Question: What risks, hurdles, or obstacles did Flip Wilson face which parallels your entry into the communications work force?

 

Response:

 

It was his ability to appeal to diverse audiences that won Clerow "Flip" Wilson two Emmy's for Best Variety Show in 1971. He attained a type of balance that was uncommon of his time. Wilson broke many racial barriers, which allowed him to attract diverse audiences into a central comedic setting. Wilson's characters were seen as both offensive portrayals and positive representations of blacks.

 

Being black was one obstacle Wilson had to face, but being a black man with a television show was pure obstruction. In Wilson's case, satisfying both black and white audiences was nearly impossible. However, Wilson provided both stereotypical comedy and racial enlightenment. This is what made his show a success. Not that he tried to protect the feelings of people, but that he exposed their imperfections and did not mind offending people with the truth. In the end, audiences walked a way with a renewed sense of their own prejudices. A show of its time, The Flip Wilson Show, connected people amidst an outside world that was still divided.

 

As I progress in my career as a journalist, I will have to find my own balance. I want to be able to connect with all types of people, without dismissing the needs of my own community. It is vital that I focus on people as a whole, race is important and will be addressed, but concentrating on people is the key. Everyone has common issues and finding that mutual ground is the real obstacle that has to be overcome.