Michael Jackson's Blackness routinely elicits speculation,
pride, debate, apprehension and anger. Most things about Jackson prompt a
visceral reaction - his music, looks, creativity, dance, wardrobe, spirit, and
his 'way of being' himself in this world. He remains forever that unique
extravagance that can neither be ignored nor fully grasped.
Michael glittered between the atoms of creation, moving
deftly outside accepted structure, and singing life in a new key. That he was
born poor and Black in 1958 America set the obstacle course that Michael
Jackson determined to maneuver, leap over, spin around and land dead center on
his toes. Yet, that same harsh terrain he conquered as warrior also formed a
kind, generous, soft-spoken prince.
Such might be the stuff of fairy stories except that this
singular, Black warrior prince - having subdued the dragon and brought the
world new happiness -- did not live happily ever after.
Instead, he was hated, hunted, betrayed, plotted against,
lied about, picked apart and repeatedly wounded - by individuals and by
mainstream media. Why?
For his unmatched talent and pursuit of excellence?
For the treasure he earned, and liberally shared with
others?
For tilling the soil future artists now grow in?
For unbridled pride in and respect for his own Black
heritage?
For his long memory and frequent 'All Hail' to artists of
color whose souls, hopes, and hurts lived in his body?
For the unconditional love and respect he gave to and
received from admirers worldwide?
Yes to all.
Michael Jackson's music - portal to the man and his message
- often eludes professional critics or is deliberately ignored by a deaf, dumb
and blind media focused on chasing scandal and quick profits.
His films are NOT timid, sugar-coated whispers, but loud,
raw, angry screams against the injustice, suppression and prejudice that chain
the bodies, minds and souls of both prisoners and those who imprison -- if they
but knew it.
“Michael Jackson created music that lightened our heavy
hearts, enlightened our minds, and strengthened our spirits to heal an
endangered world. Yet, the more he achieved, the more determined were forces to
erase him and substitute an invented Wacko Jacko alter ego for public
consumption. To the extent they succeeded, Michael Jackson suffered bitterly –
but never gave up.
Jackson knew that physical death is not the last word.
Though the creator dies, the creation lives on, fulfilling its purpose, moving
forward forever.
The last laugh will rest with the good warrior-prince.
Days after Jackson’s death, Tavis Smiley, PBS talk show
host, discussed aspects of Michael Jackson’s spirituality with Dr. Cornel West,
Princeton University, and Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, Georgetown University.
.bmp)
.bmp)