Al Sharpton’s Approach More Talk, Less Change

by, Mariana Castillo

 

“Move forward” is more than just a campaign slogan used by the Obama administration.

 

Although it seemed to be the nation’s motto, there are those like Reverend Al Sharpton who seem to be stuck in the past. Sharpton is known for giving his opinions on national news headlines whether anyone asked him or not. For years he has been one of the most outspoken voices for civil rights. Sharpton even claims on his MSNBC nighttime show he fights every day for a cause he has dedicated his life to—justice.

 

The African American community is a group Sharpton makes a point to highlight often. Sharpton has made several guest appearances to give his view on high-profile cases such as the Trayvon Martin shooting. He speaks about how the African American people still have a long fight for full equality. One who might use Sharpton as a main source of news might be convinced that yes indeed, this divided country has made little progress since the Civil Rights movement.

 

With his radio show, Keepen’ It Real and as the host of MSNBC’s PoliticsNation, he has an audience of 445,000 viewers with 61,000 between the ages of 25-54, according to the DailyBeast. More than half of his viewers are African American. With this kind of following, the audience is told repeatedly there is still little progress being made in favor of the African American community.

 

Earlier this year Sharpton called an emergency meeting to discuss his concerns about the lack of diversity in the movie industry. In a Jan. 15 interview with Business Insider, he compared the industry to the Rocky Mountains, saying “the higher you get, the whiter it gets.” Sharpton also criticized the Oscars and noted while there is a wide array of talented black actors, they are often overlooked, and instead nominations are given to white actors.

 

While one may think he has a valid point, the same could be argued for the lack of diversity in sports such as the NFL, which is dominated by 68 percent of African Americans. There have not been riots in the streets over this because it is perceived as the norm.

 

His radio show is a good way to directly relate to his main target audience. However, instead of tackling stories only pertaining to one racial group, Sharpton might have a bigger following that may inflict more change on its own to spread the message of equality for all. The African American community does still face oppression and is at times at a disadvantage. However the America Sharpton portrays in his media coverage is reminiscent of a country that still has separate water fountains.

 

There has been rumored talk of Sharpton’s show possibly being canceled. This move might be best in order for a new perspective to be considered. Times have changed, and so have people’s opinions. Removing Sharpton’s show might be the opportunity to bring forth someone who has a different approach to key issues that affect not only the African American community but also the United States as a whole.