"The Bad Case of The Twerking Syndrome"

WARNING: "TWERKING"/ "BOOTY POPPING"/ "RUMP-SHAKING" and other hyper- physical dances are not suitable for performance everywhere.

I was on Facebook and I seen that one of my fellow male friends re-posted the image below from another Facebook page. I love the image...I LOATHE THE CAPTION. I may lose a few of you, but that's okay because it happens. Now, I'm about to tear everything about this image apart if you don't mind. For beginners, I dislike the idea that the caption may or may not have ruined someone's photo...like most images via the Internet. The caption takes away from what we all should be celebrating: someone else's success. For my people dedicated to including color in any situation, the caption takes away from celebrating the success of another individual of the same or similar race while appreciating their "come up". For my people that exclude race because it's not always an issue, the caption eliminates the celebration of the accomplishment of someone else's child or the success point for someone who is one step closer to their personal goal. 

My second issue: That ONE grammar issue. Yes, I'm pointing it out. Whoever created the caption for the image should have used "You're" instead of "You". Talk about education, right? Were they twerking too? Sure, let's caption this graduate but use the incorrect grammar. My biggest issue with this image is the twerking part. For starters, twerking is not new everyone; it has just been given a different name...with few additional moves. The shaking of the rear has been existent for centuries. It's found its way into cultural dances, the Lindy Hop (yes people had issues with the Lindy Hop), the gyrating of Elvis's pelvis, and fast forward to Sisqo's "Thong Song",and there it is. It's continued and made its way into the "now" where the music videos have totally gotten out of control and parents are allowing their adolescents to mimic the dances they're watching on television. Don't get me started!!!! I'm certain this will appall some, but, "twerking" does not disqualify you from receiving an education. Taken aback are you? To know that the gyrating of a backside doesn't define a person's educational status in all cases? Inappropriate in certain situations and places? IT SURE IS. Can this type of dancing affect your education, image, and certain opportunities? In some instances (more so when the dancing is recorded or seen in the wrong place), YES it can. BUT, again, it does not define everyone's character or educational status. Cut the generalization out. Also, I've noticed that the people sharing this image are both male and female...the same males that have been gyrated on and the same females that have confessed to partaking in some rump-shakin'. Mhhmmm!!! I just loathe the caption, you all. Lol. 

Don't misinterpret my post, certain dances are to be displayed in public, while others are meant to be displayed in private. Am I tired of the Vines that used to be funny (but aren't anymore) because every Vine is now someone shaking their butt (with or without clothing)? I'm extremely tired of that! Am I bothered by recorded videos of young children dancing on one another? Yes, that is not okay. Am I further disappointed that the lack of self-respect has skyrocketed since women have become careless as to whom or what they shake something for? Yep. But, dancing (even if some of you don't perceive it to be dancing) does not define all of our educational statuses. I appreciate the attempted activism to redirect twerking into more appropriate settings while trying to rear our young women back to what should be their priorities, but this is not the way to pursue it. So, I will let you all know, I shook my onion while picking up that bachelor's degree (that I worked hard for), and I'm going to shake my onion while I grab that graduate's degree, and so forth. LET'S PROVE THIS IMAGE WRONG.

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/29/2014

1/20/2014

"Popping Gum Ain't Always Fun".

It's time for class. Today you have an exam in one of those general ed. college classes you loathe (because they have nothing to do with your major), and you've studied for an excessive amount of hours, had a nice snack before the class, made flashcards, threw on your favorite sweatpants (because you know you can leave after the exam and that bed is calling your name), and you're certain you're ready. The class is silent because everyone's heads are looking down at their desks reviewing for the last few minutes before the class begins. Your professor walks in, greets the class, throws in a totally not-funny joke, and begins handing out the exam. Pencil in hand, you're ready. Within moments, you're filling in answers and in the process, a "POP!" breaks the silence. Strike ONE. It throws you off, but you get back to your exam. Again, "POP!". Strike TWO, dude. Looking around, you spot a fellow classmate chewing on some gum. The enemy...you lower your eyes and exhale (extremely loud) in hopes the villainous gum chewer will take the hint. Then, a triple combo "POP! POP! POP!" Strike THREE! Now, your eyes are rolling and the huffing multiplies. I know you've probably done it too. There's always one of them...somewhere. We want to avoid being offensive or coming off as rude, but, despite our failing sound effects, we really want to shout "Can YOU stop popping your *#$%@ gum! DANG!!" It doesn't work like that, friends...no matter how badly we want to stomp their gum to death, shred their exam, or turn green and lose control like the Hulk. The worst part of this situation is there is usually no way to keep the gum popper content if you ask them to stop. Most get offended as if we stole the gum from their mouth. Gum poppers are one of the types in almost every classroom. It can be deadly.

