Images of violence and coercion come to mind as the critic below contemplates the emergence of cultural diversity at the local cineplex. Are these images related to the critic’s “total uninterest” in the problem? Perhaps possibilities for creative solutions emerge only after situations are taken more seriously, in good faith.
The national scope of the problem raised by Cape Cod movie audiences is exemplified in a June 23 position paper on the Quality of Life for African Americans at the City of Austin (TX) website.
On page four of the report, one finds the following recommendation for Arts, Culture, and Entertainment: “Ensure that African American artists, musicians, film makers, and others are included in events that the City co-sponsors, funds, owns the facility, or supports (e.g., SXSW, Austin City Limits Festival, Austin Museum of Art, local venues, etc.), and that events are publicized in the African American press and on community organizations websites.”
How does one breathe in America without inhaling African American culture? That the critic below not only fails to take some interest, but refuses to consider taking interest under such circumstances is a reminder that “effects” of racism do not thrive altogether without “intents”–gm
Regular reader of Counterpunch here. You seem to have a problem with the theater owner who refuses to show “black” movies.
What do you propose as an alternative? If he shows films which the majority of his patrons refuse to watch, he will lose money. Are you suggesting he be forced to run at a loss simply because a few prospective moviegoers think he should? I don’t think that would be fair to either him or his other ustomers.
Are you suggesting that the government be forced to bludgeon him into doing so? You can’t force people to go see films, either. Many people, not just whites (I, for example, am considered Hispanic), are totally uninterested in African-American culture. Do you think people need to have it rammed down their throats?
Texas Civil Rights Review 
Leave a comment