United Shades of America Season 7 Episode 1 The Woke War
- TV14
- July 10, 2022
- 42 min
As a comedian, political commentator, and human rights advocate, W. Kamau Bell is a master at using humor and empathy to explore complex social issues. In the seventh season of his Emmy Award-winning series, "United Shades of America," Bell embarks on a journey across the United States to learn about the struggles and triumphs of marginalized communities.
In the first episode, entitled "The Woke War," Bell focuses on the concept of "wokeness" and the generational conflict that arises from it. He travels to New York City and speaks with young activists who are leading the charge in promoting woke culture. Bell discusses how wokeness is not just about racial identity, but also about social justice issues such as gender, sexuality, and class.
Bell also examines the backlash against woke culture and speaks with older Black Americans who view wokeness as divisive and distracting from more pressing issues. The episode explores how arguments over identity politics and diversity are tearing apart communities and how younger generations are pushing for progress despite resistance from older generations.
Throughout the episode, Bell injects his signature humor and charm into the discussion, making a potentially contentious topic more approachable and engaging. He encourages viewers to consider all perspectives and to continue striving for progress even in the face of resistance.
Overall, "The Woke War" is a thought-provoking and relevant episode that sheds light on the generational divide regarding wokeness and identity politics. By humanizing the individuals involved and exploring the nuances of the debate, Bell invites viewers to consider their own views and engage in more productive discussions about social justice.