The #TeacherBae Controversy

Last month, Social media exploded when pictures of an Atlanta paraprofessional - dubbed #TeacherBae hit the Internet. The controversy got to the point when #TeacherBae (we will not use her real name), had to be reprimanded for her dress and use of social media activity.

The curvy educator's photos, which were shared on Instagram had social media in an uproar - asking the question - is this appropriate attire for a classroom teacher to wear? Some came to her defense, accusing critics of trying to body shame the teacher.

Both sides are missing the point.

This isn't a question of appropriate attire, or even an attempt at body shamming. It's more about the appropriate use of social media and the unintended consequences.

We're in an age where nearly 78 percent of the U.S. has an active social media profile, according to data from www.statista.com. That's a five percent increase in users since 2015!

But while there has been an increase in the use of social media, there has not been an increase in the awareness the content that is published. Just because you can do it, doesn't mean you should! This is especially prevalent when you post photos taken at the work place, like this Atlanta paraprofessional did!  Had  #TeacherBae not used the school as a back drop for her photos, she probably would not have gotten in trouble, or drawn the 'nationwide' attention that she did.

There are numerous accounts of people getting fired over social media posts. Some are more extreme than others. Now was #TeacherBae's situation worth getting fired over? No. Not even close. But the attention she brought to the school probably was a bit of a distraction. Thus, she was probably told not to take pics inside the classroom anymore. End of story!

America is Trumpnotized

Donald Trump has stuck his foot in his mouth yet again. This time he's criticizing U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, who's presiding over the infamous Trump University Case. During an interview with Jake Tapper on CNN, the "presidential" candidate, alleged that he was getting unfair treatment because he was "building a wall" along the Mexican border. Trump said Curiel was upset and it was a conflict of interest because of the judge's Mexican heritage. Wow!!!! You can skip to the 3:25 mark to get to his criticism of the judge.


                        


At one point during the interview, you can see Tapper taken aback and actually stunned that Trump would say this. But what Tapper is experienced is what every journalist watching Trump's movements has felt. The man is an anomaly, and he's able to get away with almost any and everything and still resonate well with some of the American people. Journalists are fascinated/and terrified by it at the same time. Just look at Megyn Kelly, a Fox news journalist Trump bashed via social media for months, until she made the first steps toward peace. And what was her crime you might ask? She asked him a question that he thought was unfair.The O.A.W. Report has since learned that the truce between the two might be over because of the 'Mexican' comments.

Look most of what Trump says would be political death for some candidates. But for him it's not. And unfortunately,  journalists have become powerless to stand up to him. Most networks adore him because of his potential to help them draw ratings - but at what cost?

 He has practically called on followers to punch protestors during his rallies. He has insulted his political candidates through name calling, and he has launched massive tirades against journalists that he feels are treating him badly. All journalists can do is shrug their shoulders.

And yet where the media can really needle him - on his policies, most refuse to. They go along with his narrative and seem to be enthralled by his antics. While some of his policies exist most of his ideas center around catch phrases and building a "mythical" wall to keep illegal residents out. But specifics are never given.

And while he's clearly the Republican nominee (we can say that at this point right - nah he's still the presumptive), the man clearly isn't a true conservative. He's not really of any particular political bent. Trump is quite simply Trump. And journalists along with the American people are Trumpnotized. God help us all.

Black Superman Redux

I'm a black male and I grew up in one of the most impoverished and racially charged areas of South Carolina. By all accounts, I shouldn't be where I am today. I shouldn't be married to the mother of my children and be a successful journalist. Some might call me a guy that's bucking the statistic. Or a modern day Superman in a sense. At least that's what I feel like I am, when I discuss my family and my background to others.

But I'm no Superman. Far from it.

I began thinking this after I took an honest inventory of my life and the people that were in it. An intense conversation with someone made me question my life and my writing ability. Am I really making a difference? What am I here for, and why, oh why do I continue to hold onto the abusive situations (kryptonite) in my life.

I know it's probably strange to hear (read) a guy talk about stuff like this, but to be honest more of us need to. See many black males buy into the narrative that we aren't allowed to feel emotions or get tired. There is an untold pride in being this invincible archetype that can withstand the blows and emotional strikes of a racially charged America. At the same time, we have to continue to take those criticisms and maintain our cool when put in demeaning and degrading situations.
 
 We have the power to move mountains, yet for the greater good we pacify our abilities and strength to keep the peace and maintain positive relationships.

But can I be honest with you. I'm tired. I'm tired of holding up everything on three shoulders (even if I only have two). I'm tired of taking the punches and the blows of emotionally tiring situations and relationships. Quite frankly, this Superman just wants to be able to rest.