How to raise a Black son in America | Clint Smith

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  • Опубліковано 25 сер 2024
  • As kids, we all get advice from parents and teachers that seems strange, even confusing. This was crystallized one night for a young Clint Smith, who was playing with water guns in a dark parking lot with his white friends. In a heartfelt piece, the poet paints the scene of his father's furious and fearful response.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 548

  • @PizzaGizz
    @PizzaGizz 9 років тому +338

    I'm proud to say that he was my 10 grade english teacher, and yet he has gotten so far since last year (': prpud of you man.

    • @Uchihaa_Ghostt
      @Uchihaa_Ghostt 5 років тому +13

      He's my brother in law bro. We all family

    • @MazVT
      @MazVT 3 роки тому +3

      @@Uchihaa_Ghostt hes my grandfather bro.

    • @Uchihaa_Ghostt
      @Uchihaa_Ghostt 3 роки тому +2

      NeoAtlas his son is 2. no shot

    • @Uchihaa_Ghostt
      @Uchihaa_Ghostt 3 роки тому +1

      NeoAtlas i capped he’s 3

    • @MazVT
      @MazVT 3 роки тому +1

      @@Uchihaa_Ghostt bro, i was making a joke since both of your stories seem super fake

  • @davidschmidt5507
    @davidschmidt5507 8 років тому +209

    This is not a speech. It is a stand up poem.

    • @kingtommyDotCom
      @kingtommyDotCom 8 років тому +19

      This man stood in front of an audience and expressed his ideas by speaking. This is the dictionary definition of speech. What were you even attempting to accomplish with your statement?

    • @davidschmidt5507
      @davidschmidt5507 8 років тому +45

      ***** I meant like... better than a regular speech

    • @amandaalves320
      @amandaalves320 5 років тому +3

      Yeah!

    • @timfriday9106
      @timfriday9106 2 роки тому +3

      @@kingtommyDotCom reciting a poem in front of people is a more specific version of delivering a speech. It requires additional skills as an orator that delivering a standard speech does not require.
      he was giving the man a compliment. don't be so defensive. sheesh.

    • @jeanettecanez9519
      @jeanettecanez9519 Рік тому

      Your missing his point who cares if it poem or a speech.

  • @ZZzzzzzWhat
    @ZZzzzzzWhat 9 років тому +155

    one of the best TED videos i seen so far, straight to the point and very captivating.

  • @AltairDhauglu
    @AltairDhauglu 9 років тому +358

    I used to say "All lives matter". After seeing this I don't think I feel that phrase is OK. They all matter, but I was passing over the importan issue that this is.

    • @lifestraight
      @lifestraight 9 років тому +23

      Sebastian Villa Exactly. That's what a lot of people don't get. Blacklivesmatter.

    • @alexgreen6786
      @alexgreen6786 9 років тому +3

      Sebastian Villa WHITE PEOPLE SMH

    • @tituss321
      @tituss321 7 років тому +19

      Sebastian Villa that is Amazing. We should all look to have that self reflection. I look to see the other side of my opinions everyday & always learn something in parts. I love when we can understand each other through respectful & caring dialect.

    • @tituss321
      @tituss321 7 років тому +20

      alex green I get the frustration, but a negative condemnation comment on a person who was able to understand & change should be praised not used to make a comment on race. So that those "white people." By which you mean "ignorant" people may inquire why he changed his mine rather then see a finger pointed or name calling in anger/frustration. That's the method the other side uses to keep people fighting & ignorant. Be better then that.

    • @officialgic0e
      @officialgic0e 7 років тому +4

      this really gave me life thank you

  • @alexboston343
    @alexboston343 9 років тому +49

    This is the most powerful talk I have ever seen.

    • @alexboston343
      @alexboston343 9 років тому +1

      No, I'm just incredibly capitalist and really couldn't care less about 90% of their socialist rubbish.

    • @alexboston343
      @alexboston343 9 років тому +1

      ***** Because this is one of the gems of brilliance this channel has. I watch all Ted talks for at least 2 mins to see if its one of those gems. Wether it's true or not, this is a truly gifted and charismatic speaker, whom every speaker should admire to be like.

  • @Staboogie777
    @Staboogie777 4 роки тому +12

    I had to have this same talk with my oldest twelve years ago and now today I’m having the same talk with his little brother. NO PARENT should EVER have to feel this way.

  • @itsJoshW
    @itsJoshW 5 років тому +14

    over 4 years later. I still love this talk. This has got to be my favorite.

