pm
You know, I cannot imagine having that level of finance and NOT buying school libraries, computer labs, funding sports teams in poorer neighborhoods. There is only so much you can spend before you get jaded and only so much you can stack before you realize you don’t need THAT much to enjoy the rest of your days. But that’s my own opinion on the matter.
I have always felt that exhorbant amounts of money ruins most people because they become spoiled. And being rich and living an insular life does not breed great art. Beyonce is a happily married female who makes a fortune singing chickenhead anthems to wanna-bee ‘Divas’ and Jigga, well, he hasn’t made a decent album since ‘The Black Album’ exempt for ‘American Gangster’. They are capidoesn’t have to make great art anymore, he’s a pop-culture ‘icon’. They are capitalists who ONLY jump on ‘safe’ causes. Remember how vocal they became after they were certain Obama was a shoo-in? But not before. Glad I don’t spend money on either of them…
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:28 am
With you!
Marcus
August 8, 2018 at 10:15 pm
Harry is right. We all could do more. They’ll(B & J.) figure out what’s really important one day. Let’s hope that they don’t wait forever to utilize their influence to better the community, and nation as a whole. However, it’s the people like Sidney, Della, Ray, James Robeson, Jim Brown, Quincey Jones, Maya A., and many others (ect…)who made huge stands against racial oppresion and injustice and endured to accomplish their goals. Let’s not forget Muhammed Ali. They put it all on the line for Right. Those with silent voices permit evil to florish. It sometimes costs when you you stand up for right. It always costs more for standing for wrong. Besides, a million wrongs never equal one right.
Christine
August 8, 2018 at 10:22 pm
Okay, Mr. Belafonte point is totally correct. Artist of today have no social conscious at all. None of them, that includes sports athletes as well. In regards to our President, stop blaming him for poor black people, what are poor black people doing for themselves to not be poor. No one is causing them to drop out of school, have so many babies, instead of using birth control, commit stupid crimes which lead to prison. So tired of hearing the rhetoric. Poor black folks need to help themselves.
Jackie d. Mitchell
August 8, 2018 at 10:29 pm
I applaud mr. belafonte for saying the very same thing I have been saying forever. The only thing beyonce is good for is shaking her ass and always trying to fake sincerity when another celebrity gets dissed, I.e. taylor swift, lauren hill. She is selfish and always seeking the spotlight when it benefits her. A lot of blackmm. celebrities could learn a lesson in humanity from lot of white celebrities such as sean penn, brad pitt, angelina jolie, salma hayek, bruce springsteen, jon bon jovi, and the list goes on and on. In her world, only three people matyer, and she is as fake and phony as they come. I hope that when her judgement day comes, her ass-shaking will get her through the pearly gates!!!
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:40 am
Yes the list goes on and on, but you forgot Bono!
It’s embarrassing that whites are on the forefront. Oprah built a school in Africa -that will make a difference in many lives. I only pray that they teach true and factual history in that school. I know Oprah isn’t big on ‘black’ history!
Belafonte for President
August 8, 2018 at 10:45 pm
Thank you Mr. Belafonte!!! It is a great a mighty work you do, using your voice and celebrity to do so much philanthropic work for people of color. He is absolutely right! I don’t feel that he is talking about only Jay and B, but most of the Melanated people in the public eye are pushing agenda’s that are antithesis of the struggle of poor people or civilized society in general. I am all for freedom of speech, and supporting Melanated culture, but how many “In The Club,” “Popping Bottles with Model,” “Kill that MF,” songs can we have? What happen to having various genres of rap? Must every song sound the same? Can rappers use more than one syllable words anymore? Why are we now cursing in R&B songs? What happened to love songs? The problem is twofold; most of those “artist” in the business go into the industry and don’t understand the monkey business behind the actual business. Second, when you are someone that will do anything for money, you will find yourself selling out your moral/ethical code among other things, to get what appears to be tangible riches.
If you have a public stage and don’t use it to elevate the people who support your platform, it is socially irresponsible. Thus we have artist actors that are self-centered pushing only the agenda that sells. The solution is this; if enough people stop buying the music, supporting the movies, they will get the picture. Support real artist who have something to say. Support actors who give back to the people who purchase their tickets. Support the writers and directors, producers that don’t support wicked agendas to keep minorities dumb, blind and always lacking. Support those who are brave enough to make a difference, those that deny roles that go against their ethics. If we fail to do this as the public, we are part of the problem and can’t sit back pointing our judgmental fingers, while dancing to Beyoncé’s latest song or rapping Jay Z’s latest verbatim.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:45 am
Can the people ay amen? As Kenterose said, Ashay! It means so be it.
Live to MarchAgain
August 8, 2018 at 10:48 pm
I do want the rich Black celebrities money, I am listening to hear their voices speaking out in some form of activisim!
Trina
August 8, 2018 at 10:51 pm
Wow that guy went off lol and he did he’s homework . He is right about what he is saying . I thank god my heart is not that way . Can the church get a amen . you go harry belafonte lol ..
WizardG
August 8, 2018 at 10:55 pm
Most of us African Americans or “blacks” as it were, have no idea as to exactly what kind of people actually run this country and how low, devious, deceptive, deadly, and conniving they are, to say the least! These “people” have been running down nations of people for at least a millennium! Do any of you have any idea what that means? It means that they have been literally conquering and pillaging and running major scams on people around the world almost forever! They even realized how important it was to get people around the world to believe and follow certain patterns of religions, (each to their own ancient cultural traditions)! They realized through studying those they conquered, just how ignorant and gullible most people were! Their constant discoveries about people and their flaws were part of the important driving force which insured them that they could sell anything (lies) to almost anybody if they did it just the right way! Today we are still reeling from their vast ever engulfing attack on human civilization. They tell us what they want us to believe and they are certain the majority will believe it, and follow whatever patterns they build up and create!..
Those who do not agree, and those who do not follow are dealt with.
Today we are a world human mass of abused, confused, bewildered, lied to and completely conned people. We are led to believe in the most insane things and we believe when nothing is as it seems! I can’t stress this enough to people who actually believe that a country with such a foul history of slavery, genocide, and racist abuse, would allow a black to be their representative and actually have power! If you believe that then of course you believe in everything else these racist Anglo-elite world-conquerors tell you!
Harry Belafonte knows most of the truth, but he couldn’t possibly see the whole picture because it is such a con that only the most keen of cons can see it, and most people don’t have that gift!
JefferyA
August 9, 2018 at 1:51 am
After reading all these comments about what Jay-Z and Beyonce should be doing for others, I have come to the conclusion that WizardG was the only responder that had a clue as to whats really going on. The invisible powers in this country would read these responses and giggle at us all, while at the same time making sure that the status quo stays in place. We are all divided by differences that are put in place, to keep us in place,i.e.religion,race, money,etc. To realize that you do not understand is a virtue;Not to realize that you do not understand is a defect.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 10:50 am
Why do you assume that Harry Belafonte “couldn’t possibly see the whole truth’, he’s has 80 years of reading and activism. While it’s true most people have not studied the “truth”, it is not just a gift, it is the desire to want to know the truth.
Blaze
August 8, 2018 at 10:57 pm
While the Carter’s may not be social activists it is unfair to accuse them of not trying to give something back since they did establish foundations that assist with scholarships and rebuilding. Also, the comments about MJ not giving back are way off base.
Honest
August 8, 2018 at 11:02 pm
I really feel sorry for Beyonce. This news comes a few days after she announces that she will be supporting the UN for Humanitarian Day. Beyonce does give back a lot. She has given whole paychecks to foundations. Her and Kelly Rowland even have a center in Houston to help hurricane Katrina and Ike people. Beyonce has a cosmetology school. Beyonce gives back she just doesn’t make a big deal about it.
jb
August 8, 2018 at 11:09 pm
Jay z and Beyonce are totally different from Barak! I don’t agree that Barak does not care about black people. When he decided to become the President of the United states that means EVERYONE!. He has to take care of a nation of people. I’m sorry but Race issues are NOT are important as national debt and ending a war.
In all honesty i’m sick of us as African americans, yelling for our rich to make a difference in our lives. WE need to make the difference ourselves. we all have the capability to bring our communities up, even it its not immediate.That means Jay z and Beyonce don’t owe us anything either. However it does disappoint me that Jay z’s music promotes a bad side of african american culture, the side that is looked down upon.That side of life is what made himw ho he was as an artist. Yet he has a upity thought process that he is above us all now.. quite ironic.
needless to say
we need stop waiting on a hand out and get busy helping our communities ourselves. raising our children right, and being good citizens ourselves. BE THE CHANGE YOU WANT TO SEE! the end!
nicole
August 8, 2018 at 11:12 pm
Good points in article, I was wondering if I was the ONLY person in the world that still remember Rkelly being a pedophile!!!!! Money man you can do ANYTHING and people forget.
kmad
August 8, 2018 at 11:20 pm
Bottom line the Jay Z’s & Beyonce’s are standing on the shoulders of Harry Belefontes, Billie Holidays etc.! They can do what the hell what they with they’re money, BUT the decent thing to do would be to give back to their communities, be more charitable other races do just that, we’re the only race who feels I got mine f@$@ you, but buy my music, clothing,fragrance and so on, keep making rich WHILE I say screw you! Apparently they don’t hit the bible much, To whom much is given, much is required I didn’t say it its in the word now, turn your noses up at that. I’d hate to get that high and your blessings change, that’s a hell of a long fall past those you chose to not help. I’m not saying put money in folks hands, give back by college scholarships, community centers, etc. thats the very least they and others could do.
V
August 8, 2018 at 11:21 pm
This article is true but remember the potus by bloodlinen has been chosen by the establishment to run corporate america. He is george bush 11cousin and is brad pitt cousin as well. Jolie is their cousin as well which mean incest to keep the wealth by bloodline your votes do not count they all worship the beast for fame and massive wealth. They are not suppose to help the community because they are worshipping the beast. Woe to all the ones who have giventh their souls for fame and wealth with false promises of power. For your souls are so precious thand the beast offers you all materialistic things that cannot follow you once you die but your soul cannot die it will be judge through your works in life in the human vessels you used. Wake up people
WizardG
August 8, 2018 at 11:27 pm
Our “black” world is a world completely ‘created’ and dominated dominated by whites and their cohorts!
Most of the wealthy “blacks” are only black by description and focus. By this I mean that we are generally what the whites have made us to be, and what they continue to categorize us as. The Anglos reconstructed our lives before we were born through our ancestor’s enslavement, torture, rape, and a host of known and unknown abuses. Today they still use the media, etc., to direct our pseudo-culture and they use brute force to make sure we cannot rise any further up as a community than they will tolerate! Those of us who make a fortune one way or another are not actually part of a ‘cohesive black community’ they are part of a piecemeal African American/white-American influenced “thing”! They are encouraged to enjoy their fame and fortune and not try to help to build a stronger “black” community because it is not what the “whites” are happy with, and because it will not be tolerated by the “Anglo-elite”!
The Anglo-elite will not tolerate strong black leadership, or a strong black nation which could give it’s individual members safety and well-being. They would much rather keep us helter-skelter and paying our hard earned dollars to their foul, devious, pillaging activities! They (the elite) have perfected the art of robbing African nations to a point that most people actually believe the Africans do it to themselves without any help from these “usual suspects”! If you don’t believe that all of our past powerful leaders were murdered by these notorious scoundrels, and if you don’t believe they dump drugs in our neighborhoods, and create atmospheres where confused, impoverished blacks turn on each other, then you shouldn’t be too concerned about what rich, confused, misguided, ignorant and completely assimilated blacks do with their suspiciously accumulated wealth! In the long-run we are a constant target, completely overwhelmed by our “white benefactors” in every way they see fit! That means we can never get where we want to go, and we will [never] see those who resemble our features hold actual power in this..A world completely ‘created’ and dominated dominated by whites and their cohorts!
Gina
August 8, 2018 at 11:28 pm
How can Jay-Z or Beyonce represent in this fashion, it would be contradictory for the music they make is clearly the opposite of unselfish intentions Mr. Belafonte is speaking of.”The Big Pimpin” lyrics and and rear end shaking is proof that they have no concerns for the matters of the real world . Mr. Belafonte came up in a time when entertainers had two agendas – 1) To entertain because of the love of the art and 2) To open doors and start activsm with the fame and money they accumilated. I guess the modern day negro (Jay-Z and Beyonce) feels as though they have arrived and no need to look back nor grow up and make more meaning to their lives and others by being a man and woman of substance……..and as far as President Obama goes he is the PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES ….AND THE PEOPLE THAT ARE CITIZENS THAT DWELL IN IT !!!! THEREFORE he cannot single out the black community he has to have concern for the people of the country as a whole!
kmad
August 8, 2018 at 11:28 pm
P,s Billie Holiday may not have been a great choice, but you catch my drift!! Lol
Fed Up
August 8, 2018 at 11:28 pm
Oh SO WHAT! Beyonce and Jayz (former drug dealer, who stabbed Un Rivera and beat up both Foxy Brown & Amil Lion) jumped on the BANDWAGON to support Amerikkka’s new “gay mafia’s” agenda. Big deal. Frank Ocean had many opportunities to confess his sexual orientation to the women he had fooled but elected to do so 2 weeks before the release of his latest musical effort. Okay Frank whatever.
Ramped RACISM in disguise continues to be the #1 ongoing problem, from NYC’s stop and frisk to the media portraying teenage black males as the DEVIL! From 17-yr-old Treyvon Martin’s image being sullied by a racist media in an attempt to get his killer off to the constant maligning of 19-yr-old Chris Brown about a 3 yr old altercation. Of course these same hypocrites say nothing about Charlie Sheen’s 20 yr history of beating women or Eminem’s years of beating wife Kim or Ozzy Osbourne beating wife Sharon or Alan Jackson beatig wife Denise or Tommy Lee beating wife Pam or Rodney Atkin’s beating wife Tammy and so on.
TJ
August 9, 2018 at 12:02 am
I do not know what Jay-Z has done besides the water awareness in Africa, but I can personally attest to what Beyonce has done. She have given millions of dollars (with Kelly Rowland) for a youth center -the Knowles/Rowland Youth Center that has a state of the art recording studio for up-and coming artists in Houston, she tithes at St. John’s (her home church), she has donated millions for the homeless temporary shelter, a park your basket and stay the night type place that helps homeless men and women get back on their feet.
She has always been a private person, always. She doesn’t want attention for charity she does because it seems fake when there is media hyp for charitable giving.
niknMD
August 9, 2018 at 12:07 am
OK, while there may be a degree of truth to Mr. Belafonte’s argument, why single out Beyonce and Jay-Z? There are plenty of other wealthy African American celebrities, whom I’m sure could be or could’ve been much more philanthropic. My guess is they are the only ones he could think of at the time. All that aside and with all due respect Mr. Belafonte, do you really know that they have not been as charitable as you claim? Not to dispute your contribution not only to the Civil Rights Movement, but also your extensive humanitarian work, what is your evidence that they haven’t contributed back to their community? They are a notoriously private couple and don’t feel compelled to be constantly lauded for any of their efforts. Just because it’s not on TMZ, Time, Newsweek or even E! News, does not mean that it couldn’t or didn’t happen. Once again, I’m not saying they have or have not done their part; but if you’re going to jump on one celebrity for something like this, be fair and criticize any wealthy Black celebrity (or athlete…have you thought about that Mr. Belafonte and Dr. Watkins?) that you feel is not giving back. Sometimes I suppose it’s just easier because they’re out in the spotlight and can be easy targets…and then people want to call them elitists.
Marlice
August 9, 2018 at 12:08 am
I feel like this article is a bunch of BS…. First of all I am so tired of BLACK people blaming everyone else, for their own problems, or blaming others for what they are NOT doing…. Just because Jay-Z and Beyonce’ are BLACK does not mean that they owe any of us anything. That is their money, that they worked hard for. So what if Jay-Z use to be a drug dealer… The key words are USE TO BE!!!! What have you done in your life??? Who gives you the right to judge!!! That’s what’s wrong with this world today, we want to sit back judge, and get mad at the world for what we don’t have or get mad at the celebrities for not standing up to our expectations!!!! Please get over yourself!!!
Jalen
August 9, 2018 at 4:13 pm
Everyone judges and you have made this point through your comments. We see life through our personal lenses and from our experiences. And, my perspective on issues are not the same as yours.
Jay-Z’s former profession as a drug-dealer is a big deal and has contributed to the urban pathology so prevalent in many of the black and other communities across the country. That is significant and he should not be elevated to hero worship status through blind idolatry because he has “cleaned out a few cobwebs from his closet” and is making big money.
He is still contributing to the toxic malaise of greed and irresponsibility to what he puts out to the morally bankrupt masses in this country and all over the world. He is certainly not a role model in my book and not one that impressionable young (and old) people should emulate to build wealth and respect.
What happens if all of us decided to do drugs, be selfish and do anything that we wanted to with no respect for the consequences of our actions? Can you imagine a world gone amok with incivility? We make fun of religion and the Michael Baisden “pimps in the pulpit” (and there are some) but morality and values are important to an enduring society. We are responsible for our “footprints” – the marks and legacies we leave for those behind us.
They way we conduct ourselves personally and socially is important. And, Jay-Z and his ilk should not receive any passes for their contributions to the toxic climate that they have contributed to and, in some cases, created in black America and beyond.
BQ
August 9, 2018 at 12:08 am
If you don’t have money, you don’t know how to give money away. Any gift of 10k + there’s a huge tax on that. It’s not surprising Jay-Z under that 10k mark.. why would you give money away to a charity to have it taxed by the government? You have to be creative with how you give back- time, educational resources, clothing, food. —> http://www.gettyimages.com/search/search.aspx?EventId=56486107 Lets stop bringing
Quit letting media divide us, take notes from successful African Americans and create your own path. Don’t waste your time criticizing others who have made their way, it will just leave us further beyond.
“Only spot a few blacks the higher I go
What’s up to Will [Smith] Shout out to O [Oprah]
That ain’t enough we gonna need a million more
“Kick in the door” Biggie flow
I’m all dressed up with nowhere to go”
Auth3ntik927
August 9, 2018 at 12:08 am
Hold on for a second who said that just because you have X amount of money that you have an obligation too give a charity? On the otherside if Jay-Z and B weren’t as successful as they are in their chosen fields you people wouldn’t give a DAMN about either of them the bottom line is this yes the make a lot of money but they made it not you and you can’t chastise them for not giving back there are a whole bunch of people white black etc that don’t give anything so why single out these two what about the black CEO’s or business men and women that while they don’t make 63 million the make two million and don’t give squat people are targeting them because if there status but they don’t care.
LilReg
August 9, 2018 at 12:17 am
I agree fully with Harry Belafonte’s comments. He has the right to criticize young artists who are not doing their fair share because he certainly did. At the pinnacle of his career, Harry was publicly advocating for the poor. He and Sidney Poitier personally delivered cash to civil rights advocates in Greenwood, Mississippi in the summer of 1964 to pay the expenses for the historic Freedom Summer. They flew onto a small landing strip late at night in order to prevent the racist police or the Ku Klux Klan from taking the money and killing them. It was Harry who raised the largest amount of money for Martin Luther King and it was Harry and his wife who allowed MLK to use their New York apartment as his home away from home. It was Harry who bought a life insurance policy for MLK, and who ensured that his children were educated long after he was dead. Yes, Harry has earned the right to criticize this generation of selfish, self-absorbed entertainers who appear publicly to care only for themselves, how many records they sell, and how they can buy the most expensive New York apartments and planes, or houses in Atlanta. Our elders taught us that each of us has something to give and each generation has to lift up the least among us. We were taught social responsibility, i.e., the act of feeling responsible for what happens to the entire community and not the elite few. That is how our parents and foreparents survived at a time in America when survival was always difficult and sometimes impossible. Sure, the money artists make belongs to them but that does not relieve them of helping those who can least help themselves. A nation of people, a community of people can only rise when there is a sense of collective responsibility. No one is asking these self-absorbed people to give them a handout. What we have a right to demand they do is to help the community. I don’t buy their records or attend their concerts because I find them to have values that are not worthy of any redeeming quality. I am tired of these young people using the word “Nigger” as if it were a high art form. I lived through segregation; was jailed for fighting against segregation; denied the right to vote because of the color of my skin; called nigger by racist whites who created the word to injure and dehumanize black people. How can it now be considered a positive word when people like MLK, Medgar Evers, Fannie Lou Hamer and countless other black heroines and heroes gave their lives in a struggle against it? No, I have nothing in common with Mr. and Mrs. Carter, and neither would Harry Belafonte, Sidney Poitier, Diahnn Carol, or the late Marlon Brando, Lena Horne, Paul Newman, Josephine Baker, the director Mike Nicols, Elaine May, Richard Avedon and countless other artists who openly supported the civil rights movement. These young lightweights need to leave a legacy of service to their communities because history is sure to forget them for elevating the word “nigger” to some so-called art form. After all, how many boats and planes can you use?
joyce nelson
August 9, 2018 at 12:33 am
Harry I feek a little jealousy, that’s petty. Coming from you. Jay Z and Beonyce are always giving to others. You could have kept thgis bull s____ to your self. Next0 time, comment on what’s left in the toliet when you use it, I bet that’s more interesting than bashing two beautiful people. Shame.
