| ‘World Trade Center’ omits Black soldier |
By Deborah M. Todd |
Published
08/9/2006
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Entertainment
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WTC movie's unsung hero
 | | SGT. JASON L. THOMAS
| Following disasters of historically epic proportions like the attack on the World Trade Center, there are bound to be countless tales of self-sacrifice, heroism and triumph. Some stories, like those told in the movies “Flight 93” and Oliver Stone’s “World Trade Center,” premiering Aug. 9, are made into blockbusters for the world to see. Others are either whispered quietly among family and friends or confined to the memories and souls of those who refuse to speak of them.
Such is the tale of United States Marine Corps Sgt. Jason L. Thomas--in spite of the fact that his story and the one told in “World Trade Center” are one in the same.
THE STORY
The morning of Sept. 11, 2001 began like any other for Jason L. Thomas. A student at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice of City University of New York, he heard about the attack after taking his daughter to his mother’s house in Hempstead so he could attend classes.
“At the time I was saying to myself, ‘That’s an attack’. My mother looked at it as if it was an accident, but one of the first things that came to my mind was, ‘They got us,’” he said.
“Immediately after that, I just got in high gear. I had my uniform in my car, my C-Bag. We just moved into a house, so I had a lot of my personal equipment in my vehicle. I ran out to my car, got my uniform, got dressed and shot to the city.”
After a delay in Queens, which Thomas credits for keeping him away from the collapse of the South Tower, he attached himself to a police convoy and made it to the site within moments of the fall of the North Tower.
“Approaching one of the towers, all I see is one at the time, I see the building come crashing down. It just comes straight down. I park my vehicle and I remember this cloud of smoke and ash just enveloped where I was. I stuck my head down in my shirt and scooted behind my car and got on my knees, but it engulfed the area. So I got up and I just ran in the direction towards Ground Zero.”
At Ground Zero, Thomas immediately began to help by fighting fires, establishing triage sites to help the injured and assisting with the overall evacuation. While his primary focus was devoted to the emergency, he couldn’t help being affected by what had become of his city.
“I know this beautiful city, and now here it is, it’s just rubble,” he said. “There are fire engines on fire, and you don’t see that everyday--you don’t see cars and ambulances on fire. I was just trying to take it in.”
After hours of firefighting, assisting survivors and in some cases, praying over the dead, Thomas ran into another marine, Staff Sgt. Dave Karnes. Thomas presented a plan for a search and rescue mission of the area and he and Karnes tried to enlist other soldiers on site to help. When they were told the mission was too dangerous, they decided to go by themselves.
“I found a couple guys, but it wasn’t enough, to them, to start a search and rescue,” he said. “I remember myself and staff Sgt. Karnes saying, ‘We’re going to start the search and rescue with or without you, because someone needs us.’”
THE MOVIE
The World Trade Center movie tells the story of the rescues of New York Port Authority police officers John McLoughlin and Will Jimeno from Ground Zero, as well as that of the men who rescued them. In real life, the officers were rescued by sergeants Karnes and Thomas. In the film, however, they were rescued by Karnes and Sgt. Dave Thomas; a composite character, played by William Mapother, a white actor, who is meant to represent Thomas.
World Trade Center producer Michael Shamberg said that they knew about Sgt. Thomas’s role in the rescue, but were unable to find him when creating the film. He said producers didn’t discover Thomas was a Black man until after they had started the movie. He also said that in spite of the fact that the film was co-written by McLoughlin and Jimeno was consulted for authenticity, no one ever asked them for a physical description of the man who helped save their lives.
“Frankly, we goofed--we learned when we were filming that he was an African-American,” said Shamberg. “We would change it if we could. I actually called him and apologized, and he said he didn’t mind. He was very gracious about it.”