  • @SLISKI_JOHNNY
    @SLISKI_JOHNNY 5 років тому +29

    I've seen this during one of my university classes and it really changed my view on racism ever since. I have never realized how serious it was

  • @SaeedNeamati
    @SaeedNeamati 9 років тому +107

    They say, all it takes for evil to succeed is for some good men and women to not do anything. I'm glad that people like you exist, and I'm glad that you had the courage to speak aloud against racism.

    • @ZombieX13
      @ZombieX13 9 років тому +9

      I know, right? It's so hard to speak out against racism. LOL

    • @zilapaanch8930
      @zilapaanch8930 8 років тому +4

      These emotional fools are actually doing a disservice to black people and the nation. What black people need is better education so they can improve their lifestyle and culture. Their indulgence in violence and gangs stems from poverty, which is rooted in slavery, and it is past. The nation owes them for that, the protests should be for getting better education and opportunities. Saying they are discriminated against because of the color of the skin and shouting racism is just gonna spread more hatred, bias, racism, and make it worse for the future generation.

    • @salihahaakil792
      @salihahaakil792 7 років тому +7

      Not necessarily. Yes black people need better access to good schools and education but it is not because of the way they choose to live. Black culture is amazing, the music, the food, the poetry and much more. Violence and drugs are not part of that, those are reactions to living in fear, poverty and depression. Things that stem from being enslaved then hated and systematically discriminated against. Black people should be saying that they are treated differently because for one thing not everyone knows that they are and two, the people who are treating them like that need to acknowledge it. Not to make Black people feel better but to heal the people, who hurt Blacks, from the guilt of what they did.

    • @jujuzeeD
      @jujuzeeD 4 роки тому +1

      @@zilapaanch8930 it is obvious that you are to young to know we have been asking for a better education and jobs. Please don't paint our African- Americans as none thinkers who only live for the gang life. We are Educators, Doctors, Lawyers and Military Officers, oh before I forget teachers too to name a few professions. All we need is a system that treats us as full citizens. We don't want the words of some white people to be the end of our life as a people who begs to be apart of the land we helped built. That what these emotional fools you labeled is trying to do. Question is do you like being fearful of being attacked by the very people who are suppose to protect you?

  • @akrulla
    @akrulla 9 років тому +13

    Beautiful, powerful words. so sad to know we live in this kind of world.

  • @strengthxphilosophy
    @strengthxphilosophy 9 років тому +67

    Yet an amazing talk Mr Smith. I loved your talk on Silence. You rule.

    • @parratvmail2570
      @parratvmail2570 9 років тому +2

      Strength And Philosophy so true! love your channel by the way

  • @user-vb8eb8ic8h
    @user-vb8eb8ic8h 6 місяців тому +1

    I love the way Clint mentions that in the classroom raising his hands meant acceptance and participation. Let's work toward making every school a safe place for learning.

  • @coldramentpm1013
    @coldramentpm1013 4 роки тому +3

    clint is such an incredible speaker

  • @lachantecollier-bacon3082
    @lachantecollier-bacon3082 4 роки тому +2

    Such a moving and thought-provoking speech, but it has become our reality.

  • @wardatkins1320
    @wardatkins1320 4 роки тому +7

    5 years ago " this is still relevant today "

  • @rickymartinus7933
    @rickymartinus7933 9 років тому +7

    I never comment on a video, but this one gave me goosebumps. Strong!!

  • @lisabanks9614
    @lisabanks9614 4 роки тому +5

    Wow! My 26-year-old Black son sent me this link. I see why. Thank you for sharing the unfortunate truth. I'm praying we don't have to hear you and him have the same conversations with your sons.

  • @shreyagarwal1032
    @shreyagarwal1032 5 місяців тому +1

    We need to make sure everyone feels safe and treated fairly, no matter their skin color.

  • @cay.2568
    @cay.2568 4 роки тому +52

    Floyd brought me back to this one right here

  • @leneclarademelodossantos2272
    @leneclarademelodossantos2272 4 роки тому +2

    I'm Brazilian and I'm glad that he quoted Paulo Freire. He was an outstanding Brazilian educator!
    Wise and meaningful speech. Thank u

  • @faithbishop1444
    @faithbishop1444 Рік тому +2

    Bring back strong fathers to homes and watch what happens

  • @neodark414
    @neodark414 9 років тому +2

    This man has incredible skill in speaking! Very powerful message.

  • @brandond.williams4209
    @brandond.williams4209 4 роки тому +12

    Being that I am a black son in America, I can relate to this video on so many levels. As a kid I never understood the reason behind having to come in when the street lights came on or having to go places in groups with my brother, cousins and friends. Now as I am older and have seen the destruction of being out late and unprotected by my parents or guardians and how it can cause my parents and guardians to become upset when I didn't follow certain rules, I know that it was for my own security because I am looked at as if I have already committed a crime just by the color of my skin. God bless us all: The blacks because of how we are viewed and the fair skin because of how they are programmed.