Despite the risk of cavities many of us take to express our undying love for gum and to defeat superterribleawful breath- according to certain studies- there are actual benefits of gum chewing. Gum chewing is beneficial for holding off hunger...but not for a long time (I don't think this works for me). Sugar-free gum or caffeinated gum is good for a mini caffeine fix as well. Another suggested benefit, is that gum chewing  can assist in relieving stress and assisting with focus. The only downfall I believe related to this benefit is that concentrating too hard results in some of us having injured tongues because we accidentally bit down on them...or the jaw (the pain is NO joke...my 'lanta). One of the major benefits I think is pretty important is that gum chewing boosts the powers of the brain! It assists with maintaining focus, blood flow to the brain, remembering things, and it kicks fatigue in the genitals! What's better than that? The gum can be sugared gum or sugar-free gum. How lovely...but...we still don't want to hear you popping your gum! There are places in which gum popping is less of a problem: at home, on the toilet, walking, when you're alone, when you're alone, when you're alone. Those are just a few possible places, but in the classroom during an exam or lecture, in the library, at your place of employment where you constantly interact with customers,  on the phone, and (especially) when you're having a face-to-face conversation with another individuals is not-at all- okay. It speaks inconsideration, and although it may be a habit for some of us (so the popping is so far from intentional) it's almost as horrid as hearing someone snoring...in class. Popping is for poppin'-n-lockin', popping corn, popping the backside (when the time is right...heeyyy), popping Pringles...and I guess popping gum, but in the right place. Gum poppers, take heed to the sound effects. Someone is probably directing the sounds to you and your loud affair with your gum. Habit, love affair, addiction, you name it, but please pop it at the right time...or pop at your own risk!

http://healthland.time.com/2012/06/22/hack-your-gum-boost-brainpower-and-fix-everything/

http://www.cnn.com/2009/HEALTH/04/22/chewing.gum.benefits/index.html?eref=rss_latest

With Realness,
Bee Elae
1/29/2014

"Fighting Our Way Through"- Encouragement Blog

I have two posters on the wall in my room (alongside my "Wizard of Oz" and "Rosie the Riveter" posters) decorated with quotes of encouragement from various figures including my Mommy, former professors, Deanna Bennett, and Papa to well known figures like Maya Angelou, Mark Twain, Toni Morrison, Jim Rohn, Joyce Meyer, and Sue Monk Kid. Regardless of the doubt you may have about the level of effectiveness of these posters, they've been amazing and have saved my life in some shape or form. Like anyone else trying to achieve their goals, there have been times that I've grown tired, frustrated, and anxious for my turn. And what goes on outside of our heads in that huge world, that our people have tainted, brings forth an even tougher challenge of survival. Taking a leap and ending up back to where we were before, our share of trials and tribulations, maturity, people looking to see you fail and attempting to defame your character (that we devote more time to than the people wishing well for us), sore losers, gossipers, losing someone, gaining someone, idea biters, losing sight of your path, tired of being on that path...the list is endless. I understand all of that, but out of the handful of people rooting for me with their signs and "Team Bri" apparel, I'd like to share encouraging words someone has shared with me:

"You're never given anything you cannot handle and sometimes you have to go back and try again because you didn't do it right the first time, but that's all apart of life, girl. Nobody owes you anything and what you want, you've gotta go out and get. It's not going to be easy because it's not supposed to be, but do what you love. No one has to like you and some never will, but if no one's talking about you, then you're not doing what you're supposed to be doing. Things happen but you've got to grow, girl. Hold your shi* tight. It's all apart of life."-Papa Keyes He always tells me that: "It's all apart of life". Life is what we make it (excluding the things we simply have no control over). Some can't pinpoint exactly what their purpose is yet or what they want, some don't care, some are too lazy to care, and some work to make what they want happen. What's important is having the audacity to always give a good fight, remembering the people that support you, learning from things that hadn't worked out in our favor, and knowing that despite the time, until the clock stands still there's no reason to give up. And although we may grow tired, we must continue fighting. How frustrating is it that negativity tends to lead instead of positivity? I, too, loathe remaining in the same place for too long, but there are reasons for that. We must have something to correct because we hadn't done it correctly prior. Our goals may seem so far, but one of the tests in life is to see how we keep striving to grasp what we want. “Kites rise highest against the wind, not with it.” ― Winston Churchill Make it work. Make it happen. We're capable. Also, be careful with who you share your dreams. I've learned that as well.
Two of the quotes on my poster I wanted to share with you:

"Above all, be the heroine of your life, not the victim"-Nora Ephron

" I have learned that success is to be measured bot so much by the position that one has reached in life as by the obstacles which he has come while trying to succeed".-Booker T. Washington

OPTIMISM.

With Realness,

Bee Elae
1/27/2014
1:04 a.m.

"Hoosier Interviews: Who's In Indiana? Pt. 2"

Despite the image some individuals may have towards Northerners along with the opinions of Indiana's Hoosiers, some of the Hoosiers are climbing their way to success...and what better way to acknowledge them than on the Internet?! There are plenty of us all from various age ranges, backgrounds, and talents. Local musicians (including Wally West, Samuel London, Manuel King, Tarrah Mychelle, Larry Redding, Bird B, T-Krazy, Benzo, The B.E.A.T, and Komain just to name a few), dancers, professors and people fighting for change (such as April Lidinsky), activists, poets, actresses and actors, writers, athletes, college students striving for success, artists, and more. Basically, anything you name, I can disclose at least five individuals gifted in each category. Overlooked, (I know), Indiana is seldom acknowledged for much with the exception of being noted as a place of origin for few celebrities, the idea that Indiana enacted the law for sterilization in eugenics, and it's connection to racism, but underneath the image (and those facts), people are working! From shows with our favorite local musicians, to projects and events pushing for equality and change, to plays, successful programs, and art events. Anyone that knows me, KNOWS I LOVE art. Basquiat, Banksy, Frida K., Keith Haring...but I'm going to expose a few of Indiana's very own artists on the come up! The artists I'm showing off to you all are artists of the group SYNDICATE which is one of Indiana's very own all male art group consisting not only of different personalities, styles, and goals but also different talents. I sat down and talked it away with two of my buddies who are members of SYNDICATE to offer a little more information on what they do, what they are striving for, and why.

