Hip-Hop Island

Transformers 2: Revenge Of The Fallen just hit theaters and not only are off-the-street critics emoting mixed feelings on the film, but the issue of racism has also lead discussion about the movie. There are two AutoBots, twins Skids and Mudflap (hello, really?), in the movie depicting African-Americans who dawn gold teeth and jive talk. These Chevy rides can't read (are they supposed to?), constantly fight and their street slang is used to disguise their jabs as humor.



As shocking as these characters are, it's not the first time in recent history we've seen racist stereotypes of African-Americans in the media. Complaints weren't this vocal when Nike's Lebron, Kobe, and Lil Dez puppets were chillen around the house, playing video games, eating fried chicken with a side of grape soda during the NBA Playoffs. Americans ate it up and enjoyed every installment of the commercial series.



When Disney depicts animated roaches as dirty Mexicans or jive talking and cake walking monkeys, it's accepted as a humorous characterization of animals displaying human like tendencies. But when the line between race and stereotypes is crossed, Americans' reactions have never been consistent. If it means being trendy and popular, you can guarantee America will be all up in arms over it (read: Iran Election), but when racism occurs and slides under the radar, even those who notice don't have balls to question unless urged. C'mon, America, stand up and be vocal -- ACROSS THE BOARD!