    • @sandrakarwel
      @sandrakarwel Рік тому

      I'm white, female and we had the same rules "inside the house when the street light came on" exactly the same words. And we were only allow to goes as far as the short corner vs the long corner at the end of the block. The thing is I loved that I had caring parents, and felt safe.

  • @sqjpure
    @sqjpure 9 років тому +5

    I live on the other side of the planet and as a black man I remember very much of the exact same lessons that he was taught. Some far harsher, all for my own good.
    The reality out there sucks but I thank my parents for the lessons they taught me to help improve upon and survive the reality of every day. We matter just as much as every one else. It's not about creating hug boxes and 'safe spaces', it's about being a part of a better tommorrow buy enduring and working on today.
    Awesome video

  • @gorgeouslady5612
    @gorgeouslady5612 4 роки тому +3

    I was born in 1962 and lived
    In San Antonio Texas. I never
    Experienced racism. My father
    Worked at Kelly airforce base
    And my mother was a Dean
    At a University. Times have Changed!.

  • @rshepherd80
    @rshepherd80 9 років тому +26

    Several things I find disturbing one. I was never given this lesson by my parents I had to figure this out on my own through experience. Two the sad fact that what he talked about is More or less true. And finally that this is still a serious issue in this day and age. Statistics have proven time and again that this is real... I hope some day we will all be 'color blind'

    • @n-duo2007
      @n-duo2007 9 років тому +4

      A good vid, an positive message. I wish that we can be color blind, but the reality is even we are color blind that still won't stop us from separating are self's, feature like different type of hair, lips, nose, or tribalism, or locationism east v.s west, uptown v.s city all factors that add to the mountain things people would not over look. Individuals yes people no

    • @rshepherd80
      @rshepherd80 9 років тому +1

      Kd Flow​​​ honestly I refrained from going any deeper to avoid sounding too negative. Honestly it will be a long time if ever before we stop finding ways to separate and identify that which we find different. Supposedly it has something to with survival instinct..... too lazy to go into a long explanation especially since it seems you are already aware of that fact

    • @n-duo2007
      @n-duo2007 9 років тому +2

      TheGood Shepherd nah you right on instinct(we are tracking together) & I apologize I did not mean to play the song of storm on the positive parade . that was my bad.

    • @rshepherd80
      @rshepherd80 9 років тому

      Kd Flow no worries you were simply being honest

    • @ShadowFoxInfinite
      @ShadowFoxInfinite 9 років тому +1

      Yeah, I could go on a tirade on this very subject, unfortunately deaf ears and the rest of the choir are the only people hearing this.

  • @eleanorbarsic8065
    @eleanorbarsic8065 4 роки тому +2

    You're a powerful poet. I am deternimed that I change the world w you! Thank you for speaking and teaching!

  • @jaleahm3982
    @jaleahm3982 5 років тому +1

    Every time I watch this it gets more powerful .

  • @martinsapsitis4292
    @martinsapsitis4292 4 роки тому +2

    Clint, I didn't figure skin colour racism was that heartbreakingly deep. Thank you for your gift.

  • @gnicevids
    @gnicevids 9 років тому +4

    The truth on raisin black children in America. Very powerful

  • @SoukiesCookie
    @SoukiesCookie 9 років тому +4

    Goosebumps throughout the speech! This can be applied to any kid from a visible minority and a specific ethnic group. Very strong words and very strong way of delivering them.

  • @FallonFontaine
    @FallonFontaine 9 років тому +4

    The beauty of truth. "Black Lives Matter" isn't said to put down other races, but to AFFIRM to other black lives that we are important. To help black people realize the beauty in us that some refuse to or cannot see. To give us hope & perseverance throughout all of life's challenges.

    • @The_king567
      @The_king567 5 місяців тому

      You know that’s not true

  • @MaybeItsNimra
    @MaybeItsNimra 6 років тому +6

    loved this TED Talk. It makes me sad and angry though that this is reality for many people

  • @acroyogawithdao7416
    @acroyogawithdao7416 7 років тому +4

    powerful. thank you, Clint.

  • @craigslistreplies3485
    @craigslistreplies3485 10 місяців тому +2

    His voice sounds much more youthful and feminine than on Crash Course

  • @lunalea1250
    @lunalea1250 4 роки тому +1

    "One can't be free, until all are free" , from the movie, A Dry White Season, a must see!🙏🏾💚💥

  • @jspr2k5
    @jspr2k5 9 років тому +11

    To first raise a son, the father has to be there for him.
    Everyone seems to be missing this first step?

