African American women: We're listening

Nicki — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:36:29 GMT

Thank you for this. I missed the first 3 nights. Where can I get a video tape of this. program

African American women: We're listening

Kendra, Atlanta, GA — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 18:46:55 GMT

Barbara,
Thank you so much for the feedback and the explanation of the format NBC is working with. I think that rather than expecting more from you, we as black women should take this discussion further and use our influences and talents to be catalysts for change and progression within our communitities. It is obvious that we have opionions so let's use them to better the world around us.

African American women: We're listening

LC — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 19:09:37 GMT

Mara, thank you for this message. I'm amazed at the messages being left by people about the series. You can only squeeze so many stories into a half hour news segment. And many of the posters were pissed about the series before Part I even aired. That's crazy.

As for black men, I'm amazed that black men and some black women are constantly harping about where's the stories on black men. This series is about black women folks. Last year the Washington Post had an entire series called Being A Black Man (http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/metro/interactives/blackmen/blackmen.html). They even made a book about it. Reading the comments section in that series you sure didn't see black men complaining about where are the black women. But let someone focus on black women only and all hell breaks loose.

African American women: We're listening

Tennille, Baltimore, MD — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 19:40:50 GMT

Unfortunately, I get off of work to late to see the actual broadcast. So I am catching up via the webcast. The series is wonderful and I am glad you saw the need and took the opportunity to publicize the various topics. As an African American woman who is highly educated and career oriented you have definitely given America a brief opportunity to walk in my shoes. It definitely is not easy but thanks again for your committment to us as African American women. I appreciate your efforts.

African American women: We're listening

luxor — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 19:54:57 GMT

history is repeating itself. the same thing that happened in Argentina is now happening in the united states.In a few short years the blacks in the United states will become extinct do to the flight of black women and that is not a good thing.

African American women: We're listening

Richard Greene, Ardmore, PA — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:33:34 GMT

Ms. Schiavocampo -
I rarely watch any of the evening half-hour national news broadcasts because of limited time-slots for segments and a limited depth of coverage.

Regarding this week's series on African-American Women and Where They Stand, I agree with the significance of the topic. However, as an academic and public policy specialist, the topics are not new and have been on the radar of many of my colleagues for years.

For example, the black gender disparity has been known and documented. We have seen it in the classroom but college admissions pays little attention to what some call "social dynamite".

It is always of interest when the dominant media chooses an important subject but I do wish this could have been produced much sooner - years ago.

African American women: We're listening

Joseph Henry in Iowa City, Iowa — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:48:11 GMT

How would our Black women activists answer the question of the Black Woman's performance in 21st
century America today ? I'm particularly interested in the views of those scholars, educators, political activists and others that are left of center. A roundtable that included Sonia Sanchez, Dr. Julia Hare, Angela Davis, Kathleen Cleaver, Dr. Beverly Tatum and Bell Hooks would certainly prove to be lively, instructive and a wonderful opportunity for them to impart their hard earned insights and wisdom.
So,is there any chance that your program could also speak to the interests and values of this segment of the African American community ?

African American women: We're listening

Adrienne, San Francisco, CA — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 20:52:21 GMT

As the curator and founder of the International Black Women's Film Festival in San Francisco, California, I applaud your series on African American women!

Part of the mission of my film festival was to address the gross oversight of accurate and responsible images of Black women in film, media and television.

What a wonderful prelude to a larger dialog that I hope will stay on track to *specifically* discuss Black women...we deserve to be recognized as thoughtful and active contributors to a better society.

Brava!

African American women: We're listening

Janet Jones Wilson — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 21:25:41 GMT

I truly have enjoyed what i have seen and what iam hearing so far, on this topic i can relate to what this peice is about for i myself wear these shoes, i have been a widow for the last eighteen years never having to remarry and was left having to raise a male child all alone as a single parent. There were a lot of ruff times having to be a now single black female raising a son. Fortunate for me i had a pretty decent job and making a okay salery and the benifits that i and my son had inheritated on the behalf of my husband, i made good and wise decsion when it came to my finances, iwas able to stay in my home at which time was just 2 years newly built prior to my husband death. All of this i had to contend with at the age of 35 and raising a 14year old black male. I can truly say that i never tried to go on the hunt to find another spouse i was more in tune in trying to survive and being a good parent to my child. And now at age 52 my life has come full circle my son is grown iam looking at retireing in 3years, after thirty one years of service to my employer and now iam looking forward to the next phase of my life. I would like to also state that relationships do work and it rather disturbing to see so many single women taking on leadership rolls but it is what it is. And i think a woman has to do what a woman have to do.

African American women: We're listening

Pam - Indy — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 22:03:14 GMT

Thank you very much for your series addressing Black Women. It is much appreciated and long overdue.

African American women: We're listening

T, Atlanta GA — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 22:07:56 GMT

Thank you for showing something good regarding Black Women... Where can I get the video?

African American women: We're listening

Janice C, Chicago IL — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 23:02:28 GMT

I am glad to see this topic getting more coverage. For those who feel it is not getting enough time, a week is a lot in media time. There are a lot of stories to cover, indeed. If you search the web, though, you can find lots of discussion and more detailed information on the topics you seek. Here are some recent blogs on interracial dating between African-American women and white men, for example. Some are used in the actual NBC video; I can't put in html, so just cut and paste these relevant links on the topic:

http://www.dateawhiteguybook.com/

http://www.whitemenforblackwomen.blogspot.com/

http://didyoustoptothink.blogspot.com/2007/11/mating-dance-is-flirting-but-thats-not.html

I have found these blogs to be quite insightful on the subject.

African American women: We're listening

Gina from What About Our Daughters — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 23:11:13 GMT

We haven't been overwhelmed with the series over at What About Our Daughters? http://whataboutourdaughters.blogspot.com , but I think by any objective measure you can count the series a success by broadcast standards as you have folks like me skipping the gym to stay home and watch the evening news which I have not done in years.

I just don't think you guys are saying anything new that we have not already heard. According to Rahema's post your VP Mr. Whitaker was looking for the "consequences" of Black women's achievement. that to me sends of alarm bells that he views Black women being successful as a bad or negative thing. Who talks about the "consequences" of success?

All you people asking about the video, they have the video on MSNBC.com if you can find it, come over to WAOD, we put up links to all of the MSNBC videos after each show

Next time, don't hype the series so much and people won't have such high expectations. You can't please everybody.

African American women: We're listening

a southern woman — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:04:14 GMT

I just want to say thank you to NBC for doing these pieces. For almost my entire life it has seemed that black women have been absent from television and news reports except to stereotype us in the usual ways that I will not repeat here. It was wonderful to be seen as three dimensional human beings who have successful careers, worry about our health and care about our relationships with our men and children. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Hopefully other news organizations and primetime tv will discover us as well.

African American women: We're listening

Tina, Dallas, Tx. — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:04:21 GMT

Thank you for explaining why the segements are short, and thank you for hearing our CRY!!! Someone help we need help in our community and I feel like we are losing this battle greatly. So again thanks for explaining and providing us and the country with our problem. Thanks!!!!

African American women: We're listening

HAROLD GOMEZ.VALE,NC — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:04:53 GMT

WHILE I WATCHED THIS TONIGHT,I WONDERED IF THESE BLACK AFRICAN WOMEN ARE IN REALITY BLACK AMERICAN. WHY WOULD THEY BE ASHAMED TO BE BLACK AMEICANS?

African American women: We're listening

Ginnette, Boston, MA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:05:35 GMT

Thanks for the series, black women still face the twin devils of racism and sexism. I have seen and experienced black men who feel threatened and emasculated by confident and capable black women. I am in my forties and have come to the conclusion that I am "married to myself"...

African American women: We're listening

Tammy J, Dallas TX — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:07:18 GMT

Thank you for the week long segment. It's way overdue. Our issues are so indepth and rarely paid attention to, that I understand the feeling that the segments are not long enough. Nonetheless, I applaud NBCs effort in calling attention to some of our issues this week and I hope this is only the beginning as we do watch the nightly news as well.

African American women: We're listening

Lisa, Roanoke, VA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:09:12 GMT

This is a wonderful series. The time dedicated to the series is short, but it's a start.

Thank you so much for doing the series!

African American women: We're listening

RosAnn, Norton, VA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:09:25 GMT

I thought the breast cancer and the relationship series was very informative. Thank you very much for addressing issues on African American women.

