Why We Hesitated About Writing on “I’m Not Racist”

All of our social media feeds are full of commentary and clips of the music video for “I’m Not Racist” by rapper Joyner Lucas. Although most of the feedback we are reading is positive, we hesitated about writing about it because we did not completely find ourselves applauding after watching the video for the third and fourth time.

Here is why.

Do we really need to give a platform for all the negative stereotypes that white people or other races have about black people? These tired stereotypes are not valid enough to be categorized as the other side of the story. Although there are issues that we need to take responsibility for as a community, nothing that was said justifies being given an equal level and being looked at as if there are good points on both sides of the argument.

It is being treated as if it’s a husband and wife sitting down and venting to each other about all the issues they have with one another. But this scenario is more like an abusive husband who has been abusing his wife for decades getting to sit down and yell at his wife on equal level as if she has had equal responsibility for why the relationship between them has deteriorated.

The white side’s arguments is largely based on stereotypes. The black side of the argument is based on explaining that we are the way we are because of all the problems we have faced due to systematic racism and stereotypes. These two arguments are not on the same level. If both sides were spouting stereotypes, then ok, it’s a leveled conversation. That is why giving them an equal platform and looking at it as  if there are good points on both sides is wrong.

Is it just us or is the black side of the argument weak? Yes, an unfair criminal justice system, BLM movement, and unemployment due to stereotypes were mentioned, but they were overshadowed by these lines:

You don’t know about no fried chicken and no barbeque
You don’t know about the two-step or no loose change
You don’t know about no 2 Chainz or no Kool-Aid, you don’t know!

These lines were catchy, but not supportive to arguing why we are marching on the streets or kneeling down for equal rights. A more comprehensive argument that represents the black side is lacking. The good points were brushed upon but not explained well.

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But the music video did exactly what it is supposed to do as an art form: it started a conversation. We, of course, applaud the effort to have an honest look at the current state of race relations in our country and love the idea of coming together to resolve our issues.

What did you think of the video? Let us know in the comments below.

If you haven’t watched the video yet, here it is.