Myron Waddell, also known as "Mizzy" or "Mizzle-dwarf" is a native of South Bend, Indiana and defines SYNDICATE as:

"A group of gentlemen that have come together to enhance culture in one way or another" (Myron Waddell). He continues by stating that "there are several rappers: Wally West, Swisher Jones, and Bambino Bankz. Mike Mass is an upcoming tattoo artist. Last but not least we have a few visual artists: Terrible Tony, Speedy LaFlame, and myself" (Myron "Mizzy" Waddell). After explaining that he doesn't consider himself an artist, he continued that he enjoys expressing his creativity through art. Mizzy's main focus is centered towards using what he's learned and relating it to his work! After inquiring about the success of SYNDICATE and his expectations as to where he will be in the years to come, he responded with this:

"No big breaks at the moment. We've all been honored enough to receive an immense amount of great feedback for our work, though. We’re all constantly working to better our crafts as a group and more importantly, as individuals. I think we’d all love to get paid to do what we’re talented at, whether it’s the rappers getting record label deals or opening up a gallery for the artists. Most importantly we just want to have a lasting effect on the culture of art for years to come...I don’t think about where I’ll end up too much. I just want to be happy and I want my friends and loved ones to be happy and successful. I believe that once you have all the pieces around you that complete you, the real dream comes true. That’s my end goal. Happiness. " 

Below is a temporary site to view SYNDICATE artwork and clothing: http://syndxx.tumblr.com/.

 Mizzy

Following Mizzy, I spent some time chopping it up with my high school friend, Mike Mass ("Massey") who also spoke on being a member of SYNDICATE and how he expresses his art. Massey, age 24, is also a native of South Bend, Indiana and focuses on art while shifting his artwork on paper into tattoo art. After asking Massey to speak on his focus he explains where his love for art came from: "I started drawing in like the 3rd grade. Art just so happens to be one of the ways I'm good at expressing myself. Now that I'm older I've learned to appreciate it more and use it for more positive aspects like entrepreneurship or galleries. I love the fact I can pull all the weird shit out of my head at anytime I want and literally show you what I'm thinking. Always been an appealing aspect that kind of keeps me deep into it. Like a super power except they can't come alive off paper... Yet". After giving credibility to the other members of SYNDICATE, Massey continues with: "My dream is to obtain power over someone who doesn't deserve to have power. I have many dreams though...mainly to just be happy with what I'm doing, have a good life, and die a good man. If I end up making a lot of money doing it, then I'll be comforted by the fact I could change a lot. I plan on ending up in London or something with the people I came in this with at a private table with our cell phones in the middle, and the first one to answer, pays the tab. Haha word to my brotha Miz though" (Massey). Massey concludes that after acknowledging the challenge of his transition and the progression of his art skill, his biggest break is his progression with tattoo art. " I'm shooting for the stars, see where it takes me. Living the Journey" (Mike Massey). Both Mizzy and Massey have shared some of their artwork with me to share with you all! 

Massey 
Instagram - MassRenaissanceXX
Twitter - @DemiGawdXX Facebook - Mike Mass Tumblr - StayyoungneverDie

Check them out and support the dream! In the meantime, be sure to check out some of Indiana's other artists including:

Amanda Joseph (http://www.zggallery.com/joseph.htm), Tearanie Fisher (https://www.facebook.com/tearaniefisherphotography), and Liz Coleman (art and fashion). Be looking out for more interviews with some of Indiana's hard workers and honorable mentions including fancy folks with cameras and beats, professors from local universities, students of all education levels that are making their way to the top or have done something for the community, more artists and activists, leaders, and others. Also, "like" my blog @ http://brikhousedelights.blogspot.com/ and follow my discussions on relevant topics and issues in society and our communities. From the bottom on up and until next time!

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/21/14

"Compli(aint)ments"

I recently blogged about the issues with compliments that follow with negativity (i.e. "You're pretty for a big girl", "You're cute to be dark-skinned", and "You're cute for a nerd") in which I hope it has caused some of our fellow brothers and sisters to reconsider the way they phrase their words to form a compliment when  speaking to another person. Immediately after that blog, I thought about how positive and genuinely kind compliments given to people are received negatively. By negatively I mean that the people receiving the compliment overlook the compliment given in exchange for assuming the person that has given the compliment is enamored with that them. For a lack of better words, "thirsty". I'm not talking an excessive amount of compliments from the same person where desperation for acknowledgement is obvious, or repetitive "pokes" on Facebook along with messages with awful pick-up lines and terrible approaches. I'm speaking on the type of compliments that offer respect and appreciation like: "You look nice today", "You look/are beautiful", "You look handsome in your outfit", or "Nice smile". It's actually pretty ludicrous. I've conversed with some of my friends (male and female) about this issue, and it was often that the majority of my male friends were frustrated with the reaction they've received from handing out compliments to women or other men. 