African American women: We're listening

Dorothy Phillips, Anniston, AL — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:15:20 GMT

I am enjoying the segments on Black American women which present us in roles that are often overlooked. Many times we are protrayed in the media in a negative conotation. Thanks for making it real.

African American women: We're listening

Boston — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:18:13 GMT

Kudos! As an African-American woman professional, I applaud your efforts. HOPEFULLY, YOU WILL ENGAGE IN A DISCUSSION IN THE FUTURE ABOUT HOW WE RESOLVE CRIME AND JUSTICE ISSUES ADVERSELY AFFECTING YOUNG AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN.

African American women: We're listening

Joan Anderson — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:21:12 GMT

I don't trust the stats on the number of black children being born out of wedlock. But I ask should black wommen commit genocide by waiting until they get married before having children? Would that not mean that 40% of black women would never have children.

African American women: We're listening

B J, Cedar Hill, Texas — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:21:46 GMT

I'm so glad that someone thought enough to recognize that black women has a place in this world. We're not only beautiful but we're smart and successful. For the sisters who are complaining about not giving our black men a corner of this series could you please for once give the ladies a rare opportunity to show that side of us that the world doesn't get to see? Maybe through this series we can cut down on the percentages of unmarried women in our race.

Two thumbs up for this series.

African American women: We're listening

michael brewer, roanoke,virginia — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:22:37 GMT

hello, black women you are strong people so tell me please what is the one most common asset that you look for in a man ?

African American women: We're listening

Carmin Wharton, Tampa, Florida — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:29:49 GMT

I am thankful for this series and I hope that when the series is over, Black women will sit down and assess exactly where they are in the respective areas of our lives. However, as the author of a relationship memoir, Lessons Learned: While Looking for Love in All the Wrong Faces (http://www.lovelessonslearned.com) and as a relationship coach, I am compelled to speak to tonight's part of the series on Black women and dating and marriage. Are we courageous enough to face facts regarding the unavailability of Black men to date and marry? Are we courageous enough to not care what others think or will say if we decide to date and marry outside of our race? In my book, I speak about interracial dating and the chapter title is: "The Grass May or May Not Be Greener on the Other Side;" the subtitle is "The color of his skin is not indicative of what's in him." I choose this title and subtitle because I want Black women to understand that just because a man is Black it doesn't mean that you will have anything in common with him. Just because a man is White or any other race does not mean he is or will treat you better than a Black man. A man's skin color does not guarantee a good relationship. However, Black women must remain open and realize that the mate we seek and desire who will be perfect for us may not come in our skin color or ethnicity.

There are 2 things I caution Black women about regarding interracial dating:

1. Make sure that if you happen to date or marry a man of another race, it is because you love this person on the inside. It is not fair to the man to decide that you want to be with him just because he is NOT Black. Stay focused on the person's character and things you have in common.

This is new time for Black women. We are in a situation now where we are able to come into contact with all kinds of people (in the workplace, in school, socially). Remain open and you may be surprised who you are attracted to - if you can just get past the fact that he may or may not be Black.

2. Be prepared for a backlash from friends, family and strangers.

I have a platonic White male friend and I have dated a White man. Interestingly, in both instances, while out dining with these gentlemen, the ugliest stares and downright venomous stares have come from - hold on to your hats - White women! Go figure. Certain relatives have been rude also. We can be tough as Teflon anyway so just be prepared for people's misbehavior.

Finally, one of the greatest ways to attract the mate you desire is to be the mate you desire. What do I mean by that? If you desire a man who is deeply spiritual, then you be sincerely and deeply spiritual. If you desire a man who is financially fit, then you get financially fit. If you desire a man who is in decent physical shape, make sure that no matter your body build, you are in the best shape that you can been in.

African American women: We're listening

L.Denise Edmonds, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:30:21 GMT

Thank you for doing this segment. As a single African American parent I really appreciate it.It would be my hope that we would now begin to focus on the root causes of the outcomes dilineated in the series. Perhaps we could look at other exogenous variables outside of our single parent households. Almost every topic under the sun that you can discuss will show a disparity with respect to African Americans (men and women). Let us address why that is! My thought is that we do not genuinely want to touch the fact that institutional racism and discrimination in employment,education,health care, housing, etc. might contribute to many of these outcomes reported on in this segment.

African American women: We're listening

Gayle Deadwyler, Solon,OH — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:32:13 GMT

Thanks for the focus on breast cancer. Our needs and sensibilities are different. Keep this issue on the forefront. Too many of us are dying.

African American women: We're listening

Gina from What About Our Daughters — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:33:47 GMT

Rahema,

You redeemed yourself tonight. I loved the tone of the piece about Black woman and their relationships. Sure, we heard the usual doomsday stats and horrible marriage statistics, but the tone was hopeful and didn't cast judgment on anyone.

As bloggers, we often sling rhetorical arrows without realizing that there is another human being on the other end of what we say. We've been rough on you this week, but I get that you are trying and that you care and want to get it "right." surprisingly good tonight. You got off to a rough start, but tonight you hit your stride. I just hope you don't go backwards.

Mara , we are eagerly awaiting your piece with Irv Gotti and Melyssa Ford. Oh I can already tell that my readers and contributors are just going to LUUUUV that.

African American women: We're listening

Shakira Rolle — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:36:26 GMT

As as a married, educated African American woman, I appreciate the emphasis that has been placed on us. Bringing this topic to light will show America that there is more to African American women that meets the eye. We are not all about hair and nails, but about family, education, culture and life. African American men are always in the spotlight...many times not for positive reasons...so it's hight time the focus switches. Thanks for your efforts!

African American women: We're listening

Nicki — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:38:25 GMT

Thank you so much for your series on African American Women. It was a real "eye opener"! It is hard being a Divorced, Single parent and it's even worse to know that it's more African American women than any other race.

African American women: We're listening

Gayle Deadwyler, Solon,OH — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:41:56 GMT

This is great! But what aboutthe over 50 age group? Our concerns are health, finances, retirement,living alone, sexuality(yes we're still interested)

African American women: We're listening

J. L. R. — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:42:14 GMT

Mara Schiavocampo,
Thank both you and NBC for providing the spotlight on the important issues of one of the fastest growing population - Black females. It is wonderful to see the well deserved attention placed on us as we have nutured the community for so long but some how have been left out of broadcasts, studies and discussions.

Many of my collegues, friends and coworkers are excited about the show and watching daily.

Because it is late when I arrive home, everyday this week I have anxiously arrived her at my desktop to watch the podcasts and many other extra's regarding the show.

Once again, we thank you for this informative outlet.

African American women: We're listening

J. L. R. — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 00:49:06 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Tiffany, Las Vegas NV — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:17:15 GMT

Thank you for this series. It is refreshing to see our stories, thoughts, and opinions being broadcast nationwide.

African American women: We're listening

Angela Broussard — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:17:24 GMT

The show is good but you should have gotten young girls thoughts on what future they have with young black men. Junior high and High school girls can see if being with a young black male is good or bad for them. I'm a screenwriter and spiritual teacher and I'm also in college furthering my education. All I come across is lazy black men. I never meet one that is equally yoked, and as I get older, it gets much harder. It is so unfair and extremely hard to deal with. The segment was good, but I don't agree with black women running to white men. I still believe there are some hard working brothers we can marry. I'm not into interracial dating. Most of them are only with black women so they can live good, but at least they can deal with a sister getting paid.

African American women: We're listening

Taylor, AZ — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:17:44 GMT

I am a student in a majority white college. I have found this series interesting and quite enlightening. Currently I am taking a course which confronts many of these issues, Black Women in America AFS 102. I do feel that perhaps showing where we stand in comparison to white women and other ethnicities would be more constructive in providing a whilistic picture. As part of a community that is so internally fragmented already, I'm afraid that this series may bring contempt from our male counterparts.

However I appauled NBC. So far it as been a job well done!

