According to experts, watching slave movies can trigger PTSS (Post-Traumatic Slave Syndrome) in Black audiences. PTSS is a condition that can occur when a person is exposed to a traumatic event or series of events, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, depression (it's subsequent lacks of motivation), and flashbacks.
Watching slave movies can be traumatic for Black audiences because they are often confronted with the brutal realities and after-effects of slavery, including violence, justified rape, and inhumane torture.
Some experts argue that there is a need to tell stories about slavery, but there should be a limit on the amount of violence depicted in these types of films. Others suggest that the problem with slave movies is not that they exist, but that they often lack nuance and variety in their portrayal of slavery.
It is worth noting here that not all Black audiences feel the same way about slave movies, in fact many Black actors recieve their accolades from starring in slave films. Should there be a standard or limit to what is asked and/or expected of Black actors? Some may find these films empowering or educational, while others may find them triggering and traumatic.
There are numerous books such as: "The Peculiar Institution" by Kenneth M. Stampp, that fully delineate the evils, atrocities and machinations inflicted upon slaves by white supremacists in America that are well written and educational. Our young people should know all aspects of our history, including that of white people so thay can recognize the like mentalites that still exist today. It would follow then that phrase still holds true that "we must know where we've been so we understand where we need to go" now and in the future.
Maximum Cultural Development (MCD) seeks to address the psychological remnants of slavery and constantly evolve culturally deyond conditions such as PTSS and provide us with a cultural framework to proactively guide us and our families as we continue to do great things in America not only for ourselves but for the country in general.
In conclusion, watching slave movies can possibly trigger PTSS in Black audiences due to the traumatic nature of the content. But what exactly is a good movie if it triggers, PTSD symtoms like circular thought and other negativities? It is said that "to be in Black and aware is to be in a constant rage" but that rage must be guided by focussed and effective reasoning.
While there is a need to tell stories about slavery, there should be a balance between depicting the realities of slavery and avoiding excessive traumatic violence. It is important to recognize that not all Black audiences feel the same way about these movies and to respect their individual experiences and perspectives. But we all must agree that there may be times when we disaggree and in the end, we are still of the same Tribe that must always Unite against white supremacist machinations and all forms of oppression.
How do you as an Afican in America and elsewhere feel about these things? You're invited to send The DEMRI your thoughts ...
