At first glance, many may see the above cartoon as a replication of a proud nudist black man. All the trappings of pride are clearly evident: the rainbow flag, the beads around the neck and the ones around his balls and cock, both in the colors of the rainbow. Literally and figuratively, head-to-head gay pride all the way. That's probably what the artist, cartoonist Patrick Fillion, fully intended. An image of complete pride. A strong, buffed black man; a fitting representation of the best of his race.
But is that the only message this caricature sends? Is there another subliminal meaning to this cartoon that perhaps isn't so flattering? Perhaps, even, derogatory? Maybe just a little bit of racial profiling?
There's a possibility the supersized erect cock, protruding nipples and tight balls depict the stereotype of the oversexed and promiscuous black man. Always horny and loaded with testosterone. Unable to control his sexual appetite. Ready to pillage and plunder any white man within reach or sight.
The look in his eyes some may see as teasing and seductive. Others may see the look as deceitful and lustful. It's all based on experience and perspective. Some experiences and worldviews encourage and foster bigotry and prejudice.
The muscles and physical prowess many may see as just what it implies: strength. The same image to others can represent sexual aggression, thuggishness or a criminal element. Anything but the reflection of fitness and health.
As a gay man who is a practicing social nudist, I've no issue with the subject's nudity. However, those from a modest background or a puritanical upbringing possibly view his nakedness as a reference to his rampant and uncontrollable sexual proclivity. Many unfamiliar with social nudity wrongly equate nudism with sexual license.
In no way am I even hinting that Mr. Fillion's cartoon contains any form of racism. I'm sharing these thoughts with you for your consideration and determination. There's a saying that every picture is worth a thousand words. Just as we carefully choose our words to avoid misunderstanding, we must apply the same to the images that we share.
Respectfully,
Black Lover Naked
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