Jalen
August 9, 2018 at 4:23 pm
You should be ashamed to use Harry Belafonte’s name and a profanity like “BS” in the same sentence. This man is a venerable civil rights leader that marched with the Dr. Kings and John Lewises of the civil rights movement that was responsible for you, me and others having many of the freedoms we take for granted today.
You have freedom of speech, but please try to show some humility and respect for our freedom fighters. You don’t have to agree, but surely, you can exercise some temperance or civility in your comments.
If you have not, I invite you to check out some civil rights DVDs on Mr. Belafonte and others in the movement and to read some black history books by Dr. John Hope Franklin or Lerone Bennett, Jr.
Perhaps, the knowledge that you acquire will provide you with a different perspective.
Take care.
Blackphoenix
August 9, 2018 at 12:40 am
I agree with this article 100%!! But then again, as I look back at how all of this started, we have to look at what we as a people have been subjected to for centuries and today we still do not get it!
These young folks are still slaves and not know it. being so worldly is something we seem to attach ourselves to without the understanding that all things in this life will have a day of reckoning.
America a land of hypocrisy is a place where children are endoctrinated to idol worship……MONEY!!!
LET ME INTRODUCE MYSELF
I am not good looking, but I can be useful to you; I can make life easy or I can make you blue
I am not judgmental but others judge me; I can work for you or you can work for me
I am able to leap tall buildings in a single bound; sometimes I am lost, sometimes I am found
I can bring out the worst or bring out the best; I am the ultimate in life’s survival test
I can make a rich man cry and a poor man sing; Yes, I can do almost anything
I travel the world through many foreign lands; I make deals with just the shake of two hands
I can make you beg, borrow or steal; I have even been known to make some kill
I am easy to get and yet, hard to hold; can be difficult to handle and yet, easy to fold
I have the ability to change minds at the drop of a dime; I’ve even been known to be the signs of the time
I have been left behind for others to share; to either love me, hide me or just to be there
If you don’t know me by now, maybe sooner or later; You’ll learn or yearn whichever is greater
In time you will find, I am indifferent to change; it matters not to me, ’cause MONEY is my name.
Blackphoenix
MizzJones
August 9, 2018 at 12:43 am
Wow…..we really got the conversation going on this on. And…all are entitled to there own opinion respectfully so. Soooo can we all just agree to disagree?
While we are doing that…consider this…there is so much more to all this than many of our minds can even began to comprehend….but I do believe that we all have an inkling of an idea as we each voice our opinions/beliefs. While Mr. HB has a very valid point as a true pioneer and well respected wise man….so much has infiltrated this worlds system and caused our generations to become watered down, if I may use that term. Many of today’s elite generation/celebrities HAS applied their God given abilities to earn a substantial lifestyle in this world’s system….but somehow along the way lost sight of the bigger picture.
There is a difference in giving a hand-out as opposed to a hand-
up. I personally believe that even God is not into aiding and
abetting those that do not want to help themselves, so don’t get it twisted about the phrase “poor black people”. My Bible tells me that we will ALWAYS have the poor among us….(Matt 26:11). Some are poor in their thinking …and that is a huge difference to those that are poor because they are persecuted/oppressed & not given the right to choose a better life because some idiot wants to rule them for their personal gain.
But not to go too far off….ijs…..greed, corruption, lawlessness, diabolical acts, pornography, violence….and so much more fuels this world’s system, and all these things blinds us from the TRUTH that we so desperately need to regain equality and quality of life.
THERE IS AN UNSEEN FORCE…..GOOD VS EVIL….IT’S EITHER ONE OR THE OTHER….NO MIDDLE GROUND ANY MORE. (JMO) just my opinion! God Bless America
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 11:09 am
Indeed, and bless Africa!
FSJR
August 9, 2018 at 12:49 am
Jay-Z, Beyonce, and all these other rappers, singers and their kind are all full of shit with the exception of a few when it comes to at least paying lip service to social causes. Where are these niggers when you have kids shooting other kids in some of the very neighborhoods they came from?
Yes these people and the niggers who call themselves “Black leadership” are just that: NIGGERS. They ain’t Black, African American, etc. They don’t deserve that dignity; and I say this as a proud African-American man myself.
Harry Belafonte and Nina Simone, Odetta, Muhammad Ali, Malcolm X, (and too many more to mention here) and a FEW current figures who are all-too-often unknown at least show that they are not brain-dead, self-centered clowns playing the role of the “shuckin’ n’ jivin’, singin’ and dancin’ niggers” that have entertained white people for generations; and still do.
Beyonce, a social activist? Please, this bubble-head is working on getting her GED now because her pimp-parents were so eager to whore their overrated daughter out to the music industry they did not even let her finish high school. Sean Carter (Jay-Z) is a former drug dealer who willingly addicted his own people to drugs to make his money before he started rapping. Are we REALLY to expect a former street-level dealer and his airhead studio-manufactured trophy wife to be social activists? NO
Harry Belafonte and others who use their talent and fame to speak out against injustice even if it jeopardizes their career is a rare breed. He should not be surprised (and I don’t think he is) that many of these overpaid, overrated, one-hit-wonders are not socially and politically conscious. Too many of them are too ignorant even to manage their own money, too selfish and too ghetto to care about anything other than running through the money they make on flashy and gaudy toys that make us as a people look like buffoons—playing right into the stereotypical “nigger” that many people still see us all as..
Expecting these coons to be socially conscious is expecting FAR too much from them.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 11:13 am
Know that!
Ericka G
August 9, 2018 at 4:12 pm
Yes!
MizzJones
August 9, 2018 at 1:01 am
@Blackphoenix…….AMEN……WELL DESCRIBED…..MONEY. WHILE THE BIBLE SAYS IN ONE SCRIPTURE “Ecclesiastes 10:19b” says money answers all things”…..THERE IS A FLIP SIDE TO THAT AND THAT SCRIPTURE IS 1Timothy 6:10 says For the LOVE of money is the root of ALL evil. KEY WORD HERE…LOVE. When we as a nation of people choose to sell our souls because we love money….we have traded our right to the tree of life…according to the BIBLE (basic instructions before leaving earth)…..My belief! God Bless America!
Guesswhat
August 9, 2018 at 1:08 am
Jay Z stood up for gays becauses he’s one himself, it had nothing to do with Obama. Have you seen Jay’s best fr!end ” Ty Ty”, oh please. A blind man can see what goes on there, but I have to give it to Jay, because he has been hiding him out lately. He even named this guy godfather to his child! Before you start talking stuff do some research on the subject. Look at some old pics of Ty Ty, before they when into hiding.
evelyn
August 9, 2018 at 1:21 am
right on mr belefonte! you know why there not speakin out on the violence ina black community? there promoting it! there selling it! there part of the problem. with all these industry black young millionaires, instead of comin together on a plan to promote peace and some kind of violent free what can they call it… hood summit. there in the club being violent themselves. these hip hop moneymakers have even sucked in the sports players to imulate there way of livin, actin and violence. yea they have the power to brain wash such as hitler did. there doin it ! look around at the children our children. yea there a big piece of the violent way of life that we see all around us today . they are not the young black men of the civil right movement”
JJ Brown
August 9, 2018 at 1:21 am
Too many of us have become selfish, greedy hypocrites. While professing our love for God and Jesus, who professed helping those who are less fortunate.
HoneybeBlack
August 9, 2018 at 1:27 am
You know, folks should really get their facts straight before runnin’ it in. Both Jay-Z and Miz B. have given to various charities here in America and I’ve read and seen on PBS about the water wells Jay-Z’ built in Africa and other Third World countries.
Lest we forget, …Freedom of Choice and,
“God Bless the Child that GOT HIS OWN” Stop hatin’ on THEM!!
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 11:36 am
Now, you would think a learned man like Watkins would check the facts before printing an article without so much as mentioning that Zay-Z was responsible for building water wells in Africa in 2006. We should have known better than to accept his facts without a grain of salt.
IJS
August 9, 2018 at 2:11 am
Who are we to say how a celebrity (or anyone for that matter) should spend his/her money? If at all possible, why not spend your own money making the world a better place? These celebrities aren’t obligated to do anything outside of their contracts, and I bet “End World Hunger” wasn’t above the dotted line. We as a people shouldn’t put so much faith in them but instead try to aid those individuals that we’re able to. I know as the newly elected president of an organization, I plan to see to wells being built in Africa over the next few months. So if you want to see a change, don’t rely on another. Make it happen yourself.
DJ Kool Emdee
August 9, 2018 at 2:29 am
As Marcus mentioned a few people who put it all on the line, we have to be mindful of the situations they were in as far as the inequalities of the past that were much more harsh than today. Imagine being thought of as stupid for your complexion and denied many rights for the same reason. Still, you push forward w/ your talents and skills, while at the same time taking the time to bring about social awareness of the mistreatment of your people. Mr. Belafonte was fighting two battles (in a sense) for people in our homeland and here in America. Jamaica is not all beach fun and irie times all the time. Imagine living in shanty towns and slums, and people literally warring in the streets for political parties. As they say; “A closed mouth don’t get fed.” They opened their mouths to let the world know they were/are tired and changes needed to be made.
DJ Kool Emdee
August 9, 2018 at 2:40 am
@kmad
Billie Holiday is actually an excellent choice. Just to take “Strange Fruit” alone that addresses the lynchings of black people that became both a hit and a standard. How many of these mainstream rappers and singers have a song in heavy rotation in Urban, Urban AC or on the Billboard charts that have talked about Troy Davis, Trayvon or any of the victims of police brutality and other injustices on our people? Even w/ all the money these people have, they don’t feel it’s worth a possibility of losing it for voicing real matters, when right now as we speak, they have the mic and mass influence to reach millions. #putuporshutup
Chill E.B.
August 9, 2018 at 4:33 am
Some of us “black” celebrity/artists DO care. You wouldn’t know it because we don’t receive the media attention we deserve. Just to introduce myself: My name is Chill E.B. and I invite you to visit my website and see a sample of my work. Thank you for your time and attention.
Bahati Sobukwe
August 9, 2018 at 11:17 am
Will do. Thank you!
angelo chisholm
August 9, 2018 at 4:51 am
There is a definite change in the will to give back by celebrities,but the times are a little different.there used to be an urgency in the community, but now you have a lot more lazy people that are looking for a hand out and expecting someone to drop them a rope to climb on.Im not trying to give anyone any excuses,I myself just see a lot of lazy personalities from todays entertainers and the fans,even the music is different,the subject matter in movies are different, the times period are different,I believe the neighbor down the street has just as much responsibility as say a jay z or a beyonce. WE ALL HAVE TO DO A BETTER JOB
chris-leo
August 9, 2018 at 5:45 am
if the carters were all about making money, they could’ve just put beyonce in a banana skirt and made a ton of money on broadway, but instead they chose to produce FELA and lose money. my african friends are still stunned that any americans know who Fela was (…black history?…) they also didn’t have to produce the movie, CADILLAC RECORDS, a love letter to the early black pioneers of rock & roll and how they were exploited by the industry (…black history? teaching?.) a film with contemporary music could’ve sold more downloads and raked in more cash, obviously. although, i agree with mr belefonte that we can all do better, i’m not sure the carters are the ones to highlight. it’s not all about shoe leather and leaflets and sit-ins. that tweet of support (…not to mention dedicating her webpage as tribute to his courage…) for frank ocean by beyonce reached millions of people and did make the world better. there are kids who will not kill themselves because she did that. the struggle continues; the tools are different. it’s always easy to talk about what someone DIDN’T do.
Whocares
August 9, 2018 at 5:58 am
Who cares about whether Jay-Z OR Beyonce “give back”…. I wanna see Mitt Romney’s last decade of TAX RETURNS that show he’s even giving in the FIRST PLACE…
Really?
August 9, 2018 at 6:45 am
It’s unfair to compare jay-z to the work of a 60 year old bruce springsteen. And exactly HOW intense was benefited social and charitable giving at 40? Let them grow into it like he got to. PPlus most celebrities have a nonprofit foundation from which they give to charitable causes. Did yall check for their 990’s likely not. Do y’all recall he bankrolled building INFRASTRUCTURE to bring clean water to many villages in Africa?…I’m not saying don’t hold people to a standard but damn hold yourself to that same standard…y’all may not have millions but what exactly have YOU done for your community? Collectively we can have a greater impact on the world than any 1 celebrity..in short put YOUR money where your mouth is…
NVB
August 10, 2018 at 3:04 pm
The point is…they don’t speak up and out AND with as much money as they both make…it’s a drop in the bucket. Stop the ridiculous false loyalties people.
JDub81
August 9, 2018 at 7:04 am
None of us are forced to buy their music….if we feel they (whoever the artist may be) do not support the community let’s not support them. We have the power….we as a people just never use it.
dmyers
August 9, 2018 at 7:11 am
This couple is so far into themselves that it is all the care about. Yes Beyonce lightens her skin…shuts down a whole hospital floor to have a baby..which by the way she never carried…to concerned about her body.. yes the baby is thiers but someone else carried it…an Jay Z could not find anyone else in this whole world to marry until Beyonce came on the music scene…IMAGE IS ALL THEY CARE ABOUT…thats the only reason the care to defend Frank Ocean or anyone else…..IMAGE..Nothing more..I lost respect for Jay Z and B a long time ago. I cannot respect people who do not care about others….I am ashamed that they are African American and act the way they do…….
Michael Walls
August 9, 2018 at 7:19 am
I must agree with Harry. Jay-Z in his lyrics indicate his true past, which was “cooking up pies”. In Lehman’s terms that means manufacturing and selling “CRACK” cocaine. This is what gave him the ability to become a record artist. It cost money to press records, it cost money to get the radio stations to play your music. It cost money to advertise your music. There were not many sponsors like you have now with the present rappers. Back in the day, there were many good rappers, some better than Run DMC and LL Cool, but they didn’t have that financial backing of a Russell Simmons. I know…I grew up in Jamaica, Queens, before both groups were famous and they were jamming at the parks for free. So to put in a nutshell, Rappers like Jay-Z and Biggie Smalls got famous off the backs of the many crack babies and ruined lives of their brothers and sisters. That’s the truth whether you want to swallow it or walk away from it. So there is no wonder of the true humane brotherly love they feel.
Alexis Garrett Stodghill
August 9, 2018 at 7:32 am
Hi, Dr. Boyce. Thanks for referencing my piece. FYI, I want to make it clear that I do not at all stick up for or side with Jay-Z and Beyonce in my essay. I merely mention the few politically-tinged things they have done in order to present a balanced perspective on this scenario. I also mention Jay-Z selling “Occupy All Streets” t-shirts for his own profit, capitalizing on the Occupy Wall Street movement, and mention that others have criticized him for it. But I do not critique him in my own voice nor do I support him, or any party in this affair. I present information, and then ask a question of my audience, which is the journalistic and objective approach of a news piece. I did not write an opinion piece, present my personal opinion, or support Jay-Z, or any party. Thank you.
shimira
August 9, 2018 at 7:55 am
I aggree with Harry Belafonte,
and as for Alexis Stodghill at TheGrio, Homosexualilty and gay marriage has nothing to do with the black community.
Harry Belafonte is talking about where is the fight for education and job opportunities today? Because he and many greats got us this far does not mean we can stop talking about it and fighting. He uses Jay Z and Beyonce as an example because they are influential on the black community where as young people can be influence to continue to fight for justice in the black community. Lets not fight when someone is killed, but fight for the next generation education, values, morals, beliefs, marriage, jobs, etc.
Mandingo
August 9, 2018 at 7:59 am
Jay Z and Beyonce owe their rise to fame and fortune because Afrikans in the US supported them so they and all other such artists,Belafonte,Michael Jackson etc OWE THE AFRIKAN COMMUNITY,so don’t give me no bullshit about ‘it is their money to do as they please with’ etc with no accountability to the community that made them rich.Obama as president for ‘all’ works in the interests of the Europeans and Jewish Europeans specifically and totally as all presidents before him did.Obama does not respect most of the Afrikans in the community in the US because he knows that they are fools and idiots who vote and support him blindly without getting anything in return except for the ‘feel good’ factor that ‘oh we are in the promised land of the american dream because we have a “black’ president.’ Come to think of it I don’t blame Obama.Intelligent people don’t respect fools,they only pity or ignore them.
think75
August 9, 2018 at 8:01 am
God bless Harry for all that he has done, but he needs to CHECK HIS FACTS. Google Jay Z and Africa. You will find all the communities in which he has built wells and suppoerted clean water efforts. Beyonce does work with girls. Fruits are more than just money, but time and labor as well. The Bible says as much. Most uber-rich usually focus on their craft or business before turning to philanthropic efforts in their older years. We don’t know what their wills say. This is tru of Oprah, Gates, Jobs. I worked at a large foundation. These institutions take a lot of time and effort to operate well. Zuckerberg and most rich people in their 20s and 30s, even 40s wait to plan their giving strategy, but that doesnt mean they don’t plan to leave wealth to charity or give while living as Buffet encourages. No need to demonize young people for not being like you. My generation was not on the back of the bus, so of course we don’t have the same level of consciousness as you. That was the dream–that we could live well and not be worried about blackness, whiteness and racism all day. How are we going to criticize Beyonce when the issues of the day are so different. Things aren’t perfect, but social injustices are far fewer and less overt. Plus this couple own and operate multiple business empires that employ hundreds of Blacks. JayZ models positive black fatherhood promiding to break the cycle in his family. Do you know what that does for black boys? With all these rappers doing nonsense and running in and out of jail, making lots of babies, these two are not the ones to criticize. Their philanthropic days are far ahead of them, though Jay has started in the homeland and who knows where else.
Blackallaround365
August 9, 2018 at 8:13 am
Young Money$$$$
What do you expect from a drug dealer? Do you expect more from the woman who stands beside as his wife? When he’s has degraded black women for years.
Rhett Bogan
August 9, 2018 at 8:21 am
I gotta be honest I hate that JZ dude. He and others like him can keep there money. I don’t even count people like that as members of the Human Race. And trust me, in time they’ll all be humbled. But i’m afraid by then it’ll be far too late for them. So fuck’em feed’em beans and let them fart and shit all night. (As real as it gets)
Travis Sellers
August 9, 2018 at 8:38 am
Although I could suggest a thousand things they could do to help, but check out http://www.shawncartersf.com/ besides politics is a messy business..
flawda
August 9, 2018 at 9:10 am
WOW at you ignorant crab in the barrel ass negros. How do ya’ll know what Jay-z and Beyonce do, just because some people give in silence without wanting to get the credit for it doesn’t mean they don’t give back. Jay-z gave 1 million dollars to Katrina victims, he has a scholarship foundation for inner city kids, he gave Sean Bells family money, he donate concert proceeds to Columbine. Beyonce donates money to womens causes all the time, she has even built a workshop for battered women in Houston that help women empower themselves and get back into the workplace.
Instead of pointing or looking for flaws in people maybe ya’ll need to look at ya’ll self because i’m more than positive most of you self righteous CRABS IN A BARRELL don’t do nothing for your community yourself. This is the oldest thing in the book, BLACK PEOPLE GET SUCCESSFUL, IGNORANT NEGROS FEEL LIKE THEY SHOULD TAKE CARE OF THE HOOD. Maybe you lazy ass negros need to get some work ethic like Jay-z and Beyonce and stop walking around with your hands out.
flawda
August 9, 2018 at 9:10 am
WOW at you ignorant crab in the barrel ass negros. How do ya’ll know what Jay-z and Beyonce do, just because some people give in silence without wanting to get the credit for it doesn’t mean they don’t give back. Jay-z gave 1 million dollars to Katrina victims, he has a scholarship foundation for inner city kids, he gave Sean Bells family money, he donate concert proceeds to Columbine. Beyonce donates money to womens causes all the time, she has even built a workshop for battered women in Houston that help women empower themselves and get back into the workplace.
Instead of pointing or looking for flaws in people maybe ya’ll need to look at ya’ll self because i’m more than positive most of you self righteous CRABS IN A BARRELL don’t do nothing for your community yourself. This is the oldest thing in the book, BLACK PEOPLE GET SUCCESSFUL, IGNORANT NEGROS FEEL LIKE THEY SHOULD TAKE CARE OF THE HOOD. Maybe you lazy ass negros need to get some work ethic like Jay-z and Beyonce and stop walking around with your hands out.
flawda
August 9, 2018 at 9:14 am
FYI for the idiot reporting Jay-z only gave 6000 dollars, he only reported 6000 as a tax write off. It doesn’t mean he didn’t give more, you only write off if you want the tax break. Plus you have to factor in he can also donate in his companies name instead of a personal donation.
But i’m pretty sure that 6000 is still more than anyone on here has donated
Jasmine
August 9, 2018 at 9:15 am
Love this article. This is why I dislike a lot of hip hop artists and ball players. Some do give back but many don’t. People like Jay-Z and Beyonce don’t realize that life is a test and they’ve been blessed for a reason. Beyonce herself used to proclaim to be a Christian but now she is with a man who questions the religion so I”m not too surprised about how she has turned out. The best thing to do is to refrain from purchasing their music.
