This is America by Donald Glover (Grade A+)

Summary:

Donald Glover, known by his stage name Childish Gambino, released the powerful song “This Is America” in 2018, which serves as a commentary on significant racial and societal issues in the U.S. The song and its accompanying video shed light on gun violence, police brutality, racism, and how media and entertainment distract from these issues. The music video, directed by Hiro Murai, is filled with symbolism and references, such as Glover’s recreation of the Jim Crow pose before a violent act or his use of red cloth, perhaps symbolizing Republican states and their stance on gun rights. Specific events, like the Charleston church shooting and the shooting of Stephon Clark, are alluded to, emphasizing the frequent and normalized violence against African Americans. The video also touches on cultural appropriation, with dancing as escapism and distraction from the unfolding chaos. Gambino highlights the duality of how American society embraces Black culture but often overlooks the struggles faced by the Black community. The song concludes with imagery reminiscent of the movie “Get Out,” suggesting systemic racial oppression. Glover’s work has initiated crucial conversations about the state of America, illustrating the nation’s complexities and persistent challenges.

Excerpt:

This is America by Donald Glover

Over the life course, most black Yanks show general disadvantage in American life over a hundred and fifty years when slavery was abolished. Many studies have shown that shootings involving an unarmed African American getting killed had triggered days of poor mental health for black Americans living in that state. With Saint George Floyd’s death as a supporting statement to prove the inequality faced by black Americans, it acted as a catalyst for Black Lives Matter protests worldwide in a likewise manner. Moreover, it raised awareness of the racial discrimination black Americans face. Music artist Donald Glover, better referred to by his stage name Childish Gambino, aghast the Americans along with his intense music video and lyrics for ‘This Is America’, which was released in 2018.