Harry Belafonte Criticizes Beyoncé, Jay-Z For Not Giving Back
Lots of talk on this one, particularly since the accusation comes from such a legendary figure. The interesting thing about the comments is that most people don't seem to know the difference between simply donating money and actually social activism. The two are very, very different things. This divide seems to indicate further that there are some people who are very much awake and some still sleeping. What those who are awake are asking is that those with a large soapbox become more vocal about disparity in all its forms. C. Wright Mills wrote in the "The Power Elite" More or less continuously, over a period of time, they are the material for the media of communication and entertainment. And, when that time ends - as it must - and the celebrity still lives - as he may - from time to time it may be asked 'Remember him?' That is what celebrity means." As we move further into this time of great change, will more and more people begin to shun celebs who simply write check and keep going? We'll explore this further in the SmartPower podcast posting this afternoon ET at bit.ly/vLoibJ
Singer, actor and social activist Harry Belafonte called out the first family of entertainment, Beyoncé and Jay-Z, for what Belafonte believes to be a turning of the couple's backs on social responsibility. Belafonte says the two stars have been apathetic when they actually have the power to inspire change. Lots o' debate on this way. Here we go....
What Others Are Saying...
… Back in the day black celebrities helped the Black community. ... I recall when MJ died and how it came out all of the things he and his family did for the black community. They didn't publicize it, but it happened. …
Most celebrities have their own causes that they may donate to, not everything they do is in the public's eye. … I think it's pointless if people EXPECT them to give back. Isn't "charity" doing it out of the goodness of your own heart? Not because you are in the public eye …
I see his point. God places THAT amount of wealth in your hands to bless people...so you buy an island for your boo--ok, cool BUT your name should or could be synonymous with giving back to the people that created the wealth for you. Has Beyonce ever done a free concert? Will Jay give away season tickets to some kids in Bed-Stuy? Just ideas and questions but they are certainly NOT humanitarians. And this is from a real fan of their commitment to each other.