JayRock
August 9, 2018 at 9:22 am
I know Belafonte is from a long line of Black celebrities who took social activism seriously and acted courageously on behalf of their people. However, I must say that I do not expect Jay-Z or Beyonce or any other black celebrity to be a savior for black folk.
Maybe we should ask ourselves why we are so obsessed with the idea that some great rich, black savior is what will help the black community. I think resolving the issues in the black community can start on a a very basic, local level. We can agree for example that guns have no place in our community and that anyone who carries a weapon will not be accepted. We can agree that me must begin to treat one another with respect; violence is not a solution to our problems. We can agree to make education a top priority in our lives and the lives of our children. We can educate our community about how to accomplish goals. We can committ to stopping activities that we know are self destructive such as drug use. That we will look out for all children in our community whether e birthed them or not.
I’d be in poor shape if I waited on some celebrity to help me. Instead, I listened to my dear single mom who told me to seek out an education and stay in school until I got what I wanted, even if it meant I was 40 by the time I graduated. We need that sort of determination in our community.
We are too obsessed with the idea that we haven’t made it unless we are rich like Beyonce and Jay Z that we have failed. I call it the “All or Nothing” paradigm. So many kids are willing to sell drugs in pursuit of the wealth they see Jay-Z with because they believe that going to work everyday and living a normal life is useless. It’s the ‘Get Rich or Die Tryin’ syndrome. More often than not, we end up with nothing or we die trying, destroying our communities in the process.
Finally, I’d like to suggest that artists like Belafonte spoke up for the community because that is what the community expected of them. Not sure we can say the same today.
Bernieb
August 9, 2018 at 9:37 am
Thank you!
Ms. Monica
August 9, 2018 at 9:42 am
Finally some truth has been written……………..finally. And Dr. boyce had no problem with it. 🙂
Praising Dollars?
August 9, 2018 at 9:48 am
I thought it was cool, AT FIRST, when paranoid(homophobic) rappers suddenly “accepted” gay people when their friends revealed themselves. BUT then I noticed the bandwagon of black entertainers are just ” playing it safe”.
They don’t want the responsibility of speaking for the homeless issues, the food pantry shortages, the job discrimination, the shutdown of community centers, or even the raise in youth deaths.
They come out to promote their records, books, babies, and businesses, however, where are they for their very supportive customers?
On, the other hand, It’s a shame that a people donot know how NOT to BE fear-filled of standing up for themSelves, even though their insides are practically screaming in frustration for them to. They ignore wisdom and praise money. If it’s not what Oprah said, or what news said, or some radio personality, then to the masses, it must not be true. They make millions to keep your attention diverted and having no time for focus on yourSelf.
We seem to come in on the tail-trail of everything the world promotes and throws at us. When WILL we prosper in SELF for an age–or two?
Meanmcclean
August 9, 2018 at 9:59 am
Before we get all crazy, I’m not knocking Belafonte’s view point as more famous and rich blacks should do more for the community, but to call out Jay as if he hasn’t done shit isn’t right. Dude just did his part to bring thousands of jobs back to New York (Brooklyn) dude did his part to assist during Katrina. Last year I remember them raising something like 1 mil for charity. So yeah the things he does are in benefit to himself or his family or his image but hell he IS doing something and that can’t be ignored. Belafonte just pulled a republican argument out of his ass IMO. Smoke and mirrors shit. “hey rich blacks aren’t giving their money away, let’s crucify them” f*ck outta here with that shit. Work smart and get your own money up or just simply make better choices in your own life before trying to depend on someone else to rescue you from your troubles. Their are many people with legitimate needs but how about we publicize what those needs are and make those issues popular instead of bashing others for not taking care of those phantom needs. IJS
Erica
August 9, 2018 at 10:19 am
Don’t we live in a capitalist society? Doesn’t Dr Joyce charge for his lectures and seminars? Does anyone question how much he gives to charity,does he put his tax returns on blast to be scrutinized? Then he needs to stop encouraging these inflammatory articles about what other people do with their hard earned money. Unless he is willing to publish his tax returns, shut up about people
Tonya P
August 9, 2018 at 10:26 am
I agree 100 percent It’s not about the idea of celebs like jay z and beyonce saving our kids or black society in general, its about doing your part to help those who need it rather, black , white blue or green, and don’t do it for show or because you got called out, but because you want too. Get it together and take part in the community you came from, screw the private planes, money, cars who cares cause in one quick second, it could all be gone, and without the money, power and fame jay z and beyonce would be ? whats their names 😉
CB
August 9, 2018 at 10:29 am
“Unfortunately, this has become par for the course in a world where poor black people are not nearly as fashionable of a cause as gay white kids from the suburbs…. ”
NO ONE SEES THE PROBLEM WITH THIS STATEMENT?
Disgusting.
Nikki Chisholm
August 9, 2018 at 10:32 am
Although there are some articles I don’t always agree with Dr. Boyce. I think people are taking what Mr. Belafonte and Dr. Boyce said out of context I think they were just using Beyonce and Jay Z as an example that we don’t have the next generation of people out there that are willing to stand for anything anymore I have long said in the privacy of my home with my friends over and over that we do not have any more role models that stand out like our parents had and that may be what is the downfall of our communities none of us are willing to stand for something not really anymore the past civil rights leaders were and are a dying breed I can only hope that someone who is in a position of power will eventually stand up and become that leader OUR GENERATION NEEDS ANOTHER MARTIN, AL, JESSIE, MEDGER, HARRY although I am sure all of these great men had their faults the one thing they had in common was black unity and black pride now its time for our generation not to trample on the efforts of these great people Our generation is begging for someone who will make us be proud once again to be on the right side of justice for all and equality and also sense of pride.
Samuel
August 9, 2018 at 10:34 am
Let’s start off with being kind to one another and having positive things to say, that uplift and encourage. There’s small things we can do for each other everyday that are simple, but powerful. If you amass a bunch of cash and you have the mindset to help the black cause that’s great. If you don’t want to give with your money and your many resources, then so be it – you’ll have to leave with that emptiness.
vernon
August 9, 2018 at 10:44 am
all thats been said about JAY-z AND bEYONCE DOES HOLD RELEVANCE AND TRUTH BUT KEEP IN MIND, THEY ARE A PART OF THEIR SELFISH AND SELF-CENTERED GENERATION, ONLY TUPAC GETS A PASS
Pingback: Jay-Z is Stingy with money | The Aberration
Sarai Phi
August 9, 2018 at 11:00 am
OOOOMMMMMGGGGG!!!! PREACH! This is what the hell is wrong with not only my black people but with our society. I couldn’t have said it better. Each and every one of my friends will be reading this article.
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:36 pm
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
Art Miller
August 9, 2018 at 11:00 am
Its ashame that you don’t know about Jay Z and Beyonces contribution and outspokenness of the city of New York tryin to take music and arts out of the schools. They have spent countless hours with school administrators and made a huge monetary contribution to purchase instruments and art supplies for those students. Not to mention the charity work that Jay Z does with underprivileged youth who he takes to the Hamptons for a weekend. Let’s not forget how he pays for those same children who can’t afford to pay for basketball camp with the Nets who do you think pays for them, Jay Z. Did it ever occur that they may want to be behind the scenes with what they do because of today’s society of people who find out that your contributing to a cause and the roaches come out to beg.
Tiamette
August 9, 2018 at 11:12 am
I think all of Black America has fallen short of our obligations to the poor. They have fallen short for themselves, they’ve believed the hype that they need a handout to get ahead. There is no responsibility for what is keeping them in their situations. People died for the right of freedoms that people do have and there are children who would rather set fire to their schools, beat up their teachers and murder each other on school grounds rather than try and get a basic education. The parents of these children do nothing to stop this behavior and continually bring children into this world that they can’t support or educate. Our celebrities are cut from the same cloth as these idiots, they just have more money. You can’t expect them to attempt to remedy problems that they have helped create.
christal
August 9, 2018 at 11:16 am
Why call out Jay-Z and Beyonce? They aren’t exactly producing soul and community uplifting products. Sex, drugs, violence, murder, and greed are some of the things they promote…and they aren’t ashamed of it. So what’s Belafonte’s deal? Expecting a lemon tree to produce sweet peaches is illogical.
JERI522
August 9, 2018 at 11:18 am
It is important that these black folks who have used the world to prosper give back. They can”t live upstairs while people downstairs are dying from health,and wealth.They owe back to those who helped prosper them,and they are old enough to see what they are doing.In a hundred years they couldn’t spend all the world have given them.Calling women whores and shaking your behind for an hour is pleasure not work.Carters set an example stop being selfish .Adopt two schools in N.Y(the city you love) and supply what these kids need all the way to helping their parents become better parents and claim it on your taxes.Don’t worry it will not break you and you will feel better being a good person like Harry B. and you would win over a new generation of folks who will continue to follow your right direction
godsgrace5
August 9, 2018 at 11:24 am
Amen. We are to look to the elders and they are to guide us. beyonce and jay-z must be mindful how they treat people, because everything has a way of coming back. We should always so back into people, the land. long as the earth remain there willbe seed time and harvest.So we should always give.It is a shame that our people are suffering and some celebrities don’t give back to the community.They leave and dont look back and it is really sad, but you know i’ve learned that when your not humble god can remind you that he created you and everything you have can be taken away a drop of a dime and they will see how it feels to have people around you with money that can give back and dont.Then they will see how it feels.Be MINDFUL at all times of others and there position and if you can be a blessing please do so, cause the person you bless could be an angel himself.I pray that everyone has a ear to hear in the spirit realm. Be bless everyone.
Kevin
August 9, 2018 at 12:03 pm
Well, what would you expect from someone like Jay-Z who was and probably still is a drug dealer??? The guy got his start by being selfish. He was a drug dealer and now because he has millions we’re expecting this low life piece of trash to have miraculously change??? Jay-Z being a legit business man doesn’t eradicate or wash away what he did to get where he is. Just remember this, all those millions were made off the backs of those who suffered and even died buying his trash and drugs. Harry should’ve known better to even call out his name. That MF wouldn’t give you a dime, let alone help a person in need. He cares for himself and himself only. When will people realize, the ones that have the wealth only care about themselves.
Paul Simmons
August 9, 2018 at 12:09 pm
They definitely are more a part of the problem than the cure because white youths will listen to them. However I’m not going to publicly put the ni^%&s down. Just the fact that they’re black helps some.
Kerrie Green
August 9, 2018 at 12:16 pm
Amen!! Jesus never taught us to be selfish! The Bible says that the LOVE of money is the root of all evil ! This article is on point!
Stevie Ra'
August 9, 2018 at 12:16 pm
I wanna make this plain and simple. Not some holier. I’m just like you, a child that belongs to God. There’s only one God. If you can bring me a human being, a science, a big bang theory, a Budda, a Mohammed, or even an atheist..etc you get my meaning, that can put a sun, stars, a moon in the sky just by speaking it into existence… I will change my mind about the Son of God. There’s one way in and there’s one way out. Heaven or hell. We are not taking one thing with us when we enter either place. Harry Belefonte, I appreciate the part that you have tried to do, to help us all become focused. Before I thought about what others should be doing. I checked myself first on what I’m doing? I am doing my part as well the best I can. I know that God isn’t impressed with man’s wealth, military might, or self-indulgence way of life. He is looking for justice. Our money will NEVER be more important then SOULS. God is calling us to repentance as the only way to avoid destruction. We can keep playing with God if we want too!!!! Loving you all Always unconditionally…
Stevie Ra'
August 9, 2018 at 12:20 pm
All of this needs to be said… so what can I do?
Cynthia Allen -Sparks
August 9, 2018 at 12:21 pm
This is to much for me, and I say we boycott their behinds.
These so-called stars make far to much money ,and don’t know how to spend it. I don’t care how many songs you’ve sung ,or how much studio time ,and hiney shakin you’ve done, you don’t deserve that kind of wealth. you and your wife put together don’t deserve it. I also heard they rented out a $400,000 mansion in
the Hamptons for a month. Do you know how that kind of money would raise the standard of living for me and everyone on my block on both sides of the street. See I believe this is why little people like me who work their tails off and still catch hell can’t make a decent wage because its to much money being paid out to the so-called upper class.I’m sick of you stars and I will never
buy another cd even if its a boot-leg I’m done .If it is true that you only gave $6,000 dollars to a chairty all year ?How do you sleep?
You are worse than some of these other folks we’ve been fighting
all our lives . Thank God for Oprah , Harry, Brad,and Angelina along with countless others because some people we could do without.
substan
LadyLaw
August 9, 2018 at 12:31 pm
What about icons like Alicia Keys and Rosario Dawson who is always down for a cause and literally go and put in not only money but their TIME to help others? Sure the article is predominantly mentioning Jay-Z and Beyonce, but let’s not overlook those who DO help others in impoverished areas.
mel
August 9, 2018 at 12:39 pm
Funny how we want these people to take action but when they do, we want them to exploit it as well… someone needs to do research before having these opinions and accusations… I am no fan of these two artists but I do know that they have given back to their hometown communities at least…. but I guess since they haven’t put up a “hey look what I did” sign, no one wants to see it… or acknowledge it…. this type of article is really disheartening to all people not just the black community… I just encourage u to research. I would think a man of Mr. Belafonte’s stature and you as a journalist would have done that knowing how powerful your words can be
Preachaswife
August 9, 2018 at 12:41 pm
I don’t agree with Obama’s evolution to gay marriage and I sure as heck don’t agree with Beyonce and Jay Z’s stance on it either. I will comment on J.D. Hilll’s post by saying, whether a Christian or not, a rich person has a responsibility to give back. It’s just the right thing to do. Alot of ppl aren’t confessing Chrisitians but they help the poor. Ppl had better wake up because I believe that God has gotten angry.
Cynthia Allen -Sparks
August 9, 2018 at 12:58 pm
Are you serious? What kind of so-called stars are you ?I say we boycott this whole musical establishment stop buying.No more down loading your dirty lyrics,I don’t even want to see another concert. I think these people need to be brought down a few notches.They are not helping our culture.They don’t enhance our lives. The best music has already been made, its not going to get any better.Old school is best, and to hell with the rest.I understand its your money and you can do what you want to do. Do you realize the impact that you could have on somebody’s neighbor hood . Just because you got it ,Why waste it like that? What does it do for you?
I think When Michael Jackson wrote that song They don’t care about us ! He was probably telling us more than we will ever no.
Let’s be thankful to all those beautiful people who do share their wealth. Oprah, Harry ,Brad and Angelina and countless others.
HereWeGoAgain
August 9, 2018 at 1:00 pm
I guess bloggers don’t do research? Neither does Harry apparently? Too busy buying Springsteen tickets I guess.
Harry is sadly uninformed and victim of using biased mainstream media’s coverage of black celebrities to ground his ignorance. At his age, he should know better. He’s coming off as the stereotypical bitter old man.
I guess he missed Jay and Beyonce building and paying for wells in African villages without clean water. I guess he missed the homes they brought/had built in New Orleans after Katrina. Rebuilding her home church in Houston with a separate youth center is not giving back enough, eh? I guess supporting Obama and showing up at voting sites to encourage people to register AND vote is not enough for Belafonte either. All the integrity, tolerance, & grace that Beyonce has chosen to use to ground her global success when (black) women are expected to whore themselves out in sex tapes and vulgar content just doesn’t cut the social justice mustard for Harry. I guess all the young black and brown entrepreneurs Jay and Beyonce have employed and given starts to in multiple industries is just not socially responsible enough. Beyonce donating to Oprah’s school in South Africa doesn’t amount to a hill of beans for him I guess. Jay Z being an inspiration to young boys in Australia and all over the developing world because of his rags to riches journey is meaningless because he doesn’t participate in hunger strikes & sit-ins or tow the line in issues/causes Belafonte thinks are important. Oh by the way, they are multi-national entertainers and business executives (THEY HAVE BEYOND FULL TIME JOBS DUDE). Beyonce took off only one year after a decade of touring, acting, making records, building an empire based on real talent (shade to Brittany & her millions) to conceive & bring to term a baby–Perhaps she needs to work on her work ethic in the community, eh?
I guess Mother Google doesn’t work at his house because all of this information is readily available to anyone with internet connection. smh-I guess calling them out via the biased media is more effective than a phone call via Oprah, eh?
#CrabsInABucketStrikesAgain!!
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:31 pm
I agree 100%! Yet again, I’m disappointing at the lack of journalistic integrity Dr. Boyce has displayed.
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
Who makes 60^ mil. and only donates 6K…no one!!!! Why? Because of the tax brakes. SMH at the crab in a barrel mentality ON THIS BLOG!
Black C. Tzar
August 9, 2018 at 1:14 pm
Luv Mr. Belafonte, much respect is due to him and all he has done for Black folk, and humanity in general. That said, its always amazing that in these times, at least it seems to me, everyone wants to jump on the spotlight Black person. Mr. Belafonte has a right to critique and criticize, but of the people who cosign and comment, I’m willing to bet few of them have any record of giving back. Also, and I really don’t like throwing this term around, but its like folk just want to “hate” for the sake of hating. Here you are on the Internet and shooting off at the mouth with no research the first, wow. And trust me, I say this not as a Jay/Bey stan, but as someone who just uses common sense. Do the research people (someone even commented that they didn’t even know what Jay-Z has done other than water for Africa… YOU ARE ON THE INTERNET… LOOK IT UP and stop trying to have an opinion, learn something for once.) I’m just saying, if you calling out Jay/Bey, call out Jordan, Fox, athletes, etc. Or, and here’s a better solution, get up, get out, and do something yourself!
And oh by the way:
Jay-Z Charity Work, Events and Causes
http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/200-jay-z
Beyoncé Knowles Charity Work, Events and Causes
http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/19-beyonce-knowles
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:32 pm
I agree!
Dave G
August 9, 2018 at 1:19 pm
No one is asking for a dam hand out!!!, but what most are saying is be responsible, and invest with interest in the black communities, from the educational side of things, this empower people to be self sufficient, smarter and ready in this cold world we live in, also heavy education allow us to know and learn how to avoid the traps set out for us to fail in life, modern education, learning of our true history,. findings will allow us to move foward.
Houstongirl
August 9, 2018 at 1:24 pm
Although it’s likely that Beyonce and Jay-Z can do more considering the resources at their disposal — as, frankly, most of us can — Mr. Belafonte may want to do some research first. In Houston and New York, Beyonce has sponsored a homeless shelter, held food drives, sponsored a battered women’s shelter and an initiative to train shelter residents for jobs. Instead of bashing the next generation of prominent musicians who are in a position to make an international impact, perhaps Mr. Belafonte should take them under his wing and guide them to greater social involvement a la Bill Gates and Warren Buffet. Then again, perhaps he has already tried.
Kellie
August 9, 2018 at 1:43 pm
Ma’am, please. My sorority/chapter sponsors food drives, shelthers, and offers job training. Point being, Bey can do more; she’s certainly stepped over and used enough people to get where she is.
Dariush Elahi
August 9, 2018 at 1:33 pm
LOL, why is he late??? I’ve been saying this for years aboyt Jay & Bey, yet I was coined a ‘hater’. At least a true philanthropist and civil rights champion has reognized and not licking the Carters’ boots, like a mojority of other celebs.
Sister Vera El
August 9, 2018 at 1:35 pm
The truth of the matter is there is no flag for the black man , the african american man , the negro, the colored , and etc., Nationality is the order of the day , nothing will be fixed until everyone is willing to stand up for truth , do you really believe that the slave master is going to tell you the truth about you , the truth about your ancestors ???? I wish that ones would stop slandering others for lack of thereof . We are the only people that can’t grasp unity , be happy for what your brothers and sisters accomplish, for what you want for self , you should want for your brothers and sisters . You need to learn to love instead of hate .
Melanie
August 9, 2018 at 1:39 pm
1st of all, I do not belive Jay’s new stance on homosexuality…please review any of his albums, particularly those songs where he was beefing with Nas.
Don’t worry, I’ll wait.
karen
August 9, 2018 at 1:43 pm
i’m tired fo people saying oboma dosent owe us anything what ever we dont want anything from a devil worshiper anyway
Chris
August 9, 2018 at 1:50 pm
And we need to quit stating that certain people are ‘black’ just because they are doing something. Other races don’t do that to us. Never heard em calling Oprah white or claiming Denzel as their own. SMH…
MAXMAN357
August 9, 2018 at 1:51 pm
Wizard G,
Hit the nail on the head.
Well, when your serve the beast rather than the creator what should you expect? Yeah, I said it! No one can serve two masters!
What most of you fail to realize is this has been going on for ages in different forms, but it use to be Rock music until Rap and Hip Hop became more popular. Therefore, to reach the masses in their message (they) infiltrated the Hip Hop music culture with the the lure of riches and fame for the most popular artist. Satan tempted Jesus by offering him the riches of the world. ” Today if we would hear His voice, Do not harden your hearts as in rebellion.” For those who rebelled could not enter in His rest because of unbelief.