Thomas, meanwhile, didn’t learn the film was about his story until he saw the unmistakable image of two marines peering into a hole at Ground Zero during a commercial for the movie. He said that while he wasn’t angry about how the film turned out, he does wish it could have been more realistic.
 | TOO SOON—Marine Sgt. Jason Thomas said that once he spoke to producers, they offered to fly him to the premiere of the film but he declined. He said it was a little “too soon” for him to see the film.
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"If you're going to tell a story, you should try to get it as accurate as possible," he said. "Some of the things did bother me to a certain degree--I'm an African-American male, and there's a white character being depicted as myself. But I'm not upset. It's bigger than myself-It's bigger than Staff Sgt. Kearns. A lot of people lost their lives. That's what needs to be remembered."
Although a great deal has changed for Thomas since 9-11-he ended up withdrawing from classes at CUNY after volunteering at Ground Zero for more than two weeks--and the film did not include his input, he says he still hopes people see it. He said he believes there is much to be learned from both the movie and his story.
“I think it’s important to know what occurred that day and to remember the fallen heroes that died for our country by doing their jobs. Come see what a small portion of good people, heroes, do and why they deserve the name and title of hero.”
Correction: The World Trade Center movie did not cast a white actor to play the role of Bruce Reynolds, a PAPD officer who died on 9/11. Officer Reynolds is played by Tom Wright, an African-American actor.
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Comments
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Comment #1
(Posted by Mark Jones)
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Very good article. Information is power.
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Comment #2
(Posted by Annette Jackson)
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This is a great story. The true story would not have been told if it were not for this article.
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Comment #3
(Posted by Nathaniel Turner)
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So sad that the film depicts him as white and not his true color.
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Comment #4
(Posted by Jeannine)
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Leave it to Hollywood to get it wrong. This man should have been portrayed as Black. The filmmaker probably ASSUMED he was white and never bothered to find out.
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Comment #5
(Posted by Theresa)
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I am Jason's aunt and I just want to thank Ms. Todd and Mr. Ransom for being interested in getting this story out! I really need to point out that if you subscribe to this paper, you made the right choice. We could not get any other Black Media outlet, other than the New Pittsburgh Courier and XM Satellite Radio's The Power 106-9 to pick up this story. That is a shame all on a whole other level! It is a shame that they erred on Jason's behalf. We would appreciate it if you would share this wonderful story with everyone of all ethnicities. The historical importance is obvious. What is more important is that they get Jason and Officer Reynolds RIGHT in the books for all Americans to see.
We are so happy Jason's story has been told here, and we are going to continue to tell it, wherever we are able.
Thank you, and God Bless,
Theresa
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Comment #6
(Posted by mia)
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The article is well researched and written. Unlike the movie producers who seem to have overlooked the ethnicity of 2 key players in the incident. I think we should write, email, contact this producer and let him be held accountable for his convienent overlook.
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Comment #7
(Posted by Carl)
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"...no one ever asked them for a physical description of the man who helped save their lives."
That is because he is a United States MARINE and not any progressive slob who can only see himself as an oppressed color.
SOLDIER??? Ignorant statement.
The Air Force Chief of Staff would never be called: AIRMAN ... The Chief of Naval Operations would never be called: SAILOR ... The Commanding General of the Army would never be called: SOLDIER ... but... The Commandant of the Marine Corps is proud to be called: MARINE
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Comment #8
(Posted by Mike Pafford)
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Excellent article! Took my daughter to see the film today.
We both thought it was very well done. Came right home to find out more on the Internet about Staff Sergeant Karnes and Sergeant Thomas. Real heroes. My retired USMC brother would agree I'm sure. Good Luck to Ms. Todd in her future writing. MEP
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Comment #9
(Posted by Iris Moore)
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Very good article
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Comment #10
(Posted by an unknown user)
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Great piece!
