RACE + ENTERTAINMENT
What You're Missing About Dave Chappelle's Comments
An unpopular, unapologetically Black opinion
Dave Chappelle's new Netflix series The Closer struck a nerve. Of course, he has always been known for his unique perspectives about American culture. But his recent statements have some folks claiming he is transphobic, and while some of his jokes were off-color, I think many people are missing the point behind his latest comedic performance.
“I have never had a problem with transgender people. If you listen to what I’m saying clearly, my problem has always been with White people (Dave Chappelle).”
First things first, Dave Chappelle never said that LGBTQ people don't exist in the Black community. But there is a difference between our movement as Black people and the movement for LGBTQ rights. After all, in the aftermath of George Floyd's death, my friend, a gay Black man, said he wouldn't fight for our rights until all Black people accepted LGBTQ people — an impossible feat since every community has homophobia.
While I respected his opinion, I was left feeling discouraged. After all, Black men permit misogynoir to spread within our communities, but as a Black woman, I'm not giving up on Black men. Still, each person gets to decide for themselves…