Denise
August 9, 2018 at 2:02 pm
THE CHURCH SAY’S AMEN.
Derrick
August 9, 2018 at 2:16 pm
Jay-Z and Beyonce are bought negroids. They can’t do anything their massa will not allow them to do!
All of those sc(rappers) and hip/(slop) artist are nothing but slaves! They are only allowed to support crackers businesses and entertain them!
Y’all need to wake up to the world of entertainment and sports. IT’S SLAVERY. During our force enslavement the slave maker only allowed the enslaved to PLAY SPORTS or ENTERTAIN them during their ‘break’ in the fields.
They would bet with another enslaver, that [their] slave could beat one of their enslaved. This is still going on today! These crackers bet on these ass-o-lets (athletes) and control these entertainers!
“We have gone from ancient slavery to modern slavery.” -Malcolm X
Lillian Smith
August 9, 2018 at 2:17 pm
AMEN MR. BELAFONTE…YOU ARE SO RIGHT HOWEVER; THIS MESSAGE SHOULD BE FOR MANY OTHER BLACK CELEBRITIES THAT HAVE NO CLUE ABOUT GIVING BACK OR ANY UNDERSTANDING OF HOW THESE OPPORTUNITIES CAN EXIST FOR THEM.
Tracy
August 9, 2018 at 2:29 pm
Why is it that rich or popular minorities MUST support causes for their minority. What if Jay-Z and Beyonce trully feel no responsibility or no connection? Why is it a crime for them to believe in something else?
I’m Jewish and lead a pretty successful life. But I’m not out there talking about the oppression of Jews (past or present). I am personally more concerned with curing cancer and Alzheimers.
I just don’t see why they are REQUIRED to act on behalf of a minority simply because of the color of their skin. Isn’t that a form of discrimination in and of itself?
Eve
August 9, 2018 at 4:43 pm
If it was not for these same people to attend their concerts and buy their music, where would they be! For musicians and actors you can’t become rich and famous without the fans. “Selfishness and ingratitude is worse than witchcraft”…. paraphrase from the Bible!
HereWeGoAgain
August 9, 2018 at 2:32 pm
Before & after the election Beyonce was on a world tour (2008-2009). She included a video montage of black civil rights activism in the US and piece featuring black & brown young men lining up in protest Reservoir Dogs style (after the election she updated the images) in the present day. These images were seen during 108 concerts in Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia by an estimated 930,000 to 970,000 million people. How many people did she not “tell our story” to Mr. Bellafonte?!?!? Respectfully, the brother needs to have several seats. \_ \_ \_ #RESEARCH! #KNOWYOUROWNHISTORY
HereWeGoAgain
August 9, 2018 at 2:49 pm
No social activism, eh? Everybody is not going to sing Kumbaya and rock a v-neck blouse.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6-iTaZGzbd8
teisha
August 9, 2018 at 2:53 pm
Please leave our President out of this discussion. The four hard years he had to endure as President (Not President of the African-American community ONLY) has been inspirational to me and young African-American men. He cannot please everybody, but he has fought on before of those who cannot fight for themselves. His lifestyle and integrity as a Father, Husband and leader is what we need in our community.
Alex
August 9, 2018 at 3:13 pm
I notice that you did not mention anything about all the money Michael Jackson gave to charities.
irma o"neil robinson
August 9, 2018 at 3:20 pm
Amen, Three times & I can not say thank you enough times to Mr. Harry!….In this society the motto is>>YOU CAN HELP YOURSELF, BUT DON’T YOU DARE TAKE TOO MUCH; and in THIS case, give too much either!……..PEACE!
LAZERICK
August 9, 2018 at 3:24 pm
The bottom line is this world has become more negative & non-caring then ever. As far as rappers go, we as people need to pay attention to the words, seriously! This whole new generation is selfish period, from the home to the people. jay z & his wife are not the worst & sure not the last. We as a people need to stop supporting or even giving interest to these non GOD praying idiots any of our time. For the record ice cube is a complete liar he didnt let his own kids listen to his music because it would destroy there way of thinking, Oprah was on his heel & she was real about it!
Yes rap music plays a very big part in your life, I’m 43yrs old been there done it & what i mean by that is prison, gang life but its all a bunch of crap, now I’m a man my eye’s are wide open & see the terror wiate of th in our world. What is really crazy is growing up devil worshipers were posted as white, that was a cover up for the generation to come. I live & born in Cali the state of $$$, but also evil dwelling, if you really have not lived in it you wouldnt be able to truly see it!
I just pray & hope somebody wakes this planet up & get it right.
Ellisa
August 9, 2018 at 3:42 pm
I’m sorry, I cant get pass the fact that Jay-Z earned $63 Mill, and was only able to manage a meager $6000 in donations…
I’ve come close that donating each year, to various orgs, and I’m no where near wealthy. I’m not one to tell people what they ought to do with their money…..but this right here? Beyond pathetic, he should be very, very ashamed….
mamaS
August 9, 2018 at 4:00 pm
Have any of you stopped for one moment to think about the media. The media show anything negative about some before tje show any good. Now, I agree that Jay-Z and Beyonce are self centered because of the hospital stunt the pulled during the birth of their baby. However, they don’t OWE us anything. There are so many black celebs that get a bad rap in the media, but you never hear about the positive things they are doing. This is not the 1950-60’s. It’s 2018. We need to stop holding ourselves back by looking for any black that has made it to bell us out. Also, we are quick to call someone racist, however, we do it too. If this were and article about white people not helping the white community, we’d all be quick to call these responses racist. None of us on this page came over here on slave ships. We are not the only race that have poor people. We are holding ourselves back by holding on to the past. No, don’t forget where our ancestors did for us, but we have to stop using it as a crutch and take charge of our own lives. Stop hating on those that made it for themselves and get your hands out of their pockets. Plus, how many of you donate to charity? How many of you go out in your communities and talk to kids about brightening their futures? How many of you have volunteered to feed the homeless or help out in a food bank? If your aren’t doing your part, then how can you judge what someone else has or has not done? Especially without knowing all the facts. The media is laughing at how broken black community is because we keep waring with each other.
Santana T.
August 9, 2018 at 4:06 pm
It’s sad that we talk down on celebrities for not taking part in issues we (individually) deem to be important. The fact that J & B stood up for homosexuality as well as, helping Africa is equally as important as violence in Chicago or the murders in NY. You shouldn’t look down on and criticize them for not putting as much effort into the issues YOU think are important, not saying that they aren’t.
CTSmith211
August 9, 2018 at 4:08 pm
If you blast Jay-Z Beyonce & the entertainment industry by all means you must not overlook the absence of politicians in the communities…well; except when it’s voting time…I have not EVER heard ANY politician speak out for the poor…no; not the middle class…the POOR! Not really defending them but at least you can sometimes see some of these celeb’s & atheletes foundations at work in the “hood” politicians…not so much…
Just one man’s opinion
Tera
August 9, 2018 at 4:22 pm
AMEN!!!!! THIS ARTICLE IS RIGHT ON POINT!
Loud-Cloud
August 9, 2018 at 4:28 pm
Check us out: http://www.loud-cloud.net
Jacqueilne
August 9, 2018 at 4:29 pm
Whooaaaa…here we go again. Have you checked your facts? I seem to recall that Jay-Z spearheaded a clean water drive in Africa a couple of years ago. I’m also aware that Beyonce opened a school in NYC for ex-addicts to receive training to enter the cosmetology industry. They have to live their own lives in the manner in which they deem appropriate. I wonder if Mr.Belafonte made an effort to personally reach out to this couple and drop some knowledge on them. Where is your respect Brother Belafonte. But I guess calling them out in the press got you some publicity.
Rashida Moore
August 9, 2018 at 4:32 pm
As a native of Bedford-Stuyvesant Brooklyn, NY (the same neighborhood Jay Z grew up in), and one who benefited from his charitable gifts, I must come to his defense and say that he does give more than this article credits. First off, every year, he would get a delivery truck full of toys and desirable items for children \ and give them away with all sincerity. Secondly, he has a scholarship fund that has supported me through my 4 year matriculation through Howard University, and I know for sure that I’m not the only person who has benefited from his scholarship. He may not give the way people would prefer, but he DOES GIVE in a plethora of ways aside for the aforementioned.
Loud-Cloud
August 9, 2018 at 4:35 pm
S/O to HereWeGoAgain for the comment. #Respect. You saved me some time.
Eve
August 9, 2018 at 4:39 pm
That’s why I don’t listen to or buy the CD of such “celebrities”. Whom much is given, much is required. I have no time for selfish people to do not give back to uplift those in need. Hats off to people like Springstein and Oprah!
Charlene
August 9, 2018 at 4:42 pm
I agree with Mr Belafonte. It’s about time someone called these people out.
Everette
August 9, 2018 at 4:48 pm
Perhaps Jay-Z and his wife ought to give more based on what they make. They may not be inclined to do so because they, as many people, are not a giving people. Leave them alone with their money.
It is somewhat sad and terrible though that whenever a crisis hits people of African background, it is the others and not us who jump in first.
I think that we need to be shown how it is done. In that way, we will not be accused later of pilching the funds.
Valerie
August 9, 2018 at 4:50 pm
I wish the religious talk was left out of it, but other than that, a very well written piece. I came across this article from a FB friend’s who’s commentary was “….LOL Didn’t Bey just launch a humanitarian campaign. Oh Harry”. Already – as you pointed out – on the attack for Harry and defense for the celebrity. EVEN if the campaign claim is true, Mr. Belafonte’s point still remains. IMO, he appears to be speaking in the terms of W.E.B Du Bois’ ‘Talented 10’th. As a community, it is our responsibility to uplift one another. “My own panacea of earlier day was flight of class from mass through the development of the Talented Tenth; but the power of this aristocracy of talent was to lie in its knowledge and character, not in its wealth.” – W.E.B. Du Bois
Dyan
August 9, 2018 at 5:03 pm
Speaking for myself I noticed that many in my family never sought to do anything except find someone to either loan them money. They don’t like anything that requires thoughtful, repetitive, consistent, committed behavior. Years later they are in the same position (lack for better term) that they’ve always been and it took me all my life to realize they make poor choices no matter what lame excuse they pin to their lives. This state of mind exists in every corner of the earth with every race. If you don’t evolve, aren’t flexible, and prone to lazy mental and physical characteristics life will be tough. No one can supplement that. Nor should they. Or should they?
I worked with HUD recipients during the early eighties and taking care of or providing people with a stipend does not change behavior. IN fact, there is (rarely) any reason for them to try any harder. You adjust downward in most cases, not up.
We all know that there is much game to living life. All races have to put up with this game. Everyone on this planet has to develop the knack for over coming the obstacle course called life. We (black people) do not corner the market in difficultly and strife. If this country gets you down move to another. When the opportunity presented itself to me I didn’t take it and boy do I sometimes wish I had. Experience is a great teacher. I was to stuck on being near the familiar. I ventured but I stayed near my own backyard. I might have faired better had I crossed the street for a chance at other and different opportunities. It might be time for black people to disperse and like stars cover the earth. If we are so good for each other that why are we killing each other and selling dope.
Maybe we need to teach our children the fifty ways to cultivate success from the day they are born. Why continue to cultivate waiting for change. Collectively we can all practice and be an example of change. The power is always within us. It requires flexibility, motivation, and above all courage from within not from outside and beyond. When the power is cultivated the result is incredible. Let not envy be our guide but faith, courage, determination, and hard work.
My to do list:
Read one book and then another. Don’t stop
Math. Do a problem every day for one hour
Cleanliness
Learn and apply Etiquete
saving money
understanding finance (household)
understanding spreadsheets (daily budget)
Planning and learning to adjust the plan
flexibility
Courage
Determination
learn a new technique
learn a new language
Get a hobby
change crippling attitude and chips on shoulder
Make new friends from a different community and culture
replace people that foster bad habits for new ones that don’t
The above includes old friends, family, co-workers, you name it
Cultivate good habits. Never stop
To thine own self be true (not a copy be an original)
Try something new and healthy
maintain your temple – eat healthy
take care of your temple – exercise
Failure is the key to success. Try again and again, etc.
Set a real and attainable goal and stick to it.
Repeat the above and add on new items
Take a short trip somewhere new and alone
and on and on and on.
You’ll be so busy building the list you won’t readily notice the change but others will.
The above is how I changed my life and why I have nothing in common with my family. They don’t understand and they might never. To each his or her own.
jahenry
August 9, 2018 at 5:40 pm
It’s difficult for many black people to accept that many of us have shown that we have a tendency to leave each other in the dust when opportunity presents itself. Elita Blacks take total leave of their previous world because there are few fgrom that world to remind them it still exist. We see other nations reaching back and giving to, not just the less fortunate, but those who are talented and bring substance to the table; those but for a few dollars would be finance, technology or perhaps business stars. 63 million at a tax rate of 15% is 9450000. If Black celebrities were to chip in tax deductible donations of this type income we could supply every young Black deserving person an opportunity to develop those God given talents without the help of any other nation or government. The problem is very few of those in that elite class can acctually see this, and their accountant will not point it out.
Mary
August 9, 2018 at 5:57 pm
Belafonte does not know what he is talking about. He does not know anything about what Beyonce and Jay-Z do with their money and time. Beyonce gave money to victims of Katrina who moved to Houston. She just keeps her business to herself. He needs to call Beyonce and Jay-Z and ask them before he runs his mouth.
Terri
August 9, 2018 at 6:24 pm
Jay-Z saying he is God? J HOVA a play on words perhaps but God don’t like ugly J. Look up the history of what has happened to people who has claimed they were God.
Jay-Z is the same man who earned over $63 million dollars last year and only gave $6,000 to charity. B talks to young girls and give them so clothes from her clothing line which she could only give away because no one would purchase that junk. Unfortunately, this has become part for the course in a world where poor black people are not nearly as fashionable of a cause as gay white kids from the suburbs. Poor black kids can’t buy your records, rendering them effectively useless. The CD worth having is a burnt CD. They haven’t given back Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.
Terri
August 9, 2018 at 6:27 pm
I’m with Cynthia Allen -Sparks boycott!!!!!!!!!!!! Let it be heard loud and clear!!!!!
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:36 pm
Jay-Z announced on Thursday that he would give two benefit concerts at Carnegie Hall in February to raise money for college scholarships and for a United Way program aimed at reducing the dropout rate among New York City teenagers.
The concerts will be on Feb. 6 and 7 and will be the first time Jay-Z, perhaps the most successful rapper of the last 15 years, has played the hall. Most tickets will be offered privately to philanthropists and wealthy fans, and will range in price between $500 and $2,500. A few will be offered for sale to the general public on Jan. 30.
For nine years Jay-Z, whose real name is Shawn Carter, has operated a foundation with his mother, Gloria Carter, that each year provides college scholarships to more than a 120 students from poor backgrounds. The foundation has distributed about $1.4 million to 750 students since 2002.
Jay-Z said he hoped the benefit concerts would raise millions of dollars for both his foundation and the United Way, which has a program working to improve graduation rates in many of the city’s most troubled public high schools.
“There was a ton of blue-collar jobs that no longer exist, and the gap is wider than ever, and the kids need to really know that and be prepared,” he said in an interview at Carnegie Hall. “To really succeed in this new America they are going to need an education. Not everyone can be entertainers and hit the lottery — that’s what I call it.”
Jay-Z rose from poverty to become a multi-billionaire who made his fortune both as a recording artist and producer, then expanded into cosmetics, clothing and sports. He also grew up in Bedford Stuyvesant when it was burdened with high crime, attended public schools of dubious quality and never graduated from high school. “My story is pretty much an anomoly,” he said
Until this year, Jay-Z has financed the foundation out of his own pocket, providing yearly scholarships of between $1,500 and $2,500 to dozens of students who have gotten into college. The foundation also pays for high school students from poor areas to visit college campuses. “All that time we were doing this pretty much on our own,” he said. “There was no fund-raising. It was all me.”
But in September, the foundation held its first fund-raiser, collecting over $1 million at a charity carnival on Pier 54. The concerts in February are intended to add more to the foundation’s budget, he said.
The rapper said he had yet to decide if there will be guest artists. But as the producer who has discovered and mentored such singers as Rihanna, Kanye West and Ne-Yo, he has a deep bench of talent to draw from if he chooses to widen the circle. He also said he will probably perform hits from past albums rather than showcase new material.
Asked about the importance of doing such a concert at Carnegie Hall, Jay-Z said concerts will mark a high point in his career. “Music is music,” he said. “If music is great it works in great venues” He laughed. “And I have great music.”
maumau68
August 9, 2018 at 6:28 pm
Correct me if I’m wrong. But wasn’t there a time when entertainers were not even revered as people who we should even consider or pay too much attention to? They were once the court jesters; solely rendering their talents for entertainment, to those of us who have real jobs. They were basically giving us a service of “breaking up the monotony” with in our own day to day lives. Part of the problem is that we have created these monsters by simply patronizing them, even if it’s in the form of paying them our attention. The real people that make this world go round who in my opinion should be getting the big bucks are the everyday people of our communities; from the doctors and lawyers, right across to the janitors and cab drivers; people who give a real service. But now that things have been set in order, where a buffoon like Wacka Flocka, who can barely form a correct sentence is the one being paid goo-gobs of money; there is a responsibility that comes with that wealth which is generated from the everyday people, and that is to step up to the challenge of which Bro. Harry Belafonte speaks of; to be a mouth piece for the people when it comes to social issues that affect our people in particularly.
A broke a$$ white kid.
August 9, 2018 at 6:42 pm
Im really sick of people claiming poverty,unemployment,urban violence etc. Are black problems. These are social issues that effectevery race. Im white and have dealt with them my whole damn life. And why should they only focus on black people? So if im to become rich Im expected to only help white people? Cus id try to help every person I could worldwide. Guess thats why ill never become rich.
hoodedmonk
August 9, 2018 at 6:49 pm
What makes this more disturbing to me is not about the money. They are private citizens. They are allowed to be cheap when it comes to public charity. And we are allowed to call them cheap. That’s not criticism. That’s honest observation.
It’s highly possible that they have given funds anonymously.
But whats disturbing is that all of our so called “top money making-hit making-super duper stars” make music that pretends that everything is “all good in the hood”. They don’t create a body of work that edifies their peers and those younger. A few songs aren’t enough.
The so called radical neo soul artists don’t even get played on black radio.
major yeti
August 9, 2018 at 7:10 pm
Harry Belafonte lost the war, sadly but admirably, nothing short of committing financial suicide what can Beyonce or JayZee do to stem this rampant tide of greed and selfishness, true something would be a help to certain specifics, aligning themselves with Harry Belafontes great legacy would do little to promote his cultural attempts to rectify a change in people as is made clear through what he has failed in achieving but not through effort. Theirs would be like a drop in the bucket for all of the greediness prevalent and worshipped today, sad but true, when in Rome do like the Romans, whos to say they do not have it right or actually really know what they do
green leef of d.o.c.
August 9, 2018 at 7:16 pm
sad thing is black people have been caught up and influenced by so much of what white people are doing that they have lost their culture in the process; but unlike white people, when blacks make it they believe they are no longer black….
green leef of da organization
the restoration
green leef of d.o.c.
August 9, 2018 at 7:17 pm
sad thing is black people have been caught up and influenced by so much of what white people are doing that they have lost their culture in the process; but unlike white people, when blacks make it they believe they are no longer black….
green leef of da organizashen
the restoration
Thomas McMullen
August 9, 2018 at 7:31 pm
The line “can you see the private jets flying over you?” is actually on the song “Otis” and is said by Kanye West not Jay-Z
This Article is Bull Shite
August 9, 2018 at 7:42 pm
Thought provoking article, but unfortunately, the good Brother Doctor Watkins is off-base here.
1. If Barack had said nothing on the [gay marriage and homosexuality] issue, Jay-Z would have said nothing.
First Brother Dr. Watkins offers pure conjecture up as fact. Apparently, the good Dr. knows the mind of Jay-Z intimately. Secondly, the author mentions Beyonce’s support for Frank Ocean but fails to discuss Jay-Z’s own signal of support by his act of posting a letter on his website: http://lifeandtimes.com/thank-you-frank-ocean
2. I noticed a line in Jay-Z’s song “Niggaz in Paris,” where he says, “Can you see the private jets flying over you?
This line is actually “Can’t you see the private jets flying over you?” from the song “Otis” and it’s uttered by Kanye not Jay-Z. The author uses this misattributed quote as support for his accusation of black elitism on Jay-Z’s part but it falls flat and, in my opinion, further discredits the author.