African American women: We're listening

Renatta Frazier,Stone Mountain,GA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:17:59 GMT

In watching the awesome series about Africa-American women from many walks of life. I have been intrigued by their impact on society. However, I continue to be disturbed by the lack of national media coverage concerning Africa-American women as it relates to the racial and gender discrimination that they experienced at the hands of the law enforcement agencies that employ them. In August of 2000, I finally capture my childhood dream in becoming a police officer. Growing up on the West Side of Chicago,where many Africa-Americans were opposed to Police Officers, I was infallible intrigued by all apsects of law enforcement. I entered the Illinois
State Police Academy with this childhood enthusiasm only to be greeted with racial distain. During my training with six white male recruit officers, they threaten to chain and drag me from a academy vehicle. At my persistance, an internal investigation was launched. As a result of the investigation many of the recruit officers were terminated. Upon my completion of academy training, I was promoted to my local police department located in Springfield, IL about 3 1/2 hours South of Chicago, IL. I was welcomed with hostility and resentment. During daily squad meetings, I was often referred to by fellow white officiers as the "NACCP" poster child. I was alienated,denied dinner breaks to relieve white officiers assigned to other beats and openly humiliated by members of the command staff. White Officiers used their motor data terminals located in their squad cars to communicate with one another in which they referred to me often as that "NIGGER BIT_H". Very often white officiers refused to provide back-up assistance on dangerous calls. In the midst of it all, I was falsely accused of failing to prevent the alleged rape of a white detective's daughter. This three year ordeal sparked negative media coverage that lead to death threats, public scorn,termination of my law enforcement career, homeless and severe depression. It wasn't until investigative reporter Dusty Rhodes of Springfield discovered the truth and wrote a cover page story in the Illinois Times Newspaper titled "COP OUT" that the truth was revealed. The Police Chief, Assistant Chiefs and 13 other officiers lied and conspired to terminate me out of their resentment due to the white recruit officiers being terminated at the academy. Through prayer,public out cry and the excellent investigative work of Dusty Rhodes, I have experienced triumph as an Africa-American woman. In April 2006, I was awarded the largest out of court settlement in Springfield, IL history. While I am impressed with the entire series, I like many other Africa-American Female Police Officers realize that the discrimation I experienced are not isolated incidents but a national epidemic of epic proporations and DESERVES NATIONAL ATTENTION. I may be contacted {217} 553-7152.

African American women: We're listening

Candice D., Chicago, IL — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:34:22 GMT

I was excited, and frankly a little surprised that African-American's would be featured on a national news program. With so many negative and degrading images of African-American women portrayed in the media, through music and videos, it was refreshing to see accurate, powerful and realistic images of African-American women in this country. I hope to see a series on African-American men in the future.

African American women: We're listening

Margaret Oliver, Lithonia, Georgia — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:43:24 GMT

For many years there has been the idea that if you are a single parent, then you are on the poverty line; I beg to disagree and want to see that addressed in these series and others concerning the african american woman in the near future. Great series.

African American women: We're listening

Margaret Oliver, Lithonia, Georgia — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:46:22 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Margaret Oliver, Lithonia, Georgia — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 01:46:57 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Al Roche, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:11:59 GMT

I do believe that African American women are the most victimized of what is wrong with relationships between African American women and men. They suffer more because if this illness. I also believe that the suffering of African American men comes as a result of not having better relationships with African American women, which should include marrying them.

African American women: We're listening

Shonda, Philly, PA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:14:21 GMT

You mentioned that there was much emails from people not to happy that black men look to have many shortcomings. I don't see the comments and would just like to read a few. However, I am one that was a disappointed in this segment. I know it to be featured of Black women but don't bring up statistical comparisons to black men. Black America has enugh to deal with the negative images that are portrayed by the media every darn night.

African American women: We're listening

Shonda, Philly, PA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:15:25 GMT

African American women: We're listening

delores L. Coleman Managan — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:17:11 GMT

I am happy you are addressing the African-American woman.It is a dire need. We as women are in a crisis and unless we embrace each other and our problems there will be little progress to present to our young sisters.It is apparent an out-reach program need to be established, no one has to struggle alone. "Thank You"

African American women: We're listening

Patricia Gordon, Morro Bay CA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:18:33 GMT

I missed the first three nights, however I am a black Ph.D and my husband is Jewish. We married when I was 39 and he was 40. At that time we both had Master
degrees and he pushed me to return to school to earn my doctorate.

We have been happily married for 18 years and we don't get the looks that we did 18 years ago, however,some blacks still take a second look.
We have to navigate both envirmts, because many functions that we attend are segregated events.

Degreed black women must look at other options and consider men that are not college graduates as well as other ethnic groups.

It is essential that we expand our horizons.

African American women: We're listening

Patricia Gordon, Morro Bay CA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:20:58 GMT

As black woman, we should delay having children until we are married.

African American women: We're listening

Patricia Gordon, Morro Bay CA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:21:54 GMT

As black woman, we should delay having children until we are married.

African American women: We're listening

delores L. Coleman Managan — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:32:39 GMT

It appears too often our black men has gotten caught got up in society woes, for this reason black females should be encouraged to educate and develop themselves well. It is a waste of energy to bash black men, we only need to make good decisions.I have begun to see the bashing as a weakness I have been neglected and whatever else but it only made me stronger.

African American women: We're listening

Theresa Ortega, Elk Grove, California — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:34:32 GMT

Thank you for addressing the concerns of the African American women. This coverage will give us a forum to speak to our daughters, mothers and sisters, aunts and cousins. Like the other viewers I wish there was more time for in depth discussion.

African American women: We're listening

Melinda Emerson, Philadelphia, PA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:45:00 GMT

Mara,

This series is important and has been pretty well done. I only wish the series had profiled a day in the life of the average black woman in America. As a professional black woman I am glad to see my perspective on screen, but most black woman are not professionals, and that perspective should have been one story. The extra information on the site has been great. The digtal correspondant peices are quite good as well.

I can't wait to see the next peices.

African American women: We're listening

Tara, Louisiana — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 02:51:04 GMT

I saw the series this evening (11/28) and was very impressed. Yes these topics have been brewing in the hearts and minds of many for years and conversations have been had on too many occasions to count. However, I firmly believe it never hurts to refresh the minds of some and enlighten others about these things less we all become complacent.

Thanks to the sisters in the roundtable discussion for stepping up. I agree that we should be teaching our young women that choosing single parenthood shouldn't be their first option. I hate that this sort of life is becoming normal and marriage is the weird way of life. What happened to the old teachings we grew up on? Sisters let's not settle because when we do, we quickly find that we're getting much less than what we thought we settled for.

Yours in peace and love!

African American women: We're listening

Pearl Jr — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:12:03 GMT

As a trailblazer and founder of the Black Women's Movement, plus someone who has dedicated her life to the upward mobility of the Black race, I feel so left out because I was not contacted to be a part of this series. I've accomplished so very much as a nationally known activist and author with over 150 radio interviews under my belt. I feel the major reason why Blacks as well as Whites fear my retort is because I specialize in short concise phrases that will act as a paradigm shift in the minds of Blacks that will immediately wake most of up to the brutal trickery that deems us harm.

I thank Bryan Williams and the Black female co-host for doing this special and I, with the assistance of Black women, with much action, can change this entire situation around and return back to the days when Black men loved Black women. You can hear all the love when listening to Black music of the 50's and 60's especially--My goodness, Black men loved the ground Black women walked on. The main change that has occurred is the massive influences of Black self-hatred disguised as integration.

Do you agree?

Pearl Jr.
Author, Black Women Need Love, Too!

African American women: We're listening

Emmit, Torrance California — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:18:43 GMT

I sheepishily enter this converstation but I find the topic very interesting. Im a black man married to a black woman, two wonderful kids, upper middle income, living in the suburbs. Those families are out here trying to survive like everyone else. From the media coverage,it kinda feels like there's no good black men out there, we're just not all on TV, playing sports or in jail. we'll just living life.

Emmit, California

African American women: We're listening

Jackie Rawlings Riverside California — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 03:23:35 GMT

Listening to the young ladies tonight tell their stories brought back memories. My parents were divorced so I didn't have an example of a two parent home. But I did see friends and wanted that for my kids. Black men have it hard in America and my husband was not different. We divorced but I still raised my kids to look to marriage. Funny thing happen my kids were paying more attention then I did. All of them chose to be careful and take their time. As today I am not a grandmother, my children have no children out of wed lock, no abortions and my sons have no criminal record. I asked them what made them take that direction. It was they didn't want to make the same mistakes me and my family members made. One son and both girls always date people of all colors. Now one son was pro black and I had to talk to him but he had his mind made up. I prayed for him and told him the heart doesn't see color. Yes one day he called me and said he met a nice girl and she was white. No I didn't say I told you so, I let him of the hook that time.

African American women: We're listening

Q. Maryam — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:03:09 GMT

Like the commentators before me, I applaud your efforts. Thanks for helping to bring Black American women to the forefront. The coverage is brief, but at least people are awakening to the fact that Black women are making strides, each and every day.