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Comment #11
(Posted by Ron)
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The World Trade Center producers and writers are consistent with the mindset of most Americans. In otherwords, it's okay to demonize and dehumanize African-Americans, but never are they to be glorified for any situation or circumstance. The movie United Flight 93 was also contaminated with the same type of unforgivable horror story. Lets face it, every society is dependent upon the writer, artist, or film maker to produce the proper imagery. Therefore, seeing a white Jesus in Gibson's film can be easily substantiated, regardless of the fact that Jesus was middle eastern or African. We all need heroes. Unfortunately, most of African America's heroes have been sports figures. It wasn't long ago that the front pages of sports sections across America labled Blacks as being too mentally challenged to play quarterback in the NFL. Mr.Thomas was denied his moment in the sun for the same reason that Black men have been denied the right to enter any other segment of America's equal opportunity level playing field. And, unless we all work to fight bigotry and racism at its ugly core, we will continue to witness revisions to our history.
Power to the people!
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Comment #12
(Posted by Willie Simpkins)
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I take Sgt Thomas' views, it's not about the publicity, it's was about rescuing the people. Racism is something that has existed for ages, but we as Blacks must move on and be the best we can be. If we allow people to control our thoughts and actions, then we become slaves to them.
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Comment #13
(Posted by Hunter)
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This is a great story of these men. I send thanks to Ms. Todd for setting the record straight. Because, after seeing the film this past weekend I knew something was scandalously wrong--Black people were miscast or outright not cast in leadership characters: Viewers of the film are asked accept that there were no Black NY Port Authority Police Officers (and not Shanequa answering the telephone), policemen, firemen, paramedics and US Marines. Of course that is not true. I don't accept Mr. Shamberg's lame excuse of not knowing Mr. Thomas was Black until after filming, because a Black composite character of him could have been created as easy as the white character in the film. But, for Hollywood to do this still is unimaginable! So for me World Trade Center, while a good film, CRASHed.
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Comment #14
(Posted by Glenn)
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An excellent article, and now as a US Service Member it makes if very hard to support the producers of the film. I'll have to pass on it, just as the producers did when it was their jobs to research the incident for accuracy.
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Comment #15
(Posted by Paradise Gray)
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Hollywood has always changed facts and edited history. From Charlton Heston as Moses and Elezabeth Taylor as Cleopatra. They are only continuing their tradition of White-washing our history. If they were able to portray Imhotep (one of the greatest Black Heroes of all time) and Jesus Christ as white without a single peep from our community, why should this even matter to them in the least?
Situations like this will continue and we as Black people (or whatever you want to consider yourself) will deserve what we get, unless we are willing to stand up against tyranny and white supremacy.
Demand that this movie be taken out of theatres. Boycott this movie like they attempted to boycott "Barbershop" show some community outrage like they did for the poster of 50's Get Rich Or Die trying. Cause the national media to pick up this story.
Do something for a change. (Yes I'm talking to you!).
Paradise Gray
http://www.myspace.com/paradisegray
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Comment #16
(Posted by Celestine Thomas)
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How dare they so blatantly do what they did. Why is it always that when an African-American does something wonderful, people act as if they, African Americans, don't matter? Typical....I got a chance to see the movie...it was alright...my friends and I wondered why there were no Black Soldiers in the movie....typical...go figure...I will send this to all my friends in hopes they will boycot this movie.
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Comment #17
(Posted by david)
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Aunt Theresa,
All of America is proud of your nephew for his heroic deed. I saw the movie and went searching for him on the internet. There are a lot of stories about him now. Thank you so much for all your family has done and is doing for this great nation.
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Comment #18
(Posted by Rich Espy)
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To Sgt. Jason Thomas: You Sir, make us all proud! to be "Americans" Not African-Americans, or Mexican-Americans, or Cadanian-Americans. But "Americans!" I am very glad you came forward to mention your part in the horrible tragedy that day was. You are a Hero in every sense of the word! Good article, but I took one point off for not giving your contact information. I just wanted to tell you. I was thinking of you and your actions today after reading this article and it should inspire us all! And nobody should ever forget that day or question why we are in the Middle East now. I would rather fight them there, then to have them threaten our families here. Anyway, again - just wanted to let you know - Well done and thanks! Signed, An American (of mainly Irish Ancestory)
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Comment #19
(Posted by Louis Prinn)
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You know, one of the things that really restored my faith in humanity after the 9/11 attacks was that, for a little while, Americans came together and thought of themselves as one people. We were all standing together in this, against all foes. Now we're back to the same old whining about race and religion and social class, blah blah blah.
