Bring Your A Game

Older Comments on Bring Your A Game

• Posted 06/30/11 by Richard Scott Sr.
  As a retired educator for over thirty years, my primary goal was to help our youth see the realities of a system which looks at them as a "SAGGIN" culture...[spell it backwards and see the truth]. This film speaks to the gut wrenching reality of what many of our young people are facing today, SLAVERY! If the truth will set us free, it is a sad commentary to see so many denying the truth in order to perpetuate the LIE. I believe that all of our African American young brothers owe it to themselves to see "Bring your A Game", and it is the moral responsibility of the older brothers to make sure that they provide that opportunity...thank you for an excellent job!
• Posted 06/11/11 by ANDREW HENDERSON
  Excellent, now all we have to do is get it to the young people that need it.
• Posted 05/29/11 by Ron Lewis
  We need to market the hell out of this!!!!!!!! Very important message. Interesting perspective!!!!
• Posted 05/18/11 by Jerome Tucker
  Thanks for all of the people who contributed to this film. Many of the comments are not "politically correct" but they speak to the reality of America which is what we need most to hear. We must stop pretending our struggle is not against the desires of those who run America. In this day and time we can no longer depend on a job or a system or an organization to provide us our empowerment as a person as families or as a people. The values spoken about in the film are echos of the words my father and grandfather taught us as the standard for being a man. They worked then to give me a program to follow and they work today but they haven't been emphasized in many of our families because that father many times is not in the home with their sons and daughters. The images we see of black families do not show a strong man in the family. Try to name 3 shows on TV today that show a black man as the strong leader of his household without his wife calling him names and mocking him. But we can name 10 where the mother is dominant in the house whether the father is there or not. Today in America we must create value to receive value and I commend all associated with this film for sharing their insight. Education IS NOT just going to school. There is a qoute I use whenever I speak to people that allows me to sustain a realistic perspective on education. "Philosophers have long conceded that every man has two educations: 'that which is given to him, and the other that which he gives himself. Of the two kinds the latter is by far the more desirable.' Indeed all that is most worthy in man he must work out and conquer for himself. It is that which constitutes our real and best nourishment. What we are merely taught seldom nourishes the mind like that which we teach ourselves." Dr. Carter G. Woodson Bless you all for this film.
• Posted 04/04/11 by Cassandra
  I think this video was awesome! Being a teacher, I think this sends a very positive message to our students. Education is always the key to being successful in life. I look forward to having my students view this film
• Posted 04/01/11 by student
  This is a racist and innappropriate video. Why are all cops and exploitative bosses shown as white and all other people black. Such an innapropraite video this is horrendous. Whites who live in poverty have the same problems. Its bot a black problem ,its a poverty issue. And comparng slavery to jails is absurd
• Posted 03/31/11 by Charissa Alfred
  This film was a great film. It explained how dropping out of school is not the best way or decision to make.I like how we had so much role models and speakers to motivate us and show us that we have a future only if you make right choices in life and that we should not follow any bad examples. Being a strong- minded individual with many desires to be a leader. To stop "hanging on the corners where they do not know your names". To show the people that did not believe in you and show them that you can make a difference and succeed in life.
• Posted 03/31/11 by Mark Lord
  First i would like to say yes this video should be provided in the next semester to all freshmen students. Additionally, why stop there? For this video can do so much for other students not only the freshmen`s but all collage students. So my suggestion is to go ahead and make this video available to all students. Moreover, the value of this video the production of this video by Mario Van Peebles and Karen Williams is such a breath taken well put together and organize, message giving film is an ideal positive influence. This film shows a great passion targeting mostly young African Americans in high school and the situation they face. The statistics shown in this video of the drop out rate of white,Asia and African American students in high school before graduation shows the fact of what we face in society today. With our young people especially the African Americans. The two more societal norm shown in the video that we condole as people of society is Rapping and Basketball, these two areas are the majority chosen areas after dropping out of high school. This shows that the desire to be educated is no longer a passion, its no longer dreams, it make me wonder what is really the purpose of our existence meaning African Americans in this country? Is this what we are all about? is this what we mostly go through? all these question arise from this video,but, however, the passion also shown,the value illustrated from the present leaders who been in the "slum" hard time before us(Teenagers,high school/collage students) that giving up an trying another alternative besides being educated is not the right solution; therefore, oneself must desire the attitude to be educated and obtain a solid education to become somebody that can make a difference not for our self alone but for the future to come,pave a way for our next generation,this i contain from this film is that to become a strong minded individual with desire to be independent and make or have money, I must have an Education + Work Ethic. by: Mark Lord
• Posted 03/08/11 by Antonio Pizano
  Inspirational and real!Some of us who not only had challenges to stay in school, but faced the reality of having to learn this language, just to communicate, still made it! A Masters degree from the University of California at Berkeley positioned this immigrant to become the CEO of one of the most prestigious and noble nonprofit organizations in the County of San Diego Californa, MAAC Project. It is true! Education will set you free! Congratulations to all those responsible for putting this meaningful message together and for sharing! www.maacproject.org
• Posted 02/19/11 by Derrick Hill
  Hats off to everyone who contributed to this excellent film. Each of us can play an important role to advance practical solutions across our nation and beyond. YES Across America and it's Partners In Education have been doing their part by 'Helping Kids Succeed' since 1995. Students and parents should take time to review www.YesAcrossAmerica.com.
