“We regret running an incorrect caption from a photo wire service in some early print editions. We will issue a correction in tomorrow’s paper.” This was the New York Times’ (NYT) attempt to save face after a major journalism faux pas.
Well, quite frankly, I now regret considering the NYT as one of the most credible news sources of all time. Kanye, where were you?
On Monday, September 17 2018, the auspicious Emmy award ceremony was aired on national television. The controversial introduction of the event received a variety of responses as Kate McKinnon and Kenan Thompson presented satirical commentary on the issue of diversity and inclusion in Hollywood. Their deliberate caricature of how the industry has “solved” exclusion by “ticking all the boxes” to “include” people of color in productions did not sit well with many.
Some vividly expressed dissatisfaction in Facebook comments, writing sentiments such as, “I thought award(s) were based on talent … not race, religion, nationality,” and “If you really want this country to get rid of racism, then you should quit making everything about race … Why can’t you just showcase the talent?”
Spend one minute considering such thoughts, and then the NYT shows their whole rear. On a gracious Tuesday, one of the highest rated platforms in the country, and perhaps the world, publishes a photo of Angela Bassett and tags her as Omarosa Manigault-Newman. Not even Lynn Whitfield, an actress who shares a slight resemblance with Bassett, but Omarosa, as in Trump’s ex-aide-who-spilled–White-House-tea-in-her-book, Omarosa.
I’d be damned if they tag Jennifer Garner as Sarah Huckabee-Sanders. Miss Bassett has paid her dues. She has starred in multiple blockbuster and indy productions, including Black Panther, a film that the publication has published copious articles. NYT, you really about to fly in her face like that?
I always thought I never stood a chance to work with the highly regarded platform, but since they dropped the bar straight on the ground, I might as well wash my feet and jump in.
On a serious note though, this whole ordeal just proves the point that the Emmys tried to make in its opening act. The whole attempt to "diversify the industry" is a farce because it is clear to see that you can build your reputation in the industry, be nominated for and win some of the most esteemed awards, and still be denied of your individuality as long as there is a superior demographic.
Kate and Kennan’s number was spot on about the industry.
You solved it! As long as you pay your dues, you get the recognition and respect you deserve. You solved it! Generalization and stereotypes are of the past. WE solved it!
So, in all of my personal sarcasm, Ms. Bassett, on behalf of the NYT staff, we regret our honest mistake and our editors are on it like white on rice. Maybe you can try starring in a movie bigger than Black Panther next time so that our (automated) system can recognize you.
