growth and development

Blacking Up: Hip-Hop\’s Remix of Race and Identity (Trailer)

Blacking Up is a new documentary by Robert A. Clift, that examines the complexities of race, identity and appropriation through the lens of hip-hop culture.  The term “blacking up” refers to the act of applying black shoe polish or a burnt cork concoction onto one’s face, in order to appear black.  The term became popular with the rising popularity of minstrel shows in the early 19th century.  The history of the minstrel show is well documented and was one of the first forms of white appropriation of black culture.  Sasha Baron Cohen’s Ali G Show, The Breaks and Danny Hoch’s Whiteboyz, were early comic approaches into the subject matter.

I haven’t seen the film , as it has yet to air here in DC, but will do a more detailed drop after viewing.

Broadcast listings for your locale here.