    • @youvebeensobrave127
      @youvebeensobrave127 9 років тому +7

      You're missing the point and detailing his message. Try again

    • @jspr2k5
      @jspr2k5 9 років тому +3

      Knychelle Mayer
      I'm just calling it what it is ;)

    • @alexdeebest
      @alexdeebest 9 років тому +10

      jspr2k5 The Black absent father is a myth. The rates of absences are the same, in fact Black fathers have higher rates of interactions with their children as compared to other races.
      thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/16/3175831/myth-absent-black-father/

  • @oneiam
    @oneiam 9 років тому +16

    Yeah, growing up we all got the talk and constant reminders. It was deeper than someone mistaking us for something dangerous and taking our lives. We were made to understand that there were police looking for any little excuse to take our lives and we had to know the behavior and procedures to eliminate the chances of making an officer's murder good or justifiable homicide.

    • @MAORIguy25
      @MAORIguy25 9 років тому +3

      One Iam Nothing like fear to fuel conformity

    • @oneiam
      @oneiam 9 років тому +2

      Troy Moses It was more caution than fear.

    • @ZombieX13
      @ZombieX13 9 років тому

      Troy Moses indeed. go go gadget religion.

  • @fivefiveqt214
    @fivefiveqt214 Рік тому +1

    This still my favorite one from Clint. Truly talented man. 💖

  • @lydiahill-expertineradicat657
    @lydiahill-expertineradicat657 3 роки тому

    So little has changed indeed....incredible. This is amazing. Clint Smith is amazing. We need him.

  • @diyoraazizovna1626
    @diyoraazizovna1626 4 роки тому

    The best Ted talk which I heard and watched. It is very touchable and breaking heart.

  • @daniellemarsell1
    @daniellemarsell1 4 роки тому +1

    This was more than 5 years ago America. WAKE UP

  • @zacharyframe1167
    @zacharyframe1167 9 років тому +1

    A very important speech with recent events in mind.

  • @ThomasPendergrass
    @ThomasPendergrass 9 років тому +2

    Thank you for these words. You brought up many things from my childhood that I accepted as normal, holding onto through the present. When I ask myself why I feel naturally displaced, It is only because that was what was ingrained into me at such a young age.

  • @TheMenyDude
    @TheMenyDude 9 років тому

    This is a beautiful speech. We need to continue the dialogue on the topic. As a kid me and my friends used to play with super-soakers all the time, so I just can't imagine the feeling.

  • @kaitlynwakeling7827
    @kaitlynwakeling7827 9 років тому +1

    This is an extremely powerful video. Thank you very much Mr. Smith for the insight.

  • @DroVictoriousTV
    @DroVictoriousTV 9 років тому +6

    Love this (Spread this message)

  • @minimaxhall
    @minimaxhall 9 років тому +7

    Wow! His ways with words is a force to be reckoned with. Such vivid imagery and emotion.
    Powerful talk.
    `;..;´

  • @christopherarmstrong2710
    @christopherarmstrong2710 6 років тому

    Thank you for this speech! Sheer brilliance on display.

  • @MrAveryBrown93
    @MrAveryBrown93 3 роки тому +1

    This is powerful, and so real for sure! Wow. 💪🏿🤎

  • @keciakesner7753
    @keciakesner7753 4 роки тому

    Such a beautiful and powerful message.

  • @juliabeltran9817
    @juliabeltran9817 9 років тому +1

    This made me get goosebumps 😔

  • @nosebleedpuddle
    @nosebleedpuddle 9 років тому +2

    So powerful, goosebumps.

  • @shadowrex500
    @shadowrex500 9 років тому +4

    Love this, its amazing seeing poets on TedTalks. I love his poems some of them are on Button Poetry.

  • @MonicaElysia16
    @MonicaElysia16 9 років тому

    The things we teach our children to become automatic, show us what is important/necessary in our society.

  • @justinrichards7194
    @justinrichards7194 6 років тому +1

    22 black men were struck by lightning. 16 unarmed black men were killed by police.

  • @paulsneed1952
    @paulsneed1952 4 роки тому

    How eloquent, as well as so relevant.

  • @kemprinewedderburn4012
    @kemprinewedderburn4012 3 роки тому +1

    Was this really 5yrs ago? Today is: 01/21/2021 @2:01pm

  • @raerie81
    @raerie81 9 років тому

    My god this moved me. Thank you. Thank you.

