This Image

     I believe that the image below is an image of the growth of African American society that has been overseen by the media. What is publicized by the media, (the news, television shows, radio, etc) is a reputation that the main stream wants their audience to believe as something that is real. For example, shows like "Love and Hip Hop"is something we all watch for entertainment, we take effort to keep up with the show every week, but we tend to miss out on each other and whats happening around us in our communities, which isn't fair. How often do we see a group of college graduates from the African American community being publicized on the news, or shown as an achievement on the MTV or Vh1 network? Why is it that the media wont publicize the positive growth of the African American community? Because its not like these things arent happening. The graduation rate in the last six to ten years has increased, and the unemployment rate has dropped a few.

      This image is meaningful to me because it symbolizes a change that was once underestimated and seen as impossible for us, but now is very possible. At one point in time we were seen as nothing more than slaves and workers. We were seen as illiterate, stupid, unable, and more. We were not taught how to read, write, and how to use proper grammar because we didnt even have the right to an education which is why this photo is so beautiful. Three brothers and sisters graduating from college, taking one more step into becoming better people, and another positive change in our community. 

      I understand that going to school is not for every one, but doing something with your life to get further and ahead is always better than doing nothing. As a community if we recognized change, beauty, and power within ourselves as individuals, we will be able to see those things in each other and if we are able to then others will be able to.