3. Jay-Z is the same man who earned over $63 million dollars last year and only gave $6,000 to charity.
Yet another shoddily researched claim that discredits the author. Jay-Z didn’t only give $6K to charity overall, he gave only ~$6K to his own charity, The Shawn Carter Scholarship Fund. Source: http://thegrio.com/2018/02/08/jay-z-reportedly-only-gave-6k-to-charity-in-2010-after-earning-63-mil/
Who knows how much else he gave to various charities? I’ll bet the figure is not insignificant. Nevertheless, Jay-Z has actually proven to be quite philanthropic. He’s raised money to help put poor black kids through college. Source: http://www.eurweb.com/2011/10/jay-z%E2%80%99s-fundraiser-nets-1m-for-college-scholarships/
He’s also helped the UN focus on access to clean water for poor black kids in Africa. Source: http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2006-08-09-jay-z-water_x.htm
Moreover, after Katrina, Jay-Z and Sean Combs pledged $1 million to the American Red Cross to help victims and actively reached out to other black celebrities to help the cause. Source: http://www.usatoday.com/life/people/2006-08-09-jay-z-water_x.htm
Jay-Z also has given concerts where the entire proceeds go to charity. Source: http://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/08/arts/music/jay-z-performs-charity-concert-at-carnegie-hall.html
Jay-Z has also teamed up with Lebron to contribute to the Boys & Girls Club in consecutive years. Source: http://www.mtv.com/news/articles/1658570/jay-z-lebron-james-two-kings.jhtml
If you want to hear Jay-Z opinions on philanthropy, hear it from the horse’s mouth, not from the good brother Dr. Watkins’ arse: http://video.forbes.com/fvn/forbes400-10/jay-z-buffett-forbes-success-giving/ (skip to the 39 minute mark)
(BTW Warren Buffett, Oprah, and others whom the author seems to hold up as the pinnacle of philanthropic progress were very successful in business for decades before turning seriously to philanthropic efforts. The author should afford Jay-Z some time.)
In conclusion, this article, while thought-provoking, is simply shoddily researched, grossly misleading, and well below the usual standards of Dr. Watkins. Kulture Kritic should be more discerning.
wilsral
August 9, 2018 at 7:43 pm
Maybe they Honor a different god than most ppl. (underworld)
patrice gabriel
August 9, 2018 at 8:21 pm
Mr. Harry need to do his research before he opens his mouth I attend St. John’s downtown, Houston, Tx where Beyonce and her family are members. She and Kelly built a center for our youth and she has donated millions for our homeless community which included building an apartment complex, med clinic, job prepareness, GED classes, etc. Real talk
Gay White Kid
August 9, 2018 at 8:22 pm
WORD. Well put.
If Jay-Z and Beyoncé gave a shit about queer folks, they would not have just endorsed gay marriage. Being for gay marriage in this day and age is a low bar. What about the thousands of LGBT young people who are homeless? Not to mention that the VAST majority of them are of color.
What about speaking up against mass incarceration and over policing? It seems like Jay-Z’s best analysis of his past life living in an over policed, over incarcerated, criminalized community is that he must be so fucking brilliant to have made it so far despite it all. Instead of destroying the myths that keep people from mobilizing, he’s reinforcing them.
But saying all of that would mean that Jay and B would have to come out against capitalism and elitism, and that wouldn’t do them any favors, would it? Them saying that people with stable enough lives to get married should do so threatens nothing.
-MGC
**PS- Frank Ocean did not “admit” he was gay… there was never an “accusation…”
moonhead
August 9, 2018 at 8:50 pm
John C, let’s establish something early on so that it will not be any mistaking. I couldn’t care less if you think I’m white. Just because I don’t think like a ghetto ass thug, with a slave mentality like you, doesn’t make me any less black, in fact it makes me more black. You, nor I were ever slaves, and don’t know a damn thing about being one. Our ancestors were, and they would be mad as hell, if they saw how some of us have been killing, and robbing our own people, calling ourselves niggers, and not taking advantage of all the opportunities that is available to us. There are millions of black people,including myself, that have not let past, or present racism, stop them from achieving their goals. As for your claim, that during world war 2, that most white women received relief, that is simply flawed. Most white women, during that time, replaced their spouses at factories that manufactured supplies to the troops. This was also true for our black women. They did the jobs of machinist, welders, and assemblers. I personally know this to be true, because I had aunts, and cousins who worked at these jobs. Also, your accusation, that immigrants received low, or no interest loans, when they arrived in this country, may have some validity, but if we didn’t receive them too, it was partly our own fault, because we were too busy protesting not being able to eat at the same places as whitey. I have worked hard for my money, and there is nothing in this country that I want, that I couldn’t have achieved. Yes, I can compare our struggle, and time in this country, to any other immigrant group, because I’d be damned, if I would allow any of them, to achieve more than me, and I’d demand my rights as a citizen, instead of sitting on my ass complaining about them. If most blacks thought like you, there will be another 300 years before we would break this cycle of pain. So the next time, you try to disparage someone else’s thinking, or you try to quote some historical facts, have some proof. Also, Obama being black, doesn’t mean he owes you anything more than he can get pass congress, and these entertainers, nor any other black person, owe you a damn thing.
OMG
August 9, 2018 at 9:04 pm
I think it’s funny how we (black people) are quick to watch, judge and dictate what celebrities should be doing with their money. You don’t know what J or B has gone through to get to where they are today. Think about this. Like you said Blacks don’t buy the music. Exactly. So their money comes from the Whites supporting them. You see, that’s the problem. We don’t support or buy or patronize each other. We are so hateful, cheap and quick to brush off individuals when they’re in the beginning stages struggling to come up. We don’t believe in other individuals dreams if it’s not ours or if we’re not getting anything from it. So when they get on top, here comes everyone out of the woodwork with their hands out. Especially the ones who probably wouldn’t even give a dollar for a CD or download but now you want something. Guess what, “They don’t owe you nothing”. If you never supported them why want anything now. Why should they give to people who never supported them and probably never have. So now they give to who gave to them. You know the saying, “One hand washes the other”. In order to change anything you have to change yourself first.
TRUTH
August 9, 2018 at 9:11 pm
I don’t go for much of this kind of mess, but I was overwhelmed by a lot of the comments,depending on age and awareness. First, unless ur printing money in ur place then it comes from people and by that alone ur obligated to share, and whites mostly like what we like period! We are first man to this planet and maybe others too! Just like a crackhead who gets themselves together, they still did a whole lot of damage while on their mission. YOU must return to those damaged areas that YOU contributed to there demised. That form of give back would be righteous LOVE!
As to Obama at least remove the voting bill for the right for Africans to vote in this country! Whites and co-harts made this country for themselves and friends. How about let’s stop tryin so damn hard to be them and may I say lookin like a special kind of fools!! Keeping these diversions in full operation the bible/church, government and now homosexuality who cares if you wanta go in on or whatever with whoever, SO WHAT! Also that crap about don’t want people to know their giving HA! Them folks waste no time letting all know what they’ve done! WHY NOT?? That’s what they promote to African entertainers and politicians NOT TO HELP, don’t reach back, to HELL with them niggas. It should be extremely visible our contributions to better our communities. I remember a artical in Ebony when the Jackson’s became famous, a photo of Katerine in a old friends shotgun place with just a worm trail to walk, with diamond rings on every finger?? REALLY THOUGH! Biggy sings how the people called the police on him for tryin to make some money for his daughter! How many daughters did YOU sir destroy with that POISON? YA BASTARD! How many folks has 50cent killed? All that poison he sold and gun play. Yet has not returned to fix his destruction, built no schools, hospitals, parks, safe play areas, and denounce that NO LIFE lifestyle?? So lets keep it real! People don’t have to go anywhere but where they came from to put good hands on good causes. Most people are NOT saying buy us all 40’s and a cadillac. Just put somethin back my people! Bill Cosby stop talkin and build schools, Oprah build a production studio to teach us to own communications networks, Russell build factory’s, Athletes build gyms, give balls and shoes. Grow food , teach better cooking techniques and food storage! The FDA is killing US with food, how many of us have real sick folks?? KILLING US IN GREAT NUMBERS!! WE STOP LOVING ONE ANOTHER!!! Our music was about three concepts, LOVE, STRUGGLE AND DANCE!!!! MY PEOPLE WE HAVE BEEN PLAYED AND STILL ARE!!! Churches take hard earned funds, no taxes and don’t have to tell you nothing and it’s your cash! From single mothers, families facing tough times, living paycheck to paycheck. They don’t fund students through college, build skill centers or jobs, You can’t get a job at church to support a family. Tell me why over weight ass td jakes needs a jet, NIGGA PLEASE! and folks staving and walking to your church??? Selfish, male basher to get our women to pay your way, disgusting, tyler perry dressin up like his granny, to cover up his freak, degrading african father’s and mother’s with those ugly stereotypes. But all the whie folks shit ends magically wonderful, so you must be like them. WAKE THE HELL UP AND GET CONTROL OF YOURSELVES AND COMMUNITIES, SUPPORT ONE LOVE TOGETHERNESS, STOP TRYIN TO LIVE LIKE THEM AND LIVE FOR US, WE CAN BUILD OUR OWN PROJECTS. LET’S DO IT, I’M IN! PEACE!
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:17 pm
CONTRARY EVIDENCE SAD HOW WE WILL CONVICT OUR OWN DOWN W/O DOING ANY RESEARCH.
http://www.essence.com/2011/10/04/beyonce-and-jay-z-raise-1-million-for-charity/
Gabriel
August 9, 2018 at 9:23 pm
Wow. Reading this article was absolutely stunning. Such a remarkable display of unlettered critical thinking. I’ll make sure to never send my kids to Syracuse University as long as you have tenure there.
kia
August 9, 2018 at 9:26 pm
More evidence that this article has no basis…but look who’s spreading it???? a black man! SAD
http://artsbeat.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/12/08/jay-z-to-hold-benefit-concerts-at-carnegie-hall/
TRUTH
August 9, 2018 at 9:36 pm
I WELCOME ALL REAL COMMENTS! NO NEED FOR AN ARGUMENT CAUSE THERE’S NONE!
james
August 9, 2018 at 9:52 pm
Perhaps before Barry opens his self righteous mouth he should learn of the millions Beyonce and Jay-Z have actually given to charity over their careers.
How many artists are now millionaires because of Jay-Z. How much do those artists give back? Do the math. How many young fellas from the hood are now corporate execs because of Jay-Z? How many of them give to charity??? Do the math.
Instead of in-sighting unnecessary resentment he should get a clue and an internet account with a free “Google for Dummies Booklet.” Then Google… Jay-Z Charity, Jay-z Gives Back. Jay-Z clean water, Jay-Z Africa Project, Jay-Z Warren Buffet, Jay-Z President Clinton, Jay-Z Katrina,
Once that washed up idiot has finished reading up on the truth…shove the mic back in his face and tell him to Apologize to Hova.
Denise Northern
August 9, 2018 at 10:02 pm
It is unfortunate, but many of today’s young black elite have adopted the old saying of Rev. Ike (a long-time preacher from back-in-the-day) and that is…”the best thing I can do for poor people, is not to count myself among them.” With that philosophy, Rev. Ike became famous.
Yung Bleezy
August 9, 2018 at 10:09 pm
Dr. Boyce,
Maybe Jay-z doesn’t believe that you can use private property to alleviate the evils that result from the institution of private property.
What really grinds my gears is “Black Intellectuals” with PHD’s from notable universities who garner huge followings but never challenge their readers. I mean don’t you find it a little easy to spout out these little editorials on BIG NAMES like Jayz and Belafonte just to get readers? Don’t you get bored writing these sorts of articles? Ill bet you wrote this in 10 minutes…So we’re supposed to Crab at Jay-z now?
Jayz supports the Presidents Taxing the untouchable 1%. The 1% of which he is a part of. In other words Jayz supports increased taxes on himself which ideally will be used for the public good….But thats not good enough for you and Belafonte I guess #sobeit
Please write better arguments, just because Im “black” doesnt mean you have to insult me with this intellectual “WWF” stuff…We get enough of that when we see you on CNN…
If you start writing some challenging articles maybe Ill read one of your books…#heregoesnothing
Aleks
August 9, 2018 at 10:22 pm
This is a completely useless and idiotic article. Dr. Watkins, there’s a reason why socialism doesn’t work. Jay Z and Beyonce’s success is directly attributed to the fact that they delivered products to a free market which just so happened to want those products. They set a goal for themselves, went to work, and accomplished those goals. Now, all of a sudden, it’s their “responsibility” to take care of others and give to charity? Dr. Watkins…do you really think that “other rich people are doing it” is a valid argument? Seriously? Do you even have significant insight into their personal lives to the point that you can make the claims you’re making?
If a person decides to give to charity…that’s their right to do so. But to sit and condemn someone for not doing what others do on the basis that they need to “share the wealth” is just so damn ludicrous. You condemn them as being “Selfish” when you, yourself do the exact same thing. Anyone making more money than what is needed for basic necessities could be held to and judged by the same standard you purport. It’s people like you and those that claim to be the “99%” that amplify the Victim Mentality in America. If you allow your children to be “taught and influenced” by JayZ and Beyonce instead of teaching them to think critically for themselves…YOU, the $h!tty parent, are at fault. Not any single celebrity.
THEN you have the audacity to throw Jesus into your lame @$$ argument? Did you know that the Bible also says, “A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children” Proverbs 13:22? Please don’t be a hypocrite and expect people to take you or what you have to say seriously.
My final question for you is, can you post copies of your financial records to show us how much of your surplus income is going toward charitable causes?
Rex Barnett, Documentary Filmmaker
August 9, 2018 at 10:37 pm
Dr. Benjamin E. Mays, the mentor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his book Quotable Quotes of Benjamin E. Mays: “If there is any things that we have learned from history is that we have learned nothing from history.” Black celebrities who have gained the most from the civil rights legacy are the most selfish when it comes to giving back. Whites give more to Black causes that successful Blacks do. It’s disgusting and shameful. We are the most self-hated people on the planet. I agree with Harry Belafonte 100% and respect him for having the courage to say this. Most Black celebrities in Mr. Belafonte’s position are afraid to speak the truth. Bill Cosby is right: Black people think more of Black sports celebrities than Black civil rights leaders but if it was not for Black civil rights leaders there would be no Black sports celebrities. To fight this kind of ignorance that continues to stifle our progress I have created a documentary series that profiles Black achievers in education (like Dr. Mays and Dr. King). Go to http://www.myspace.com/topsinfilm to see the catalog, the largest in the nation on positive Black images. Stop the hatin’ that keeps us locked mentally and at a collective standstill.
Theory
August 9, 2018 at 11:38 pm
I read the article above and agreed with certain points…then it came to the comments below. Quite a few are from ignorant individuals who prefer to hide behind their cpu’s and spew hatred. To those individuals I say…Nothing! No reason to give you a second thought. Honestly if it wasn’t for this article and running into your negativity(comment) I wouldn’t have known nor cared you existed.
I don’t understand how or why most elder African-Americans assume that my generation(anyone born after 1980) is suppose be the savior of the Black community because they made it out of their situation. As far as poverty goes in the ghetto, if individuals stop using welfare as a crutch and actually educate themselves on a trade or occupation instead of how to scam the system, most blacks may rise above the poverty line. And to the single mothers who decided to have 5 children knowing they couldn’t take care of one on an income of 20,000, needs to learn a little accountability. In layman’s people…contrary to your belief, I, the rich African American celebrities on TV and movies are NOT our brother’s keeper. I have to worry about governing my own family and helping my actual siblings getting ahead in this world.
And to the person that considered hip hop not being music or they so ignorantly called it “noise” news flash jackass. Rap is an acronym for what it stands for, Rhythm and Poetry. And its pretty funny how that “noise” in which you eloquently called it, is a multi billion dollar business. African American culture is in our music starting with jazz, that gave life to Ella Fitzgerald’s scatting, which led to to hip hop.
Rahel
August 9, 2018 at 11:43 pm
Well Stated Dr.
But the problem is not only with Celebrities. There are many rich people that do not give back. When singers say “They Made It”….they need to help others “Make It” too. Kids die in America and Africa and all over the world. Life is not all about Louis Vouitton, Bently and Private Jets…Life is about being able to “Live and Enjoy” life…and help helping others if your are able.
PaBou
August 10, 2018 at 12:25 am
I don’t know whether Jay-Z or Beyonce contribute to charity or not. It may behoove them to seek out a publicist to publicize their good deeds, if any. I disagree with those comments attacking Jay-Z’s character. Anyone has the right to change and if he did so, that could be a road map for others in his former situation.
It is true that many of our young people don’t appreciate the sacrifices that got them where they are. But that is largely the fault of the adults in the black community. We simply stopped telling our story. The Jews are constantly reminding their young about their history. The young, being young, think they know everything and may not show an interest in learning their history. But we must tell it anyway. Consistently. We must keep telling it becuause our survival depends on it.
ryan caldwell
August 10, 2018 at 12:25 am
I dont blame any of them b/c if you give have you made the community which we are all a part of better or just a few people richer.
Sharone
August 10, 2018 at 5:36 am
and clearly, beyonce/jay z are just prime examples, and not necessarily completely singled out. the truth of the matter is this viewpoint extends to almost any man/woman in america- black/white or any other race/color- that has any amount of money- let alone the many who have quite a bit. selfishness and self absorbed/obsessed qualities are what make up our nation, and it is pathetic no matter who you are. however much or little anyone of us has, who among us, isn’t selfish and self serving? this is the fundamental problem of our society and our culture.
dee
August 10, 2018 at 6:53 am
I think that this article is timely and so are the comments people have left. It’s funny how people (especially celebs) hide the good that they do and promote the bad,basic or easy things they produce. The reason why the condition of American culture is so bad is because we don’t tell the complete truth unless we are under attack. There’s a lot of commentary on Jay-z and Beyonce which I agree with to a degree. Instead of commentary why don’t the commenters (including myself) build a network where we can reach out for funding from the individuals were talking about and make a difference in our communities by partnering with these stars? I think the truth is that we don’t take this kind of action because we are selfish and we really don’t want to start a revolution and true change. We like to reserve the right to complain and not put our complaints into organized action. I’m appreciate Mr. Belafonte’s position just like I appreciate Mr. Cosby’s. The difference is they have earned the RIGHT to complain. and the commenters haven’t. Sad thing is all the people with the passionate comments will probably never see my post. I would love to hear their response because at this point its time to stand up or lay down permanently in my opinion. Anybody that would like to address me you can reach me at [email protected]
AisforAfro
August 10, 2018 at 7:11 am
Looks like she has been busy with charities to me. Just because people aren’t out in public saying look what I’m doing doesn’t mean they aren’t helping.
We sit on our asses talking about what are these rich people doing for the community get your poor ass up and volunteer time. It don’t cost a damn thing to volunteer. If you don’t, just shut up! People have nerve, one thing I know is that black folks are selfish to each other that’s why we aren’t successful. We can’t live together without putting our names on our food. Why do you think Mexicans are becoming successful? They HELP EACH OTHER!
http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/200-jay-z
Beyonce gave $2mil to Haiti, http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/19-beyonce-knowles
http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2011/mar/03/beyonce-donated-gaddafi-money-haiti
Selena
August 10, 2018 at 7:28 am
I think they should give more to the black community. When their daughter was born they should have sold her pictures and donated the money to the black college fund. Since the pictures of her were going to get out anyway. Like Brad Pitt and Angie did donate the money from their babys picture. Be more than just a entainer or make clothes
A. S. Barlowe
August 10, 2018 at 9:19 am
Isn’t it time, Dr. Watkins, for radical African American scholar-activists such as yourself to develop a contemporary analysis of Black America’s social structure and its connection to Black political consciousness? Important changes in the life and character of the Black elite and Black working and middle classes have transpired in the post-civil rights era, changes which critiques of everyone from Jay-Z to Ken Chenault to Clarence Thomas to Barack Obama have not caught up to. What gets called “the Black community” today has common and divergent interests that the various criticisms and defenses of Black “behavior” often fail to consider.
Anonymous
August 10, 2018 at 10:02 am
Helping poor black people would hurt their image.
Karen Keith
August 10, 2018 at 10:03 am
I am with you Harry!!! and to all those people that are pointing out the things that these two have done please remember that these things were tax write off’s for them. This is the reason that they did what they did!!! there are many other things that these people can be doing to uplift the blacks in all communities. Starting with showing a positive images of blacks to finding ways to help young and old black community members achieve the dreams of their life!!! So many of our black stars think that one or two acts of kindness will pay the debt to the communities that have put them in the places that they are in. If it were not for these people in these communities they would not be who they are!! For this reason they owe more then money they owe them uplifting like they received from them!!!
Gee
August 10, 2018 at 10:08 am
I don’t look to Jay Z or Beyonce for anything other than entertainment. I don’t expect them to pave any ways for me, put my kids through college or brighten my world with their shine.
Karen Keith
August 10, 2018 at 10:17 am
@AisforAfro I hear you but do you really think that all black people live like that ? do you think that calling your people poor asses is a way of uplifting your people? The words that you speak have a profound effect on the people that read them!!! I give my time and services to all people no matter what the ethnic back round may be. Most of the money that is given to these foundations never reaches the people that need it but the time that they can give will live in ALL peoples hearts and minds until they have gone home to god!!! People can pay for your food but if most of these same people just want someone to give them a chance to and show them how they can make their own so that they have a sense of pride in themselves. That is uplifting the communities that support them. Each one Teach one and that is what we have moved away from in this world!!!
moonhead
August 10, 2018 at 10:46 am
There is one thing about this article that is very misleading, and that is that this Jayz, and Beyonce made their millions from black people. These two, biggest supporters are the white community. The white community, is the one that like to hear Jayz, use the word nigger. The white community, is the one that likes to hear him rap about killing black people, and selling drugs to them. The white community is the one that likes to hear him call black women bitches, and whores. Yes there are some ignorant ass blacks, that also buy, and listen to this garbage, but if you would go to one of his concerts, or research who buys his garbage, it would be a majority of whites, and other non black groups. The same thing applies to Beyonce. It is the white community, that likes to see her dress like a whore. It is the white community, that likes to see her dance like a tramp. It is the white community, that likes to hear her talk about being a single lady, and a whore. It is the white community, that allows their own daughters to emulate this slut, and it is them, that flock to her shows, and buys her trashy music. So in reality, Jayz, and Beyonce, are doing exactly what they were taught by their sponsors, and that is that they don’t owe the black community a damn thing.