• Posted 02/01/11 by john murray
  This was GREAT and if there is anymore story like this told please pass them on to me at john_m_08234@yahoo.com my kid has his father with him to tell him all of this and he still is not on the right path so i think the more things he see like this maybe one day he will get it and make the change SO I SAY PLEASE PASS IT ON and if there is more pass it on to me THANKS
• Posted 01/31/11 by theodore t life jr
  Bravo! It's about time! Thanks for being on top of your Game! you have my total support! T Life jr
• Posted 01/27/11 by Kaye Bishop
  I will show this video to youth and my children so that we all (together) can encourage each other to make our "A" Game, legitimately and wherever we are in our careers. Mario Van Peebles and cast made a powerful video, here. Our youth (and many older adults of color) will have to pay close attention and maybe watch this video more than once/twice in order to understand the lies we've accepted and the truths we must learn about finishing our education. This video could help many of us believe we can make ourselves a powerhouse for lifting all of us to major success and prosperity--even in this unstable economy. This video inspired me further ... and I realize the truth. We must finish our education, hone our skills, while working toward "our prize". Not long ago, I earned by Bachelors degree, but my education is not complete. I find that having knowledge and being around knowledgeable people is exhilarating! And the more you know the more you may need to learn...
• Posted 01/25/11 by Michael Allen
  For Eric Whitehead: you can get the DVD through the film's page by simply clicking the "Buy Now" tab above the movie screen's top right corner; it will take you to the film's official website which sells the DVDs: http://www.21cf.org/agame/store.php
• Posted 01/25/11 by Sammi
  To anyone with a negative response to this film, in my opinion is directed to black males because of the statistics. There is nothing wrong with a community trying to uplift and spread positivity amongst those struggling or ignorant to what opportunities they have. I think any race can gain something from this documentary. As a black person who has an education, this is not an insult at all. The whole point is to educate those who may not have someone showing them why staying in school is a better choice than dropping out. Its common sense that Black aren't the only race with poverty, dropouts, and issues period but like the documentary pointed out Blacks have a higher percentage than other races and I think its great that the people behind this documentary care enough to bring attention to this issue and try to offer solutions and hope!
• Posted 01/25/11 by Sammi
  I will be showing this to my boys who are 10 and 6. The seed needs to be watered continuously, not just when they begin 2 display problems! I'm glad this documentary was done. I can remember as a young girl my dad pointing out different crackheads in our neighborhood and telling me stories of how beautiful those women once were. As I look back on our father daughter conversations I realize he was planting seeds in my mind and it worked. I never had the desire to try drugs! I'm sure this will help some of our youth think about somethings differently!
• Posted 01/24/11 by ERIC WHITEHEAD
  I LIKED THE MOVIE ALOT ITS A MOTIVATING MOVIE I FEAL THE SAME WAY ALOT OF THE SPEAKERS FELT ON THE MOVIE.I WISH I HAD A DVD COPY OF IT TO SHOW TO FREINDS
• Posted 01/23/11 by Natia Samuels
  I almost deleted the email that contained the link to this film. I must say I would have missed out on a great opportunity to received some valuable information. Although, I have a masters degree, I know individuals who could use this film for their non-profits and merely spread the word. Everyone should watch this film and forward it to everyone they know regardless of their economic or educational status. I have hope that these statistics will improve and God is working in this problematic area. God Bless everyone!
• Posted 01/17/11 by Galvino
  This film is a revelation of how delicate times really are in our country for young minorities. Education and knowledge gains you freedom and opportunities.
• Posted 01/16/11 by Renee Johnson
  I am a recently retired Correctional Officer at R.J.Donovan in San Diego ,Ca. Mario Van Peebles has done and excellent job and covered all the bases by telling the hard truths about how to overcome obstacles and obtain success. Excellent!
• Posted 01/13/11 by Paulette Hammonds
  As a retired middle school principal,this is exactly what I would share with my male students in a special assembly. Additionally, I would request that fathers or a male figure in their lives also be present. For thirty years, I preached this message to my students. There is only one Micheal Jordan and one Micheal Jackson. We must take our streets and communities back! This assignment cannot fall solely on schools. It must start in our homes, churches, and schools.
• Posted 01/10/11 by Rondia Kaufer
  After rasing 2 African American cildren without their father, I can say for my son who didn't drop out of school the statistics seems to be right he is not a failure. My daughter is also a sucess how about dring a doc. for Africain American Girls. After watching this film I was very impressed WOW. I give this a 5 star.........
• Posted 01/08/11 by james wilson
  all churches should make this film a must see for all the youth
• Posted 01/06/11 by Dudberg
  It is also an insult to the black people who have gone to school and made something of themself outside being the cliche basketball player or rapper. To suggest that these are the only avenues is bull. There are ALOT white people who have grown up with nothing and still did something. The excuse that because you are black you can only be a ballplayer rapper or drugdealer is just a cop out for the people that wanna take the easy road.
• Posted 01/05/11 by Dudberg
  As a white male I can tell you the truth. When you are born white, you get a huge sack of money - in which you can use to buy degrees or whatever you need. There are no poor white people. Only black people have hard times. This kind of #### cracks me up.
