Dawg Killa vs. Black Man Killa (aka BMK)

Today Ms. Jemele Hill decided to write a letter to me and all the other black men in the universe because we so need her encouragement. Ms. Hill suggested that if we don’t straighten up, as Michael Vick failed to do, we might all land in prison tomorrow (if we’re not already there). So it is only appropriate that I write back. Of course, this response most likely won’t be posted on a national media website.

Dear Ms. Hill,

I commend you on your rise to ESPN columnist and your expertise on race and sports culture. However, I am beginning to suspect that the real reason you’ve attained your position is due to your negative opinions about black men. It’s very easy for a media outlet to give someone a position of influence to speak about African Americans in a negative light.
Maybe the fact that you speak so negatively about African American men says just as much about you and who you associate with.

Ms. Hill, you wrote in your article about the numerous black men (I guess that includes me) who are falling behind in society. I guess all my friends, as well as my 2 homes and white picket fence lifestyle, weren’t included in the Harvard study you referenced.

I can name 10 black men, with whom I have been close since my teenage years, who contribute to their families and society, are financially secure, physically fit and mentally stable. I can quote statistical data that supports increasing income levels and home ownership for blacks in general.
You see, I don’t share your view of black men because my association seems to be well beyond yours and your counterparts.

To me, Michael Vick is an awesome athlete who committed a federal crime and gave people who already had a hammer a shotgun. The Vick case is not limited to biased media outlets, black men, racism, stereotypes, and indulgent behavior in both American culture and athletics, but it encompasses all of these elements. Mr. Vick will serve his time and overcome the mounting negativity surrounding this case.

Your column and interview on ESPN perpetuates a negative stereotype that is already in place.

The very fact that ESPN refuses to have a columnist who opposes your narrow view is at the very core of the irresponsibility of your column and their responsibility as a news outlet.

I have several friends, all black and under the age of 36, who have played professional or collegiate sports and have created something from nothing. I have known each of these men for over 10 years.

Kevin B – Motivational Speaker (speaks directly to AA youth)Erin V – College Dean of Education – Masters DegreeAubrey T – Owner of 5 group homesRich L – Social Worker – Masters

DegreeHope M – Senior Manager at Intel Corporation

But I suppose I know the only good black men in America.

You spoke of black men not wanting to leave the street culture alone after making it. Quite possibly your view is so negative because you yourself have not left street culture. Perhaps your failure to screen your personal relationships affects your views of black men.

Our thought lives affect what we say. And I am a firm believer that what we say – especially when negative – comes to life.

When I see young black men, I see over comers. I see young men with perseverance and talent, who are resourceful, strong and looking for someone like myself to speak life and inspiration.

But this is why you (and anyone else who shares your opinion) should stay as far away from young impressionable black men as possible. Your view is tainted and the rhetoric you espouse will only damage a young black man’s self esteem.

This is what Larry Johnson was saying when he said he would rather play for a black coach. Not because the white coach lacked talent or X and O ability. But the difference was what Herm Edwards would see versus someone without any understanding of black men.

Ms. Hill, I respect that you worked hard to earn your position of influence. But I am disappointed that you lack the wisdom, grace and understanding to really take advantage of it.
At the very least, there should always be an equally intelligent, articulate columnist with a counterpoint for controversial subjects. That is what I call keeping it real.

The only thing is, I can’t figure out who is worse - a dog killa or a black man killa who consistently gets off the hook.