African American women: We're listening

T.Lynne, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:05:14 GMT

To touch on the comment submitted by L. Denise Edmonds, Pittsburgh, Penn., although unfortnate, we need to discuss institutional racism and discrimination in employment, education, health care and housing.

I would love to view a roundtable that includes Sonia Sanchez, Dr. Julia Hare, Angela Davis, Kathleen Cleaver, Dr. Beverly Tatum, Bell Hooks, and other successful, intelligent women for a discussion particularly on 'black-on-black' discrimination among African American employees. I am an African American, educated and career-oriented woman who works for an educated African American woman Manager who consistently lies, retaliates, and sets out to detroy and damage the reputation of other African Americans within her division. An open discussion about this is needed.

Thank you for your series on African American Women. It is long overdue.

African American women: We're listening

sherrill, seattle wa — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:27:20 GMT

Thank you very much for this series. I have been coming straight home from work to watch. The statistics about Black women and education are rather alarming. As the mother of 2 black sons, I am striving to make sure they are counted in the number of men with degrees. Even moreso, I appreciate this series in that it shows the general population that all Black women are not hip hop hoochies and we can and do speak correct English.

African American women: We're listening

Deirdre Hill Reno, NV — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 04:38:49 GMT

I am really enjoying the series this week on NBC Nightly News about African American women. I hope to use the information provided this week to narrow down my future dissertation topic.

African American women: We're listening

Dr. Troupe, Frankfort, KY — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:03:34 GMT

Emails were sent to me by my Link Sisters and family members. Thank you so much for the focus on the health issues that Black women face today. I have to miss some of the segments but found the website where the videos are posted and have enjoyed reading the blogs. It is good to see so many people let NBC know that we appreciate this beginning effort and want to see more. Black women are a powerful source and are not afraid to speak up. Thank you Rehema.

African American women: We're listening

Cynthia Campbell , Amherst VA & Brooklyn NY — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:30:58 GMT

As the Broadcast stated tonight that 70% of our children are being raised by single African American Moms please not let us NOT forget some of the BEAUTIFUL AFRICAN AMERICAN GRANDMOTHERS who saved and raised us into who we are...I am one of those black women who was raised by my grandmother and am a better person for it...this weeks segments have been the greatest discussions ..lets keep talking and add the African American grandmothers to discussions...THEY ARE THE ROCKS!!!

African American women: We're listening

T. Holland, Concord, CA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 06:00:12 GMT

I have found the series to be interesting and reported respectfully. Like Rehema Ellis, I have chosen to adopt and am in the process of adopting a beautiful, exuberant 17-month-old girl. I often wonder why, at 41, I am still single, given that I am attractive, educated, gainfully employed, intresting, fun and a long list of other desirable attributes. It seems that my kind is no longer valued as life partners. We, African American women, know that in the work world, we have to be twice as good to get half as far. Is that also true in the dating world? Do we have to be twice as beautiful, twice as smart, twice as good to find half the man?
I've tried every logical means of meeting a mate. Online dating, blind dates, friends playing "match maker", walking up to a man and introducing myself. I've done everything short of taking out a full-page ad in the New York Times. I see eligible brothers out there, but they're usually not with sisters. So I ask myself, why are African American women being igored? What has to change so that I and women like me can be viewed as desirable? Will I ever get marrie?

African American women: We're listening

Content Black Woman - Why Black Women Are Angry Blog — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 06:50:17 GMT

Mara:

I've got to give it up to you, Rehema and the rest of your colleagues at NBC. You all are taking responsibility for your pieces, defending your positions in the context of the format you are given to work with. Rehema's piece on relationships within the African American community has been the best - and longest (over 4 minutes) so far. In comparison to the other nights, it kind of gave me a nice, warm fuzzy feeling inside.

The commitment to the quality of this series by NBC cannot be denied. Continue to visit for my feedback on each segment every night at http://whyblackwomenareangry.blogspot.com.

Thanks for your commitment to excellence and just to plain "get it right."

Best!

African American women: We're listening

vicky, los angeles — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 06:56:27 GMT

I look forward to Brian Williams in the evenings and it's been wonderful to look at the segment on Af. Am. Women... thanks for talking about us and showing the world we count and make a postive difference!

African American women: We're listening

Helen Allen 6864 panamint row #2 San dieog Ca 92139 — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 07:54:31 GMT

Thank you for this show, It finally shows how African American black Women are, and the part about adoption is really refreshing to know that we reach out to the children. I really enjoyed hearing everyone's opinions. Keep it up

African American women: We're listening

Mcihelle — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 08:49:42 GMT

While I appreciate the explanation and the desire to highlight the issues black women are facing, I still think the series comes up short. This series is NOT investigative reporting. What has been "reported" is information that can be found in most major publications for and about black women. I was expecting something new, but found the same old story being retold. I continiue to watch the series hoping to find something great...so far, this has not been the case.

African American women: We're listening

Wanda White, Chicago, IL — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 09:06:49 GMT

I loved the the different segment that focused on us as black women. some us work to hard and never recognized for the positive we do life. thank this was refreshing and long overdue.

African American women: We're listening

Meca, Jacksonville, Florida — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 12:34:30 GMT

I loved your piece "Love in Black and White". I am an African American Woman currently married to white man. I could easily relate to many of the women in the piece, and I'm looking forward to watching Saturday's segment of the series that deals with interracial dating. Thanks.

African American women: We're listening

Ryan, Ann Arbor, MI — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 13:28:57 GMT

I am a biracial woman who was raised by my black father (he fought for both of his kids) so I feel very fortunate having a strong black man in my life. Having my father in my life has developed a love and self esteem in myself that contributed athletics, education and eventually finding and marrying my husband who is also a strong black man. We have two girls and I am proud to say he is the head of our house. The time is now for women to date outside the box and allow your man to be a man. Men, we will let you lead, but you have to step up and accept all those responsibilities. Thank you for taking the time to develop this series; watch, listen, learn and ACT!

African American women: We're listening

J. Litchfield,Dallas,TX — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 13:47:51 GMT

Thank you for this series on issues that a majority of Black women live with each day. You have more than done justice to these topics, given the length of your broadcast. I would suggest that my sisters take these topics up in their neighborhoods, create neighborhood "sisterclubs" that can discuss all of these topics and bring the best ideas to the forefront. Be an activist in your neighborhood.

African American women: We're listening

Jaime Andres Pretell, Lima, Peru, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:05:55 GMT

Just thought I would mention a statistical fact not mentioned in the videos. There are almost 2 million more African American women than men. So it is not only about choosing between dating endogamously or not, dating among your educational level or not, but a simple fact that there are not enough African American men to go around, period. Even if every Black man in the US was Denzel, single, rich, and faithful, there would be those million plus women who would be single.

African American women: We're listening

Roberta Torian — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:09:39 GMT

I am enjoying the series. No one in the series, so far, is like me or my family, however, I am aware of this reality and its helpful to see actual people talking about the issues. Because my sisters and I are all happily married, and have been for 30+ years, and my niece is happily married, all to men with our level of education, we are shielded from much of the education gap, male shortage issues. We are not shielded from breast cancer and health issues, however, so the breadth of the stories will probably touch every woman at some point. It is extraordinary that NBC is doing this. THANK YOU, THANK YOU. Roberta Torian, Pennsylvania

African American women: We're listening

Jennifer Springfield, MA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:23:47 GMT

Unfortunately, I only caught Tuesday's piece on African American women, but I thank you for it nonetheless. I too nearly caused an accident in my effort to get home from work to catch the news. Thank you for shedding light on topics that we sisters often talk about in our circles on a daily basis. How I would love to see a longer feature on Dateline about African Americans-men, women or families for that matter!

African American women: We're listening

April Barnett, Ogden Utah — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 15:25:08 GMT

I was only able to see the Tuesday night segment of this series. I would like to see a special about this subject on a Saturday or Sunday evening. I am not a college educated black woman, but I am a high school graduate with a decent job. I was married for twenty years to a blackman who was self-employed and could not pull himself up beyond being a day late and a dollar short. I stayed in the marriage until my children graduated from high school in 2006. I left and purchased a condo, I work as a Library technician for the State of Utah. I am not ready for a relationship at this time, but I am pretty certain I will not find a blackman to date in Utah. So I have to keep all options open. I also have a part-time job working as a telemarketer. I have the foresight to purchase the stock and participate in the 401k plan that they offer, even though I work only 20 hrs a week. I think we should acknowledge all blackwomen who are trying and working hard to change their bottom line. We also need to reach out to those blackwomen who want to change their lives and get ahead, but do not know where or how to start. Maybe this way our son's will fair better than their forefathers.