One of my male friends stated that most of the women he complimented brushed him off or responded to his compliment with a facial expression of disgust stating he was "thirsty". Some of the other males I'd ask about compliments stated that the compliment suggested the individual giving the compliment was subliminally stating that they wanted to engage in sexual activity. The majority of my female friends I discussed this with were the females who perceived the compliment-givers (mainly males) as "thirsty" and cared less about the compliments because of the numerous amount of times they'd heard them, or perceived the individual offering the compliment to have an underlying motive. It's unfortunate that I hear more women refer to someone that has only given them a compliment as "thirsty" simply because of the compliment.  A major conflict for the lack of wanting to give compliments: arrogance and responses. Honestly, the issues with compliments will never be resolved simply because of things like the motives behind the compliment, communication and body language, the words selected for the compliment and what is accepted as a compliment. We are unaware of the level of innocence and genuineness in the compliment. It's all messed up, I know. Here's the deal: some people that dish out compliments are doing just that...other people are not. I acknowledge that both are prevalent among compliment giving, but it can be shut down with a simple "Thank you".Despite the motive, just accept the compliment and move on unless you're interested in carrying the conversation further with that person. How you get down is your personal business. 

The idea of compliments being perceived as "signs of thirst" has caused resistance for people to want to offer compliments at all and miscommunication among people. Expecting compliments all of the time because of your own arrogance doesn't mean everyone else feels the same way or obsesses over you as much as you do yourself, you know? I'd also like to state that people have a tendency to assume the same thing when receiving compliments from someone of the same sex. I mean, sexual orientations vary, but the truth is, no one is everyone's type. This news is probably hard for some people to accept right now...try to breathe. Some of us have become so self-absorbed and familiar with compliments that we expect them and expect the individuals giving compliments to want something, and it's not always like that. These assumptions and our responses to situations when compliments are given represent pieces of our character. Why can't someone of the opposite sex offer a RESPECTFUL remark about a feature or attraction to your personality or guise? Why can't someone of the same sex offer a RESPECTFUL compliment without being so infatuated with your appearance that they MUST want you? We should be able to compliment one another in a respectful manner, and for those that do, in fact, lack in appropriate or respectful compliments, please understand that that is not appealing to everyone, and it also speaks of your character as well. Take it easy, keep your bottles and glasses full so you're never, ever parched (Lol), and...just say "Thank you".

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/12/2014

1/19/2014

"Daddies Do It Too"

Earlier, I was scrolling through CNN's news-feed and while trying to maintain my composure through all of the negative news, I found a video clip on an interview between a father of two and one of the members of a news center focused on an image the father posted on his Facebook which has been going viral for quite some time now. It's a picture of  the father doing one of his daughter's hair while his youngest lay strapped around his abdomen. Unaware (I assume) that it would receive this much attention, the father, Doyin Richards, is now recognized for...BEING A PARENT! Woohoo!

http://us.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/us/2014/01/11/hln-intv-proud-dad-viral-pic-backlash.hln.html

I'd seen the image oftentimes being shared by my associates on my Facebook page previous to the interview I seen today, and although the image itself is adorable (because it is a parent and their children), I suppose I hadn't paid it enough mind to "share" the image because it was a father (also known as a "parent" lol) tending to the needs of his children which is what I'd perceived to be a requirement in parenting. But there were aspects of the photo that obtained some of my attention as it has for others. Along with the picture, captions similar to "This is a REAL MAN", and "Real men do things like this" outlined the top of the photo. Oh yeah, the father in the photo is BLACK and his children are "MIXED". My initial emotion of contentment derived from the breaking of the stereotypical image infamous for being displayed within our society and in the African American culture: that all Black men don't take care of their children. How refreshing to see a male break the stereotype given unto them. Proof, that all Black men are not the same. 

Historically, "Broken homes" and "single parent" households have been made to be existent only in certain races offering the fictitious image of our neighbors and people in passing, and reinforcing one of the many stereotypes and generalizations. Understand that I acknowledge some Black fathers (and fathers in GENERAL) exit the home and fail tremendously in tending to and supporting their children (which is not a one-parent job), but the belief that all Black fathers are the same due to some statistics and experiences is obnoxious, and it shows through the comments and responses from this image. SN: Don't go telling me I don't understand because my father was absent throughout most of my life...and he's Black...and I've been brought up extremely well by my single-parent mom, so let's move around! This will be centered towards a specific race because it has been made to. What's unfortunate is the shock people have from what one father (of however many other fathers) does for their children. I grew frustrated after reading the captions and responses for the image. Why were so many people surprised by the image honestly? Because of Mr. Doyin Richards' skin color. That's already been addressed. And it's sad because  there are men that assist in offering validity to the stereotype of Black men being absent in their child's life while giving their oppressors much to converse about. Also, the unnecessary and negative bashing of ALL Black men by women of the same race and outside of the same race adds onto the struggles of understanding one another. I understand the frustration when a partner leaves the home selfishly, but excessive unnecessary conversation and expression in public contributes to the tension. By this I mean making a  Facebook status or going on Maury and saying something like "All men are dogs" or "All Black men do is sleep around and make kids they don't care of". I'm not stating that the issue should be ignored...we definitely need to improve in that aspect, but there are ways to approach these issues maturely for all parties.