Phillip Battle
August 10, 2018 at 11:25 am
Your right about how the White community supports and made them rich nothing new- the Slave who danced and clowned for the slave master was given the first choice of left overs,and the best of the slop.
Everything Jay-Z and his wife learned was from the hood-and the hood made them. So please let no one dummies down the seed that was planted in those negros.
Whether they owe The Black community or not they both should respect themselves as defendants of Americas Slaves-and recognize their fore fathers accomplishments-and how our history is designed of a we not a me thing- imagine the freedom fighters ( MLK- Malcom- Harriet Tubman-Turner,and all the unknown freedom fighters) feeling as though they didn’t owe those who helped them.
Boycott Christmas 2018
Phillip Battle
August 10, 2018 at 11:07 am
Jay-Z, Labron James, Oprah,and all the other Black Folk who has tasted the Honey of Capitalism are who they are- easy targets of criticism.
There’s a higher ground We can take as a Sane People who are decendents of Americas Slaves- we as the majority – ( the not super rich) need to join as one and show the world again that we are a significant People in these Northern Shores of America’s the same People who built this country for Free; ( forced by those who control the rich negros of today) – let’s do something.
I must say we play the dozens very well – talk slick and foul about one and other – show one and other up with opinions that suppose to be better than the others-now what?
In an effort to show our SOLIDARITY- LETS
Boycott Christmas 2018
Amelia Gabriel
August 10, 2018 at 12:21 pm
I have been thinking the same thing for a long time. I just posted about the fact that folks like the Beyonce and JayZ’of the worlds are not doing enough period. They have the power to create so many opportunities for the Africian American race. I stated that they could open up a black bank for example and give business opportunities where there were never any. Help to make our dreams to true. We all know that most blacks that go into a regular bank institution will turn us down in a heartbeat. However the successful blacks could really create something beautiful in the black communities. I am so tried of giving my money to the a white esstablishment it is a shame. So i pray they they will the right thing. If you have millions and millions of dollars im
sorry but there is no excuse what so ever. Help you own kind please !!
Joelle
August 10, 2018 at 12:43 pm
I concur…Be Part of the Solution, Not the Problem. Open your own business.
Entrepreneurs make up the majority of millionaires, it is high risk, but it is also the most likely way to become truly wealthy. Few people amass great wealth through other means. Less than 1% become a millionaire through “other” means such as being a rock star, winning the lottery, etc. So unless you inherit wealth your best shot is doing this. ” Open your own business ”
2. Learn about basic economics such as compound interest and investment strategies and you too can be rich as you see fit.
Gladis
August 10, 2018 at 1:23 pm
I understand what H. Belafonte is saying; the generation today cannot identify unless you have lived it; they don’t even know they are selfish; and if someone told them they would be angry.
I have heard Michael Jordan’s name mentioned before for not doing enough; speaking-up on certain issues; now, it is J and B; they don’t have the nerve to be like HB; this is a new day. They will not speak-up and they will not march on any picket line; or protest anywhere. You have to be bold and not afraid to speak on what you believe in. They have not had hard times or missed any meals; they help their famililies and others that we don’t hear about. I saw the interview when J was in Africa; buying water pumps for the people; who didn’t even have clean water to drink. I agree with some comments; not all. You have to know what you are talking about to comment on this; most of you have had it made, all of your life; you cannot identify.
Marie Rogers
August 10, 2018 at 2:29 pm
OMG Wow it about time for someone beside myself and a hand full of others been tryin to get this message across to TODAYS young people Thank You Mr. Harry Belafonte Blessing to you maybe it aint too LATE…
Paul Williams
August 9, 2021 at 5:44 am
How to make a negro Cristian is a must read.. European and Arab religions are not for African people. Made up crap from Egypt and Sudan for the European, so called Jew to rule the world with the help of the negro pimp preacher. Thank you Mr. Belafonte
dom
August 10, 2018 at 3:14 pm
It’s not about the money per se; it’s about their influence. The way i see it, they are not wielding their influence because they understand that their words will make no difference to their audience. If their audience doesn’t like what they have to say, then the same audience will not buy their product. A comment way up there mentions “risk” – that’s totally it: sucessful black people in the entertainment/sports business just don’t want to risk their image.
Here are some facts
August 10, 2018 at 3:25 pm
No one wants a hand out…most are saying they think that the ones with the money should invest in the Black Community. Its mathematical that building business and communities would make them even more money…so why not help others while helping yourselves.
I like Jay-Z and Beyonce, however, it would be nice if some business that our community could actually get hired (if qualified) would be great. Whats the saying…it takes money to make money. Why not invest in s business that would ultimately make you money while at the same time hiring others that look like you
The reason unemployment rates are high in the Black Community is because we have to fight to get jobs from the few white business that will hire us.
Here are some facts
August 10, 2018 at 3:30 pm
Although I will not attack the personal character of anyone, I will say that we all must do better. Big money is not all that it takes. If a community of like-minded individuals got together and pooled resources…a lot can be accomplished.
Money should be in motion not piling up in the bank account for the bank to make money off your money. Why can’t A business savvy individual get in touch with the those rich and famous? Why can’t a person be able to get in touch with a person that can get in touch with a person in order to throw a business proposal at the rich and famous? Miss me with all the stalker talk….a real stalker isn’t coming at you with a busniess plan and a dream!
Here are some facts
August 10, 2018 at 3:35 pm
Yes, it is their money, and they can do it with what they please. However, after spending,spending, spending…there’s only so much one can do in this world.
Let’s say every black person with a lot of money (millions) invested in the black community by offering jobs and affordable housing. Imagine what that would do!!!!!!
I understand that not ALL black people want to work, but most of us do and for the ones that do, its slim pickins out here.
Use you money to help and it will efinelty come back triple fold!
Gretchen
August 10, 2018 at 3:42 pm
What I dislike most about this article is what I dislike most about many preachers– the emphasis is on criticism, what people SHOULD be doing, why they are sinful, what’s wrong. I’m not religious, but I do appreciate the message some scriptures offer. “Let your light shine so that men and women might see your good works and glorify the Father” is, for me, about inspiration. It’s about allowing YOUR truth and light to shine with such purity that people are inspired, not shamed or embarrassed or “guilted”– into finding that place of light in themselves. Blaming and criticizing is not about light. It is not inspiring. Why not celebrate the folks who give willingly and freely– do it yourself if you are so inclined, Mr. Belefonte and Dr. Boyce– and leave everyone else to do as THEY see fit. In other words, mind your business. If giving is your business, all the better.
Here are some facts
August 10, 2018 at 3:52 pm
USE MONEY TO MAKE MONEY!
Open a bank – enough said!
Build affordable housing – in return you get mortgage payments with interest!
Create jobs by building businesses (profit and non profit) – in return you get profits and your non-profit organization will help those in need as well.
Invest in raw materials so that the building of these things will be in your best interest.
Not everyone CAN make millions here in a capitalist society…only the privileged few. The world would be a better place if money was used to uplift people instead of just uplifting self. No one wants a wealthy person to spend all the money they earn, however, building things that will create a more peaceful environment and residual income is wise.
Anthony
August 10, 2018 at 4:53 pm
http://www.pastorrudy.net/
http://www.aidmatrix.org/beyonce/
http://www.stjohnsdowntown.org/newsite/new%20youth%20center.htm
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Beyonce-Mathew-Tina-Knowles-Kelly-Rowland-The-Survivor-Foundation-Announce-New-Project-768751.htm enuff said for Beyonce
Anthony
August 10, 2018 at 5:22 pm
I can’t bear to even read the article in its entirety. It’s beyond evident these days, that the celebrity world couldn’t care any less about equality or the human species in general. As long as they’ve got money in the bank, they’re more than content to sit back on some secluded beach sipping on their overpriced alcohol. It’s a shame, the world we live in.
Truth
August 10, 2018 at 6:07 pm
Jay-Z even ripped off Occupy movement by using art and name brand on t shirts and gave NONE of the money to OCCUPYWALLSTREET …
He seems asleep at the wheel… he has the ability to do so much yet chooses to do so little… i don’t listen to his music anymore because of his greed. He even rips off occupy and homies. No hope for him.
Good luck to you Jay-Z it will soon be over and you will be no better for the change that it coming from bottom up not top down.
@o2018e
David Severy
August 10, 2018 at 7:37 pm
Easy for you to say Harry. But one finger points out and three point back. If your reading this, how about asking me for my list of charities. I give, but not like you are able to give. Want to help the peeps I wuv? You can leave contact info at my blog!
Sche'
August 10, 2018 at 9:06 pm
Although I agree with Mr Belafonte, really I do, my question is ” Are any of the Old Heads trying to educate & guide the youger one’s?” I’m just saying, I don’t know. All I hear, or read, are these negative comments, but I often wonder. Does Bill Cosby try to mentor up & coming stars before he talks shit publicly about them? Did Belafonte ever send JayZ & B an invitation to his house for dinner & a convo? Who’s trying to teach the young money/celeb crowd how to be & give back? I just wonder.
Ma Fille
August 11, 2018 at 6:08 am
-All their money come from an extremely hard work & sacrifices for years and years…
-Their images at the top is already very helpful accross the world….an inspiration to every young in the world,black and every communities… such Obama did as president in USA – they inspire success and represent the real hard work and United…without even talking – such the young Gabrielle Douglas did Historic – we can not blame them to not share their money like this or like that – they are free to contribute as they wish and ‘think good’ – we are in 2018…. people change, the generations does, in an other way they make a tribute to our community, in our days it’s way too hard to keep it up… and shining with the racism and discrimination like they do, they are the first black couple to earn that much…they have surely more work and plans, let’s be proud at least they are doing it – we should stay focus on the positive images that they share..because it’s shining down on all of us…and as I said this is inspiration…a Dream for an other generation – Like Beyonce says BeyInspired
Ken
August 11, 2018 at 7:47 am
My personal take on it is that people are a reflection of their culture and you cannot compare todays black culture to the black culture of Harry’s time. We have become more selfish and out for self community. When we came up every adult with in arms distance was a reminder that we had a responsibility to act respectfully. Sadly that does not exist today, instead we watch our young men show there draws in public and our young ladies dress like street hookers taking bathroom booty pics.
There was a time where we all felt responsible for each other, we all celebrated each others accomplishments, and we all achieved so that we could pull up the ones left behind. I dont blame Jay-Z, I blame the culture, I blame all of us me included.
moonhead
August 11, 2018 at 9:44 am
Phillip Battle, so Jayz, and Beyonce took garbage acquired from the hood, and made millions, are we suppose to be proud? The buffoonery that they are selling, should be a disgrace to our people, and we shouldn’t want any of this dirty money. Jayz, has made the destructive life of some African Americans a damn joke, and a parody to be emulated by white trash. Beyonce, has made black women look like whores, and tramps, destroyed their self esteem, and made them to want to look like white women, instead of flaunting their beautiful blackness. I don’t watch, or listen to any of their filthy, vile trash, and I don’t support them. I certainly don’t want any of their ill gotten cash.
SUPER RIGHTS
August 11, 2018 at 7:56 pm
IF WHITE PEOPLE WAS GIVEING YOU MILLIONS TO CHANGE
YOUR IMAGE LIKE BEYONCE,MICHAEL JACKSON,LADY GAGA
AND NIKKI MANAJ WOULDNT YOU.I THINK YOU ARE TO BROKE
TO SAY NO.
Donnie
August 11, 2018 at 10:01 am
I made two albums called,’The Colored Section’ and ‘The Daily News’.My question is:Where is the support for we artists who use our art to promote social consciousness? Stop waiting on these people to be socially conscious and support artists that are already doing it!Make me rich and famous!I’ll keep this world on their toes with music that matters!I actually care but I have no budget to put my art before the public.
Kenneth Snodgrass
August 11, 2018 at 10:33 am
I don’t think Harry Belafonte should be “Calls Out Jay-Z and Beyonce for Selfishness or anyone!” He should be call “On” them to do more for our community! Has he gotten so old to realize he himself was influences by a movement, by other individuals, activist before he decided to become active, and to become an activist. He himself wasn’t born that way! I don’t know everything Jay-Z and Beyonce may have done, but I do know they play an important role in helping not only to getting our youths registered to vote, and getting them out vote for the past Presidential election, that help in getting now President Barack Obama elected! Some people don’t need or want spotlights on them when they do thing for our communities.
In Struggle and Development
Kenny Snodgrass
Andre
August 11, 2018 at 11:56 am
Most artist need business persons to handle their affairs because the dont have the savy and make rookie mistakes that cost them. Because they are artistist, not business people.The two are really no different they just have better and smarter business folk behind them perhaps. Perhaps Jigga is the business mind behind the product and artist.
Entertainers like most politicians, just like anyone on the job, or anyone who report to someone else is scared or at very least apprehensive to speak their mind. Most are told what to say and when just like a politician, how to coddle the press, the audience, and the lable owners. They would not want ot fall from grace with any of these. Reminds me of a politician running for office.
People claim to be independant thinkers but are they brave enough to point out their veiw in public. Just because the New york newspaper gave a article about a concert at Carnegie Hall and the profits going to charity that is no biggie.. dont be fooled. Try a benefit at the Madison Square Garden. Then be just a little impressed. 22,000 seating capacity in MSG vs 3,000 in CH. Now I am a big Jigga don’t get it twisted but I am a bigger Huey fan.
Melissa Lambert
August 11, 2018 at 12:26 pm
I’m not one to read articles like this, but I definitely agree with the entire article. I don’t have much resources(money) at this time in my life but I volunteer in my community. Now I’m doing a fundraiser to get money to fund two mission trips one to Africa to help restore health and the another to Haiti to help rebuild a community. I’m just one individual just think what these celebrities could do with just a small portion of their money.
Melissa Lambert
August 11, 2018 at 12:30 pm
I’m not one to read articles like this, but I definitely agree with the entire article. I don’t have much resources(money) at this time in my life but I volunteer in my community. Now I’m doing a fundraiser to get money to fund two mission trips one to Africa to help restore health and the another to Haiti to help rebuild a community. I’m just one individual just think what these celebrities could do with just a small portion of their money.
A concerned Dad
August 11, 2018 at 1:27 pm
this article made me read it twice. I admit i used to follow jay z’s music from the 90s while in college and i rehearsed his lines before. although i was a fan of the hip hop genre, i wasnt a huge huge fan of jay-z but i was with some of his tracks. HOWEVER, as a former student living check to check, wondering when I would get a call for a job, living in a large city, listening to media praise people with bad intentions and smothering the efforts of those who fight for real proactive causes, this article lit a fire under my feet.
I wont speak on Beyonce only bc I never really followed her career, but I will say I am highly pissed off at JayZ for boasting that he would never use profanity ongoing since the birth of his child, only for that to not last long.he is a true music legend, who is also in a powerful position to lay a positive influence in society especially BLACK MEN ages 17-40 to do the right thing. straight up, giving a check to someone or somewhere or to a group of people is nothing less than initiating a tax shelter. when 50 Cent made those harsh comments against someone on twitter saying he looked autistic and he did not want special needs children following him, not only did it take 50 cents a long time to acknowledge his fault, but both Beyonce and JayZ were rather silent on the matter. This would have been the perfect opportunity to prove any part of this article wrong.
As a wealthy and influential person, Jayz and Beyonce has a moral obligation to stand up for what is right and prosperous for us in the community who have supported you for many years. without our support, jayz and Beyonce would be nothing more than an ordinary citizen. we Americans constantly fight for causes and get alot of backlash from opposing parties and governements. having the support and backing of major players who are active in the community make a great deal and can make the difference between a 21 year old going to school or selling drugs, a family of four living in an apartment or ending up in the street, a child being able to get medical care for a predisposed condition, or a random black man walking down the street through the park to save five minutes or the long way to duck bullets. give me the attributes of such “stars” and I can and will make heroes out of many for their families. All jayz and Beyonce have done is made hits , money and enemies.
Am I angry? yes I am. can I do alot? yes I can. will I get alot of backlash? yes I do. r they doing anything to help people like me and u? absolutely not! I caught this article totally by accident. I hope this piece gets nationwide attention. thank you Belafonte for all ur hard work and the inspiration of this article. u must stand for something or u will fall for anything!
Corky Johnson
August 11, 2018 at 3:06 pm
Wow: so many responses, I have always respected and followed Mr.Belafonte fight for justice for the freedoms of our Black folks.
Because we have forgotten the cause and the understanding of not knowing, has placed our younger folks to currently take things for granted, not knowing that they are still slaves, but the conditions have been hidden and re-designed .
Mr Belafonte is one of the LAST TRUE LEADERS, who can speak from personal experience, and we should out of respect have and open ear.
william wilson
August 11, 2018 at 3:28 pm
Please all of you who are hating on the rappers must remember that the lyrics and songs these people give to us are for entertainment purposes only and must not be taken to the heart of living life. Separate fact from fiction. I like some rap some I don’t like just like any other genre of music. Besides they are human just like you and I and suffer some of the same human frailties. There is nothing wrong with Mister Belafonte asking them to do more because it is certainly needed. He is simply asking for their help in an area of life for many that is in need. Donot be judgemental.
MrzSunKissed
August 11, 2018 at 4:36 pm
What does gay rights have to do with Black African conditions? Why does every time the conditions of Black Africans come up there has to be something said about the gay population?
Nana Yankah
August 11, 2018 at 4:49 pm
Not everyone is born to be activist/advocate….However, There are a lot of people who do good in this world and don’t publicize it…It doesn’t mean they don’t want other people to do good…it could just be that they are private…Doing good isn’t only about giving out money…but also spending time…And if Beyonce talked about how she donated a whole movie’s paycheck to Phoenix House rehab facility, or how she visited NUH Singapore cancer ward and sang to the kids or how she asked all her fans to donate canned foods for Feeding America during the I Am tour…You would still call her fake…SHE CAN’T WIN either way…Being a HUGE HUGE HUGE Beyonce fan, I could sit here and list most of her charitable events…but I won’t…so Dear Dr. Boyce Watkins …with all due respect you (and everyone supporting you without knowing all the facts) can kiss the entire BeyHive’s behind. (sorry I really tried to use language that was politically correct but… “insert no excuse here” … plus I only decided to comment bc people were asking me how I felt about this whole foolishness) You can say a lot of things about Beyonce but DON’T EVER add Selfishness…Belafonte talked about social irresponsibility…I don’t think he said anything about being Selfish…plus I’m tired of people using the name BEYONCE to get more readers…
SUPER RIGHTS
August 11, 2018 at 7:49 pm
CAN YOU SAY PUBLICITY STUNT TO FURTHER HER CAREER
Suri
August 11, 2018 at 6:17 pm
I have not nor will I ever support any of these entertainment folks. I hate that Some of these people make African-Americans looks so bad to the media. This is why we are generalized and lumped together. None of my friends or associates are this ignorant or display any type of this ignorance. The sad part is that the media loves it and they continue to act in the most ridiculous ways.
I’d like to add that Beyonce said she was lowering her ticket prices to $20 so people could afford to go to her concerts. But what she didn’t say was that in order to get that price the purchaser had to buy a $29-39 memebership to her fan club which increased the price of the tickets. Call me crazy but if you say you are trying to help someone, why add a clause to get more. Why not just sell the tickets at the normal price? I think this is part of reason alot of people are saying they are selfish and all about themselves.
Mr. Richard A. Overby
August 11, 2018 at 6:42 pm
I like Jay-Z as an entertainer, and a bussinessman, maybe Mr. Belafonte could get together with some of the people he feels could or should be doing more and educate them just as he was, I believe wealth can blind anyone exspecially when you’ve come from nothing, someone shined their light of wisdom on him, so in turn he should return that light, I don’t believe Jay and his wife are wrong, their just not paying attention. “Each One, Reach One, Teach One”. Mr. Belafonte extend your torch.
Terri
August 11, 2018 at 7:44 pm
remember the holocaust …do we hear from those whom suffered or all their relatives on a yearly basis …NOT …grow up and be responsible for you – your family and life and stop dwelling over the past – its not health
heraresomefacts
August 15, 2018 at 10:46 am
You MUST not read a lot or watch much television. All year long, the Holocaust story is told. How often do you hear about the real slavery of the Blacks?
The truth will set you free Terri—get educated!