The people doing this whining are missing the entire point of the movie, that we are all one people. We are Americans. For the most part, white people got used to their skin color not mattering a long long time ago. When was the last time you heard a riveting tale about "a proud white hero" or "a strong white woman"? You don't, because white people don't feel the need to constantly brag about their skin color every time they accomplish something.
Sgt Thomas was black. That's fine. This movie was not about skin color.
Get over it.
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Comment #20
(Posted by Marilee)
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I live in Carson City, Nevada, a far cry both in landscape and politics from my birthplace in Pennsylvania. I just watched Sergeant Thomas talk to Rita Cosby on a tv news station, and my heart skipped a beat when I realized that his character had been portrayed by a white man, not a Black man. I don't understand the sloppy research on the part of the director, but Sergeant Thomas so eloquently responded to it that perhaps we should follow his example and keep to the high road. Sergeant Thomas represents the best of America. Let's not disappoint him by calling up what is worst about us.
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Comment #21
(Posted by Alvin V. from Texas)
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To Mr. Thomas:
You did a brave and amazing thing on 9/11. I remember watching on television the towers coming down and thinking how anyone in and near the towers could survive the destruction. Your courage and humanity bear not on what color your skin is but on what a kind and honorable soul you have. Thank you, Mr. Thomas, for being a teacher to many on what a decent and good-hearted human being should be. We are all teachers but at the same time we are all students. We learn from each other. That is how we learn and that is how we grow.
P.S. If you did not finish college, you should. You have the qualities of making a big impact in any crimial justice career. You and your family take care and keep the faith. Don't let this small incident with Hollwood eat you up. Stay true to yourself. Anyway, Hollywood is way overrated. :-)
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Comment #22
(Posted by Rick)
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It would have been very powerful to have seen the true colors of the Marines. Two guys that didn't care the color of the other. It was the LAST thing on their minds. This country could use seeing that. It reflects America at it's best-think of what we could do, what this country would be like if we all had that mindset. It is a utopia we'll never reach but one we should always strive for.
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Comment #23
(Posted by Pheonixmoonfire)
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Semper Fi from one former Marine to another. The article raises some good points, but it falls flat in the one department where it counts. Does it matter? The man who helped save the two Port authority workers could have been Black, White, Mexican, Asian, Native American, whatever. He was a Marine. He was a Hero. He was an AMERICAN. I think perhaps there is a thread of over sensitivity in the posts here. I can understand if they based the character solely on Sgt. Thomas, but they didn't. They used a PFC ranked guy named Thomas. The story that is being told here isnt about Black or White or Yellow. It's about the horrible events that took place on 9/11/01. The producers screwed up, that is a given, but I doubt seriously if it was done with malicious intent. It seems from several of the comments above, (specifically the one calling for a ban or boycott of this film) that there are those in the Black community that take the position that the only thing that matters is accuracy of a character's skin. I hope we, as Americans, are able to get past that. I never considered the pigmentation of a person's skin to be a measure of that person's ability to do heroic things.
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Comment #24
(Posted by J King)
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It seems Hollywood conveniently "forgets" to portray an African-American in any sort of heroic role, but always manages to place them in a "typical" (as in stereo-typical) role. I for one have the utmost respect for both what Sgt. Thomas did, AND for his amazing attitude that it is not about him but ultimately about the tragedy that happened that day. He is the reason African-Americans will overcome racism and disparate treatment. Act bigger than the ignorant people around you. YOU know who you are and what you have done; you do not need some weak Hollywood film to acknowledge you properly and that you are a hero. By the way, I am a Caucasian, 25-year old female former Marine who DOES believe that people know better. One day, sir, you will get the respect you deserve. For now, let me just say "thank you" for all the others out there who haven't.
