By MICHAEL RODRIGUEZ
Managing Editor
editor@sbnewspaper.com
Michael Rodriguez
Jay-Z is misunderstood.
I apologize for the random observation, but follow me on this one. A self-proclaimed secular man who acknowledges the existence of God—yet doesn’t subscribe to any religion or spirituality—is believed a Satanist by many due to perceived Illuminati references in his music, clothing line and even hand gestures. That’s quite a turnaround in public perception when just a few years ago we were jammin’ to “Empire State of Mind” with no questions asked.
Fame, it suffices to say, is clearly not without its drawbacks, which is something Jay-Z acknowledges on “Holy Grail”—the eponymous track opening his new album, “Magna Carta…Holy Grail”—to superb effect.
“You curse my name in spite to put me to shame; have my laundry in the streets, dirty or clean; give it up for fame,” collaborating artist Justin Timberlake croons in the surprisingly soulful Jay-Z joint, later adding, “One day you’re screaming you love me loud; the next day you’re so cold. One day you’re here; one day you’re there; one day you care; you’re so unfair.”
It almost makes you feel bad for the multi-millionaire rap mogul.
Referencing MC Hammer, Mike Tyson, Michael Jackson and Kurt Cobain—all of whom the public turned on or, in one form or another, fell from grace after being embraced as superstars—Jay-Z paints a rather grim picture of the duality of fame using broad strokes of irony, regret and frustration all the while questioning how he can still “love it so much.”
Now I know what you’re thinking: When did rappers become so philosophical? Stereotypes, preconceived notions and ignorance often lead to hip hop artists being misidentified as misogynistic, narcissistic and egomaniacal thugs, but the truth is that Jay-Z has inadvertently helped expose a problem involving the San Benito CISD Board of Trustees.
Do I have your attention now?
Take into consideration an interesting encounter I had with Board President Yliana González after a recent meeting. It was interesting because, believe it or not, there was no awkwardness present despite how critical we’ve been of each other. So there we were, in the parking lot of the SBCISD John F. Barron Administration Building, sharing a few thoughts during an all too brief exchange. She appeared exhausted and somewhat stressed, which I can understand given the very controversial and outright scandalous issues currently plaguing the school district.
Since these debacles have come to light, the majority four board members some believe responsible—González, Board Vice President Julian Huerta, trustees Fatima Huerta and June Aguilera—have suffered backlash not only from their opponents but former supporters as well.
Still, it wasn’t that long ago when the city’s love affair with González, the Huertas and Aguilera was the talk of the town. They were hailed as the potential saviors of a district overrun with scandal (don’t tell me you’ve forgotten about Enrique Homero Murillo, the convicted felon who worked as an elementary school principal up until 2010). González’ election was cause for hope, at least according to those who long considered the district in dire need of new leadership, and with the Huertas’ and Aguilera’s subsequent victories, hope soon turned into expectations. When those expectations weren’t met, the majority four went from being political darlings to political disappointments in the blink of an eye.
Unfortunately, there are those who, according to González, have harassed and even threatened her and her colleagues as a result of their decision-making and political maneuvering. And that, my gentle snowflakes (hat tip: Lewis Black), is reprehensible action of which there is no justification.
It’s important to note that no matter how strongly we feel about something, respect should always be afforded to our elected officials. I’m not asking to compromise your beliefs; just be reasonable. Do this and you’ll help make San Benito a better place to live for everyone.
Besides, I can’t imagine how it must feel for any of our public servants to be loved one day and abandoned the next, but I’m sure Jay-Z can relate.
2 comments
Respect, my dear editorialist, must be earned. Liken the conduct and decisions of the majority four to that of a liar. A single bad decision, like a lie, can be reasoned and forgiven. A series of bad decisions, like a string of lies, often hurt many and cannot be forgiven. Once respect is lost, like trust, rarely can it be regained.
Jay-Z just may want to sit this one out.I personally believe the allegations of threats is just that, allegations.
This brings a particular quote to my mind:
Making bad decisions is a part of life. Blaming OTHERS for your bad decisions is IMMATURE. Unknown