• Posted 12/31/10 by Taylor
  "This Film is God Given" This has touched my hart and I have shared these wonderful words to all my friends and family; in-addition embed on my website for public sharing and viewing. I am a single mom of four sons and one daughter! This Film is much needed and thank you. I'm not along in promoting education. I am so ever grateful, my children was able to watch and see very important men and women addressing education and the importance of living life to your full potential and successfully. Yvette Taylor KingKiddsMade Foundation www.KingKiddsRaiin.org Taylor@KingKiddsRaiin.org
• Posted 12/28/10 by Judy
  Great documentary! Praises for the format, presentation and delivery. Schools need to show this to all the AA males. Organizations, (father agencies) should hold showings and discussions. EDUCATION IS NOT AN OPTION! We need to make it al law to graduate. There's are ways but I would use up this whole board. Need a documentary like this for the females!
• Posted 12/23/10 by VALERIE MAUZY
  I am passing this on to everyone I know. This is good stuff!
• Posted 12/22/10 by Young Be Holy
  This is REAL. Thanks for posting and For Mario Van Peebles and everyone INVOLVED. youngbeholy.com
• Posted 12/21/10 by Howard Perry
  Thanks for this video. We will share with the young men that attend our youth mentoring progam as part of the 100 Black Men of Long Beach
• Posted 12/19/10 by AL DOUGLAS
  Excellent documentary but I only wish that some attention as given to our Black female teenagers also. Maybe most of them do not follow the same dead end paths the Bleck males do but a dead end is still a dead end.
• Posted 12/18/10 by mike
  Real talk ...I just got outta jail 2 weeks ago & this video does tell the truth
• Posted 12/18/10 by J
  FAB-U-LOUS!!!!!!!!
• Posted 12/18/10 by Denise
  Didn't plan on commenting. However, when I went to rate the film it automatically prompted the "average" rating which is an understatement. This is one of the best documentaries regarding the importance of education and careers for black boys". A MUST HAVE FOR EVERY BLACK MOTHER.
• Posted 12/11/10 by Relentless Aaron
  Real Talk from an ex-offender: http://www.facebook.com/relentless.aaron#!/note.php?note_id=407143303563&id=617660732
• Posted 12/09/10 by Relentless Aaron
  Great editing; kept my interest. Finally, some money to subsidize the right projects that affirm my own personal growth from prison to prosperity. I will surely spread this.
• Posted 12/08/10 by LaShawn
  This is a WONDERFUL documentary. I too believe that it should be shown in schools, after school programs, etc. Our children HAVE to know that you MUST continue to get an EDUCATION along with SKILLS to make a better future for yourself.
• Posted 12/07/10 by dorothy perry
  Excellent; should be shown in schools, boys and girls clubs, boy scouts, etc.
• Posted 12/05/10 by joyce cunningham
  I don't any words to say except THANK YOU!!! BECAUSE WE NEED TO HEAR THIS INFORMATION. how can i get a copy of this documentary.. again thank you...
• Posted 12/05/10 by Dr. Brandon ONeal
  Awesome! This video should be shown in every black school in the country. Its refreshing to hear that hard work and merit will propel you to the top instead of hustling and random luck. I especially found the NBA statistics alarming. Keep up the great work gentlemen! I will support this in any capacity. Please visit my website at Onealsmiles.com.
• Posted 12/01/10 by Vinnie Bagwell
  Thank you Brothers! Beautifully done. I emailed this link to all my contacts, and posted it on my facebook.com fan page, and I will be igniting dialogue about this documentary. I do what I love: create public art to honor the legacy of African Americans. Please visit www.EnslavedAfricansRaingarden.org, and share. With gratitude, V
• Posted 11/27/10 by candace wright
  This documentary is an awsome message the youth of today needs to hear. Thank you for not forgetting the path many of you once crossed. May God's blessing continue to shine on each one of you as you send the message that will to save our seeds of today and many tomorrows.
• Posted 11/26/10 by PATRICIA VESTAL
  I REALLY WANT TO THANK YOU ALL WHO DONE THIS VIDEO AMEN NOW BECAUSE YOU HAVE DONE THIS I WILL PUT THIS ON MY PAGE FOR US MOTHER FOR ALL OUR CHILDREN AND HOPE THAT THEY LISTEN ;LIKE THEY LISTEN TO T.V AND ALL THE VIDEOS AND BET THIS VIDEO IS SO POWERFUL TO LISTEN TO AND HAVE ON HERE I WILL GIVE YOU A+ FOR THAT AND THANK YOU SO MUCH BECAUSE I HAVE A SON THAT BEEN INTO ALL THAT YOU HAVE TALKED ABOUT AND I;AM STILL PRAYING FOR HIM FOR SOMEONE TO GIVE HIM A CHANGE FOR A LONG TIME BECAUSE OF HIS FELONY ITS HARD FOR HIM AND I PARY EVERYDAY AND NOTHING BUT I WILL NEVER GIVE UP ON MY SON SO THANK YOU AGAIN
• Posted 11/23/10 by Antidumb
  I LOVE the documentary, unfortunately it doesn't go DEEP ENOUGH. You can't play mind games with the youth. As long as we have a culture that PROMOTES the youth going in the wrong way, you will NEVER be able to penetrate their brains. Here's the scary part, God would NEVER allow you to. It's metaphysics. So the toughest task is NOT trying to convince kids to stay in school, but it's TEARING DOWN this culture, so you can THEN penetrate their minds. If we tore down this culture, Making money, hustling, making it rain on the hoes won't be a STRONG ENERGY so the youth will be able to concentrate on other things. A brother will be able to wear SKIPPYS while he plots out his life. We have a culture now where that is NOT possible. We have attached this culture to a Black man's manhood. He cannot hold his head up in the hood without doing the things that lead him to DOOM, again we must tear down this culture. You will NOT escape this Black folks this is the HAND of God and he absolutely positively will NOT allow Black people to progress while promoting the energies that we do. It's metaphysics and this is a metaphysical world. Stay tuned I will write a through article about this on my site. I will post it in a few days. www.blackenergynews.com Keep in mind it's still under construction, I write long articles so it takes time, but there are a few articles posted now.