SUPER RIGHTS
August 11, 2018 at 7:48 pm
ITS SEEMS LIKE THE MORE WHITE PEOPLE SUPPORT BLACKS
MUSIC,THE MORE THE BLACK MUSIC CELEBRITIES RESENT BLACKS IN THE POOR COMMUNITY.THE MORE WHITE FRIENDS
THEY HAVE,AND THE MORE THEY SHUNN BLACKS,THE MORE
EXCEPTANCE THAT THEY BELIEVE THAT THEY WOULD RECIEVE FROM THE WHITE BUYING COMMUNITY.THE BLACK MUSIC
CELEBRITIES NEVER CONSIDERED THAT THEIR SALES WAS BASED ON MUSIC THAT NONEBLACKS LIKED,NOT BASED ON
HOW MUCH THAT HAD TO SHOW A WILLIE LYNCH ACTION TO
GET EXCEPTED.THE SAD PART IS I BELIEVE THAT THEY ARE SO
FAR GONE INTO THEIR RACIAL COMPLEX CONDITIONING THAT
I T WOULD TAKE MASS EMBARASSMENT,AND HUMILIATION FOR
THEM TO CONSIDER THE REALITY OF THEIR ACTIONS.
SUPER RIGHTS
August 11, 2018 at 8:11 pm
IF YOU NEVER BOUGHT THEIR MUSIC OR BEEN TO ONE OF THEIR CONCERTS,I DONT THINK YOU HAVE A RIGHT TO VOICE A OPINION.WE ARE NOT ENTITLED TO OTHER BLACK PEOPLE MONEY,BUT IT WOULD BE NICE THAT IF WE HAD CONCERTS,AND
RECORDS SALES BASED ON PERCENTAGES GOING BACK INTO OUR COMMUNITIES,JUST FOOD FOR THOUGHT.
Surrealist
August 11, 2018 at 9:38 pm
99% of all test subjects accepted the program if
Given a choice. Even if they were only aware of it
On a mere unconscious level.
…..the immergence of one anomaly to the next….
…..it is not beyond a measure of control.
…..what do u see, teachers, lawyers, construction
Workers- the very minds of the people we are Trying to
Free. ….but until we do, those people are apart
Of that system and that makes them our enemy.
You see many of these people are not ready to be unplugged.
Most people are so emerged so helplessly depended upon
The system….that they will fight to protect it.
Jay / Bey
Omg…. Unplug u are caught up in the matrix!!!!
Ratibah
August 12, 2018 at 12:06 am
http://www.divineamerica.us
Shona
August 12, 2018 at 2:19 am
Interesting, I’m mixed on the article. I’m not sure if its 100% accurate in its judgement of what others’ purpose is. I agree with his thoughts just not sure if he can make it personal b/c who’s to say what another should be doing. We all (low income or high income) can do better. Just b/c your wealthy doesn’t mean your purpose is more important than another. Martin was not a wealthy man but his purpose outweighted Pres.Kennedy’s outwardly. However Kennedy’s purpose was a supportive mission. I’m just saying, but it was a noted article. I’m not a fan of Jay z at all. Beyonce has great music but I just see her as an entertainer. I think its a calling to do the things that Obama, Jada, Martin Luther King Jr, and Malcolm X have done and are doing
Saela
August 12, 2018 at 11:40 am
Exactly. We are NOT entitled to their money. Would it be “nice” if they did more? SURE. Should they set good examples and stand up for the right things? SURE. But they’re not fcking social workers. I don’t care how many private jets or suits they have…they don’t have to do what *we* think they should with THEIR money. I think it’s kinda bold to assume that every person with money or potential influence has to be some justice fighter. They pick and choose when and how to contribute to what’s important to them…that doesn’t make them cold or selfish.
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:20 pm
you miss the point i see you haven’t read any of the comments before yours. it’s not about their money! it’s about them being in a position to call out INJUSSTICE! it’s about them questioning the drug trade, the guns, racism, discrimination, homicides, genocides in our communities. It’s the fact that they have a pulpit to address the suffering of millions of black folk, and they turn a blind ear to it. they aren’t putting it on blast.
Carl C
August 12, 2018 at 11:56 am
Well I read the article and comments, I consider myself as one of the lucky ones, my son received a $10,000 scholarship from the
Shawn Carter Founation. He recently graduated from Morgan State
University.
Can Jay-Z do more of course, but we all can. Hopefully, the college students that he has helped can speak up for the more important things in life.
Jai
August 13, 2018 at 2:28 am
So as not to be over looked, congratulations to your son for graduating college!!!!
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:17 pm
Boyce has, in the span of this great article, highlighted the very things that are and have been plaguing the black community for so long~ he has specifically and adroitly tapped into the very sources of the sickness that rampage our communities. this article on it’s own could get a Pultizer, in my oppinion.
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:28 pm
In every hip hop video I see, they are flaunting, putting on, flossing, and it’s like they are saying to our young black males, ‘you are nothing unless you can get to this’. i have often heard the theme of ‘get rich or die trying’ in many rap songs. it sends the message to our youth that they are worth nothing unless they become a rapper. they began to devalue their lives when they can’t reach that false dream, they turn to drugs & go to prison. after all, their rapper gods tell them drugs and prison is a rite of passage, and that genocide is a natural way of life. 50 cent had a song with a line that ran ‘you say you a gangsta, but you never pop none’…
tawanda
August 12, 2018 at 12:38 pm
Boyce echoes the sentiments of the late great Gil Scot Heron. check out his video ‘Message to the Messengers’. it is so powerfully moving it will send chills down your spine!
Thomas Murphy
August 12, 2018 at 3:06 pm
These two people, these two recording “artists” are front people for corporations, and they toe the line just as any corporate entity would. No one should get all upset because these two don’t act in a moral or ethical way: that’s how things are done these days. I don’t like to admit it, but I’d do things just like they would (albeit without the illegal or disgustingly egomaniacal edge) if I felt I wanted endless media coverage and my picture on the cover of every magazine and web page desperate for viewers. This is the real world, and objecting to it ain’t gonna change nothin’.
Geraldine
August 12, 2018 at 4:35 pm
Let me start by saying I could not agree more with Mr. Belafonte’s views and I agree that the community needs to be represented by those with influence and means to bring change.
However I do not agree with Dr. Boyce Watkins in the least. I do not personally enjoy reading hateful words directed towards others. This entire article (rant) was full of rude and extremely biased speech. I did not believe my eyes when I saw:
“poor black people are not nearly as fashionable of a cause as gay white kids”.
You teach at a college? Since when are blacks excluded from being gay? One of my grandchildren is gay AND black. Does he not deserve to be represented too? Neither of those things define him to me. But apparently with the twisted logic in the above text he must be white and from the suburbs.
Then the other comment that was purely illogical:
“gun violence is fueled by manufacturers who are happy to build profitable corporate tools to fund black male genocide.”
Maybe these “men” need to actually man up and take care of their own. Provide a better life for their family. Work at a real job, not just walking the streets looking for people (and innocent kids) to shoot. Also if you’re going to shoot a gun PLEASE learn how to shoot. I am tired of hearing about babies being shot because these ignorant sad individuals run and spray bullets everywhere. It’s called aiming.
Also I’m in fear that one day a family member of mine is going to get shot because some idiotic gang member is going to be driving around at night and mistake them as a rival gang member and get trigger happy. Get some damn glasses or stop shooting people in the dark.
Chris Rock said it bed make bullets cost $5,000. That way the majority could not afford them and those who can won’t waste them.
Stop the black on black violence. White people aren’t responsible for the drive bys that are plaguing our area. Blacks are. Plain and simple truth.
When’s the last time a gang of whites drove south of 37th in Chicago and started shooting other whites? I’ve never heard of that happening but please correct me if I’m wrong.
I’m too old and too tired of this whole poor me attitude. When I was their age I took any job I could get and was grateful for it. I don’t think the world owes me anything.
no name commenter
August 12, 2018 at 6:24 pm
“as gay white kids from the suburbs” – Poor black gay people exist as well.
verna carmon
August 12, 2018 at 7:08 pm
And JZ hasn’t divorced his beautiful and talented Black wife like the played out white wife loving Belafonte did.Just what is his problem?
Jose R.
August 12, 2018 at 7:26 pm
As I said on the fb comment bar where I saw this article link; these guys aren’t activists and have no intentions of doing anything that would require that they fall out of favor with their industry slave masters! There was a time when they were both extremely hot artists in their respective genres but a few multi-platinum albums and at two thirds of a billion dollars in wealth combined later you know to whom and why they answer to who they do! It’s not rocket science or bio-mechanical algo-rhythmic analysis, they are modern day house negroes and that’s it.
You don’t attain the kind of wealth they do in the entertainment unless you own your masters (like the incomparable Ray Charles), which we know they don’t, unless you sell your metaphysical ass folks…please be completely assured of that fact. They cannot bite the hand that feeds them and expect to continue to see that rate of earnings continued…Not happening! You either play their game or you’re the rarest of all human beings. You are totally self reliant and self made. Who did Bob Johnson sell BET to? That should let you know how this goes…not who became the new CEO but who now owns BET Television, not to say that BET has been really dignified since like 1999-2K but who takes ownership of the black enterprise when it reaches true prominence says everything about who is making a very concerted effort to be “in charge” of everything around us at all times.
Jay and B aren’t going to risk their wealth like Muhammad Ali and a whole slew of other conscious black people/leaders who always valued dignity, community, ethics, morals and a healthy spiritual balance not just for one’s self but for all those in our respective communities. That is why when our leaders do get to that level of spiritual/intellectual strength and social leadership they’re either killed, economically assassinated or both! They never signed up for that so they will not aspire to any of the sacrifices that that place in society amongst their people will require.
Jose R.
August 12, 2018 at 7:36 pm
@ Verna – Jay Z hasn’t even been married five years has he? And despite the fact that Belafonte is married to a white woman his first wife was a black woman and Jay Z is a known adulterer. THAT IS THE WORD IN THE INDUSTRY WHICH I AM IN AND I’M ALSO FROM THE NYC. WHO YOU TRYIN’ TO CALL A SAINT THAT NIGGA?! PLEASE HE’S A NIGGA IN AN EXPENSIVE SUIT WHO SOLD POISON TO OUR BROTHERS AND SISTAS SO GET REAL!!!
Jai
August 13, 2018 at 2:24 am
I think he was using Christians as an example. We, as Christians, are taught that wealth has nothing to do with money. To be rich is to be fruitful and have an abundance of life. Charity is something we are taught from birth….sometimes. Even if you don’t believe in God or Christianity charity is not a respecter of religion. I personally think its a shame that when black folks get a lil money one of the first things they do is buy a grill, or a car or a house that they couldn’t afford. But their local schools are still using books where the last president is Clinton!!!!!! And we as a people are ok with this. We teach our kids to imitate the rich and famous and to make them heroes because they “made it out the ghetto”. When do we say enough is enough? When do we start to teach our sons that the true hero is the man that gets up and goes to work, takes care of his wife and kids and respects his parents. When do we teach our daughters that keeping their legs closed is more respectful than being a dumping ground for some boy that has money? When do we as a people stand up for ourselves and stop blaming “the man” for our downward spiral? If we don’t want anything better for ourselves as a people, why should any one else?
rosemary
August 13, 2018 at 1:10 pm
“in a world where poor black people are not nearly as fashionable of a cause as gay white kids from the suburbs. ” are there not also poor gay black kids, rich gay black kids, or just gay black kids? i really don’t think the “gay issue” is a black or white issue. there are gays of all sorts of races and nationalities. and i am not sure it is really all that “fashionable” to be gay… other than the fact that gays are usually far more fashionable when it comes to dress… you like how i just used a stereotype in my comment, don’t you?
Leah
August 13, 2018 at 3:47 pm
YES YES and YES. Well said x’s 1,000,000!
chuck Koton
August 13, 2018 at 3:51 pm
I shoore wish peepull who write/publish/post on the Internet wood yooze the spell chek fuction.
Brazil Watts
August 13, 2018 at 4:22 pm
Here we go again with the same ole negro song about “saving your fellow blacks & and it’s a sin to be young, black, wealthy and spend your money as you please”. People wake the eff up!!!!! This isn’t about being a Christian or not, this isn’t about being your brothers keeper…. This is about being able to do what the hell Jay-Z and Beyonce want to do with their money!!!! They don’t need to save the black race if they don’t want to, they don’t need to profess their desire to be socially responsible role models!!!!, if they want to buy 50 houses and a billion cars, that’s their prerogative!!! I’m so sick and tied of these old negros runnings their traps about what the young black celebrities should do with their money, and then you get these bloody religious hypocrites claiming these celebrities aren’t Christian enough. Get up off your black asses and do for yourselves and stop worrying about what others are doing!!!!
Jay-Z and Beyonce didn’t tell those so-called black brothers and sisters to commit crimes and wind up incarcerated!! Jay and Beyonce didn’t parent these young black people!!!!! They didn’t nor do they force them to buy their records!!!! Man up and stop making excuses for our poor choices and fuck ups!!!! These so called black civil rights leaders need to just shut the hell up if they have nothing good to say about these artists. These are the same “civil right and social conscious” leaders that are having bastards illegitimate children outside of their respective marriages, or the same “leaders” that fought against the “white oppressors” but wound up marrying WHITE women- (Harry Brlafonte, Jesse Jackson)… So please before you “overly sensitive bullshit moral fight the power black is beautiful” leaders attempt to criticize a young black celebrity for the way that they choose to spend their wealth in this “free” country…. Look in the mirror first and check yourselves!!!
Harry Belafonte and the writer of this article, you two should be ashamed of yourselves.
heraresomefacts
August 15, 2018 at 10:54 am
“”””These so called black civil rights leaders need to just shut the hell up if they have nothing good to say about these artists.”””
WOW! I am so glad The great activist of our past didn’t feel the way you feel or YOU would STILL be a slave.
“so-called Black civil rights leader” you say?
You must be young and ignorant of what all we have and still are going through as Black People. Wake up and realize that if you don’t know wheere you came from wyou are doomed to repeat history.
jhbueno
September 9, 2018 at 9:56 pm
Well. Do you feel better about your chatter. I am just thankful that those who took a stand didn’t share your point of view…(Nat. Cole to Belafonte) because I am sure enjoying the effects of that ole negro songs and all it brought about. No one is perfect and I wont mention religion because caring about the problems in a system does not lesson everyone’s responsibility to behave apparently and face there consequences. Utilize your influences to have a reevaluation of clear inconsistency that help some more then other.
mj0037
August 13, 2018 at 4:39 pm
Jayz and his wife are entertainers. Although they receive a lot of money and attention, they are not our leaders. Having money doesn’t mean you can solve the worlds problems (at least it didn’t in the late 60’s & 70’s in Harry’s day.
Darwin
August 13, 2018 at 5:01 pm
This article is full of spelling and grammar mistakes, which proves how the educational system has failed amongst the black community in the US!
Joseph from Berkeley
August 13, 2018 at 5:48 pm
“…take a note from Warren Buffett, Oprah and others, who’ve convinced several billionaires to give half of their wealth to charity when they die…”
What *else* are multi-multi-billionaires (like Bill Gates too) going to do with their money “when they _die_”? Eat it? They could give away 75% of their money even when they’re still *LIVING* and never miss yet another home that they’d want to buy in a super-exclusive gated community, or a gourmet meal at a super-exclusive restaurant, or a super-exclusive luxury vacation to Monaco, Malta, Switzerland or Lichtenstein, let alone a pair of $800-$1500 shoes. We have to look at *where* they are giving their money away to — and not just, to them, the ‘chump change’. And the superwealthy usually give away at *least* half their money *anyway* when they die — even *before* they die — in order to gain ‘immortality’ by having some university, hospital, museum, etc., put up a building/wing “in their honor” with their name engraved over the front doors.
As at least Warren Buffet says, we in this country need to seriously talk about, condemn and oppose a tax system that permits *SO MANY* superwealthy Americans — *SO MANY* BILLIONAIRES AND MULTI-BILLIONAIRES AND CORPORATIONS– who/that are taxed at less than *half* the tax rates (*if at all*) that normal Americans are taxed at, resulting in an economically grossly unfair society, with huge disparaties of, especially, public resources (like decent public schools and access to higher education and other community resources), and, otherwise, huge accumulations of such wealth in the first place.
Oprah herself has often been MIA, or otherwise supporting the ultimately white *establishment*, on *incisively* expressing issues affecting African Americans — including her *still* ever-*un*-critical, ever-enthusiastic support for Obama who supports white-American and Western imperialism (what has *he* done for Black people, except continue the so-called ‘war on drugs’ and the prison-industrial complex and bailing out the corporate rich but not foreclosed homeowners, etc.?) — “a political decision designed to remain in alignment with the [whatever] presidency”/power: she’s a multi-billionaire *do-gooder*.
As one person said, Oprah’s show has become esssentially “a white housewives’ show”. Had Oprah ever done a show on police brutality and police lethality in the Black and Brown community?: *NNNO*. But she did an entire show dissin’ rap music and didn’t have any *articulate*, serious defenders (rappers and hip hop journalists) of even political and social consciousness rap music on as guests (and rappers who didn’t just go for, or sell out to, the highest corporate bucks waved before their eyes to rap about and say *nothing* sociopolitically important). I don’t even recall a single woman rapper being on that particular show of hers. Had Oprah ever done a show about the L.A. gang truce?: *NNNO*. Oprah’s shows long devolved into politically “save” shows acceptable to white liberal housewives. And Oprah’s Black heros are political House Negroes like Collin Powell (who’s helped cover up every U.S. military atrocity from the My Lai massacre on), or Condoleeza Rice, or Bill Cosby (who says, among other elitist and reactionary things, that Black people shouldn’t have “Black names”, I guess except for *Oprah* or *Condoleeza*, and that Black poverty is Black people’s own lazy-ass fault).
(Bill Gates gives money that utlimately benfits *Bill Gate’s* economic/political power and interests. Even where he gives money for education primarily benefits his interests in *privitized* charter school education, instead of benefiting quality public education and public educaional opportunities for ALL! This is when he is not giving money, like the superwealthy often do, that supports the interests and perspectives of affluent or other rich, especially, white people — like the Opera, the Symphony, or the Theater, restoring some famous building or ancient ruin, or a retirement farm for old racehorses.)
I never heard of Oprah doing anything serious for African American *Katrina* victims: she could have saved the entire 9th ward in New Orleans — at the least given it a serious and healthy jump start after the flood. I’d want to know, for example, what causes of *Harry Belafonte* has Oprah given *serious* money too (and not just any ‘chump change’ by her standards to buy off or silence any criticism of her, but to instead praise her).
Lyrica
August 13, 2018 at 6:03 pm
Let the church say AMEN!
heman
August 13, 2018 at 7:19 pm
telling people what to do with their money is crazy and it’s even crazier to obligate individuals to the culture of tribal entitlement because it was fashionable generations ago. just ask yourself who benefits from all these charities, the common man or those who are part of the hegemonic system.
Joe
August 13, 2018 at 9:03 pm
First of all, Jay and Beyonce are ENTERTAINERS, they are not leaders of the Black community; they are not spiritual leaders, etc. And no one can tell people what they should do with their money! That’s ridiculous.
Although I hear what Boyce is saying about the ills of the African American community, which I am a part of that community, not all people are brave enough to put themselves on the line – whether rich or poor. I’m grateful to my parents, grandparents, and all my ancestors for what they did for me. They marched for civil rights, they lived through the era when their were “colored” and “white” signs. My parents were around when Black folks didn’t have the right to vote — and on and on. People of their generation, and Mr. Belafonte’s, were brave and strong.
But if Mr. Belafonte is going to call out Beyonce and Jay Z, then he should call out the hundreds of other rich Black folks that can be accused of the same thing.
Let me say this, we all should be involved with making our communities better, speaking out on blatant injustices, etc. What about starting with our own families, be more involved with your children’s lives, be more involved with their schools – it starts in the home. We can’t depend on Jay Z, Beyonce, or any other extremely wealthy folks to make this country better. Lets make ourselves better.
And I know there are horrible injustices going on all around the world, but I personally believe you have to get America right first before we can help anyone else. There are horrible things going on right here in the USA. Poor folks of color are under assault! Lets not depend on rich folks to take care of business, lets do it ourselves.
P Black
August 14, 2018 at 3:23 am
As Malcolm X once said and I quote ” We cannot think of being acceptable to others until we have first proven acceptable to ourselves. One can’t unite bananas with scattered leaves” we seem to forget what those before us sacrificed (their lives), it is time for us to stand up and give back, and help each other, let this not be the, it all about me generation, sometimes we need to look back to go forward.
derrick
August 14, 2018 at 7:35 am
The fact that there are Black folks on here defending jay and his wife is why we remain on the bottom of the totem pole. Only an complete and utter MORON would would disagree with what Mr Belafonte said. So I’ll explain ot in layman terms for you dumb asses. Jay sold drugs to his people in his own community. Took the blood money and started a record label and put out music glorifying materialism black on black crime degrading black women and promoting the n word. Years later at 40 he still puts out this type of music and feels no responsibility for the rammifications. His wife who acts clueless co signs on him and his brand and they make millions meanwhile young black kids use this ignorant music as a soundtrack for their lives. Got that stupid?
derrick
August 14, 2018 at 7:39 am
And to the idiots who must not have read the entire article no one asked for any money from these vampires. The article speaks about what they owe our community as far as representing our people in a positive way. Unbelievable. You can’t be that stupid.