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Comment #25
(Posted by lucy hershberger)
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I am a soldier in the united States Army. I am proud of service members like SGT Jason Thomas that would risk his life to save soemone else's life. He is a hero and should be looked up to by all. He is a strong brother that represents America. My heart goes out to him and his courageous act. I am thankful that his story came out. We need the truth!!! We need more SGT Thomas's in in America.
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Comment #26
(Posted by Nick in Maryland)
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Let's just call it even for when Blacks are cast in remakes of white roles like the Honeymooners, Welcome Back Kotter and Kojak. I'd like to see a remake of Shaft with a white man as the lead and see how fast people get up in arms about "how Black culture is being corrupted" and that "its just another form of racism." What I find amazing is that Black people don't seem to be offended by this sort of thing, mostly it's guilty white people. The same breed of white people that will look around a comedy club or movie theater before they laugh at an ethnic joke, to make sure there are minorites present from which to gain permission.
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Comment #27
(Posted by James E. Griffin)
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American History
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Comment #28
(Posted by John Baker Brown Jr)
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I do not accuse the film's producers of racism. In fact, I would argue to the contrary. However, clearly they were careless and operating, perhaps -- like many people of many colors here and throughout the world -- on the subconscious assumption too often conveyed in the media, namely, that the United States of America is essentially a white nation, built by white folks, protected by white folks, and moved forward by white folks. Even the most cursory review of any accurate history of this great nation utterly contradicts that assumption. People of African, Asian, Latino, Native American, and other ethnic heritages always have and always will make extraordinary contributions to this country. (By the way, the same applies to women, also grievously neglected in too many accounts of history.)
Consider this historical perspective -- one not lacking in irony, given the focus of the New Pittsburgh Courier story and the branch of the service in which Sgt. Jason L. Thomas has chosen to serve his country. African- Americans broke the color barrier in the U.S. Marine Corps in World War II. Nearly 20,000 Black men suffered the countless indignities of racism and racial segregation on occasion, treated with even less respect than the German POWs they were assigned to guard here in the states. These African-Americans trained at Montford Point, a segregated camp in Jacksonville, NC, from 1942 to 1949. Some of their white officers treated them with respect from the outset, while others, to their credit, learned in training and later under fire to respect this extraordinary group of men. Despite the fact that it is no longer unusual to see Black men and women serving in the Corps and rising to the highest ranks, the story of the Montford Point Marines was never told until very recently. And their story has yet to reach the general public. A documentary, hopefully to be aired in the near future, was screened at this year's annual Montford Point Marine Convention in July. It was my privilege to see that premier because I am very proud to say my dad, now approaching age 83, was one of those tough Montford Point originals. This year, I accompanied him to the convention and received an oral history lesson from some of the remarkable pioneers in attendance at that gathering. (Visit the website for more information at http://www.montfordpointmarines.com)
Today, we live in a nation more diverse than ever. Blatant racism is largely, although not entirely gone, is largely a nightmare from the past. White folks and all other groups are more tolerant and respectful of racial, ethnic, and other differences. Yes, we have come a long way. But, obviously, we have a way to go when it appears that Sgt. Thomas' story can be overlooked today in much the same manner that the Montford Point Marines story was overlooked for more than a half a century. America, we can do better.
To the New Pittsburgh Courier, I say thanks for setting the record straight. To Sgt. Thomas, I say that, as I am sure he is well aware, he walks in some big footprints as a U.S. Marine and he is leaving some pretty big ones himself. May God continue to bless you, Sergeant. To those who suggest that it is inappropriate to make an issue of the films exclusion of Sgt. Thomas ethnicity because we should be striving for a colorblind society, I say that it is only by acknowledging the mistakes of our past that we can avoid making the same mistakes in the future. Perhaps a stronger dose of inclusive history would have led the films producers to dig a bit deeper and, in so doing, portray a more accurate representation of the God-given diversity that makes this nation great diversity that was manifested on September 11, 2006, alongside the heroism and sacrifice of women and men of exceptional courage and caring.