African American women: We're listening

C.K. New Jersey — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 16:58:47 GMT

First want to give my answer to Michael Brewer of Roanoke, VA...to me, the most important asset to look for in a man is INTEGRITY. So many relationship issues could be avoided and couples could stay intact if integrity had a more important role in our men's relationship arsenal (and women too for that matter.)

I just want to say that AA women love, adore and crave our AA men!!!! It is only in recent years that many more of us have dated/married outside of our race. No, not really because our jobs have us rubbing shoulders with and getting to know men of other cultures. But, because many of us have been left with what seems to be no choice. Also, many AA women feel that since so *many* of our men are so very willing to date/marry outside our race - that we might as well follow suit (very reluctantly I might add) rather than end up alone for what seems to be forever. And to me, this is where INTEGRITY plays an important part. But I will not expand on that here... Our options to be with AA men are dwindling at an alarming rate. And there are many reasons for this.

One of the saddest reasons why AA women have limited options and the ability to be with AA men has to do with the HUGE PERCENTAGE OF BLACK MALE INCARCERATION. I know that prisons happen to be a big business generating big profits for some folks in this country. But it is a sin that something isn't being done to reform, restructure, heck - tear apart and rebuild this country's prison policy and the justice system as well as it pertains to AA males.

This would be a major undertaking. But if you allow yourself to ponder this issue, prison and judicial system revamping could and would solve and eliminate a huge amount of problems that are subsequently related to incarceration in this country. It would also lessen some of the issues with families that are left behind to fend for themselves without a male head of household.

This would be a start in solving a lot of the issues that a lot of AA women and their children face every single day and night.

I'm okay with personal responses: so57real@yahoo.com

African American women: We're listening

Yvette — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:22:58 GMT

I really do love the segments and have nothing at all to complain about. It feels to good to sit down and watch news with a postive light shred on the people of my gender and race. I hopoe to see the hip hop discussion and the one interracial dating. Thanks NBC you've always been my face news station to watch.

African American women: We're listening

Yvette, Germantown, MD — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 17:34:50 GMT

I really do love the segments and have nothing at all to complain about. It feels so good to sit down and watch news with a postive light shed on the people of my gender and race. I hope to see the hip hop discussion and the one on interracial dating. Thanks NBC you've always been my favorite news station to watch. Maybe add a spell checker to the blog portal.

African American women: We're listening

Jenapee, Atlanta,Georgia — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 18:04:26 GMT

I like to hear more about the Renatta Frazier Blog!

African American women: We're listening

L Braboy — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 18:31:39 GMT

I was very touched by the message from Renatta Frazier, how can I can more information about her story

African American women: We're listening

janelle isaac , rex GA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 18:50:54 GMT

I am really impressed by how strong and persistent you were when you stood up to this white police officers who threaten you. I am really happy that everything worked out for you and i do wish you all the best in the future, God bless.

African American women: We're listening

Angelica Robinson(206 E. Tiffany Dr Apt2)FlA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:00:37 GMT

Hey your wrttiing really inspired me..I feel like this how can you learn to love and man called ''GOD'' and u never seen him before and u cant even learn to love the ones that you see everyday..I feel like we should all learn to love one another because we were all created by the same god..Well I said all this to say this we need to learn to get along with each other because to thats what god would wont us all to do.

African American women: We're listening

Sharonda Atlanta GA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:10:16 GMT

This story really has touched my heart , it is very sad to know that racism still exits in the "Land Of The Free", in despite of Dr. King's efforts and the harsh treatment my people have sufferd, the ones that are doing it are very bold AND cold, It makes you wonder how our kids will be treated once they go into the free world, we all should come together and make this a free and better world for all, I really am sorry that you had to experience this, as the younger generartion it makes myself want to push harder so none else has to go through it, may God bless and keep you and I REALLY WOULD LIKE TO HEAR MORE FROM YOU!!

African American women: We're listening

Deyonna Dunigan — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:18:27 GMT

I read the blog from Renatta Frazier, the african American women that was a police officer in Springfield, Illinois. I am in disbelief that this is happening in 2000, please, please find a way for the readers to hear and learn more about this story and this brave women!

African American women: We're listening

Kurtis Mitchell, Irag — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:22:45 GMT

I am writing to comment about the blog from the African American women and former police officer, Renatta Frazier. I am so angry to read about her fight aganist racisim within the police department she worked for. I am a United States Marine, currently serving in Irag, I know all to well what it means to selfishly give of yourself to serve your community or country. I can not beleive they treated her in such a horrible manner, I am begging that you cover more on this story, please allow the nation to put a face with a name.

African American women: We're listening

Ragean Ward, Bloomington, Illinois — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:25:16 GMT

WOW!, what an amazing story about the African American women that fought aganist the Springfield Police Department. I applaud her, I live in Illinois and the thought of someone enduring such racisim at the hands of a agency that is set up to protect is scary to say the least. I pray that you explore this story more.

African American women: We're listening

Sasha, Maryland — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:27:27 GMT

I'm amazed at the criticisms people are making about the series. While we all can agree that nothing is ever going to be perfect, I think some of us have some very unrealistic expectations about the series. First, the segments are going to be short because this is a 30-minute show. The brief segments are meant to highlight and touch on the key issues that the segment was meant to address. If folks want to learn more, read more, and discuss the topics further, that should be left up to each individual. These segments are not designed to take a topic and resolve it. It's doing what it's supposed to do, which is to raise the issue and address it as well as time allows. Second, it's not meant to raise issues that we don't already know. The fact that there's a five-part series dedicated to our issues in the national media is huge. It's bringing our issues that we're already dealing with to the livings rooms and laptops across the country. Let's take a moment and appreciate that, since many of us complain about how the world overlooks our issues. Finally, I don't see why anyone would get upset over the issue of "consequences of success." Whether we like it or not, facts are facts. Many black women are sized up by black men and are told that they're intimidating because of some achievement or another. Therefore, it would be foolish for the segment not to raise that issue. It will have to be up to each woman to address this issue with the girls in her life, and let them know that they should still strive to achieve their goals, but not be surprised when they're confronted with this type of attitude.

I truly appreciate the fact that this series is being aired, and I applaud all of the people who participated in putting it together.

African American women: We're listening

Connie Willis — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:31:40 GMT

Good series. The need for this information is so great. This type of coverage, pertaining to Black women, has been missing. So often research about issues relating to the health and lives of Black women are nonexistence. I know that a news story is limited by time constraints. Hopefully, someone will do an indepth series (pbs) or documentary in the future.

African American women: We're listening

Jaunta McGehee, Rochester, NY — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:37:13 GMT

I am a African American women. I have been keeping up with the series and the blogs, many of them are interesting, but none of them captured my attention or my heart like the one about the former police officer that experienced racisim at the hands of the Springfield Police department. Her story is ugly but amazing. Hats off, applauds and prayers go out to her for her courage. I will stay tuned to see if you have more about her and her story.

African American women: We're listening

MistaO — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 19:46:23 GMT

I think it's subtley telling in the fact that in your title for Love in Black and White, you would make the "B" in Black lower case and the "W" in White uppercase. Something subconcious going on with you or your writer? I bet it kills some of you self haters that there are still plenty of Black women out here who love and cherish Black men, and that there are still Black men who love Black women.

African American women: We're listening

Maria A. Dixon, Dallas, Texas — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:13:18 GMT

I have sent the link to this series around the world and to all my friends at various universities. I am excited about all of the discourse this series has started. However as a professor of ethnicity and communication, I would be remiss to not remind Sister Ellis et. al that every one of our sistahs is not looking for a man. I have lots of friends who are black and lesbian and their struggles have ripped my heart out...perhaps one day they will be invited to come in from the margins.

