Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa performed his best soul man impersonation during the city’s launch event for African-American Heritage Month. While honoring Chaka Kahn and Jamie Foxx, Villaraigosa swapped his normal speech pattern for a black dialect. Maybe he was trying to be cool, but when you have to TRY to be cool, you normally end up looking like a fool. In this case, Mayor Villaraigosa did just that.
While introducing Chaka Kahn, Villaraigosa said, “She’s received 10 Grammy awards everybody. And a BET lifetime achievement awode. By the way, I’m at the BET awards every year held here in Los Angeles.â€
While introducing Jamie Foxx, Villaraigosa said, “Is there anything Jamie Foxx can’t do? Mannnn … I love, I love that convosation we had in our office a few minutes ago. Because you know what — don’t think for the moment that this brother couldn’t run for office.â€
While attempting to be cool, Mayor Villaraigosa embarrassed himself, the city he represents and offended the black community. Jamie Foxx recognized Villaraigosa’s approach and spoke in Spanish during his acceptance. Does this make Jamie Foxx look like a fool? Definitely not because Spanish is an actual language. In fact, his knowledge of it makes him look even more impressive. What Villaraigosa was speaking was not. Villaraigosa was pretending to be something he isn’t (black) while appearing to be exactly what he is (a fool). If he would like to take a course on protocol I would be more than happy to volunteer my time.
Until next time,