"We have received a number of complaints from Hartlepool United supporters about the Bob Marley fancy dress theme...The main concerns raised have been over the potential of fans deciding to 'black up'. We clearly outlined that 'blacking up' has historically been a way of acting out racist stereotypes, and while the theme planned by fans may be well intended...such behaviour, if it occurs, is likely to cause offence".
If a load of black fellas wanted to dress up like Elton John and they painted themselves white, would you really give a shit???
I have a number of black friends who find it offensive. I guess it is a legacy going back to minstrel shows in America, they hardly portrayed black people in a good light. I don't think it's as clear as saying "well if someone "whited" up I wouldn't be offended".
There's so much trouble in the World, that I just hope these Hartlepool fans don't stir it up as they want no more trouble especially if the sun is shining.
I get the feeling that I might be waiting in vain for them to get up, stand up and keep on moving through this rat race of a concrete jungle just looking for survival.
Lets hope they enjoy themselves and have a punky reggae party.
If a load of black fellas wanted to dress up like Elton John and they painted themselves white, would you really give a shit???
I have a number of black friends who find it offensive. I guess it is a legacy going back to minstrel shows in America, they hardly portrayed black people in a good light. I don't think it's as clear as saying "well if someone "whited" up I wouldn't be offended".
Fair enough. I just don't see how a load of hartlepool fans doing it would have any racial undertone or connection to minstrels in America all those years ago. I've seen plenty of people black up as Mr T and nobody, including black people, have batted an eye lid.
I think they should go with a Smurf, Oompa Lumpa combo instead. They should already have the costumes and it would be a pleasant mix of colours. looking at the photo - it is great there was only one Papa Smurf and the blokes dressed as Batman and Robin must have felt stupid!
Comments
thanks IA for ruining my night, suppose I best just log off here now
If a load of black fellas wanted to dress up like Elton John and they painted themselves white, would you really give a shit???
"We have received a number of complaints from Hartlepool United supporters about the Bob Marley fancy dress theme...The main concerns raised have been over the potential of fans deciding to 'black up'. We clearly outlined that 'blacking up' has historically been a way of acting out racist stereotypes, and while the theme planned by fans may be well intended...such behaviour, if it occurs, is likely to cause offence".
Nope?
I'll get my coat!
Don't chop any onions near them - they don't want to cry.
I get the feeling that I might be waiting in vain for them to get up, stand up and keep on moving through this rat race of a concrete jungle just looking for survival.
Lets hope they enjoy themselves and have a punky reggae party.
You wouldn't actually need to black up to impersonate Bob Marley - a half-decent sun tan would be sufficient.