Another reason why people were shocked by the image? Because Doyin was taking on the duties proclaimed to belong to the woman. Doyin stayed at home with his children because he wanted to- breaking the norms expected of man given by society. It's seldom a male is seen with one of his children comfortably resting on his stomach while working through the hair on his other child's head...and some of us know that hair care is tough! The number of "shares" this image has had discloses how our minds are still connected to gender roles and expectations. If we were to eliminate gender roles, would the image have gone viral?

Some of the comments from the image were awful-more so sad because it displayed the number of minds occupied by people intimidated by change and comfortably situated in a mind-state of hate, ethnocentrism, and complete racism for no reasons at all. There will always be someone somewhere seeking to express their inappropriate hatred whether it's on Youtube, a blog, another social network, or a picture projecting positivity. Despite the positive comments, it's unfortunate some of the comments included individuals stating the picture would be better if the "kids were black", that the father couldn't be supported because his partner wasn't a Black woman, or that the father could give the children back their mother and return to selling drugs. These type of comments only keep the tension amid races, cultures, and ethnicities. Despite the stereotypes and generalizations that may seem correct, not everyone is the same way. In the REAL world, no one is one race. In the REAL world, a huge percentage of the population will consist of individuals of multiple races or ethnicities in the future anyway. In the REAL world, the possibility of racism and racial slurs is present, but there's an opportunity to overcome it. 

Again, but from a general perspective, the stereotypes and generalizations in reference to traits, actions, and characteristics distributed among women and men as a whole shows how it affects our thoughts, actions, and responses. History presses its feet down in the dirt to assure we don't forget gendered roles- men as the 'breadwinner' and workers outside of the home, and women who tend to domestic and nurturing duties and tasks- but parenting should not be gender based. We've allowed these things. There are things one parent may not be able to do that other can, but why should we be surprised that a father is taking care of his children? The image is as beautiful to me as it would be if it was a mother taking care of her children. The image shows strength, love, and pride in parenting.

Doyin states during his CNN interview:

"If a woman did this, this would not be news, right? But the fact that I'm a guy, and I do that, that just shows we really need to change the narrative on what fathering is about..."  (http://us.cnn.com/video/data/2.0/video/us/2014/01/11/hln-intv-proud-dad-viral-pic-backlash.hln.html).

We must improve. All of us.

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/16/2014

"My Ongoing Issues with The Oprah Dress(es) in 2014"

• In November of 2013, Peggy Noland and Sally Thurer were fully aware of what they were doing. They released "The Oprah Dress". In a short amount of time, the dress sparked controversy. Let's be real, it's obvious that in order to receive the utmost attention and reactions from the media, something deemed as "attention worthy" must be done. Celebrity bashing or social network drama among well-known public figures, sex scandals, plastic surgeries, substance/alcohol abuse...the basic idea is covered. Noland's choice: using the head of Oprah- a wealthy, well-known, and admired woman(with limited haters) -and selecting a few frames (that don't offer a valid image of figure variation for all women) to attach to the Oprah head, and smack it on a dress. Unfortunately, subjects like these have rerouted the minds of individuals from what is actually important versus what is made important because of materialistic items. Not to mention that media coverage is not absolute coverage, but who am I? Credits to Noland for playing the game. It's apart of the industry and nearly an important aspect for anyone desiring to get noticed: doing something to get the mouths and fingers moving and persons to either become enraged, ecstatic, and engaged.
• Sure, this occurred last year, but I'm not letting go of it because of my decision to address my issues with the dress. I could stay put and lead the distaste for the dress from the racial perspective: the idea of Black women being identified only as sexual objects being reiterated on this dress, the idea of subliminal messages being made about Black women and our struggle with obesity, the correlation the nude figure has with slavery, and the KISS face that could be referenced to some form of a reverse "Sambo face"/"Black Face". Although the racial perspective can be argued, I'm not focused on that at all. Not only because it's already expected of me to focus only on the racial complications with this dress as a woman that can identify with the race displayed, but because my interest towards the dress is targeted towards the facial expressions of the "Oprah head", the sizes of the bodies, and to whom they belong. I read two online articles discussing Noland's dress and studied the responses from the articles. I stared at the words and tried to understand her responses from my perspective as well as someone else's who was in favor of the dress.  Noland selected Oprah for the dress -according to http://nymag.com/thecut/2013/11/oprah-skinny-naked-screaming-on-your-dress.html- because of Oprah's experience with  her challenges in reference to weight. It seems her decision to limit the clothing or completely expose the body of the figure on the dress stems from someone else's artwork. Although Noland played the game, people are still displeased. I shared the image of the dress with some of my fellow friends to seek their reactions. Some were enraged and upset because of the skin color of the figures on the dresses, others were displeased because of the race and size of the woman modeling the dresses, and few were livid because of the lack of attraction they shared for the dress as well as the shoes of the woman wearing the dresses altogether.
• In reality, there's no valid reasoning for choosing to design the figure on the dress without clothing. Despite the suggested responses from Noland in the interview given in the link above, it still lacks legitimacy-ridiculously. Despite Oprah's weight challenges, she is not the only celebrity (or person in the world for that matter) to have endured these type of challenges nor did she pose similar to the posture of the figures on the dresses. Also, in argument against the t-shirts displaying figures in bathing suits (excluding a head) which Noland made reference to in an interview, a majority of those clothing items have the breast and private parts covered up with swimwear. My next observation was the facial expressions of the face of the woman-that is supposed to be Oprah-and how it can be related to the figures on the dresses.There are two facial expressions that favor in possessing a small smile. Both facial expressions are situated on two of the body frames: one for the thinner, socially accepted figure, and the other on the nude figure. Why is the Oprah head happiest on the thinnest figure? Possible reiteration of society's preference of the thinner woman? Is the other smiling Oprah head on the nude figure to show love for the nude self? For the dress with the larger figure, the Oprah head is no longer smiling. Her facial expression offers the suggestions of shock, disgust, and possible fear. Is her facial expression used to express discontent  because the figure steps outside of the ideals for a woman's physical make-up? What about expressing concern for obesity? It doesn't make sense to me at all. Why wasn't she smiling like the rest of the Oprah heads? As for the Oprah head covered with the "Kiss face"(which isn't really the Kiss face because her tongue would be sticking out), is this really a form of humor towards the decisions made in the fashion industry? I doubt this selection was the only possible selection that could have displayed humor that would be more visible to everyone.
•  I sent a letter to Mrs./Ms. Noland to seek possible answers to my inquiries to her choices for the dress, but she never responded-as I'm certain she's too busy working on her next projects- and that's okay. I do wonder though, if weight has been an issue for a multitude of people-mainly women-wouldn't it have made more sense to include figures of different skin shades and sizes of celebrities to acknowledge the idea of weight challenges for all people? Then again, her main focus was on Oprah...a nude Oprah...that actually didn't really look like Oprah. This design is a design that can be viewed as some form of art-as almost anything can be-but it may not be the most impressive. For those who have been infuriated by this dress, and the many opinions that have soared after seeing this dress, I get it. A woman of the opposite race than the figure on a dress she made; her selection of words used such as "white trash"; the poor responses to inquiries about the figures on the dresses; her choice of person to go on the dresses; the feeling of not knowing the exact reasons for the dress...I understand. Conflicts. And for those that may view it as irrelevant, maybe it's not something you're interested in, and that happens, but it was and is still an issue...and it still isn't okay.
• Again, it's part of the game. Thank goodness Oprah didn't respond to Noland how Sophia did to Harpo...
• 
• Google Images
• With Realness, 
• Bee Elae
• 1/10/2014