African American women: We're listening

Ginger U. — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 20:37:07 GMT

First, I want to thank NBC for stepping up. You can only get some much within the timeframe of the nightly news. I watch Brian every night because I just have to know what's going on in the world that I live in. So many of the comments touched me because many of us are doing what we have to and not necessarily living below the poverty line. I have a son in college and I have a 10 year old. I just try to raise them the right way and so far, so good! I have wonderful young men. In regards to being single, sometimes we need to heal from the hurts of past relationships. I did! I am 45 years old and currently pursuing a graduate degree. After being happily single for several years and getting to know myself, and getting spiritually connected, God placed someone in my life and neither one of us was looking. (He's deep dark chocolate too!) I purchased my own home in 2004 for me and my boys and know that this was a big accomplishment. I can identify with some of the comments about keeping our options open, but I wanted a brotha! Yes we can connect with people of other races, but I truly believe that no one can love me and relate to me on a deep level like a brotha can. To be honest, I've had my own prejudices (historical, mind you) and felt deeply hurt and disappointed when I would see black men with white women - like they were selling out and didn't they know the history, or couldn't they find a sister. But I'm getting to the point where I guess people love who they love. As AA sisters we have to love each other, offer advice and help to our younger sisters so they won't make some of the mistakes that we have made and place value on our girls not only on our boys.

African American women: We're listening

Tennille Springle, Simpsonville, SC — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 22:10:43 GMT

I have seen and each part of the series thus far and am pleased that NBC took the time to "speak" directly to African-American women and how we impact (and are impacted)in education, politics and health. I look forward to more positive series like these.

African American women: We're listening

Deb Millan, Atlanta, GA — Thu, 29 Nov 2007 23:54:22 GMT

Ms. Mara Schiavocampo:
Congratulations on a great series. While I have enjoyed the series I find some of the responses baffling. Perhaps someone can explain to me why citing statistics (such as the percentage of African-American female college students versus African-American males) is seen as male bashing.

As the mother of two young adult males, I am certainly concerned about the challenges that our young men face. However, I fail to see why a discussion of issues impacting African-American women in any way short changes African-American men. Many talented folks in academia have studied and written about African-American males. But this series is about the African-American woman.

African American women: We're listening

Mark Sawyer, Los Angeles CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:03:07 GMT

Wow everyone is so pushing interracial marriage as the new assimilation. 134,000 is a ridiculously small number given that black women have been here for 400 years! Also the 81% approval rating of interracial dating is compared to what? Was there sometime when black women were AGAINST people being able to date or marry whomever they wanted?Show me those poll numbers to show my some "change."

Let's put the numbers in perspective. So 134,000 out of 22 millions is roughly .6% of Black woman and .1 of
white men (100 million) are married to one another. I will also have you all note, if you don't think this narrative is a version of Latin American whitening (the idea that racial mixture 'improves the race' and means that racism is disappearing) discourse notice only marriages to white men count
as "interracial". I also wonder what percentage of black women married to white men are in the military. Last I checked it was the largest group.

Maybe I am being too sensitive about this but having just saw Gregory Rodriguez pushing our "mongrel nation" or mestizaje from the perspective of a Mexican American assimilationist. I find this
"whitening" discourse scary especially those of us who know how it has eliminated racial inequality in Latin America (tongue planted firmly
in cheek).

But, I hope the rest is more sane. I will look out for the piece. But
I am so interested in the fact that everyone I seem to turn I find
something that is pushing some version of interracial marriage (NARROWLY DEFINED) as some indicator of "something new" in American society.

African American women: We're listening

M Lindsey, Broadview, IL — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:20:10 GMT

I normally watch ABC News, and only occassionally. I've watched NBC News this week simply because of the topics related to African American women. I'm glad you thought about us, but I agree with my sisters that the segments had no depth and very little time was spent. I hear you, there are time constraints, but next week, I'll be back to watching ABC News, if I even bother. Internet news is so much better.

African American women: We're listening

Joe Carter, Lithia Springs, Georgia — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:36:03 GMT

It's great to see some of these issues addressed. But there are so many they should be addressed more fully in hour-long feature programs. I'm 70, so I've watched all those equal opportunity and social programs to help minorities. Unfortunately most of them have never achieved their goals because they were too paternalistic. At the same time, they abused people of other races resulting in alienation or strong dislike of these programs. Please, if there is one thing I hope you will stress: people achieve and become successful because they persevere, work hard, educate themselves and take responsibility for themselves and their family. The public doesn't want to hear demands for special treatment or any of those race card things. America is still about opportunity, working hard, obeying the law, and making this a better place for ALL of us. God bless.

African American women: We're listening

Ashli, PA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:49:33 GMT

I feel it was a good piece and hopfully made some men realize that we want to make our families strong. But yet I am puzzled about how is a black man threatened by an educated black women yet not an educated white (or any other race) women. They can be just as stuck up if not more and yet they only see it in a black women. We all need to wake up about our children and the roles both parents play in their lives.

African American women: We're listening

Karen, Berrien Springs, MI — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 00:52:37 GMT

I just want to say that I appreciate this program. I hope that You and NBC consider it only the beginning. As you can see from the flood of response, there are many many people who want our story to be properly told. So please don't stop here. You were very brave to take this on in the face of what you knew would be overwhelming criticism but it is a start and I for one hope that you will continue.

African American women: We're listening

Pamela Bivens, Durham, NC — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 01:01:49 GMT

I am pleased to view a full news segment, this week, focused on African American women in the U.S. We truly serve as vibrant contributors to create a society we want to live in and nurture our beautiful children in. However, while information is necessary for understanding and bridging communication gaps, I would like to request your avoiding future negative and stereotypical comparisons between African American men and women. We love our African American men despite what society would like to believe. Our strength will always be in our families...good and bad. One recommendation for a future segment is a "strong and realistic" focus on health disparities, or race bias in healthcare, interviewing African American medical researchers and Board Certified physicians. As a nation, we need critical human understanding and compassion to reduce race bias in healthcare that contributes immeasurably to health disparities; thus increased dire health outcomes.

African American women: We're listening

S. Thomas, Orlando, FL — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 01:21:55 GMT

I, along with many other women have been poked, proded, hacked into having breasts procedures done. Many women suffer from breast cancer and others have had unnecessary procedures done. Many women, not just black women are too scared to intiate getting a mammogram. Denial may get us killed. I advise us to be proactive and follow up on our mammogram. Change our eating habits, do self exams. I have a frank discussion site at www.breasts-talk.blogspot.com whereby women and some men come together to just express their thoughts, if need be, or just read and talk openly about what they are feeling. We need to do this for your mother, sister, daugther, aunt, cousin, yourself.
Nightly news should not be demonized for mainstream dialogue of what before Katrina was avoided. It saddens me that American helicopters reached India (where we are not even being allowed to distribute water) -- just drop and vacate -- Yet we were neglected at home here in New Orleans to fend for ourselves -- Yes, black topic needs to be mainstream because "WE" are part of America's melting pot. WE are contributors -- fathers, mothers, children, grandparents, professors, nurses, doctors, Teachers, architecs, engineers, janitors, mail-carriers, truck drivers, senators, presidential hopefuls, homemakers, broadcasters, entertainers, etc. -- Dr. Martin Luther King taught us togetherness, oneness, acceptance and peacefully co-existence -- this is good, we are enlightening all people that perhaps do not know or even perhaps didn't want to know. WE KNOW and WE CONTINUE TO THRIVE....

African American women: We're listening

Cecily, Florida — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 01:34:43 GMT

I do not feel that by showing the accomplishments of African American females, we are denigrating African American males. However, the comment made by the Essence editor that "women raise their daughters and love their sons" is right on the mark. How is it that a black woman can raise a child/children on her own, put those children through school, and get her own education, while we have black men who do not have those responsilities, drop out of school, or get caught up in illegal activities, which eventually leads to incarceration? Are we raising our daughters differently?

African American women: We're listening

DL, San Francisco, CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 03:45:17 GMT

I watched your segment on interracial friendships. I wish there were some mention of Black women dating other races besides White. I'm an African American woman married to an Asian American man and have been for seven years. My marriage has worked because we respect one another. I made a conscious choice not to date Black men. I dated many Asian men before marrying my husband.

I hold no animosity toward Black men that date outside of their race. However, I don't appreciate some of the responses I read saying to have segments on Black men. As a responder mentioned, there was a series in the NY Times and later a book. It is our turn for viewers to see a certain aspect of African American women's lives.

If women are interested in dating Asian men, try some of the Internet discussion groups on Yahoo.

