Public television has been on the forefront for years when it comes to gripping educational programming that covers varying degrees of viewpoints. With their Independent Lens series, PBS is offering up and coming directors and filmmakers the opportunity to display works that touch on many socioeconomic and political issues. Included in the series, is Yoruba Richen's documentary titled, The New Black, a film that explores the division in the Black community concerning gay rights especially within the Christian community.
A portion of the films discusses the gospel/urban musician Tonex, also known as B. Slade. In a poignant clip, the anointed singer discusses his coming out on television and the backlashed he experienced after doing so. The film touches on an issue that has long divided everyone, not just blacks, but it forces a community of people that have long been disenfranchised to do some self reflection.
It seems that somehow black folks have been labeled as the most homophobic race in the world, a label that I feel is unjustified. People of all races do not agree with homosexuality and it seems that only through attitude changes will the division become less and less. While I do believe that conversations need to be had on marriage equality, why are black people singled out as the only ones who hold such attitudes? With all of the issues that need addressing within the black community, gay marriage is not at the top of the list.
PBS will be airing The New Black on June 15, 2014. For more information about this film and other Independent Lens films you can visit http://www.pbs.org/independentlens/new-black/film.html