• Posted 11/22/10 by Tasha
  AWESOME documentary. This is exactly what young black men need to hear! Thank-you thank-you thank-you!
• Posted 11/21/10 by Pramesh
  This is an awesome documentary. Being a foreigner in US and worked in inner cities I always wondered about the plight of kids from minority background. Stick-up, blunts, shooting, hustling are common paraphrases in the inner-city communities. Once I asked an inner-city kid if he knew who Jimmy Hendrix was and he said 'No'. The problem is that too many fathers and mothers are incarcerated. Kids are out there raised by streets and the only easy money is selling weeds and cracks, or a stick-up. I was wondering when US (through US AID) can go to Nepal and help build a library or a school why cannot it invest in inner-cities school and promoting documentaries like this. There seems to be NO Federal or State budget for promoting a social awareness like this one. Seems like For-Profit Prison System is a game changing phrase.
• Posted 11/21/10 by Ed Clemons
  Outstanding!!! I 'd like to help anyway I can.
• Posted 11/20/10 by Jacquelin
  Incredible! I received this documentary from a colleague at work, she and I co-teach. I also teach sophomores, and with them, I am struggling to interconnect my content area, English, with the importance of the skills they will acquire in class (if they apply themselves) to the importance of the acquired skills in the future workplace. It isn't just that they show up, it is that they must also want to PASS the class! A lot of my sophomores, and the freshman classes that I co-teach with, as well, will sporadically show up (attendance issues), but they are supposed to be SENIORS! What does this mean? It means simply this, they will time out. It is law; they have to be out of our reach to assistance by the time they are nineteen. Let me explain. Dropping out of school can happen TWO ways, not just one. The most understood method is to just quit, to just stop going. The other is to literally DROP OUT or OFF of the chart. This means that if my now 17 year old (almost 18 year old) freshman/sophomores do not apply themselves in class, they will literally be dropped off of the enlistment list, because they have aged out of school. They have "dropped off" losing the chance to gain that diploma. It is like this: When Ice Cube said, in the documentary, "if you don't pass the class...you didn't 'do the work,' how do I know that I can trust you to show up and do the job?" THANK YOU!!! Do your work!!!! Do your work....AND do it well!!!! My other point is this, DON'T JUDGE! I teach English in an inner-city school. I am a single mother of two boys. I am white. The film also imployed its audience to BE ACCEPTING. The students come into my class, see a young blonde-headed, Swedish background white woman, and they AUTOMATICALLY think that they cannot measure up! She literally got here because of her looks. 'Looking like that, she can be hired ANYWHERE.' What is up with that?!!! Stop it!! We ARE equal. In fact, men statistically make more than women. Your chance is NOW! Stop victimizing yourselves to this mentality of race anymore!! It has nothing to do with such an element. All of my students are smart. ALL OF THEM. They would be in "specialized" schools (by law)if they weren't. That means simply this, you are TESTED in! You are CAPABLE of doing the work and being SUCCESSFUL! Then DO IT ALREADY!!Be willing and "Accepting" to learn from others who don't "look" like you!! Stay in school, DON'T judge, MAKE IT HAPPEN. Get into your A GAME!
• Posted 11/20/10 by SWAYNE_SOBER_CONTENT
  Peace. This is to my fellow Black Men, meaning all of you of you from Afro-Mexican, Dominican, Jamaican, and the rest of us in this Hemisphere mainly from the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade. I challenge you to do what I have been doing for the past 3 years and a few months. I challenge you to get off your selfish conquests, and take the young men (and women) and sit them down and watch, The Medger Evers Story, Boycott, The Black List 1, 2, and 3, Fair Game?, Malcolm X, 500 Years Later, Emmitt Till, Panther, Mario's Story, Every F**king Day Of My Life, and any other Documentary that provokes positive change in them. Also, use the Internet and Library to gather reading materials for them relating to these subjects, and others like the 6 Black Presidents, http://stewartsynopsis.com/, etc, to get them thinking beyond the TV. You may not agree with all I am saying, but at least I'm "DOING"! You may not agree with all of the information mentioned, but just find a way to appreciate all of the time concerned people put into their works to be helpful to our people. Yes, it's hard work, but remember, there was a time when all we could do was hard work "BEFORE SUNUP, TO AFTER SUNDOWN". How about now we work our minds that way??? You, Yes, "YOU" are the most important Man to that young Man before your eyes. Make it happen!!! Peace
• Posted 11/20/10 by llynch
  Thanks for a documentary that is so needed. It needs to be viewed by our youth. I love the fact that black males are bringing the truth to young black males.How can i get a copy to show to youth in school? I'd be willing to purchase it if possible. Religious organizations,youth organizations,schools and any other place where a black youth would enter need this in the building being viewed by everyone.How can I help this process?
• Posted 11/19/10 by Zakiya Cooper
  Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who worked on this film and took the time out of their schedule to participate. This is such a positive, inspiring, and motivating film. I've been truly moved by this, and have posted it on my Facebook page and all over my friends pages as well! All of you men are such good role models for our youth, and hopefully your message will reach as many of them as possible. It certainly has reached me.