African American women: We're listening

Anita, Detroit, Mich — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 04:00:44 GMT

I am very excited and grateful to NBC for putting the spotlight on Black women. This is long overdue. Our story is an important one and the world needs to know the trials and triumphs of the American Black Woman. I must say that though important the information is disheartening. As a single Black woman it has been no bed of roses for someone who is quite eligible to see marriage as something very foreign. I remember hearing these very same startling statistics in 1988 when I was preparing for graduation from college and I thought "that would never be me". And yet nearly 20 years later that is me. But I am tired of hearing the statistics and every year they get worse. One of the things I did not hear the women speak about in the series on relationships is that the value system in the Black community has plummeted. There was a time with Black women held herelf to a very high regard. Forget what they were looking for in a man. I remember believing (and still do), that old saying "If you don't come correct, don't come at all". This is probably one of the reasons that in my 40's I am still single. At this point, I am not willing to lower my standards. As a Christian first and a Black women second, I do believe that God will send me the perfect mate. If many more Black women thought of themselves more than they do and held their values and morals to higher standards they wouldn't settle either. To me that would be not only selling oursleves out, but sending the wrong message to our young black women AND men.

African American women: We're listening

Sam Cacas, San Francisco, CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 04:14:22 GMT

"While I applaud MSNBC Nightly News for doing the series, I was dismayed that the segment "Love in Black and White" only focused on Black women marrying white men. That is NOT news since that trend has
been happening since the 1970s and has been kicked to death by mainstream media and Black media. As an Asian man who is married to a Black woman for 7 years[I have also been intimate with Black women for 33 of my 52 years] and who co-moderates a Yahoo! Discussion group called
PowerCouples_AMBW (Asian men Black women accessible at
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/PowerCouples_AMBW), I think the newsworthy trend is that Black women are more and more attracted to Asian men in this
country and throughout the world. If you go beyond using marriage rates (which is unfair to Asian men because anti-Asian, racist, xenophobic immigration policies have kept America's Asian population
barely at 4% while Asians make up over half the world) and go with internet measures of interracial attraction such as the 250 Black women who are members of PowerCouples_AMBW, YouTube videos such as
the IKEA commercial with a Black woman-Asian man with their kid, etc., viewers would get the real news story on where Black women interracial dating / attraction is happening today and going in the future. At the very least, MSNBC should do a future segment on Black women showing their virtual attraction for Asian men on the Internet. Black women dating interracially today does not just mean Black women married to white guys. Please see http://groups.yahoo.com/group/BlAsianExchanges
for more info on Black women Asian men (BlAsian) relationships.

African American women: We're listening

Bette, Godfrey, Illinois — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 04:40:51 GMT

As a white married woman, I know both several successful single black women and several married black couples, middle class raising children together. Single women need to reinforce a good home life and to raise their children in a loving, caring family life Everyone has the choice, To have children, married or single, and to date black or white men. Love is the reason for a relationship and marriage, not the color of their skin. There are

African American women: We're listening

Renee, Thousand Oaks, CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 04:51:18 GMT

I was glad to see the health issues (hypertension and diabetes)concerning African American women highlighted in the series.

I think most African American women with or without a college degree realize that the pool of available African American men is limited. And I applaud the women that have not let negative numbers stop them from moving forward to find happiness in a relationship.

I am thankful that we are on the nightly news in a positive perspective for all Americans to see. Thank you NBC!

African American women: We're listening

Loretta, Raleigh, NC — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 05:43:49 GMT

Dear Mara,
Thank you so much for your eloquence and grace on this overdue subject. It was so nice hearing about ourselves through such a vast medium as TV! I commend you and the team at NBC. I wanted to especially comment on the on the lady from Essence magazine? She was very impressive. I agreed with her every word and, I simply loved her. Together you and she should have your own show, the ratings would be formidable! There is such a large audience that thirsts for real "talk" on this subject. As you know, the issue doesn't cease once the week ends. I have an abundance friends that are single, beautiful, brilliant and black, for whom I often play matchmaker. As for myself? I am happily interacially married to a senior executive and I have my own business. I wish to have been able to particpate in the group discussion. We could have even had it here, at my home! Now that's an idea for a show. Take it on the road! Thank you for doing such a fabulous job, you were outstanding and,...your little boy is ADORABLE!! If you're ever in Raleigh, let's do lunch!

African American women: We're listening

Corina Montalino, Seattle, WA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 06:15:47 GMT

Thanks for this series. However, on the issue of Black women and their options for marriage, I'm amazed at why this series avoided the elephant in the room, black men are marrying outside their race at nearly twice the rate of black women. The real questions is what drives the decision of many successful and educated black men to marry non-black women and why has that story been a deliberately avoided. Is it because this discussion would spark too an intense debate on colorism in the African-American community? Let's be honest here, we all look at TV. We see more and more interracial kids being used in advertising products. It's evident there's a beiging of the African-American community going on. Marketers know this and are responding to a rapidly growing segment within the general population. I know that that topic hurtful for so many black women. This hurt is the source of decades of insecurity about complexion, hair, lips, eyes, nose and the list goes on. I really hope at some point a series will be done to explain why educated and successful black men are they not marrying black women at the same rate they are white women and other non-black women.

African American women: We're listening

Corina Montalino, Seattle, WA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 06:17:19 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Jen, Hamden,CT — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 12:30:44 GMT

Thank you for such a great series. I truly happy you are focusing on us black women. Thank you again.

African American women: We're listening

Elijah, North Carolina — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 13:30:17 GMT

I am a African American man and also a police officer. I followed The Renatta Frazier Story, from beginning to end. Needless to say many of us regard Ms. Frazier as a hero. Her story is compeling!

thanks Ms. Frazier you served us well!

African American women: We're listening

DiAnna Decatur GA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 13:45:38 GMT

On occassion in your life you learn about individuals that shape society and impact a generation in a positive way, like Harriett Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Rosa Parks, Dr. Martin Luther King, Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Michael Baisden, Oprah Winfrey and the former African American police officer Renatta Frazier. I am a college student and our generation is hungry for people like her that would truly stand and fight aganist injustice. I say HBCU every where (all colleges) should be requesting her visit. MSNBC we would like to hear more about this woman and her story!

African American women: We're listening

F. Adams, West Palm Beach, FL — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 14:03:12 GMT

I just waited to thank you for the time and effort put in to this program. It has been so comforting to see other woman that share my plight. And on a major network no less! Again I thank you, and keep up the good work.

African American women: We're listening

Dena, VA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 15:15:28 GMT

Is it possible for this series to be covered for the whole week on Dateline NBC? It is so important that people be informed and so far I have learned a lot in the brief 2 minute blurbs, but this series needs to be an hour long for 5 days.

African American women: We're listening

Nettie Rafee, Fontana CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:47:20 GMT

I have not been able to watch all the the programs. I did see a small portion on Black Women and Relaltionships. I would like to purchase a copy of the series, so I could share with the women in my sisters gathering group. Nettie Rafee.

African American women: We're listening

Tammy G, New Orleans — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:49:13 GMT

I disagree with those that equate discussing the success of black women we put the spotlight on black men failures. If Black men are failing, I believe whole heartedly that it is due to their own short comings. I am a black successful female, that can attest from experience that finding a suitable black man to date has become such a headache that I'm about to stop dating all together. They are immature, irresponsible, egotistical and selfish. They blame everyone else for their problems and have become crippled and weak, while we as black women have become more confident and successful causing the gap to become wider between us. The days for excuses are over and its time for the black man to pull himself up by his bootstraps, put on his armour and get back into this game we call life.

African American women: We're listening

Tammy G, New Orleans — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:49:14 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Tammy G, New Orleans — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:49:17 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Nettie Rafee, Fontana CA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 16:50:24 GMT

African American women: We're listening

Luquan Flint Mi. — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:28:48 GMT

This topic really put me to sleep.

African American women: We're listening

RapazRndanga, Atlanta, GA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:44:19 GMT

Here we go again. No disrespect to the persons you will interview for your segment on Hip hop. But to suggest they are OUR spokespersons and can adequately illuminate our in-depth understanding of a complex culture is beyond comical.

I have watched Powell disrespect our elder Ron Walters on national television, the very person who is most qualified to help him in understanding the political landscape.

M. Ford, give me a break, ask yourself HOW did she make it to the spotlight? By spotlighting her a, not her genius. Now she is a spokesperson to defend women in Hip Hop. I think MC Lyte might be more qualified.

Finally, I am a bit tired of this Spelman-Nelly issue. I commend sisters for fighting this grotesque behavior of some boy rappers. Here is another side of that story. While employed at Spelman College, I observed MANY of these very rappers dropping sisters of in the morning that willfully hopped in their rides the evening before. Its little secret that many of our young women would jump in trucks with these bad boys instead of walking across the street to Morehouse and engage men with vision attempting to craft a future for our people.

