I believe that Nguzo Saba did and
still does matter in the success story of African Americans. Without these
principles, African Americans would not have had as much success as they
have. They would eventually have
accomplished as much as they have but I believe not as fast.
Evidence of the use of Nguzo Saba
principles can still be found in programs today. Within the Harvey & Hill
article it talks about different Nguzo Saba principles that is used. For
example the “MAAT Adolescent and Family Rites of Passage Program” uses “Unity”
and “Self-Determination” within the program. This allows the adolescents show
what they have learned to the community.
In Tyler Perry’s films you can find
the principle of “Self-Determination” within his different characters. This
principle talks about owning ones uniqueness. Because of this it allows Tyler
Perry to show his wide range of acting within his films. But because of him
portraying a certain type of African American is a downfall. In some of his
characters he portrays them in what is not the best light for the African
American community. I believe his creativity is not the same “Creativity” in
the Nguzo Saba principles. This principles state that individuals should leave
the community better then how they found it. But because of the way some of
Tyler Perry’s characters are he is not fully leaving the African American
community better then the way it was. In some ways he is hurting the community.
This is because many Americans may believe the way he portrays his characters
is exactly how the whole black community is.
Although, you make many valid points Alisa, I have to disagree that Tyler Perry's films do not serve overall as a positive role model for the community for his films. I think with such positive themes showing blacks having positions of power and in the end always going back to a key theme, shows more positive for the black community than negative.
ReplyDeleteI have to disagree as well, I think Tyler Perry’s movies paint a positive and progressive picture of middle class African Americans and that the seven principals can be seen in his movies. His movies also create a stage for African American's to play out the importance and struggle of honoring the seven principals.
ReplyDeleteI agree with your point of you towards Perry's article. I mean self-determination influences the decisions that help us be unique and show our true interests as an individual. Probably is giving a deeper message towards the African American communities that not everyone is able to fully understand.
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