The Importance of Platforms

By Kimberly Seals

Although the 2020 presidential election is finally over, I, for one, have not forgotten the laundry list of musical artists and entertainers of color who proudly proclaimed their support for Donald Trump. Regardless of claims that these artists were likely paid for these endorsements (cite), the fact of the matter is, artists can have a significant impact on their audience. And, unfortunately, many artists are willing to sell out for a lot less than one might think.

We are not a monolith

Celebrities are not and should not be the voice of the Black community, or any community for that matter (2016–2020 is proof of that). Although there is no single person who speaks for the entire Black community, there is an abundance of Black activists, academics, and politicians who are actively working towards reforming our country in a way that benefits everyone, not just the rich. Why then are Black entertainers the most sought out to publicly weigh in on important conversations?

What needs to change

The media cast Black American’s struggle for justice and fair treatment as an extension of entertainment that is not to be taken seriously. We can no longer allow ourselves to be portrayed in this way. So yes, cancel whoever you feel the need to cancel, but don’t forget to acknowledge the root of the problem as well. Why are those in high positions of power seeking the opinions of entertainers rather than educators? So the next time a washed rapper is called into the spotlight for their political opinions, rather than legitimizing them with think pieces and debates, let’s ask ourselves, and our politicians, why they were called to speak in the first place. And elevate the platforms of those who are actively working towards a better future.