  • @TrashTVTreasures
    @TrashTVTreasures 7 років тому

    What strong words. Excellent.

  • @zeake13
    @zeake13 9 років тому +1

    Clearly this man had a great father. The root problem that causes what he is talking about is not the same as it once was. More FATHERS are needed, more family units that raise their children instead of letting a tired grandmother raise them, more fathers like his.

  • @hienduong3214
    @hienduong3214 5 років тому

    Im from July 2019
    Im from VN and this is one of the best Ted videos i've ever watched

  • @debrareynolds8152
    @debrareynolds8152 4 роки тому

    That was so powerful my brother!!

  • @mleonsmith
    @mleonsmith 9 років тому +2

    As a black dude growing up in Detroit, this video is so off. Yes, my parents absolutely had the talks about not provoking police, keeping your hands on the wheel, and so on. But the most important and prominent talks were about protecting myself from the violence and foolishness of my contemporaries. " Don't have your hat backwards wasn't just about police, but was also a reminder that bloods on the east side of Detroit could react harshly to that blue Tiger's cap. The discussion about police brutality must occur and is a century old battle (just listen to Richard Pryor comedy routines on the police) but let's be honest with ourselves about violence in our cities.

  • @TheDustinNelson
    @TheDustinNelson 8 років тому +1

    "Listen to the police officer", ""Don't talk back to a police officer", "Always keep your hands where they can see them" & "Don't move around too quickly" are the same words my father told me & I'm a white American. That police pedestrian etiquette is what his father taught him. Those aren't special instructions for one particular race. The bias in his argument is that his father taught him those values. He had a father figure to teach him these values. In 1968, black mothers raising children out of wedlock was 20%. Today it is near 80%. Raising a child is not easy, but even harder if you're a single parent. I know for certain that I wouldn't be the same person I am today if my dad or a father figure was not in my life. Single parents vs. 2 parents means that you have 1 less potential income earner to support your child, 1 less potential parent to spend time parenting your child, and 1 less person to share parenting ideas. Ask yourself, were these kids raised by 2 parents?

  • @kimberlysanderson6696
    @kimberlysanderson6696 4 роки тому +1

    Amen, Brother!

  • @marcyfox9508
    @marcyfox9508 4 роки тому +1

    Everyday during this I am so thankful for my Grandmother. She had so many reasons why she could have felt she was a victim, she was a minority, for the first [she actually saw it as a strength-but that speaks to perspective]. She just would not let her family do that in her presence-and she achieved so much. Being a perpetual victim is like Meth-feel that onrush of dopamine, but there is a life shattering cost. That we all could find a reason to cave to life's challenges is universal-or...as she proved-those are the very gifts that can make your life rich. It is all about perspective. Some people will read these comments and see how they can go out and make a life, some will-like much of my family-treat truth like an intruder. It is about perspective

  • @MsRESPECT90
    @MsRESPECT90 9 років тому

    He speaks like a poet

  • @Bensgallery
    @Bensgallery 9 років тому

    Thank you for taking the time to share your story! Your words ring true today as we all watch in horror as that evil animal on the McKinney police force "nailed to the ground" a 13 year old child who did nothing wrong.

  • @hookwyrmcross
    @hookwyrmcross 9 років тому +3

    Well said.

  • @joeyzapata6786
    @joeyzapata6786 9 років тому +45

    This angers me, but in a different way. I totally agree with this gentlemen, but i think the problem is connected to the topic at hand: parenting. Where are these people learning these behaviors? Who is keeping such ignorant thoughts alive after hundreds of years. I hate to sound cliche, but education is the key. Imagine the progress we could have had already had some people not had there head in the 1800s?

    • @swand1383
      @swand1383 9 років тому +38

      Why put locks on doors when people shouldn't steal? It's just to keep them alive, and if that's what it takes then that is what it takes. The parents who are protecting the child aren't to be blamed but the people they are protecting them from. Racism very much exists in this day and age and it is not fuelled by those who are of the oppressed race, but by those who are oppressing them. They may add to the fire but only to protect their child from the burn!

    • @genevieveosei-bonsu9375
      @genevieveosei-bonsu9375 9 років тому +26

      joey zapata are the parents the ones teaching these policemen to shoot innocent black boys?

    • @ShawnRavenfire
      @ShawnRavenfire 9 років тому +9

      joey zapata This is a good point. I'm having trouble picturing any parents explicitly teaching their children to be racist, so it must be implicit. It is fading, however, and eventually (though not nearly soon enough) the racism passed from parent to child will have disintegrated. I think the more immediate issue is eliminating institutionalized racism, such as found in the police department.

