The hopes, dreams and ambitions of Absent Truth
“Too many people from minority groups struggle to get into television. Which creates cultural disconnection between the people who make programs and the many millions who watch them… Ethnic minority groups feel they are portrayed neutrally or negatively…” — the Chief Executive of Ofcom.
Many of us… In fact, any of us could have spoken these words. We’ve seen what the television (let alone media in general) has to offer and it’s not good enough. It’s like watching a highlight reel of how to make bad choices. I mean, where on Earth would black people be without scandal, shame or self-loathing? The TV, that’s where. We just wouldn’t be on the television.
To appease our eternal yearning for better representation, some bright spark (If you know who, then point them out to us please) decided that what we really need is diversity. As long as we see a vast array of “multicultural” faces, all of our socioeconomic problems will become a distant memory, like West Indian Social clubs. But this only leaves us with the most important question of all: what good is diversity, if it only represents stereotypes?
How do we even dare to bite the hand that feeds us? Our misfortune could well be our greatest export. The problem is, there’s some of us who are not buying it. We want more. We want to be shown something we don’t already know and feel proud to have witnessed it.
As an example, let us take the words spoken above by the Chief Executive of Ofcom*. The very first woman to hold this title. She’s black, she’s beautiful and she’s hella smart. Where’s her story, her documentary, her Netflix special? Do you even know her name?
This is why Absent Truth exists. Our focus is on shining a light on the achievements and accolades of those among us. We’re not here to complain, we’re not here to moan and we’re definitely not here to beg anything from anyone. We’re here to show the world our capabilities despite any limitations.
We are redefining representation. Why? Because our children are watching. And if we’re going to elevate their imagination to infinite possibilities, they’re going to need to see it to believe it. The role models they need are already here, soldiering on, fighting the good fight, but with untold stories.
Picture this. A library or even a catalogue, full of black faces, in every shade possible. Detailing how they’ve become the person they are today. Whether it’s how to be a part of the top 5% (or even 1%) of any given profession, how to create a social enterprise, how to be an artisan, how to make a change or even how to become happy with who they are. Who else should we look to for well-intended advice, from a shared perspective?
So be prepared because we will create an echo chamber, that will highlight worthy causes, champion remarkable individuals, establish a field of mentors and even inspire some of us to greater heights. But all of this comes with a caveat — all of our content and information will be absolutely free at the point of use.
Our revenue will come from art and apparel designed by us at Absent Truth. Although what we produce will be extremely limited, the quality of our goods will enable us to fulfil our vision. Which is to reinvest in those among us who need our assistance. Thus, creating another progressive narrative, to make sure the story continues.
This will be perpetual. Success will build success.
In the meantime, stay black and stay beautiful. This is our Absent Truth.
*For those who are curious, her name is Sharon White and in the early part of 2020, she will be the acting Chairman for the John Lewis
By A.D.R.
