Black Men Are Many Things, Including Storytellers

In 2018, Kobe became the first Pro-Athlete to win an Oscar for his animated short, “Dear Basketball”. In 2020, Michael Cherry, the creator of “Hair Love”, The recent animated short that has captured hearts around the country and possibly the globe, is now up for that same category and is a former Pro-Athlete, who played for the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cincinnati Bengals, Carolina Panthers and the Baltimore Ravens.

What else do these two have in common? They are storytellers. More specifically, they are Black Men. In 2020, you wouldn’t think that the narrative of a black man in America would not still be so “cut out”. Ridged.

Black men are like everyone else. They are funny, they are friendly, they are strong, they are smart, they have feelings. Something special happens when black men harness their power. Not the strength and the fight we know of but, the creativity. The things that bring them joy.

Kobe was such a creative mind. He had so much talent and drive. He was funny. He was witty. He was smart and charming. Kobe was a Black Man. Remember that when you remember him. Remember that all of that greatness and power belonged to a Black Man.

Similar to how Kobe, in such a timely way, tweeted his salute to Lebron for continuing the greatness of the game. I am sure Kobe will be rooting for Michael as well. Michael may not be a father himself but, he represented #GirlDads everywhere with this film.

Be sure to tune into the Oscars as we cheer on Michael Cherry for the category of Best Animated Short February 9, 2020, 8:00 PM EST.