    • @joeyzapata6786
      @joeyzapata6786 9 років тому

      Shawn Ravenfire
      I agree.

    • @Jemiance
      @Jemiance 9 років тому +1

      Shawn Ravenfire I don't think officers enter the field as racists, it slowly builds as they deal with cases involving African Americans. In the end, they hold every African American in the same regard as the criminals they arrest every single day.

  • @expatsincambodia
    @expatsincambodia 9 років тому

    Great insight. Ted talks are always amazing.

  • @pugilemoltobene3708
    @pugilemoltobene3708 4 роки тому

    Promoting true equality as an educator is doing everything in your power for all of your students in presser to promote learning. It takes knowledge of strategic delivery. All are equal. You can have a high performance classroom if you treat all equally.

  • @dandelionlys
    @dandelionlys 8 років тому +1

    Does he write spoken word? Cuz you can hear it in his talk; very poetic.

  • @poeticpointsofview6654
    @poeticpointsofview6654 4 роки тому +1

    If there wasn't a limit to 1 like per video I'd of pressed it repeatedly from start to end.

  • @DonnaYFord
    @DonnaYFord 9 років тому +1

    Powerful message. Real. Sad. And wrong... There are two or more Americas. Save Our Sons.

  • @antoineaublin3812
    @antoineaublin3812 9 років тому +1

    Ce mec dégage une force c'est assez fascinant. Bravo!

  • @titusorelius9458
    @titusorelius9458 9 років тому +6

    TED does spoken word poetry now?

  • @gaelfobessong632
    @gaelfobessong632 8 років тому

    very powerful MR. Smith VERY POWERFUL

  • @caytonhopson3200
    @caytonhopson3200 4 роки тому

    This is POWERFUL

  • @TheJaseku
    @TheJaseku 9 років тому +3

    Wow. That man has a futher as a leader : )

    • @nakiacee15
      @nakiacee15 6 років тому

      It is now 2018 and he made it on a Forbes 30 under 30 List. Definitely​ a leader.

  • @SweetEssie
    @SweetEssie 4 роки тому +2

    this is very interesting. I have never gotten "The Talk (3:41)". My parents immigrated from a black Caribbean country that had the history of the most violent slave revolt in history. They didn't tell me that because that wasn't their reality growing up.
    I have talks with my black friends on whether that helped or hurted. I never felt like I shouldn't do something because I was black. I didn't grow up that way.

    • @mentalmachete2273
      @mentalmachete2273 4 роки тому

      Because my ancestors laid the foundation, I must build. My attitude is get out of my way or I will move you out of my way.

    • @Walkingintoyourdestiny
      @Walkingintoyourdestiny Рік тому

      Well when you grow surrounded by people that look like you, you dont have to worry about
      Those things you cant compare your Caribbean
      Upbringing to growing up in America as a black person no comparison

  • @AugustAdvice
    @AugustAdvice 9 років тому +1

    Females are also raised with an armor of advice. Never go out after dark alone. If your car breaks down on the freeway after sunset, call 911 instead of a towing company. If someone breaks into your house, never run upstairs because you can get trapped. If someone is following you in your car, make right turns in a circle. Never go to a party alone. Always meet a date in a public place. Carry pepper spray in your purse. Check under your bed at night just in case there's an intruder hiding in your home. Double check all your windows if you live alone. If you are sexually harassed on the street, do not aggravate the perpetrator, walk away. Take a self defense class for protection. The list goes on and on.

  • @BobEMoto
    @BobEMoto 9 років тому

    A very appropriate talk. We (the people of the United States of America) have multiple standards and this talk helps us see what goes on at the ground level. Bias are passed through generations and insights like this will help us progress.

    • @The_king567
      @The_king567 5 місяців тому

      You know that’s not true

  • @Nick2quickOfficial
    @Nick2quickOfficial 9 років тому

    Simply amazing.

  • @yossiffkhalead9763
    @yossiffkhalead9763 9 років тому +1

    Not just black people even Arab and Latino and brown people

  • @theschmacka8284
    @theschmacka8284 6 років тому

    Beautiful simply beautiful

  • @angelicalraya1152
    @angelicalraya1152 4 роки тому

    chills.

  • @dumbodonus
    @dumbodonus 9 років тому +1

    Didn't know TED did slam poetry

  • @tcgtpl
    @tcgtpl 9 років тому +3

    My parents told me that your behavior dictates how others will treat you. So, let's say, when you get stopped by a police officer for whatever reason, be it you're speeding/jaywalking/or even acting suspiciously, you treat them with respect. Yes, Sir/Ma'am. No, Sir/Ma'am. Then the onus is on them to behave. But if I attack the police officer or give them a lot of lip, what should you expect in return? Once the situation is resolved and if there is still some lingering doubt about how you were treated, then you bring it up to their authority (city council, mayor, whatever).

