Essay 207

Seemingly downplayed MultiCultClassics Minutes…

• Seemingly downplayed amid the celebration of a long-awaited World Series title: the Chicago White Sox were led by a general manager who happens to be Black and a manager who happens to be Venezuelan — plus, a Jewish owner. Congratulations to Ken Williams, Ozzie Guillen, Jerry Reinsdorf and the Chicago White Sox. The team’s phenomenal achievement is extraordinary on so many levels.

• Seemingly downplayed amid the protests of billboards for the upcoming 50 Cent movie: the activist groups’ efforts actually counteract their true goal. That is, the furious protests are free publicity for the movie. No one sees it more clearly than 50 Cent. “I do appreciate it,” the rapper said. “They are talking about it on media outlets I didn’t have plans to market the movie to. They are helping me out.” Not that the man needs any help. Although it will be interesting to see if the public is still intrigued after the parade or “hip-hopumentaries” that include 8 Mile, Tupac Resurrection and even Hustle & Flow.

• Seemingly downplayed amid the nearly endless courtroom dramas involving Black celebrities: R. Kelly may have to stand before a jury after all. A judge nixed the request to dismiss the child pornography charges based on the prosecutors’ inability to completely pinpoint the time when the infamous video was produced. So it looks like the artist won’t soon be singing, “I believe I can fly.”

• Seemingly downplayed amid the controversies surrounding illegal immigration in the United States: Mexicans are moving even further north to Canada. So far, the official responses are not as negative in Canada versus the U.S. The Canadians seem to welcome diversity if it leads to a better economy and society. But it’s going to get complicated during opening ceremonies at sports events when someone has to sing “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “O Canada” and “Mexicanos, al grito de guerra.”

• Seemingly downplayed amid all the news of the day: Big Brothers and Big Sisters in Northeast Ohio were recognized for their efforts and commitment. Kudos to Big Brother of the Year Robert Jones of Ashtabula, Big Sister of the Year Nikki Gorfido of Painesville and Board Member of the Year Lora Stalnaker of Madison. These individuals are the real heroes in society.

• Seemingly downplayed amid all the news of the day too: Jay-Z and Nas have quit feuding, rhyming together in bipartisan rap fashion at a New Jersey concert. Who. Gives. A. Shit.