Black-ish is a funny and creative show about a successful upper middle class African-American family led by Andre 'Dre' Johnson (Anthony Anderson) and Rainbow Johnson (Tracee Ellis Ross). The show revolves around the family's lives, as they juggle personal and sociopolitical issues, mainly pertaining to cultural differences and controversial topics. Critics claim the show is slightly tone deaf to issues in the African American community, and that the show is not a realistic parody of black family life. Though the show has had criticism, it still pushes the black televised family forward.
Black-ish is a good show
Black-ish is funny and has creative dynamics when it comes to discussing topics on black family life. It's light-hearted and easily digestible by a wide range of audiences.
The show is an off-beat and constructive portrayal of a black family
"Black-ish" breaks new ground in terms of portraying black familial relations in a genre where the only point of reference is a white family. It provides an alternate perspective into reclaiming and embracing black identity.
The show highlights controversial topics that are usually avoided, but need to be addressed
"Black-ish" tackles issues that are not just racially motivated, but are also taboo in society. This is in keeping with its premise that familial problems do not strike based on the color of a person's skin.
Even though the show is a good sitcom, there are important issues that they ignore and refuse to address. The creater, Kenya Barris, typecasts the characters of the show and creates a unrealistic image of American black family life.
The show "Black-ish" is a misrepresentation of black identity
Through the portrayal of certain characters, "Black-ish" encourages stereotyping the black identity. Moreover, it turns a blind eye to reverse racism, thus invalidating it.
The show's title is provocative and generalizes the African American community
The title "Black-ish" reflects the double standards that exist in relation to the black community. While it does strike an ironic tone, "Black-ish" treads the border between being racist, and a true reflection of society.