    • @jocelynmariemonroe
      @jocelynmariemonroe 9 років тому +2

      tcgtpl yes sir/ma'am, that makes it look as if they're your superior which they are not. all are created equal. if a black guy is stopped by a cop, the automatically assume he has drugs on him unless he is wearing a suit. they doesn't happen to white people.

    • @tcgtpl
      @tcgtpl 9 років тому +1

      ***** Using Sir/Ma'am shows more about your character and how you treat others and not whether or not the person(s) you are addressing is/are better than you. Act professionally, especially when you don't know the person, i.e. janitor, crossing guard, businessman/woman, teacher, waiter/waitress, store clerk, and even policeman/woman.

    • @jocelynmariemonroe
      @jocelynmariemonroe 9 років тому +1

      tcgtpl i obviously know you should respect people, but i just don't use sir or ma'am, its an outdated statement that black people were forced to use in the old days. i know it's not just a black saying because whites invented it, but blacks had to talk to whites as if they were superior and black men were always called "boy" although they were grown men because they were considered inferior.

    • @tcgtpl
      @tcgtpl 9 років тому

      ***** Okay, we're just splitting hairs then in that regard. What really doesn't help is the injection of race into everything, especially when the vast majority of the time it never was a factor. Too many people with an agenda try to create/maintain division in this society by trying to stoke some non-existent issue, especially when folks selectively choose facts to skew the whole story. As an analogy, I'll go with the last Super Bowl. The Seahawks were up 24-14 going into the fourth quarter. No team had ever come back from 10 points down in the fourth quarter in the Super Bowl, but the Patriots won the game. So.....therefore, the NFL didn't want the Seahawks to win and therefore fixed the game for the Patriots. Sounds ridiculous, right? Yes, because I didn't tell the whole story.

  • @mario121564
    @mario121564 8 років тому +14

    I see a lot of stupid comments Like-- just obey the officer --put your hands up, --don't make any sudden moves,-- White people get killed by police too,-- or the one I really like I didn't get that talk from my parents. To those misguided and didn't see the point Mr. Smith made will never see it. You being white or even being black and was raised by white people will see the injustices or biases that exist in the criminal justice system as well as the economic machine that whites enjoy and black have to deal with. You will never understand that Black lives mater is not about only black lives but all lives matter and that system is rigged against us. The term used most of the time is "I feared for my life" or "He(she) would not comply with orders." A young boy in his adolescent years would never understand a police officer telling him to put down that water pistol. Just as a child would not know if she puts her hand on that hot stove she would get burned. A long time ago white people would say "Oh no those police don't act like that.. those blacks are lying. Officer friendly is a nice warm apple pie guy. Now that videos show a different story and they now come up with looking for little details to make it right to killed an unarmed black child like Tamir Rice because he had a bb gun. Even in that state where it is legal for a white man to carry a real firearm in the open, but they shot a 11 year old black child in 2.1 seconds. To the black people who think the system is fair and just, tell that to Tamir Rises family or Freddy Grey's family. A young man carrying a knife that was legal to have in that state but still unjustly taken into custody and killed. THANKS MR.SMITH FOR THE POETIC POINTS AND THOUGHTS YOU HAVE BROUGHT OUT IN THE OPEN

    • @mario121564
      @mario121564 8 років тому

      LandInbetween And to you quit being a coward and show your face before you comment on this thread

    • @mario121564
      @mario121564 8 років тому

      LandInbetween I think you need to be on a lower level thread this is discussion about black issues caused by white people. I recommend a discussion on third grade math or first time learning your ABC's. Have a good night.

    • @mario121564
      @mario121564 8 років тому

      Sorry I cant respond to your pseudo logic. It sounds racist. Your totally of point. Your breaking up.

    • @mario121564
      @mario121564 7 років тому

      AfricanGirl sorry that your a racist. The pent up hatred you have will internally shorten your life span. You say let it go. Well I will never let it go. I will never forget the death of innocent black men gunned down by bias police officers who circumvent, twist, hide behind the laws that are used to kill us, and only us. You see you enjoy the system that you take advantage of I have to deal with it. You say let it go. Well let it go where? Let it go to who. You? Your kids? So they can continue this system of oppression? I have asked the question of a racist person such as your self. Who is really the superior race? The white guy who have had all the breaks in life, education, nutritional, and Heath care? Or the black guy who has had none of the fore mentioned. Has had substandard nutrition, healthcare education most of his life. However they both have made it to the same high standards of living. I'm on,y putting it in lower IQ lever you believe in.

