Six Impossible Things Before Breakfast

Pimping Black History Month

If you have been watching any TV this month, or listening to radio that features music by Black artists, or reading magazines aimed at a Black readership--chances are you have run across Black History Month advertising. When I used to teach preschoolers, I used to look forward to these ads. I'd clip them from the magazines, glue them to slightly larger sized construction paper, and post them all over the room at child eye-level--in the block area, over in the dress up corner, lots next the the crayons and markers near the art table.

As of late, though, I haven't always been too thrilled with what I have seen. Maybe the ads have become more exploitative or irrelevant. Maybe I have just become more cynical. Maybe both.

A WaPo article from a few years ago summed up the issue:

The makers of Metamucil and Pepto-Bismol ran a full-page ad in this month's Ebony magazine declaring, "Black History Month is a legacy of pride and achievement leading to a healthier tomorrow." The ad continues, "It's the same ideals you turn to when it comes to your GI Health -- a history of digestive solutions."

The advertisements are among dozens that tout laxatives, cars, even yoga classes under the guise of paying homage to African American history. Educators and some civil rights activists say they are bothered by what they consider exploitation of a season meant to honor the contributions of black Americans. But marketing experts say the trend is not surprising in a nation that once considered draping advertising banners across the base of the Statue of Liberty.

What has been your opinion of what you have seen? Below I highlight a few ads. What do you think of them?

(1) Coke Adds Life to Black History

Played during last year's Superbowl, when two Black coaches were competing for the big prize. (That is what the "Especially today" last line is referring to.)

History - Coca-Cola

(1.a) Wade in the Water

A parody of the above ad.

(1.b) Coke: The Official Drink of Civil Rights (Not.)

A political statement on the above Coke ad.

(2) Janet: "Pass It On" PSA

There have been a number of these spots where celebs say a few words about Black history.

(3) BET "What a wonderful world" PSA

This one mystifies me. What is the message supposed to be here?

(4) Because nothing celebrates Black history like cotton:

I. Kid. You. Not. I do not know if African AMericans qualified for an extra discount if they could prove their ancestors had to pick this stuff for no wages back in the day... (Via SFist.)

(5) ...Because nothing says Black history like stomach upset:

John Stewart's take on the Metamucil print ad referenced in the article above.

(6) I Came...

Never saw this one aired. Was it a bit too much for prime time I wonder?

Week two of a 32 Days of Black History blogathon. Visit 32Days blogging partner Deesha at Mamalicious!--as well as WhatTamiSaid; Inkognegro; Springer's Journal; and The Dawg House. Still want more reads from the Black Blogosphere? Check out Deesha's list of some of her favorite blogs here.

Posted by perry032 at February 11, 2008 12:48 AM
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