Morgan Freeman criticized the usage of “Black History Month” and “African American,” asserting that the terms are an “insult.”
In an interview with The Sunday Times, the 85-year-old actor expressed his belief that the yearly celebration of Black History Month carries a negative meaning for him. He argued that it restricts his culture to only four weeks.
“Two things I can say publicly that I do not like,” Freeman said. “Black History Month is an insult. You’re going to relegate my history to a month?”
He continued, “Also ‘African-American’ is an insult. I don’t subscribe to that title. Black people have had different titles all the way back to the n-word and I do not know how these things get such a grip, but everyone uses ‘African-American.’ What does it really mean?”
Elsewhere in the interview, Freeman highlighted the increase of representation in the media.
“Generationally, though, I do think we’re moving ahead in leaps and bounds,” he added. ” LGBTQ, Asians, black, white, interracial marriages, interracial relationships. All represented. You see them all on screen now and that is a huge jump.”
Last year, Freeman faced backlash for his involvement in the FIFA World Cup during the ongoing allegations of human rights abuse in the Middle East.
Made to order and shipped to your door.
“For a man who played Nelson Mandela — who knew better than anyone the impact and importance of isolation on a country and its success on the ground to change that nation’s policy,” one Twitter user said. “It is so disappointing to see #MorganFreeman take the money and support an oppressive regime.”