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Comment #29
(Posted by Nancy)
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I feel this is A-Typical of the "Black American Experience"
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Comment #30
(Posted by yolanda)
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Powerful, very sureal. I would like to get in touch Mr. Thomas.
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Comment #31
(Posted by Justin)
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I think that focusing on race is completely missing the point of the movie which is heroism and selflessness. We really need to quit worrying about what race someone is and look at what they do.
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Comment #32
(Posted by an unknown user)
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Very very informative. Keep telling the truth. I'm not going to see this movie. If the guy was a drug dealer they would have gotten his ethnicity right
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Comment #33
(Posted by Cheryl)
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They should've searched much more deeply, and found the "REAL" Sgt.Thomas, before the movie began production. This man deserves that much & more.
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Comment #34
(Posted by C Bass)
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I had goose bumps the whole time I was reading this article. I would just like to say thank you to Mr. Thomas and all of those who unselfishly devoted their time and lives to save others in their time of need. God Bless you all.
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Comment #35
(Posted by janice)
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What bothers me is that the producer learned that the soldier was actually Black after filming began, before it ended. Why did they choose not to correct the situation while they had the opportunity to do so? There are plenty of young African American actors who could have been called upon to play the roles. If the producer did not care what we as African-Americans thought about not one, but two gross errors, then why should we be concerned about going to see the movie? I saw enough about what happened on CNN, so why should I help to line his pockets? I don't see it as a must see, and I will not go to see it.
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Comment #36
(Posted by Amy Hickey)
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Great article. It is indeed too bad that Hollywood misrepresented Sgt. Thomas and shows the typical American mindset of focusing on whites first and other ethnicities second.
His story is one of tremendous courage and selflessness, and all of America could learn not only from his example of aiding those in need, but his lack of concern for his own glory. Thomas seems to simply possess a desire to see that the facts are right and for all to remember those who have died, and why.
Thanks to both Sgt. Thomas and Sgt. Kearns for their contributions, and to all servicemembers for their tireless efforts and dedication in the face of adversity.
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Comment #37
(Posted by DJ)
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One more time, the opportunity to showcase a positive Black male role model has been omitted. Although the Black men involved appear to be accepting of themselves being depicted as white males, I see it as ongoing racism without conscious. The person responsible for doing research for this film was obviously inexperienced or biased because even I - a novice - would have had the intelligence to get physical descriptions, including race, of the people to be depicted in the movie. I'd be willing to bet there wasn't a 6'2" 25 year old blonde male accidentally depicted as a 5'5" Hispanic male. Correct me if I'm wrong.
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Comment #38
(Posted by Anonymous)
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This story could have been easily swept under the rug, Thank you.
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Comment #39
(Posted by L Thompkins)
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After seeing Jason on Rita Cosby's show the other night, I'm so glad to see the article in print. He definitely took the high road when Rita Cosby asked what he thought about a white man playing his part. For my thoughts, I could only think that this country only wants heroic images of whiteness. If I want to believe the producers story of not knowing that Jason was Black, then I have to believe the two men he saved did not keep an image in their minds of the man who was responsible for saving their lives.
Yes, we should be far past the issue of race in this country. However, deception, lies and distortion only keep us on the same historical path.
To Jason, and his family I can only say that I am extremely proud of your heroic actions on Sept. 11, and I will do everything in my power to tell your story.
God Bless and Keep You and Yours
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Comment #40
(Posted by Anonymous)
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The only lesson to be learned from this unfortunate event is that... If Black Americans continue to expect White American storytellers to always be conscious of the necessity of including Black American contributions to American history, they will continue to be slighted.