Maurice B.
August 14, 2018 at 8:13 am
There is only one way to fix all of this, do away with white supremacy and separate from this Nation of devils in all forms.
Phillip Wilson
August 14, 2018 at 8:39 am
1. unless Jay & Bey come out and tell use everything they donate a penny the public doesn’t know what they are doing.
2. Jay-Z does share his views and voices his opinions on social and optical issues however I would guess the writer and many of the responders to the article have never listened or don’t understand what they do happen to hear.
3. Jay-Z does many charitible contributions as mentioned above.
Checkout the links below
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLCu9JR8Dxs
http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/200-jay-z
Carlito
August 14, 2018 at 12:14 pm
Wow was there anyone honest enough or bold enough to admit that they actually like Jay and/or Beyonce music? I find that hard to believe that none of you do. I guess this isn’t about if we like their music or not. Its also funny how we didn’t go after Diddy, 50 Cent, Birdman or Dr. Dre who are all making around the same amount as Jay Z. Interesting. Maybe next year we’ll go after one of them. Better yet why don’t we go after the actual record companies that are making way more than Jay/Beyonce.
PS Mr Belafonte I can’t find much info on what Bruce Springteen has done compare to what Jay has done. Were you just freestylin’ ? You could of said Micheal Jackson instead of Bruce.
Kai
August 14, 2018 at 1:50 pm
For journalisms sake, please correct your article for errors. Frank Ocean is not gay he is bisexual. There is a difference.
Brother Ali
August 14, 2018 at 1:52 pm
I’ve discussed some of these topics on my blog:
http://facetofloor.wordpress.com/2018/08/01/the-diabolical-nature-of-the-music-industry/
http://facetofloor.wordpress.com/2018/05/21/its-the-culture-not-the-color/
http://facetofloor.wordpress.com/2011/12/19/advice-to-a-poor-black-muslim-youth-part-2/
john doe
August 15, 2018 at 12:47 am
I read this article and damn near all of the comments and my interpretation of it maybe wrong but it seems a lot of ppl is missing the point. This is about way more than spending money, he want them to take a stand and use there position to take charge on sum of the issues that hurts the black community, educate them on diffrent things that is going on they may not know anything about becuase its not coming from somebody they look up to. Our young black kids no every word to a Beyonce it Jay Z song so y not use there position for something other than themselves to keep making money….anyone can have a charity and give money a lot of celebrties don’t even know where all of that money goes to they just know at the end of the year they get a tax write off…its about taking a stance on issues that is ongoing in society and community not just giving your opinion on the hkt topic of the week
Marty
August 15, 2018 at 1:52 am
I think they’re doing a lot more than a lot of the other filthy rich black folks out there.
On a side note though, I find it interesting that Beyonce is also doing Humanitarianism day campaign now. OOOooo POLiticis.
Angel Looks
August 15, 2018 at 2:04 am
look at the worshippers of their gods they worship have not a clue of really is going on to busy distracted by the coons and bafoons
these white devils have our people so lost and distracted that many will fight to keep this system because they are so disconnected with nature and their true selves all ways looking out side of yourselves for a savior which you have chosen to worship above the most high which are your so called jesus who most of you beg for your slaughter worshipping the devil as your god to which is the pope EVERY CHURCH WHETHER BAPTIST OR CATHOLIC YOU ARE UNDER VATICAN RULE WHO CLAIMS TO OWN EVERYTHING ON THE PLANET UNTIL YOUR WHITE JESUS RETURNS INCLUDING YOUR BLACKASSES TODAY YOU ALL ARE STILL SLAVES LIVING AN ILLUSION UNDER THE 14TH AMENDMENT!
what they need to tell the truth about is claiming your birth right stop calling yourselves NEGRO, BLACK, AFRO-AMERICANS WHICH ARE ALL MISNOMERS TO LEAD YOU AWAY FROM YOUR BIRTH RIGHTS AS Martin Luther King stated “IT TOOK YOU A HUNDRED YEARS TO BECOME SLAVES IN YOUR OWN LAND” the majority of our people have no clue of what status means and how to correct it or that this even exist these stars beyonce jayz are rumored to be MOORS THEMSELVES ALONG WITH YOUR PRESIDENT OBAMA AND FAMILY
I.S.L.A.M.
I SELF LAW AND MASTER
PEACE
Ellie
August 15, 2018 at 10:48 am
When Jay-Z and Beyonce had their baby and rented the entire floor of the hospital and “Normal” parents could not get to even see their own babies, should speak about how much they care about others.
Sharon Parker
August 15, 2018 at 12:23 pm
Thanks Boyce for this write-up. This is the reason why I started the “Remembering Our Ancestors Synergistic Association (R.O.A.S.A) over 5 years ago. As you may be aware, we are based in Maryland. I saw this day coming and I’m sad that we have forgot about the pain our elders went through to make life a little better for us. Please have your readers and supporters visit our ancestors link to learn who these powerful people were. We all need to learn their story and remember to follow in their footsteps…
http://www.roasalives.org/ROASA_S_Gallery.html
vaughn
August 15, 2018 at 1:08 pm
HIS x- WIFE IS WHITE ( uncle tom ass bitch )
James Basoga
August 15, 2018 at 4:42 pm
I’m as hard on these sellout superstars as anyone but in regard to them doing more for the community and furthermore, our people, let me say that it’s not going to happen.
For one, they’re ignorant as hell. Both of them. They’re both culturally illiterate so why should we expect anything great? Neither of them spent an hour in any college classroom. The closest they’ve come is when they’ve performed on a college campus.
I bring this up because in the case of someone like a Beyonce who from the time she was a young teen spent little time in school and had private tutors all throughout then onto superstar, she never had time to learn anything about struggle, Black consciousness, etc outside of what she’d get in soundbites, from a film or what someone told her.
So in that regard she’s no different than a dumb blonde with no clue about Black culture. Jay-Z was around during the Black consciousness phase of hip hop but whatever rubbed off on him then, soon ran off when he was promoted to superstar status during the “gangsta bling” era of the latter ’90s.
Here’s someone who still tries to justify why he uses “nigga” albeit unintelligently and foolishly, can’t be expected to raise the flag or awaken the consciousness within Black America.
I agree with one of the earlier posters who referred to them as vampires because that’s what they are: culture vultures in black face.
john wade
August 15, 2018 at 4:50 pm
I really think we are looking in the wrong direction . A talented man is not necessarily an educated man. I simply ask that you stop addressing talent and people in the spotlight as if they owe a responsiibility. THAT is what kills them early. AS a somewhat educated man I have a responsibily. Cause I know, I would do more if I had more. The issue is why do the people who know, not in position to do anything . Take our President for instance. In the know but fighting tooth and nail with a divided following. Seek first the answer to THAT question and you will know what direction to take.
tete
August 16, 2018 at 12:33 am
I believe Beyonce and Jay-z are both very much overrated. Let’s face it, they may be wealthy, however, they are selfish and uneducated. They have so much money, that they are not even allowing real singers such as true R&B singers get air play on the radio. They along with Russell Simmons are dominating the radio, videos, etc with exclusively rap and people are getting tired of the monopoly. Beyonce is so fake and phony that she is advertising blond hair dye color for hair that’s not even hers. The hair on her head is fully sewn-in weaved or laced front. They are bragging about giving only a measly $100,000; that is nothing compared to the millions of dollars and time stars like Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt has given out to charities and they are not as wealthy as Beyonce and Jay-Z.
taylor pam
August 16, 2018 at 8:13 am
hmmm. i don’t agree with his point of view. In my opinion, some folks love to do things if they get recognized for it, others do it because they want to and receive no recognition. Just because we don’t know about it, doesn’t mean it’s not happening. It’s interesting that he is not calling out the negative things that we actually see – like basketball wives, get a date with flava-a-flav and the black folks that commented on Gabbys hair instead of her history making moment. [done babbling] #elderfail
artison
August 16, 2018 at 12:29 pm
how is him/her giving a free concert giving to charity? all this does is promote his/her cause.
Norm Finley
August 17, 2018 at 8:26 pm
Jay-Z and Beyonce are far from being the only celebrities to use race as a tool to make money. Most do it by either embracing racial stereotypes or ignoring them. Few address the issue head-on out of fear, ignorance and selfishness.
The ongoing use of race to polarize and manipulate Americans amazes me. I’m not sure what’s worse – the manipulation or the fact that we allow it happen. Guess as long as the Nation takes “the head in the sand” approach to dealing with race…, ignorance will rule the roost. And Black Folks will continue to be victimized by Black as well as White folks. Perhaps we should take a look in the mirror as we continue to support these folks.
LAWAZIZ
August 17, 2018 at 9:07 pm
Where are my coments on this matter?
AB
August 17, 2018 at 11:45 pm
Never liked Jay-z thought Tupac called him right. I’m not kissing his butt I’ll letthe other idiots here do that. Where’s the talent? Jigga, short for the term jiggaboo… A name whites used to dennigrade blacks for the longest, now a ni$$er in Paris. What’s next a rughead around the world, A spook in the universe, A coon Around the corner, a global ape, a traveling porch monkey? This man is an insult to black people all over America. I don’ envy his money or his lifestyle, I just hate his actions toward his own people in search of the next dollar. The ultimate sellout.
Free Soul
August 18, 2018 at 2:40 pm
Rich People are all the SAME.. “RICH” Some will help and some won’t lift a finger unless it’s to save on TAXES, it’s hard to tell because people want to be anonymous.
A Rapper fighting for GAY rights, sounds like Politics 2 me.. LOl
Greed is GOOD when your RICH.
People in South Africa and around the World are still suffering, so Get Up, Stand Up for your Right for piece of the PIE.
PEACE!
Dark Chocolate
August 19, 2018 at 10:29 am
While thumbing through this vast array of posts, a question came to me: I wonder how many balloons all his hot air would float?
Wayne Hazzard
August 19, 2018 at 5:35 pm
Thank God for Harry!!! Where are the other elders? We need to hear a collective admonition. Harry is not pointing fingers to me. He’s rightfully disappointed and concerned of the zero contribution. You haven’t really given until you can feel the sacrifice. 100K is it? It was most stupid to even send that report in. Why can’t the couple just say, “Point well taken. I need to consider Harry’s point”. Where are the women elders. The Book says to speak the truth to one another IN LOVE. I do not think Harry was being mean spirited. When you ask God for love, He 1st sends it down for you to love yourself. Then and only then will we have no problem loving others to the point of releasing the funds, especially when you’re wealthy as J and B., and in that kind of position to make a substantial difference. How many houses and cars do we need? The picture can look a whole lot better. It’s the love issue, the basic-Just not there. Sad, the love is just not there.
Cariboy
August 22, 2018 at 4:22 pm
Harry Belfonte is a thief who stole his calyspo’s from Lord Melody, he never gave credir or red cent all the music he wrote or inspired Belafonte to sing! He needs to give some money back to Lord Melody!
Nathan
August 23, 2018 at 3:48 pm
I’m not saying he isn’t speaking the truth, but his smug naming of names isn’t cool. It smacks of the same generational chauvinism as Bill Cosby, who was at least classy enough not to give a hater shout-out to individuals.
macysol
August 28, 2018 at 6:35 am
I disagree, all im getting from this is that we should baby the poor, how about “the poor” step up and stop expecting everyone else to save them. How about stepping up to the plate and take care of responsibilities. If you are raised with the mind set that everything should be given to you, were does that realy leave you? People should look at beyonce and Jay Z and use that as an example of making what ever situation you are in work for you. I was in poverty, now im middle class working my way up.
Afam
August 30, 2018 at 3:06 am
I’m not American, but I am black. I don’t see why there should be so much debate about the philanthropy of Beyonce and Jay Z. Firstly, it’s their money. They worked and continue to work hard for it. Both of them came from relative poverty. By this I mean that both of them were either in the lower class, or lower middle class while growing up. We cannot dictate how they should spend the money that they earned. If you don’t like their contributions to charity then stop buying their albums.
When Beyonce came to Nigeria to perform she spent the day after at an Orphanage. She has also done the following.
Beyonce founded The Survivor Foundation ‣Founded along with the Knowles family and Kelly Rowland, the Knowles- Rowland Center for Youth, a multi-purpose community outreach facility in downtown Houston. The Survivor Foundation was created in response to the devastation cause by Hurricane Katrina for New Orleans residents who moved to Houston in wake of Katrina.
Donated 100K in 2008 to the Gulf Coast Ike Relief Fund to aid Texas victims of Hurricane Ike.
Co-wrote and recorded (with Destiny’s Child) “Stand Up For Love” which served as the anthem of 2005 World Children’s Day, an event to raise awareness and funds for children’s causes around the world.
Conducted food drives in Houston, Atlanta, DC, Chicago and Los Angeles as part of The Beyoncé Experience Tour in her efforts to end hunger. It was a partnership with Feeding America. Inducted into the International Pediatric Hall of Fame by Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation for her betterment of children at their honorary ceremony on October 4, 2008.
Partnered with Show Your Helping HandTM, the nations leading hunger-relief charity to deliver more than 3.5 million meals to local food banks. Tents were set up in every city throughout her North American I AM…Tour in 2009.
Committed to supporting the girls of GEMS (Girls Education and Mentoring Services), Beyoncé dedicates her time to interacting with the girls and using her voice to bring awareness to sex trafficking that victimize between 100,000 and 300,000 American children and teens each year.
Graciously gives her time to help the Make-A-Wish Foundation in its mission to bring joy into the lives of wish kids and their families.
Devastated by the Haiti earthquake, Beyoncé performed alongside some of the biggest artists at MTV’s Hope For Haiti Now! Benefit in addition to making a generous monetary donation.
Donated salary from Cadillac Records to the Phoenix House, the largest non-profit alcohol and drug abuse treatment and prevention facility in the nation to open a cosmetology center that offers a seven month training program for adult men and women to prepare for successful careers in the field. The cosmetology center formally named ‘The Beyoncé Cosmetology Center’ was named after Beyoncé in honor of her humanitarian effort. Beyoncé will donate $100K annually to fund the center.
Read more: http://globalgrind.com/entertainment/beyonce-charitable-list-endeavors-belafontes-comment#ixzz250hzglFU
Before you write a damning piece please make sure that the damned are indeed damned because now, you strike me as ignorant.
Ms Worthy
September 4, 2018 at 8:18 pm
okay everyone is crying because high paid black celebrities aren’t putting in foot work… lets talk about everyday black people whats their excuse, why is it okay to pick out the few black celebrities that are actually doing something positive. it doesn’t matter how much money they give because they don’t have to give anything. in reality no one really knows how much they give all this research you people have found on the internet is not facts. Michael Jackson said it best start with the man in the mirror, go put in work (footwork) go be the spokesperson you want jay and beyonce to be for black people. stop sitting around waiting for people to do what you want done. its not their job to fight and speak for us as black people. be happy that we as black people have come a long way and join in to make us as a race better…it starts with you stop trying to make a few rich black celebrities carry all black people. of course they could do more but what are you doing?
@ahbseenkwestion
September 10, 2018 at 2:12 am
400+ comments later and how exactly has this article helped poor people? What has this actually done besides give people w/ negative opinions about pop stars a chance to shine like pseudo-pop stars in the comment section? We do know that the black community isn’t responsible for the record sales that raise Jay-Z and Bey’s relative worth? We do know that relying on celebrities (Belafonte included) more so than strong families for progress is straight up lunacy right? We do know this right? They make songs. We go to work for, pay taxes to and vote for the people who we give our power but blame people who should have little to no influence over our lives for not making them better? This is pimping if we can manage to draw this type of attention and walk away, once again, without a solution. A solution that doesn’t involve pop stars or blogs . A solution that involves us working together instead of tearing each other apart in public. A solution that involves us being contracted to us instead of to others. We are not these authors or these entertainers responsibilities. We are our own.
Geeves
September 14, 2018 at 1:31 am
I was a close relative of Shawn. He is a bright guy but very egotistical and love TaTa more that Beyonce. He was a selfish motherfucker that would by liquior and food but would give his own family member a hand up. Even today there are the Williams and the Carters. This mofo wouldn’t even show up for his grandmother Ms. Hattie’s sisters Aunt Re and Aunt Mae’s furneral services. We had many a meal at their house. Nobody is on his 9ick that bad that he couldn’t pay his respects! We can worry about people like them, they live in their own reality. They induced everyone to made them an idol for the hood when in reALITY they are hero’s for the white folks who they hurriedly spend their money back in the whitemans getto! F Jay Z, Beyo, And that Broke jaw mofo too. I rather work with gospel now anyway.
Michelle Denise
September 21, 2018 at 1:54 pm
What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him? If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, “Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,” but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit? Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead ~James 2:14-26
Taunya
September 21, 2018 at 9:48 pm
Hey hey guys It’s not about liking rap music or not, But it’s always about God and His Word. What are ones morals, principles of right and wrong is what they now but don’t feel it applies to us (the poor, the disadvanaged, the weak of us). And the only answer to it all is to NOT SUPPORT THOSE THAT DON’T SUPPORT US. When these celecs drop an record keep your hard to earn money in your pocket or jar or savings account. Give it to someone who may be in more of a need than you. And remember The Lord loves a cheerful giver. WAKE UP PEOPLE, WAKE UP!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Taunya
September 21, 2018 at 9:56 pm
I respect Mr. Belafonte for all the work and at times very dangerous risks he has taken through out his life and career to be a voice for the less of us. Truly he is blessed.
Taunya
September 21, 2018 at 9:56 pm
I respect Mr. Belafonte for all the work and at times very dangerous risks he has taken through out his life and career to be a voice for the less of us. Truly he is blessed.
Taunya
September 21, 2018 at 9:56 pm
I respect Mr. Belafonte for all the work and at times very dangerous risks he has taken through out his life and career to be a voice for the less of us. Truly he is blessed.
Wilyum
November 13, 2018 at 9:25 pm
People need to become more self reliant instead of depending on other people for support. No matter how Jay Z or beyonce made there money, it’s theirs to do whatever they want to with it however they see fit. These individuals work hard and they are what you buy, so you have to ask yourself; if you stop buying their product (poor folk) and put your money where it can profit you then you can in turn help the same people that you say these two individuals are not helping. Someone once said that we must become the change that we hope to see in the world, so why do the people who really want this change do what they are asking of Jay Z and beyonce quietly (without any self-gratification) simply out of love and not to be noticed for their good deed before man. We all have an influence on someone in our lives, so use that to it’s maximum affect. I am not well off, but I do donate and give of my time. I don’t seek for others to do what I can do myself or give me what I think or know I should have. Everything is a choice. Even being poor. ie spiritually, mentally, physically or financially. If Jay Z and beyonce were middle class common folk would any of this conversation even exist. God bless brothers and sister.
tony king tk
December 5, 2018 at 9:02 am
firstly ‘cant you see the private jets flying over you is not in the track “niggaz in paris” but ” otis”
secondly charity is real only when you give what comes from deep in your heart, who says it has to be an enormous amount.
Joan
February 5, 2019 at 10:24 am
I agree with Harry Belafonte and most of the article. I do however, take exception to the term “black aristocracy” when referring to Jay-Z and Beyonce” – they are not.
J
February 17, 2019 at 12:53 pm
This is NOT about Jay-Z & his wife saving the BLACK community , it’s about going back and investing in the community and providing jobs . Other cultures do it. We have a responsibility to our community -time out for selling poison (drugs) and killing each other over property and concrete WE don’t own. Change is coming.
jay
February 23, 2019 at 10:48 am
Harry for President!! Hell ..no to Hilliary !!
jay
February 23, 2019 at 10:58 am
Harry keep droppin those bombs !!
Gina
October 8, 2019 at 4:20 am
Well he doesnt hesitate to broadcast everything else he has done or his possessions, fact is he is way too old to still be bragging about things, he is definitely wt the age of activism , Dr. BOYCE WATKINS ….I tip my hat to this article.
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They will stay hot for hours afterward and you have to keep the kids away from getting burned.
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September 16, 2020 at 7:24 pm
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Hmmmm
April 20, 2021 at 2:31 pm
I understand what Harry is saying. I am a fan of both Beyonce and Jay but I do wish they would use their positions to bring awareness about all the mishaps that the black community faces. Jay Z says he does it through his music, in terms of talking about the life of a young black in the ghetto, but that is not enough. Especially these days, there needs to be so much more done. However, the black community needs to understand that Bey and Jay have majority white fans as well as black fans and other culture fans that pay their bills. Also I believe that Jay Z and Beyonce are working hard to make it to that spot where Oprah and Warren Buffet and Bill Gates are so they can TRULY make a difference. Hence the stinginess with the money. Oprah doesn’t have anyone she has to answer too, neither does Warren and Bill, so they’re allowed to speak out on what ever issues they want, with no consequences. Bey and Jay do have people they have to answer to, so its hard for them to just publically take a stand on a gray issue
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