• Posted 11/19/10 by Connie
  This a long overdue wake up call by our mature successful black men to our young black men who lack that positive male role model in their life. Now we have to figure out how do we get this documentary to be viewed by the ones that really need to see it. Please put this in theaters instead of letting this documentary collect dust on a shelf. Our young lost black men need desperately to see this! Connie in Memphis
• Posted 11/19/10 by William L. Conwill
  Loved the simplicity of the presentations and of the steps to success that these strong brothers put out there for the rising generation(s)! I hope that counselors and schoolteachers all over the country have the courage to play this film in their classrooms and TALK about it openly. In many places, such a film would be called "radical" and "instigating" (consider the attempt in a state in the Southwest to outlaw any "multicultural" classroom talk that lets Brown, Black or Red people learn more about their histories lest it make them angry, etc.). Congratulations on a job well done.
• Posted 11/19/10 by Beverly Douglas
  This is great! Hopelessness has never been hip! The prison system thrives because of statistics the state provides on 3rd & 4th graders. That is where it is determined whether you will be able to contribute to yourself and society (literacy). Parenting is essential in this process. It starts in the womb. We must read to our children along with all the other nurturing elements that contribute to eventual self-reliance. What's the alternative - a lost generation - again.
• Posted 11/17/10 by Wanda
  Fabulous film! I have always enjoyed Mario V.P., and this film will hopefully make millions of people think twice about their actions now and how they impact their future. That they CAN have a bright future and that it starts with one decision and daily actions to change your life. I had a dream to be a nurse, it wasn't easy but I completed the education. I have now had 35 years of doing different types of helping people by taking that first step once I made the decision. It's so worth it, you can do what ever you decide to do! Don't be afraid to ask for help along the way...I'll help.
• Posted 11/17/10 by Theresa
  I'm glade to finally see that someone is informing our young black males of the options that they have. I was please to see the information about the entertainment business and the limitability of the sports world career choices. To often our young black males think that basketball or football is their ticket out. I often tell my student that if they do so desire to become a professional sports figure that they should include a backup. I make sure to give them the example from "Good Times" when Thelma's husband who was suspose to be a pro-football player broke his leg and was immediately cut from the team. For all those honest black men that participate in this film I thank you. I hope to see more of this in the future.God bless you. Continue to "Do The Right Thing"
• Posted 11/16/10 by Ollie
  Very informative and educative. Thank you for the advice to our youths.
• Posted 11/16/10 by Karen
  Wow! What an amazing work of art. I will be sharing this with my students TODAY! Thanks, Mr. Van Peebles for putting this in our atmosphere.
• Posted 11/16/10 by Lorraine Lyles
  This film is awesome! It touches on every point in which I speak to the young Brothers and Sisters in the Detention Center. Thank you for taking time in helping to save our young people. They are not our future, we need them TODAY! Lorraine
• Posted 11/15/10 by Farries C. Slade ,Sr.
  Great ,great this is really great !
• Posted 11/15/10 by Coach McFarlin
  This is an excellent point of reference and should be shown to every child in miidle and high school in every inner-city public school in this country.
• Posted 11/12/10 by Malinda Gwyn-Knowles
  I want to thank all involved for this film. I have striven to teach and tell, as well as model, the message of education that is the focus of this short film. I have a son who is 16 and wants to be a soccer star. He has the dream of moving to Brazil and playing for a Brazilian team. I don't try to dash his dreams but I try to help him realize that if he does not have a solid education, that soccer dream will never happen. Also, as mentioned in this film, the competition is tremendous. We know that many Brazilians "come out of the womb" with a soccer ball bouncing on their foot. I love my son and I want the best for him but I cannot do it for him. He must realize as was said by one of our great African American poets. . . Life ain't no crystal stair" but he can succeed with hard work and a clear focus for a productive future. Thank you again.
• Posted 11/12/10 by Bryan Shaw
  Excellent, this should be a required movie to view by every black male it speaks the term REAL TALK! There really is more to life than rapping and sports - open up your mind and book to pursue it.
• Posted 11/12/10 by Henry
  This is by far the most positive and uplifting film that I have seen in a very long time. I enjoy the facts that came forth and the energy that was presented. Many of our young brothers need to understand that by design of the system they werent meant to succeed. However, this isnt an excuse to not be successful and great at what you do. Its going to take some hard work and determination to overcome certain things. Most of our young brothers quit early because they lose sight....Mentors should step right in and provide some structure and guidance! We have access to unlimited resources and with the right attitude we can achieve whatever we desire. The film did an excellent job giving out solid information. "A failure in the classroom is a prisons success story" (not verbatim) That quote alone needs to be played over and over and over again. We no longer value education as we did before and now its really taking a toll on the community. Also, I find it interesting that the curriculum in Americas classroom prepares students for comprehensive testing vs the development of critical thinking skills and encouraging STEM engagement. I would like to believe that this is all part of school districts concern with making AYP....At any rate, the film is solid and I hope that many people view it. I plan on showing this to some students that I work with ...Thanks and keep building!
• Posted 11/12/10 by Gwendolyn Watts
  It is my hope that every youngman will have an opportunity to see this documentary film. As an advisor to one of the largest male youth groups I find this film a most helpful. I will assign it as a mandated, "Must See" Keep up the good work and remember our young men heard what you are saying but more than anything they watch what you are doing. Please continue to help.
