This debate stems deeper than the PR industry but in media industry as a whole. Although we have made huge strides, there still remains a shortage of people working behind the scenes at publishing houses, and television networks. The media spends to much time on the lives and trials of black entertainers and personalities whilst forgetting that these are by no means the true representation of the black populations.
Comedians Lenny Henry, Sanjeer Bhaskar, Meera Syal and sport personalities like John Barnes and Iain Wright are all familiar faces in the UK press with hundreds of press clippings, endorsement deals and television appearances underneath their belts. However, are these individuals truly respected within their community?
This leads me to ask the question, what does an ethnic celebrity have to do to gain media assistance? In order to be successful under the limelight, do black public figures tune down their ‘ethinicity’ to get some coverage in today’s press. Are the celebrated black figures truly respected in the black communities? Do they truly see these people as their role models or “puppets” of the media?
What is the price for international black success?
I'm really keen to hear from all of you.
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