So what happens if I mix important social commentary with reality television? Let’s find out…
It’s now confirmed that the next edition of ‘Survivor’ will feature 20 castaways divided into four teams of five, and segregated racially. That’s one team each made of African-American, Asian-American, Caucasian, and Hispanic ethnic backgrounds. This has brought about the expected attention and discussion, and my news rounds today brought a fair amount of bashing from politicians, columnists, and social experts.
I’m in no way of the thought that racism is dead, as some supporters would have you believe. I know it’s not dead, and while I personally choose to associate with tolerant people, I’ve met people who’ve shocked me with their racist views. They’re still out there.
That said, I fully support the idea of dividing tribes by race and can’t wait to watch it. Reason?
Because I think the biggest crime against race relations in my lifetime has been the burning desire of many to paint everyone with the same brush. Beyond even race it is the generally accepted public view that everyone fit the one mold we’ve all decided must fit. There is no colour, creed, orientation, gender, or personal choice.
People are different. The opportunity to place that on television on a top 10 show puts that unsettling fact front and centre. How people deal with the fact that people can be different – and still be accepted – is where this little social experiment intrigues me.
So what are your thoughts?
Note: If this post can be viewed in both a positive and negative way, I meant it in the positive one. Peace.