• Posted 11/10/10 by Cedric Reynolds
  This is SOOOO Different, but I have worked very diligently to share this information. This is something I've gone through for almost 10 years. This is for MS and a new treatment called CCSVI. Dont get it twisted I am 37 years old and suffering since 29. I was in a wheelchair, but now...
• Posted 11/10/10 by carl snowden
  As with the movie For Colored Girls, this documentary should give us all an opportunity to pause and think about what direction we are heading. Malcolm X once observed that tomorrow belongs to those who prepare today. It is my hope that prayers that people will pay heed to the messages that are contained in this documentary. I wnat to also use this forum to ask the brothers who have "made it" to remember those who have not. My mantra is simple: no one can do everything, however, everyone can do something. I hope that this documentary will serve as a motiviation for brothers to do their "something".
• Posted 11/08/10 by Dottie Brown
  Thank you soooo very much for putting this on the level that our sons can actually see and relate. Prayfully, this will give my son something to think about. God Bless You All for not forgetting about us.
• Posted 11/07/10 by Ros Mickens
  This is a great documentary film. I tell the students this all the time. Some appear to understand the concepts once someone breaks it down about the penal system and how being undereducated contributes to making money for that enterprise. I'd have to say that in schools and public libraries, the youth have internet access for FREE. This documentary film is about 22 minutes long which allows students ample time to watch the entire film to benefit from the message. I'm an educator, writer-director and producer. I want to see our youth learn without the cautionary tales of woe.
• Posted 10/27/10 by Thaxter Arterberry
  There are approximately 2 million inmates in state, federal and private prisons throughout the country. According to California Prison Focus, "no other society in human history has imprisoned so many of its own citizens." U.S. has locked up more people than any other country including China who has five times more people; most being African Americans. The baby boomer generation, for which I am one, is partially to blame for not properly educating our youth & looking out for their best interest. Going to school/class & graduating from college is a must. But nothing beats positive mentorship to & for our young minds by every day folk that care and understand our struggles. This film is great, the best i've seen to date. Conspicuous consumption (donkey & carrot) has the potential to drive our people back into slavery. Private prison is about cheap labor, nothing more, noting less. I once read "if one does not have a relationship with the people that produce the products we purchase, than the only relationship that remains is with the product itself," capitalism at its best! Its okay to dream of being an entertainment or athlete but not without understanding how the business works by being educated on the do's & don't be others who have run that race. If you look at the Celtics of old, Robert (blk), Denis (blk), Kevin (wht), Danny (wht) & Larry (wht) - for which all were great players, but the business of basketball took care of its own & provided Kevin, Danny & Larry with high level positions in the NBA to help oversee the business of basketball. Denis & Robert were basically set free. In other words, they took care of their own. For the record I think they did the right thing, by taking care of their own & this education should be shared with future black stars. My concern is that we (black) people don't care to understand the responsibility we have, one to another, to help create lasting wealth for each other. Thanks for taking the time to tell our truth to the community. Lets get this film out to the black church's and have them help deliver this message & truly change the future for our culture. Our church is the one entity remaining where large numbers of African Americans gather regularly. Thanks to all who participated & helped to make this film happen!
• Posted 10/27/10 by Melvina
  This is only accessable by kids that have computer access. But what about children that do't have that access that I would like for them to view. Could this be downloaded so that kids can view on tv via DVD.
• Posted 10/26/10 by Houston
  Awesome! Twenty-First Century Foundation (21CF), Mario Van Peebles and Karen Williams get it! It is time to stand up and speak to our your men. Great use of filmmaking!!
• Posted 10/25/10 by Ramadan Ali
  I appreciated the positive direction offered to our disengaged youth. One necessary ingredient we are missing is education, and not necessarily math and science, reading, but especially of the truth of our past. Not "his-story", but our true past. We are given and have accepted a false view of who and what we are upon this earth. We are not meant to be second-class, third-class, but around this earth we accept the wicked ways of the transgressor and attempt to blend with its method of living. It has devoured us, inside and out. We must have a plan for what to do when all that is right, true, just, fair, ethical, and eternal comes to balance this disjointed equation humanity has wrought upon the earth. We must learn to connect with that which is eternal in ourselves, it won't matter how many degrees we have. The only real direction, which I appreciated brother Kevin Liles mention, is to do what is true to you. Well, brothers and sisters... being slaves to anything is not in our DNA. We must drop the slave history, because much of it is not true and does not connect us to the true light of our ancestors. Are we going to tell our young men that they are failing because they do not wish to assimilate into the kingdom of the destroyers? This is blasphemous to our race, if we are to have any pride in who we are then it must start there, with who we are. Not with how much money or degrees we have. Thank you positive brothers for your effort. Our youth (and grown folks) need all the help that we can give ourselves. Peace and Blessings.
• Posted 10/25/10 by Alease
  I feel that this is a very positive film that must be heard by our youth. However,the voices of the previous speakers are beging heard when the film as moved on to another person(s); thus, what is being said cannot be heard clearly. Please correct and resend.