    • @akirakiplinger9643
      @akirakiplinger9643 7 років тому

      Hi there Mario. Let's start a new conversation. For starters, in accordance with our federal laws, can you show me where there is systematic oppression?

  • @patthekat2
    @patthekat2 9 років тому

    A very wise man who learned from his own very wise and loving father about the realities of life as a man of color. He's an inspiration.

  • @freedomofsoundexpressionc4530
    @freedomofsoundexpressionc4530 3 роки тому

    Very true words

  • @MaestroMusic
    @MaestroMusic 9 років тому +2

    I see my self as Human. Rife with mistakes, blessed with artistry and knowledge and wisdom. And battle-tested with experience. But the greatest question I must ask, is what defines Human to those who aren't like me? What defines Human to a system that once held my fellows in chains? I love the idea of being Human. But am I truly Human?

  • @apm77
    @apm77 9 років тому +3

    There's a lot in this video that makes me angry, but that emotion ultimately brings me back to that quote (which deserves the status of a proverb) that privilege is the ability to be outraged instead of terrified.
    Among other things, I am angry at anyone who claims that "black lives matter" somehow insinuates that white lives matter less. I don't believe there are any people who *sincerely* think "black lives matter" devalues white lives, but there are certainly people who *claim* that it does, and for their disingeniousness they are the target of my rage.

  • @elizabethmorales4577
    @elizabethmorales4577 4 роки тому

    My favorite book !! Thank you Paolo Freire

  • @IbrahimAlHaj865
    @IbrahimAlHaj865 9 років тому

    I can feel the pain behind his words
    is that the land of opportunity they talking about ??!!

  • @micklesmith7316
    @micklesmith7316 3 роки тому

    Dear Sir,
    Well done.
    I have raised my childrens in somewhat the same way.
    Reason: simple. In my country (Pakistan) Ahmadies have been declared non-muslims and there is hated beyond you can imagine.
    I lost my childhood like you and my children lost their childhood in the same atmosphere.
    But, I have tried to change it for good and I am still working.
    Thank you
    Abdul Sami Jehangiri,
    Abbottabad

  • @seanarmstrong1156
    @seanarmstrong1156 9 років тому +1

    he actually looks pretty "white" for a black guy.

  • @shuuzipuuzi
    @shuuzipuuzi 9 років тому +24

    It's always someone who is not a person of color that knows what people of color experience in America.... Lol! How would you know? You want us to raise our children to "not see color", but we ARE of color, and others blatantly make it known to us. Some people get hurt and even killed because of it. So, please, stop taking offense to people of color fighting to cease racism. We should all strive for a future where we recognize our differences but embrace it; not one where we "don't see it". I refuse to give up my culture so that others can satisfy their ignorance. As a Latina, I stand by Black Lives Matters because we share the same struggle. Peace & Love.

    • @DaniM0425
      @DaniM0425 6 років тому +5

      Jim Lamanna I don't even know where to begin with your post: "The worse parents are always black in every country, city, state..." Without knowing anything about you, I'm guessing you're a white male with a sub-standard education living in a predominantly white neighborhood. You probably work with your hands and anger easily. I'd like to take the opportunity to offer you some insight. There is a world that exists where your opinion is increasingly unpopular, albeit powerful. And this world is beginning to see that if you're not with us, you're against us. You struck the lottery when you were born; pure luck. But the 'black people' you speak of with so much distain and criticism are the same ones who have been affected & molded by the laws and policies of privilege. Poverty, mass incarceration and disproportionate minority contact, funding for schools & healthcare and the LABEL...which you, sir, continue to perpetuate because you think of black people as being "other" instead of brother. You are a product of your environment. And I hope my children never become like you.
      - A White Woman

    • @jimlamanna9712
      @jimlamanna9712 6 років тому

      DaniM0425 didn't waste my time reading your inexperienced and pathetic views. Please cry somewhere else oh Queen of Failure

    • @dogma7911
      @dogma7911 5 років тому

      You will always have racism as long as you perpetuate it. Black lives matter, how to raise a black child, NAACP, UNCF, etc...
      How about raising your black child like any other color child? You make a huge deal out of your skin color, when the vast majority of people don't really care.

    • @The_king567
      @The_king567 5 місяців тому

      Lmao you people are the problem and nobody is openly racist to you or people of collar no other country or people think like this. Why is that? God you don’t know what you are talking about and there has never been a successful, civilization history that celebrated their differences it’s never happened not once why should we do it