Todd Tucker | Family Issue 2018

THE
Essence
Of Reflective
Youth
By Monique Howard
A strong semblance of self is
essential in the developmental
process of youth. Virtue, capability,
and intelligence are hallmark
traits that should be perceived as
the fabric of our internal makeup.
In a small way, the shows
and movies children watch ignite
a powerful spark. It’s a defining
moment that could lead toward
a future path. They have the ability
to become what’s portrayed
on screen. Outstanding examples
are offered to showcase the
boundless terrain they can cross.
It’s important for children to see
princesses and superheroes that
look like them. Heroism, grace,
and wisdom are characteristics
that exist within us all.
Disney’s Doc Mcstuffins is a
popular animated series for preschoolers
featuring a young, African
American girl as a doctor.
This provides a double dose
of empowerment through the
scope of feminism and cultural
equality. The youngster knows
dreams can be achieved because
her mother is a doctor. The
characters have a piece of the
all-American dream. This shows
that not all African Americans
are hovering at the poverty line
and trapped in seemingly deadend
jobs. Most importantly it’s
a beautifully rendered creation
gleaming with positivity for children.
Pop culture can’t be expected to
right all wrongs, but it’s a step in
the right direction. Now more
than ever it’s important for youth
to see positive cultural representation
through various media
platforms. With that said, I was
pleasantly surprised by the Spider-Man:
Into the Spider-Verse
movie trailer. There’s something
uplifting about seeing a young,
African American male as the
center of attention because he`s
a hero. A glimmer of hope transcends
the fictional realm and
inspires hope in our world. Lifepaths
and expectations aren’t
limited to a particular social or
ethnic demographic.
Simply being human entitles an
individual the right to pursue
and achieve greatness. Talents
lie within us all and are deeply
rooted in the essence of our humanity.
The upcoming, African
American generation should
know that they’re priceless contributors
toward the betterment
of society. Witnessing a young,
African American boy donning
the costume of an iconic superhero
is just a start. The dawning
realization was long overdue,
but its wonderment was all the
sweeter.
One can only hope that someday
fantasy will become reality. The
positive promotion of diversity
in children’s shows will be fully
realized in the real world. Until
this golden day, one can cling to
the glimmers of hope showcased
on the silver screen. That’s a
dream worth holding onto. This
is the driving force that compels
adults to encourage and inspire
children.
www.TheQGentleman.com Summer 2018 | The Quintessential Gentleman 12