• Posted 10/25/10 by carlos
  yes that is truth they shuold learn spanich so like that dont be like me when i came to the usa i hate english the white end black people becouse i dont undestand enything no GED NO hign school no work no nothing no girlfreind no womem now i speak englesh now i have GED now i have a good job i am engineer end now i have cute girl now i love america be profecional like me electromechanic my passion learn more end more the more you can
• Posted 10/25/10 by Evelyn Holden
  This is so true. I have a youth organization called Extreme Change. We serve at risk youth and low to moderate income communities.We offer tutoring, health, physical, and financial education, aviation and horseback riding lessons. We so offer performing arts. We have mentor sessions. One of the reasons that I started this programs is because of all of the gang violence, drug activity, school drop out. Another reason is because I care what happens to our children. What ever we can do to help, that's what what we're doing.
• Posted 10/25/10 by Ivan Dickson
  This was AWESOME!! We need more Documentaries to help our young men..Knowledge is the Master key to there SUCCESS, and MINDSET will help young men to reach there Destiny in Life..Keep up the great work, Peace & Blessings to you and your Family.
• Posted 10/25/10 by Fabian Williams
  this has to be one of the most well articulated message I have seen on this topic. I think ALL young males, not just Black Males need to watch this. I discovered this after watching Fox News interview with Cap Owner Ted Leonsis, who owns this site.
• Posted 10/24/10 by Soyinka
  Congratulations you guys I always wanted black brothers to say this and be honest. My heart breaks when I see how some of our black young brothers live. THANK YOU SHOUT IT OUT EDUCATION IS SO IMPORTANT.
• Posted 10/24/10 by Kai
  One of the best documentary films I have seen in a long time. Put this out there, make sure that its intended audience has knowledge of and access to this documentary. The message needs to be spread statewide, to all inner city communities, prison houses, wherever this message can make a difference in the life of another black youth, insure that it reaches them. Van Peebles, Mr. Canada, Sean Puffy, Chris Rock and all the other Black men who took the time to personally contribute to this documentary, we applaud you for the time you took to make this documentary, for your effort, and for just giving a ####! As somebody has to! Stats tell us there are close to 2 million Black men in prisons today. We have young Black men, women, grandmothers even babies getting killed from stray bullets, yet the madness continues and no one wants to take the time to find out why and attempt to put an end to this madness. Many of us have given up in hopelessness feeling this is a Lost Generation of Youth! Black men making babies and abandoning them, Black women attempting to raise their sons to be a Man! Irregardless of whatever your religious or non-religious beliefs are, this was never God/Yah's intent as our creator. Its time for all of us to Take Charge of our Youth, these are Our Sons! They are Our Young Black Men! and they need all the help and guidance they can get. If you can turn even one young Black male away from a life on the streets, you have performed a Good Deed in societies eyes and in God's eyes. Message to Black men, don't abandon your sons and daughters, they need you, they need you desparately. If you are one of our Black sons who have made it and live a decent life, put yourselves our there as a role model, "Be a Role Model" "Be a Mentor" "Build Youth Organizations" "Get Involved" Many of you, Our Black Sons have been blessed with so much to give, don't waste it! Having expensive homes, expensive cars, Bling etc. is all good, but how much better the feeling inside would be than to help those before you who have fallen by the wayside. If every Black male who has become a success would pool just 1 million each, how many inner city youth centers could be built teaching our Black youth technology, job skills, etc. Teaching them there's a better way, and a much more rewarding path than to waste their lives standing on street corners selling drugs, gang banging etc. Hope is a powerful message!!!
• Posted 10/24/10 by Jerry Carr
  I think the overall message of the documentary is definitely uplifting. I just wish that we could try to approach education, learning and knowledge from a position of, it is its own reward. Not having to always equate it to finding a job or an alternative to jail. It has to become part of who we are. No one has to sell the idea of a rapper or an athlete to a young Black male. Until our young men see knowledge from that point of view, we're just spinning our wheels. But I do appreciate the effort that the documentary is attempting to make.
• Posted 10/23/10 by James Dennis
  Powerful Motivation ! Thank You . I'm passing it along right now.
• Posted 10/22/10 by Jae HIgh
  So VERY well said Michael - I don't know how it could possibly be said any better. Another point I find of importance - Steve Harvey seems to do much to help young black males, and since the young usually emulate adults I am certain English teachers across America would rejoice if Steve would stop undoing their efforts in teaching our children proper grammar and learn to speak the english language well especially on the airwaves during his radio show and even when he does his so-called comedy shows which I am certain many of our young watch. It is disgraceful that in 2010 Steve and our youth are still murdering the english language.
• Posted 10/21/10 by Michael Williams
  I teach in the inner-city. Many of the things said here are true. However, the video is missing the one thing that will improve the conditions many of the narrators are shooting for. Until communities go back to a traditional family structure, things will never improve. When looking at all of the statistics, children that grow up in traditional families raised by a man and a woman, married and staying together, do far better than children that don't. Daniel Moynahan wrote about what would happen in 1965 and his words have run true and we are now witnessing the result. When you say the government will be your parent and provide for everything financial rather than the nurturing provided by both a mother and a father, you are seeing the result of that policy today in the inner-city. Unfortunately what has happened to young Black men as a result of "The Great Society" is headed for the rest of our country. Now, as of last year, 40% of children are born out of wedlock and raised by one parent. What we have been seeing in the Black community for many years will eventually become the story of many young people growing up now. But actually, I think the government likes this. It allows them to control us by making us dependent on them for "goodies." Look at Detroit and parts of Chicago, L.A. and other places. What all of the commentators said is true, but it takes a young person, particularly young males, seeing both parents doing the right thing. Seeing a father and mother getting up in the morning and going to work. Seeing and hearing good tv shows at home as they are monitored by parents. Having a father kicking your ### out of bed to make sure you get to school to get that education and backing up the teacher rather than threatening the teacher when that kid is keeping the teacher from teaching. 2 parent families do a better job making sure you keep your kid away from bad influences. When a child sees adults setting the right kind of example for him, then that child tends to emulate that example. If a child has a 13 to 15 year old mother and sees no father in the house, what example does that set and what do all of these narrators expect to get as a result.
