Black Exploitation Television

Pride and excitement is the what I felt watching Black Entertainment Television (BET) for the first time.

That was roughly 15 years ago, and that pride and excitement has morphed into shame and boredom.

I was in 7th grade and it was empowering to know that I could turn on the television and see brown people anytime of the day or night (except during the late night infomercials).

Back then Donnie Simpson hosted Video Soul and "The Mayor" Chris Thomas was the VJ for Rap City. I was so glad that my people were visible on my station that I didn't care that the majority of the programing was dedicated to music videos.

Instead of broadcasting informative, motivational and entertaining programs, BET uses its airtime to promote sexual stereotypes of black women and cartoonish irresponsible black men.

Skin and bling are in heavy rotation. While inspiration and ethics are designated to a couple of early morning gospel shows. What if your not a Christian?

If BET is going to claim the title of black entertainment television, than it needs to cease with the exploitation and start depicting diversity within the culture it claims to represent.

Most black Americans aren't rump shaking divas or iced out grill wearing brothas. As shocking as it may sound to some we aren't all Christians either.

It seems that 24 hours is plenty of time to reflect various aspects of black life.

Get with the program.