It is no secret that when rappers come the Atlanta, they head for Spelman College. I have watched this behavior for years. Nelly is wrong but lets stop acting as if some our young sisters are not willing participants in their own mockery.

On that note, if you want to clean up Hip Hop lets start with a national "Sister keep your breast covered day", or "National you don't have to show your panties month" led by Melyssa, Little Kim and, and Trina. Lets couple that with our vigilant attempt to correct these talent less grown men acting like little boys disrespecting our community. We thank the professors at Spelman for reminding us daily that misogyny is bigger than hip hop but does not give it a free pass.

We will win!!

African American women: We're listening

joe york, Denver, CO — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 18:50:30 GMT

Thank you for addressing this important issue. I am really concern about this situation. I think everything we can do to help resolve some of these issues is really going to help everybody: Black or Other. Both of my sisters want to be married and I would love to see them with good men no matter what the color. I would like a black women but sometimes what they have been through makes it very scary for me to approach them. However I don't consider the other races for dating because my experience has been that other races date me because I am black. That bothers me. It's like they would date anyone that is black, six feet tall, and has a job. I realize these are stereo types but I think all people are good. Thank you for the series on Black Women.

African American women: We're listening

Janine, Austin, TX — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 19:27:37 GMT

I haven't been able to see any part of series because I get home too late from work. But I plan to watch online sometime soon when I get the chance. I just want to say that I enjoy all the comments that have been posted thus far (good and bad, they paint a more accurate picture of "where we stand" as Americans). Please create and promote discussions outside of this blog so that we can move our nation from words to action.

God bless!

African American women: We're listening

Linda Crichton, Seattle, WA — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 20:48:26 GMT

Thank you, thank you, thank you. Love the series, we are not all the same. lc

African American women: We're listening

Richard Greene, Ardmore, PA — Sat, 01 Dec 2007 22:18:20 GMT

Ms. Schiavocampo -

My previous comment regarding the limited depth of topic coverage applies equally to CBS, ABC as well as to NBC. Your professor's quote of being able to "tell the second coming of Christ in less than two minutes", is a disturbing commentary on how the broadcast media has influenced and transformed our society's dissemination of information and knowledge.

Your explanation of segment time allotment may satisfy some, but as a college educator, the broadcast media's approach remains unacceptable to me.

We cannot nor should not think of boiling down the history of the world to a few minutes.

One broadcast media alternative is multiple two-hour long segments. But I think I already know the network’s response to this suggestion.

African American women: We're listening

CJ, Atlanta, GA — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 00:24:29 GMT

Thanks for sparking this healthy dialouge.

African American women: We're listening

Christa Carreker, Seattle, Washington — Sun, 02 Dec 2007 02:50:58 GMT

What I found interesting is that African American women roughly command 3/4th of $850 million of consumer dollars. Yet, our political clout and our efforts for ensuring major changes is poorly outreached. On the EVE of how many of the traditional African American sororities celebrating centennials, it was interesting that was overlooked.

Also, there was very little discussed regarding the bigotry and racism that African American women face. I know that episodes had to strongly focused, but the stress endured by African American women is costly as the mainstays and backbone of the communities.

For example, the drama each of encounter in major department stores racist belittling of us because of our body images to the point we subconsciously avoid shopping due to humiliation.

Overall, I found the series provocative and I hope it generates discussion and change.

African American women: We're listening

Verner Palmer , Brooklyn New York. — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 16:51:58 GMT

I think the series on black women in America was very
deceptive and misleading. I think that it is also very
sad that many Black Women have allowed them selves
into being brainwashed into rejecting Black men as viable husbands by a Ammerican society driven by greed
and materialism and status and ego,and flamboyance.Black women must realize that ever since
the time of the Slave master and the Slave, there have been plans and conspiracies to separate them from
the Black man, and ultimately destroy the Black Family
in America.I also ask the question that was not answered in the segment on interracacial marriage,what
are the thousands of White women going to do now that
many of their men have rejected them for Black Women.
As I said this is just another Plantation plot to
destroy the Black American Family.Your series attempt
to sugar coat and or gloss over the real problems
facing Black men and Women was very noticeable and apparent.Interracial marriage is not the Answer for
Black Women.It was very sad to see that they have allowed themselves to be brainwashed by a system set
up to destroy the Black Family unit.Black women should realize that the reason why they don't see Black men in the Work place is by design by the White
majority in America.They don't hire Black men as a
means of separating the Black man from the Black Woman.
Its very obvious.Wake up Black Women in America!.

African American women: We're listening

Lynette, Washington, DC — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:36:10 GMT

I found the series very enjoyable and informative. It would be nice to air longer segments in the future. Especially the segments about intra- or inter-racial relations. Because I would like see more about our diversity. I am African-American, one friend is Haitian-American, another is Ghanaian-American. We are all Black women. But how some of these issues affect our communities is different. Also several of us date inter-racially meaning all colors of the rainbow. While we may date outside of our race we also date within it. It would be nice to see interracial relationships without the all or nothing context.

African American women: We're listening

David Bridges, Seattle, Wash. — Wed, 05 Dec 2007 10:01:09 GMT

As a Black man I cannot but help to derive a sort of satisfaction out of the fact that so many Black women are unable to find "their golden goose sugar-daddy Black men". It seems to me that unless your a rap star, NBA player, or some other kind of rich athlete or entertainer you are undesirable. Frankly, with regard to those Black women deciding to date interacially, the first thought that comes to my mind is "Good riddance"! Men have dated women that earned less money than them for decades. It always seemed like women should earn more anyway. Afterall, why should I bust my behind to buy a house, get married, and lose it in a divorce to a woman. I wouldn't get the kids in the case of a divorce. Women should buy the house and make more money, because with the legal system the way it is, they invevitably will get the house and kids anyway. The whole institution of marriage and the nuclear family are entirely constructed for the benefit of females and children. Who cares about marriage? And that whole sad sob story about single parenthood. Most Black women are a domineering, overbearing lot of women who do not want to share power in their families. Black men, or really men period, do not have any roles in families other than to give out money. Or atleast that's the role of most White fathers. I say congratulations to Black men for not falling for the myth of the "American Dream" and marrying in the first place.

African American women: We're listening

kofii Ernest — Fri, 07 Dec 2007 14:44:37 GMT

I want an African American woman aged between 35-40 for marriage.I am a Ghanaian currently studying at the University. My e-mail address of an non-profit organization established help needy children : needychildorg@yahoo.com

African American women: We're listening

Adam White, Morrisville, North Carolina — Mon, 21 Jan 2008 23:11:09 GMT

There are books about Black female/White male dating and relationships, including: "The White Man's guide to Dating Black Women" ISBN: 1435702891; and "The Interracial Dating Book For Black Women Who Want to Date White Men" ISBN: 1581128002.

African American women: We're listening

elizabeth, Rye, NY — Tue, 05 Feb 2008 18:29:01 GMT

I am saddened by the comment by african american men about the series highlighting the success of black women and not their success. Finally, African American women enjoy your success!!!!!!!!!! Do not apologize for it. Why do men feel that they are entitled to be always represented in anything that has to do with women. If Racism did not exist in america, black men would be just as chavaunist as African men. Yes, men in Africa and the Middle east build their lives on women and prevent them from succeeding to hide their failure to accomplish their dreams. Please, African American women DO NOT apologize. Why is it that in societies around hte world, women are supposed to sacrifice their aelf-actualization and aspirations for the good of the group while men are allowed to pursue their individual desires. Black men don't complain when fellow black men date women outside of their race so why should they put down the law for black women. No human being owns another!! Slavery is over! Why do people think the problem with the marriage difficulty is with African american women? The world is changing, nobody is entitled to anything because of their race, sex, ethnic background or age. If you want something you have to work hard for it!!! If Black men want respect and want their women to stay with them; they have to court and wow the woman. African American men are not the only segment complaining, Asian men also complain. Well, this world is competitive, if he wants to keep his woman, he has to start treating her better and accomplishing more with his life. Just as men are attracted to beauty and sex appeal, women are attracted to status, power and financial security. IT IS JUST PLAIN GENETICS.

African American women: We're listening

tiffany Spencer — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 13:35:44 GMT

Thank you for this segment. Black women are moving forward and making our own decisions.

African American women: We're listening

Samuel Gonderie, Arba Minch Southern Nations, Nationalities and People Region — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 05:22:14 GMT

I am an Ethiopian. I want to marry an American woman. So, how can I proceed? Help me.