"Political Correctness and Wreckness" by Bee Elae

I was having a conversation with a three year old in the summer of 2013 (after our superhero fight), and the child proceeded to tell me how much they loved firefighters...except the child referred to them as "firemen". Our next mission was to put out a fire caused by a "bad guy" and I slid my arms into the way, way too small firefighter jacket, and buttoned up my little friend's fire fighter apparel in which the sleeves covered their little fingers. It was so adorable. I asked if I could be a firefighter, and the child replied "NO! Girls can't be firemen!!" Burrrnnnn.

This will be short and sweet but think about these: policeman/policewoman, fireman/fire woman, garbageman/garbage woman, and superman/superwoman. The bright side: how pleasant it is that specificity and individualism is expressed by adding "man" or "woman" to the end of a career title. The foggy, dark side: the lack of acknowledgement for other persons outside of the "man" or "woman" categories, and the complete misunderstanding and absence of legitimate reasoning as to why sex is that relevant in reference to a career name. Gender is relevant for equal rights within an occupation; not for unnecessary distinguishing. Throughout my upbringing, there were no differences in reference to career names (unless it were the type of occupations in which there were differences in status or education like "doctor" and "nurse"). There was a firefighter, a police officer, a garbage collector, and a super hero. Historically, inequality was all but non-existent, and women were limited in the work field while men were almost limitless. I also recall my Women's and Gender professor correcting someone who addressed her as an "actress" after a class project. "Actor", she responded. Have you actually thought about it? WHY is "man" or "woman" placed behind a career title? What about people that don't identify with being "male" or "female"? Is adding the gender of a person onto their occupation that important for identification? Saying "fireman" excludes everyone else but the male, and saying "fire woman" excludes everyone else outside of the female...so...it makes sense to address them as a "firefighter", right? Are these titles being made into a bigger issue than necessary?

"Politically correct: agreeing with the idea that people should be careful not to use language or behave in a way that could offend a particular group of people" ("Politically Correct." Merriam-Webster.com. Merriam-Webster, n.d. Web. 9 Jan. 2014. <http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/politically correct>).

 Gendered words and titles may not receive the 1st place ribbon on the relevancy list because there are more in-depth issues in our societies in desperate need of being addressed, but the ideas for and against "political correctness" are quite large after engaging in debate or thought. After having read other opinions and responses towards political correctness, I argue that the reactions are astounding and capable of making one think about gendered words, who the words include and exclude, and who it does and does not offend. It's understood  that some individuals feel as if distinguishing the gender of a person following their career title is of minuscule importance, and for those that are offended by it possess insecurities and are seeking negativity, but it's also understood the impact the words have on individuals that consider the titles to be of importance and affect the path to equality among persons. After reading an article I found on Huffington post by BJ Gallagher (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bj-gallagher/the-problem-political-correctness_b_2746663.html), I thought more about political correctness. In agreeing to part of what BJ stated, I inquired if the "effects" of the extent of political correctness caused more issues despite the "original intent" which was positive. Has political correctness limited one's freedom of speech?