• Posted 10/21/10 by Eric
  What can I do to help promote this message in the Atlanta area?
• Posted 10/20/10 by Sheliah Najeeullah
  The film is much needed in schools, especially Middle/High Schools. How can you establish a way to have the film seen in public schools across the country. Especially in Oakland, CA.
• Posted 10/20/10 by Leana Rodriguez
  So wonderful to see this subject broken down for the target audience to relate to! I hope that this film goes viral! I have sent this to everyone on my contact list. Thank you for this.
• Posted 10/20/10 by Jae High
  Thank you, thank you, thank you...very well done. Please find a way to show this documentary on BET as often as some of the garbage is shown that the younger generation is watching. It is sad and scary to see young black men looking clueless cruising with their big shiny ghetto rims and so-called music blasting from their vehicles as if all the world wants to hear it (trust me - we most definitely do not)and pants falling off their buttocks. Of course many of our females have taken that path as well. It is a sad and disturbing picture. The documentary is awesome...kudos.
• Posted 10/20/10 by RealRecognize Real
  This is definitely something that all young men should view of all nationalities. There should be more positive short documentaries like this for all young people to lead them in a more positive direction instead of running around being so called gangsters or throwing their lives away in the streets on drugs etc. I have looked up to many of the individuals in this short film and Im glad they are providing the chance to show others there is another way.
• Posted 10/20/10 by Jacqueline
  I work in the school system and I live in a inter city. The subjects’ mentions in this video are true. I speak well of the people in this video who took the time to address the future of black male youth in America. It a scary picture. I have a son and I pray each day that his mind stays focus on positive behavior and he avoids negative temptations daily. However, some the young black male 17-25 of age today, appear to be angry at the world and feel the world owes them something. Self-respect, positive empowerment and a sense of self-worth is the dare to spear head to the “change.” To curve their appetite for drugs, alcohol and violence (which is taken to a whole new level) pilot to the cliché, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”
• Posted 10/20/10 by No RHINOs-Vote the bums out of the House & Senate
  This guy is only where he is because of Biggie and his death. He aint and never will be a "rapper" no matter how much money he throws to DJs. You will always be what you was.
• Posted 10/20/10 by DB
  Excellent, timely and our young men definitely need this! Let's get this on BET and TV One! This film need to be shown on a recurring basis.
• Posted 10/19/10 by N. McCants
  Superb tool to bring critical awareness. Excellent production, well thought out documentary.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Bianca
  EXCELLENT DOCUMENTARY! This really needs to be seen & heard among our young black youth. Particulary, young black males. I just started my part & shared with 25 others. Please lets gets this documentary seeen, pushed to our facebook friends, in your schools if need be. But, our young black men, are resorting back to SLAVERY with this path to prison at such an early age. A huge part also is lack of male role influence in the households. Our upbringing is equally a strong part of our education system and parents have to equally step up their A game and get involved. Each 1 teach 1. Thank You.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Ink-foolery
  This is a very positive message...And would love to see this go through as that.And not a witch hunt to blame voodoo on our ailments. It would be nice to see more inner social education amongst People of all color. segregation has never cured racism. nor has thoughts of superiority ever made a king a ruler. The man who gauges his wealth as his worth, surely is a hungry man. With that weight upon his back,and a starving gut. It's a wonder he can stand.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Kyle Deveaux
  As a young black man working hard in the entertainment industry I still know that an education is vital in my life and it's inspiring to hear these powerful and motivating words from successful men I look up to.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Carla Elliott
  Powerful words from influential people. As a black woman and an aspiring enterpreneur, I thank you.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Kristen Johnson-Phifer
  This is a powerful film for the 21st century young African-American male. Each one of us, must teach one of us! This is a vital mantra for our youth today and tomorrow. WE ARE the one ones that we've been waiting for. When African-American men collectively and lovingly begin to stand up and lift up their voices and give graciously of their time to create incremental changes; monumental changes are guaranteed! I applaud the filmmakers for this timely and stylized production. This documentary should be required viewing for all students in grades (9)nine through (12)twelve, throughout this nation!
• Posted 10/18/10 by elving
  thank this is a very good massege for us minoroty, because whit need this in or young people . i am a fathert of 3 kids a 17-11-9. lovento death and thi massege give me tha autotem to go foward in life with out be scare in life thank you.
• Posted 10/18/10 by Sculptor Debra Hand
  It's great to see MEN taking charge and leading the way. Many of our youth are looking for direction, but don't know how to find it, hence the bad decisions. This documentary provides much perspective for them to consider. Great initiative on the part of the documentary makers and participants.
• Posted 10/17/10 by Dr. Janice Hilliard
  This is awesome!! Should be required viewing in all public high schools. So proud of Amare' and Allan, thank you! Much needed.
• Posted 10/15/10 by janfrangas
  This is extremely powerful put into plain talk. I'm very excited about this and have (and will continue to) sent this out to as many people as I can think of. Thank you for taking the time.
• Posted 10/12/10 by Douly
  Great Flick, Ill def pass on to the youth out there!!