Richard O. Jones

Research has shown that 85 - 95% of the young African American men incarcerated (between 18 - 30 years old) have similar role models (gangsta rap & hip-hop, movies, and/or sports celebrities) whereas only 5 - 10% African American men of similar age in a graduate program at a university share the same choices of role models as those incarcerated. Copying negative role models is a huge problem in the Black community. Many Black male graduate students admire renown Black scientists, engineers, and businessmen such as Earl Gilbert Graves, Sr., of "Black Enterprise Magazine," and CEOs of major corporations such as Dick Parsons, of AOL, Stanley O'Neal, of Merrill Lynch, or Kenneth Chenault, of American Express; while, ironically most incarcerated young Black males would consider them sellouts. The way many young Black males dress indicates who inspires them most.

What would be the impact if everyone tired of Black-on-Black crime waited for the TV airing of American Gangster? I'd rather see the movie studio lose money than see more Black parents lose children. Though we're only 12% of the population in America, prison is almost 47% Black, which is a lot of role model potential, if this movie is a blockbuster. Gangster movies and gangster rap images are irresistible temptation to young Black males looking for a hero. It's no wonder that in all negative statistics, such as prison population and school dropout rates, Blacks are the leaders. Wealth and fame seldom brings class or changes a selfish heart and corrupt mind.

An email crusade can slow, stop, or perhaps reverse our downward spiral towards becoming a permanent underclass. We must hold role models accountable because their actions often affect social standards. Celebrities are given the power of influence and should be required to act responsibly and should not glorify thug life and/or set poor examples. The Bible says in Luke 12:48 (KJV) For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required...

All socially conscious people concerned about the negative stronghold certain celebrities have on society should stop contributing to their wealth. After a celebrity is arrested and found guilty of any felony crime or act in a vile manner publicly, they should no longer be allowed to influence our young Black men. What do you think of role models promoting the N word?

For instance, Rapper Nas has a new album about to be released with the N word in its title. Nas and the company that produced the album should be boycotted. If we did this, other rappers would not be so apathetic. Nas is confident that mature people will do nothing but grumble, while shortsighted young people will hip-hop all the way to the music store. Nas realizes that there are thousands of parents, community activists, educators, clergy, and morally sound Black adults trying to discourage the use of the N word. Nas might be ignorant to the power of his own negative influence; therefore, we must send him a wake-up call. We must not allow negative role models to decrease the potential of success to gullible minds and future generations.

If just the families that loss a loved one to Black-on Black crime, have a loved one hooked on drugs, dropped out of school, or serving prison time speak out against every negative role model influence, statistics on every level would slowly begin to turn in our favor. Let's silently protest by keeping your dollars in your pocket. Email others for additional support.

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