 I reconsidered one of the statements made by someone suggesting that those that approve of political correctness are insecure. I disagree. It seems as if individuals have taken political correctness to an extreme which has caused more problems than addressing the initial issue. An issue which should not have been an issue, but more of an understanding in reference to respecting all people, but political correctness seems to have the ability of being applied excessively and unnecessarily in certain instances. Political correctness is not completely outright and the definition is believed to be poorly structured. Still, why is it such a challenge to exclude the gender of a person from a career title? For what reason were the differences created? Another question, is the term "political correctness" appropriate? That is my problem. I appreciate (and accept) the idea of gender-neutral career titles, but the the term name ("political correctness"), the extent of practicing the term, the path change, and effect of political correctness leads to issues. That's the problem. It's been used inappropriately. Is being more mindful of the terms we use towards others more relevant than the terms we are given to use?

                                                   ^ Definitely a Google Image ^

With Realness, 

Bee Elae

1/10/2014

" Hoosier Interviews: Who's In Indiana??" Pt.1

As part of my blog, I will be interviewing and sharing information with you all about other talented people from my home state and giving you a little review about what they do and are planning to do with their dreams. NO WORRIES, the blogs on controversial subjects and my opinions about what's going on in the world will definitely still be going on, but I'm adding a little twist onto it!

Every month, I'm going to try to share a small portion of Indiana's awesome musicians, artists, professors, dancers, activists, and other gifted people in the Hoosier state with you all!! So let's get to it:

January 10, 2014: Aja Ellington- known as "Bird B"(a nickname given to her since birth)- will be presenting her mix-tape: "The Caged Bird" and performing some of her songs at Smith's Downtown Tap and Grill. Bird B is one of Indiana's female rap lyricists and is working towards her goals while enduring every test and opportunity placed in her path. She will be having guest appearances and performances by:

Wally West and Billy East/East Meets West (Rap lyricists)

T-Krazy (Rap lyricist)

Loud Life (Rap lyricists)

Josh King (R & B artist)

Rex Rogun (Rap lyricist)

All lyrical artists, lyricists, or singers in the state of Indiana who I'll be including in a few of my blogs.

Despite the assumptions that you may have about Bird's dream, her biggest goal is to become a social worker for youth with special needs. She states, "My lyrics come from the heart...some of my songs consist of topics that I am not comfortable with", and later states that although some people may perceive her as being "less genuine" for her lack of comfortability, she makes the music for people that listen to that type of music which is, in fact, an immense amount of people. Bird follows with, "I plan to use less cussing and put more time and effort into my lyrics in the near future". She focuses on extending her arms out to other individuals through her music and and her aspirations towards having a positive impact for others in need as a counselor. Interested in learning more about Bird B? Let me know! Support her dream!

Another event coming up in the month of January is the "Cypher Elite Party" at Club Fever which is January 17, 2014!! November of 2013, some of Indiana's local artists/emcees: Wally West, T-Krazy, Benzo Da Realest, B. East (also a member of The B.E.A.T), Komain, and Haven Russell spit some of their hottest bars on camera among each other, and released the recording on Thanksgiving Day via social networks and YouTube. With both, positive and negative feedback, each artist has still been progressing and focusing on their goals- all releasing new singles or mix-tapes which their followers have enjoyed and appreciated! Black Diamond Promotions is hosting the Cypher Elite Party at Club Fever in which all of the artists mentioned above will be attending along with host, Joel Perez (also known as Joey Diamond), DJ Blackfoot, and the creator of the Cypher Elite, Dee Boogie Brown! These are also just some of Indiana's gifted individuals. Interested in listening to what they've got? Let me know! And, again, support their dream!

With Realness and back to the controversy, 

Bee Elae

1/9/2014

" B's Beef with 'You're Cute For A Big Girl' "

Compliments and the acceptance of compliments have been altered ridiculously. It's now appealing and perceived as a compliment by many to be a "bad bi*ch", "Five-Star Bi*ch","Dime piece", someone contacted and expected to engage with someone sexually after 2 a.m., or to only be useful in the dark and for certain qualities they may possess. Without getting into my extreme dissatisfction for those titles, I will turn my aversion to a few of the most utterly repulsive and imbecilic "compliments" in our newest time: "You're cute for a dark-skinned/light-skinned girl", "You're cute for an Asian girl...", "You can dance for a White girl", and, "You're cute for a big girl". The list goes on. Please agree that you can see the fault in these "compliments". Heard it before? Said it before? Had it told to you before? My dislike for them is far more extreme than my distaste for dirty mirror pictures. Crazy, right?! I will solely be focusing on "You're cute for a big girl" in this entry because of the controversy over acceptable sizes, numbers, figures, and norms. Allow me, again, to enlighten folks on the issue with telling someone "You're cute for a big girl".

