Last week I submitted a video to CNN's I-Reports on being black in America. While the lighting and sound from my webcam could have been better, the video turned out pretty good. They even allowed my to plug the podcast. I definitely plan on making more videos as I see topics that interest me. I'm glad to see CNN participating in the user-created content movement. I've always felt there needed to be another outlet for a "regular guy" like me to voice my opinion. CNN is on the right track.
If you are able to participate, I'd recommend it. You can send audio, video or e-mail comments. This is our chance to be heard and we have to take advantage of the opportunity before us. Let me know what you think.
To see the video, go to:
http://www.emailthis.clickability.com/et/emailThis?clickMap=viewThis&etMailToID=1702223373.
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Before posting the video, they asked me some other follow-up questions about the podcast and I sent them this reply. Here's how I really feel:
Being black in America to me is being proud of the heritage, history and accomplishments that African-Americans have made to this country. Despite coming to this country through the slave trade, black people have made the United States what it is today. When I was younger, I didn't fully understand the importance of learning about black history. But I found the more I learned, the more I felt I too could make my mark in black history.
In order for African-Americans to work together, we have to take the time needed to build relationships on a foundation of trust. I've been burned before on business deals and it hurts worse when it's someone who looks like you. We have to learn how to do business the right way, by providing quality products/services and supporting each other when possible.
Sometimes I feel black men catch a bad rap due to the negative stereotypes that society places on us. Some of it is our fault, but a lot of it is due to ignorance. I want our youth to know there's more out there than sports and entertainment. I want them to know they can be anything they put their minds to. We have options. This is what it's going to take to overcome racism and any other obstacles that we face on a daily basis. We need to stand up and be men. Handle our responsibilities and make a difference in the community. This is why I started the podcast.
I started out in podcasting as a listener. After subscribing to a number of technology shows, I realized I could start my own show. I chose the topic of doing news for the black community because that was my target audience. There's still a gap in the digital divide and I want to use podcasting as a way to introduce African-Americans to a new way of communication. Podcasting gives the average person like me a worldwide presence and voice. On the show I highlight the news and accomplishments of black people. I also showcase African-American music artists and small businesses. It's been a lot of fun. With family, church and work responsibilities, it can be tough getting the show together. But when it comes together and final product is complete, I feel good. I enjoy the replies to the show when I get them and I've met a lot of good people in the process. The toughest thing I've found is getting a bigger audience. It's a new show, so hopefully that will change as I come up with more ideas.