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Comment #41
(Posted by Lanie Malone)
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This country really is obsessed with racism. That's the primary reason we will only be great in theory. This article also substantiates my original thought when I saw the trailers for this movie, which was, 'had there been two Blacks pulled from the rubble - Oliver Stone and his producers would never have considered it to begin with.' I know - sad but true...
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Comment #42
(Posted by Blackstorm)
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Very interesting that the other Black officer was not included as well. They call to apologize??? Big Deal!!!! Did the other marine get any payment for the movie??? Also, they could add something to the beginning of the movie or posters for the theatres, something to acknowledge that individual. But they call and say "I'm sorry." Again, Big Deal.
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Comment #43
(Posted by Janet Dean)
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Sgt.Jason Thomas has a kind heart for what he has done and still how he is still helping with ground zero. He was supposed to be in school on that day of 9/11. Jason is one of God's angels. He is an African-American guy but in the movie he is played by a white guy I would have a problem with that but he doesn't. He stated that it is bigger then that. At first I wasn't going to see the movie but now I will. Maybe I can learn something. I was telling my sister how the movie is out but where are the Black folks in the movie? I said that movie is not telling the whole truth. I just saw white families hugging and kissing. But tell me something now. Did they miss our African-American folks in the movie? That is why I wouldn't give a dime of my money to see the movie at first. Sgt.Jason Thomas, you are a very respected man in my eyes and I don't even know you. "BUT NOW I DO". Thanks for being there for people who were trapped in the World Trade Center when it all came down you don't hesitate on risking your life. "God Bless you and your family." You are God's angel.
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Comment #44
(Posted by Deborah Holt)
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I'm amazed to believe there are those who feel that the omission of United States Marine Corps Sgt. Jason L. Thomas' role as a key hero in this historically high-profile movie should not be disputed. 9/11 was and still is a frightening and unforgettable terrorist attack on our country that constantly reminds us of our vulnerable state. America has the resources and ability to obtain information about anyone and everyone, but in this scenario did not deem it necessary to find out crucial facts about the second hero portrayed in this movie. Knowing that the facts were indeed known and blatantly misrepresented only substantiates the discrimination our Black society suffers in this so-called free country with equal rights to everyone of all races and creeds. Not so. This humble brother was Black and the movie portrayed him as caucasian. Some people say that race shouldn't be an issue. I beg to differ. What would have happened if the movie portrayed both heros as Black--such notion would not have been thought of. That's the major gripe I have here. Another important fact relating to the whole 911 incident is that one of the pilots on flight 93 was Black--sorry, I did not know because it was not widely publicized that this pilot was black because there are very little Black pilots. I haven't seen one yet in all the years I've flown. We are people, proud people with feelings. Please don't deny that the misrepresentation of a Black hero in this movie--about two white heros of which one should have been black is not blatant discrimination and bigotry.
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Comment #45
(Posted by zenna foster)
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As far as we can remember..African-Americans dont get credit for the things that we accomplish..stay positive... God knows your heart and knows the movie producer's heart and that's who everyone will have to answer to....
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Comment #46
(Posted by Heather)
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I'm glad that the truth in this situation came out. It is just like America to assume that when someone does a valiant act that it is a white man. I'm sure if the movie was about a riot or had that type of scene in it, they would have made sure the rioters were of the "correct" color and the whites were portrayed the victims of brutal Black men and women. Never can a white man be saved by a Black man, only terrorized. This is yet another example of white power-holders committing a racist (even if it was subconscious) act and expecting everyone (Black) to be like "Okay, we forgive you again?" We could ignore this but why should we, when we have to ignore every other instance of institutionalized racism in America. The media is full of lies and will continue to be unless we as people do something about it. What if this was about a white hero who was portrayed as Black? I'm sure he would be no more happy about the mix-up than this Black man is. Yes, we're all human, but when people see this man in the street or at the store or at a job interview or standing trying to hail a cab, they see him as a Black man. FIRST. So shouldn't the movie?
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Comment #47
(Pos
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