 As we are all aware, the number on the scale which reveals our weight has been of relevance for as long as we can remember. People of higher authority determine a number that is "average", "below average", and "overweight", individuals accept the categories along with society's images of the "ideal woman" and the "ideal man", and work the rest of their lives to attempt to fit the "ideal". Those that don't meet the "ideal" (which none of us will actually ever be able to do because the ideal man or woman created by society doesn't exist) are shamed and frowned upon. Hello eating disorders and lack of self-love...and whether you believe it or not, men also have eating disorders, and the number is increasing. I read an article a few months ago about the issues with male image in reference to weight, so this isn't just fixed towards women. BUT, back to the "compliments"...women that do not fit the "ideal" in reference to physical characteristics as displayed in the media (that have altered the images of their models with computers...but they didn't want you to know that) are often less appealing. This includes not being the extremely thin woman vacuuming with high heels on (not me), the skin-flawless woman (definitely not me), the woman with the long, cooperative hair, and the other qualities of the ideal. Now, "thicker" and "well-proportioned" women have become more socially accepted (you're more likely to see them in music videos, Vines, etc...wearing a limited amount of clothing though), but there's also been an increase in butt injections. Way to slap the norms in the mouth, right?!

Despite the growing acceptance of variations in figures, there is still much controversy over what is healthy and unhealthy by the scale number and image, and the acceptance of women that do not obtain the thin figured image. Inconsideration and utter disrespect kick in when you offer a partial compliment and mix it with a negative one. Telling someone they're cute/pretty/beautiful FOR a "big girl" is not a compliment. It is offensive because you've reiterated how one's weight is still not accepted according to your opinion or expectation of what "beautiful" is or socially acceptable. Are women that do not fit the "ideal" expected to be unattractive or ridiculously grotesque? Are women outside of the "ideal" irrelevant? Are we not counted or acknowledged? It's sad how affected people allow themselves to be by a number that includes muscle mass. As someone that doesn't care about their weight number, the nurse was more caring about the number than I was when she read "156" at my doctor's appointment. She was surprised...but... I kept eating my candy while I was standing on the scale. Not even considered "big", but my number was still an issue even after she acknowledged my large muscle mass amount (and my head size lol). This is an example of how much influence weight has on people. If someone is beautiful, there should be no "for" or "but" following the positive portion of the compliment.

 For people that do, in fact, say things similar to the examples I've offered in this blog, consider how it would feel if you were given a positive-negative compliment. "You're attractive for someone that (insert offense here)...", "You're handsome for someone with jacked up teeth", or "Girrrrll, you're pretty for someone who has had a lot of kids". Please consider the significance of compliments and realize that people do not like it when it's done that way. I don't like it and my "bigger" and ridiculously beautiful home-girls do not like it either. Just because these statements are offensive does not mean women outside of the ideal image created for us have low self-esteem. It is simply the idea of respecting another individual. What is "beautiful" is not based off of one individual's opinion. What may not beautiful or attractive to you, may be stunning to someone else, so keep the compliments positive and understand the affect your words may have on others.

                                                       (Thanks again Google Images)

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/7/2014

"What To Do When You're Communicating With A Zombie"

Unfortunately, I don't have the complete rule and survival guidebook on slaying and dealing with zombies (they're available at Target...just throwing that out there), but I believe they missed a VERY important section: "What To Do When You're Texting A Zombie". This is extremely relevant to everyday living! I had my first experience with a texting zombie when I received a text similar to this: "Hey where yuu beenn at?? Ii triied to sthop bhy yhesterday".

Yes, initially, I too, felt like pulling my hair and the texter's hair out. It was absurd and senseless, and I hadn't learned about this type of language previous to this encounter, but it was deadly!!!! What I'd assumed was that the individual must have been pressing the keys WAY too quickly, so I corrected the message, and sent the text back to them thinking I was offering some support. Not too long after, other individuals began sending and responding to messages, and making statuses with an extensive amount of misspelled words just like the text I'd received! This was it. The zombie apocalypse! WRONG answer. I learned that people-mainly people in middle and high school- found it popular/appealing/whatever to spell their words incorrectly by adding or subtracting letters. Some of my cousins were infamous for this. For what reason? I doubt any of us know, but I am more than happy to explain the fatuity with this communication trend.

It's already unfortunate that certain ages and groups of younger people have been categorized as "incompetent" or strugglers of reading comprehension. Something else unfortunate? That children aren't encouraged to read, write, and improve their skills in reference to education by the individuals/models that should be encouraging these important subjects unto younger people. BUT before I lose focus on our current discussion, I'm certain someone out there has seen others write or text similar to the example I provided in the beginning of this blog. The significance of acknowledging the unnecessary misspelling of words??? The effects of the intentional misspelling of them. Texting has already been perceived (by some) as negatively affecting face-to-face interactions and communication among persons, but the intentional misspelling of words could possibly cause an increase in spelling complications among people...and it really doesn't make any sense anyway...SERiiOUSLY. <-. Spelling is relevant in our schools, workplaces, tasks, and communication. I'd also like to mention that intentionally misspelling words doesn't grant you the "Spelling Bee Champ" title. Nope, nowhere near it...sorry. So, if someone ever sends you a message with a large amount of incorrectly spelled words, remain calm, correct them (or ignore them), and please know that it's not a zombie; it's someone that has probably willingly given a piece of their brain up to fit in. Also, speaking of communication, it's "converse"; not "conversate"... :)

                                                           Thank you Google Images...

With Realness,

Bee Elae

1/5/2014