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and are represented as sex objects in hip hop music videos wearing next to nothing with the misconception that they are promiscuous and lack morality.

Black women in this country are routinely referred to as "Bitches" "Hood Rats" and "Whores" instead of ladies and these generalizations further perpetuate misconceptions and further stereotypes of black women as immoral and easy and not deserving of respect and consideration.

Instead of reporting on things our young black female entertainers are doing wrong, the focus should be on what they are doing right and the contribution they are making to the arts and as role models to other young black females in our society and abroad.

Stereotypes are damaging to our society and they serve no purpose in an educated and diverse society. We should strive to set a better example to the world in this country and show that racial barriers and lines no longer control our society like it once did.

Social ills like racism, and segregation have lost much of their power and sting and have been replaced by their milder cousin the "stereotype." These irrational beliefs create misunderstandings, fear, and misconceptions that are hard to overcome.

The key to wiping out stereotypes is education and understanding. I believe our public schools and universities should require courses in social understanding and discovery. We as men, women, white, black, Hispanic, and Asian are more similar then different.

Shows like the "Tyra Banks Show" have addressed many important issues about black women, even concerning the prejudices and stereotypes that exist between black women themselves, such as the belief that lighter skinned black women are more attractive or successful.

It's hard to overcome stereotypes when the victims themselves believe them as well. The shade of your skin or the texture of your hair should never be considered a determining factor that makes a person feel superior to another simply because of physical attributes.

We have come a long way in this country since the turbulent times of women's rights and race riots but the fact is we still have lots of maturing to do as a diverse nation. Some stereotypes refuse to go softly into oblivion and we need more people in the media who have the courage to address these issues by writing articles, books, doing positive stories and reports depicting black women in a more realistic manner.

These types of concerns need to be discussed openly and without reservation or embarrassment. A problem cannot be resolved as long as it is ignored, or rationalized away as not relevant or of no social importance. The representation of black women in this country in the media, radio, T.V. and in the movies is one-sided, inaccurate, and socially irresponsible.

Black women have it really tough in America. The choices they face are grim. Which stereotype is worse? The angry black lady with a chip on her shoulder, or the immoral sex kitten who lives to please men? Neither option is very attractive and neither should have to be tolerated.

As long as we close our eyes and accept these stereotypes and fail to make changes in our attitudes toward black women they will have to suffer these mistaken beliefs and the consequences that accompany them.

Learn more about this author, Jim Osborn.
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